ISLAMABAD: The federal government has announced a nationwide public holiday on February 5 in observance of Kashmir Solidarity Day. According to an official notification issued by the Cabinet Division, government offices and institutions across the country will remain closed on Thursday to mark the annual day of solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). Kashmir Solidarity Day is observed every year in Pakistan to express support for the Kashmiri people and their right to self-determination. Various events, including seminars, rallies, conferences, and special prayer gatherings, are organized nationwide to highlight the Kashmir issue. Political leaders,…
Author: Web Desk2
NEW DELHI: Following what foreign media described as India’s “worst defeat at Pakistan’s hands,” the Modi government has announced a historic increase in the defense budget, further fueling concerns over rising militarization in the region. According to international reports, the Modi administration — described as being gripped by “war frenzy” — has increased India’s defence budget by 15%, which is said to account for 1.9% of India’s GDP. The Indian government is expected to spend $85.4 billion on defence this year. The allocation for the purchase of new weapons has also been increased by 21%, reflecting a major push for…
Pakistani actor Alizeh Shah has denied allegations that she highlights controversies to gain attention, saying she has upcoming projects and is not facing any shortage of work. In a recent video shared on Instagram, Alizeh spoke about her new projects and also explained why she has repeatedly spoken against Shazia Manzoor and Yasir Nawaz. “I know you might think I’m posting another video just to get attention,” she said. “But I want to show you the scripts of my upcoming dramas to prove that I’m not out of work.” Alizeh added that after what happened with her over the past…
QUETTA: Security forces have intensified operations against militants in various parts of Balochistan, killing 22 more suspects during an overnight pursuit, security sources said on Tuesday. According to the sources, the latest action is part of ongoing counter terrorism operations being carried out across the province. They claimed that over the past three days, a total of at least 177 militants have been killed in multiple operations. Security sources said that law enforcement agencies — including intelligence agencies and police — are continuing to tighten the noose around militant networks and alleged facilitators in different areas. They added that further…
LAHORE: The Punjab government has decided to further strengthen the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) to effectively respond to rising terrorism threats in the province. In this regard, the provincial cabinet has approved an immediate supplementary grant of Rs1.5 billion to enhance CTD’s operational capacity and upgrade modern security systems. According to official details, the biggest demand is for anti-drone units and advanced equipment, for which Rs1.149 billion has been allocated. A request of Rs94.9 million has also been made for AI-based software upgradation, aimed at improving intelligence gathering and monitoring capabilities. Meanwhile, a proposal to spend Rs350 million on GPS…
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has suspended contracts of 1,800 foreign travel agencies due to poor service standards, foreign media reported. These agencies are a significant portion of the total 5,800 travel agencies currently operating in the Umrah sector. According to the ministry, the decision was taken after a periodic evaluation, which revealed serious performance issues and service shortcomings in multiple agencies. The development is being seen as an important update for pilgrims planning to travel for Umrah in the coming days. Ministry spokesperson Ghassan Al-Nuaimi said the affected agencies have been given 10 days to fix…
DUBAI: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has responded after reports emerged that Pakistan may decide not to play against India during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. In an official statement, the ICC said it has taken notice of the message reportedly issued by the Government of Pakistan regarding Pakistan team’s participation in the tournament. The ICC stated that it is now waiting for a formal decision from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). However, the ICC stressed that such a stance does not align with the basic concept of a global sports event, where all qualified teams are expected…
SINGAPORE: Gold prices witnessed a sharp fall in the international market on Tuesday, marking one of the biggest declines in recent history. According to market reports, the price of gold dropped by nearly 10% per ounce during trading. Gold fell by around $458 per ounce, bringing it down to nearly $4,435 per ounce. Analysts also noted that in just a few days, gold has become cheaper by almost $1,000 per ounce, raising concerns among investors and traders. Meanwhile, global oil prices also recorded a major decline of up to 4% in international trading. Reports said Brent crude was trading near…
SYDNEY – February 2, 2026: Australia has announced fully funded master’s scholarships for Pakistani students under the Australia Awards program, offering opportunities to study at recognized Australian universities. The scholarships cover complete financial support and are aimed at students who want to pursue postgraduate education and contribute to Pakistan’s development. According to Australian authorities, candidates will be selected on the basis of academic merit, professional experience, leadership ability, and their potential role in national progress. Applications from women, persons with disabilities, and underrepresented groups will be prioritized. Priority study areas Preference will be given to applicants pursuing subjects linked to:…
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi held their first formal meeting in Islamabad, where they discussed key federal and provincial matters. The meeting took place at the Prime Minister House. The two leaders first met one-on-one and later held talks at the delegation level. According to official details, discussions focused on coordination between the federation and the province, along with administrative and development issues. Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and KP Finance Adviser Muzammil Aslam were also present during the delegation-level talks. During the meeting, CM Afridi briefed the prime minister on provincial challenges and ongoing…
