New designs prepared for notes from Rs10 to Rs5,000, says SBP Governor ISLAMABAD: Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has clarified that there is no proposal to discontinue the Rs5,000 currency note, while confirming that new designs for all banknotes ranging from Rs10 to Rs5,000 have already been prepared. Addressing a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Finance in Islamabad, the SBP governor said the proposed designs have been shared with the Ministry of Finance for further consideration. He informed the committee that the central bank carried out detailed work on the new currency notes, after which…
Author: Web Desk2
Left-arm pacer picked through direct signing for Rs 64.4 million LAHORE: Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Lahore Qalandars have signed Bangladesh’s star fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman ahead of the upcoming season. Sources confirmed that Lahore Qalandars secured the services of the left-arm pacer for Rs 64.4 million (Rs 6 crore 44 lakh) through direct signing. Mustafizur, widely known for his deadly slower deliveries and effectiveness in death overs, enjoys a strong reputation in international cricket and T20 leagues around the world. The signing is expected to strengthen Lahore Qalandars’ bowling attack, particularly in pressure situations during the latter stages of…
Former England captain criticises ICC over double standards and political influence ISLAMABAD: Former England captain Nasser Hussain has strongly criticised the International Cricket Council (ICC) over what he described as double standards, warning that continued pressure on Pakistan and Bangladesh could seriously damage international cricket. Speaking on the issue, Hussain questioned the ICC’s handling of venue-related controversies, asking whether the response would have been the same if India had demanded a venue change instead of Bangladesh. “If Bangladesh were replaced by India in this situation, what would the ICC have done? Would India have been pushed out of the event?”…
Explosion damages gas infrastructure, repair work underway LAKKI MARWAT: Unknown assailants blew up a gas pipeline and a Town Border Station (TBS) in the Bhana Manjiwala area of Lakki Marwat, resulting in the suspension of gas supply to Lakki Marwat city and Sarai Naurang. According to gas department officials, the explosion caused severe damage to the TBS, forcing authorities to completely halt gas supply to the affected areas. Officials said residents are facing serious difficulties due to the disruption, particularly amid ongoing domestic and commercial needs. The blast and the sound of intense gas leakage spread panic among locals. Shortly…
Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) offers permanent settlement to skilled foreign workers ISLAMABAD: Australia has opened a major pathway for employment and permanent residency for skilled foreign workers by continuing applications under the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa, Subclass 186. According to reports, applications under Subclass 186 are currently open. The visa allows foreign nationals who are nominated by an approved Australian employer to live and work in Australia on a permanent basis. Immigration experts say the ENS visa (Subclass 186) is part of Australia’s broader policy aimed at addressing shortages of skilled workers across multiple sectors. Successful applicants under…
Indian-backed terror networks dismantled in intelligence-based operations across multiple districts ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s security forces have successfully concluded Operation Radd-ul-Fitna-1 in Balochistan, eliminating 216 terrorists involved in activities aimed at destabilising peace and development in the province. According to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the operation was carried out through coordinated, swift, and intelligence-driven actions against terrorists operating under Indian patronage. The ISPR said these terrorist elements were targeting innocent civilians, including women and children, with the objective of spreading fear and disrupting stability in Balochistan. The operation was launched on January 29, 2026, following credible intelligence…
The International Cricket Council (ICC) is reportedly concerned after Pakistan declined to play India in the T20 World Cup group stage, triggering uncertainty over one of the tournament’s biggest fixtures. Pakistan’s decision has put the global cricket body under pressure, with the ICC now exploring options to persuade Pakistan to reconsider, Indian media reported. According to the reports, the ICC will initiate backchannel discussions with Pakistan over the matter. The responsibility for these talks has reportedly been assigned to ICC Deputy Chairman Imran Khwaja. Imran Khwaja, who represents the Singapore Cricket Association, is expected to engage with the Pakistan Cricket…
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s exports recorded a major jump in January as the country’s trade deficit narrowed, reflecting the impact of ongoing economic reforms under the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC). According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), exports crossed $3 billion for the first time in January, while imports declined to nearly $5.5 billion. The official data shows exports increased by 35% month-on-month, whereas imports dropped by 5% during the same period. During the first seven months of the current fiscal year, total exports stood at around $18 billion, while imports were recorded at nearly $40 billion, the figures showed. The…
US to retain Bagram Air Base, won’t hand it over to any other country: President WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump said that negotiations with Iran are now underway following Operation “Midnight Hammer”, expressing hope that the talks will produce positive results. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said the United States prefers resolving global disputes through dialogue rather than war. He claimed that crime has dropped significantly in Washington DC after the deployment of troops, stating that murder cases have reportedly fallen by up to 95%. According to him, American cities are now safer than before. Trump further…
ATMs and online banking services will remain available as usual The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has announced a public holiday on February 5 across the country on the occasion of Kashmir Solidarity Day. According to an SBP spokesperson, the State Bank, commercial banks, stock exchange and all financial institutions will remain closed nationwide. The holiday will apply to the SBP Head Office as well as all its field offices across Pakistan. However, SBP clarified that during the holiday, ATM services will remain functional, while online banking, mobile apps and digital payment services will continue to operate as per banks’…
