India commenced their T20I World Cup 2024 campaign with a resounding triumph over Ireland, securing an 8-wicket victory in the Group A clash at Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York. Despite an initial setback with Virat Kohli’s dismissal, India maintained their composure on a challenging pitch during the modest chase. Captain Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant opted for a cautious approach rather than risking unnecessary shots. However, the match took a dramatic turn when Rohit Sharma was forced to retire due to a shoulder injury after scoring 52 runs off 37 balls. Despite this setback, Ireland’s bowlers struggled…
Author: Sajjad Ali
ISLAMABAD: As the global community unites to celebrate ‘World Environment Day’, Telenor Pakistan has reaffirmed its commitment to a greener and more sustainable future through reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and sustainable practices to ensure a healthier and more resilient planet for the future generations. This year’s theme, ‘Land Restoration,’ deeply resonates with Telenor Pakistan’s mission to minimize environmental impact and champion sustainable practices. As part of its environment protection strategy, Telenor Pakistan is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030. This ambitious commitment will be achieved through the deployment of advanced technologies and substantial investments in…
ISLAMABAD: The federal government on Wednesday decided to end the current net metering system. In addition, the government plans to establish a 600 MW solar power plant in collaboration with investors from Saudi Arabia. This project will be executed on an intergovernmental basis without a bidding process. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has instructed officials to draft a summary of these decisions. He also directed the preparation of two distinct rates for the purchase and sale of solar power. Furthermore, the government will impose monthly fixed charges on consumers who install solar systems. The net metering regulations will be amended, and…
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has given the green light to a $250 million policy-based loan aimed at bolstering Pakistan’s sustainable infrastructure and services investments through public-private partnerships (PPPs). The program, named Promoting Sustainable Public–Private Partnerships Program, is designed to support the government’s policies facilitating PPPs, fostering inclusive economic growth, and ensuring fiscal sustainability, as per a press release. ADB’s Director General for Central and West Asia, Yevgeniy Zhukov, emphasized that this initiative forms part of a broader strategy to assist Pakistan in achieving its fiscal consolidation and growth objectives. He highlighted the program’s role in creating an environment conducive…
ISLAMABAD: Opposition leader Omar Ayub has responded to a notice from the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) regarding a ‘controversial’ video uploaded on PTI founder Imran Khan’s former Twitter account, X. Omar Ayub has requested a copy of the Hamood-Ur-Rehman Commission report from the agency. Additionally, Ayub has declared his intention to challenge the FIA notice both in Parliament and in court, describing it as “vague, dubious, and illegal.” He asserts that the notice pertains to the Dhaka collapse issue, for which a commission was established by the government. Omar Ayub emphasizes that the government never dismissed the commission’s report or…
A Chinese company Transsion Holdings has shown a strong interest in investing in the manufacturing of mobile phones, electric bikes, modern agriculture, and fintech in Pakistan. This interest was conveyed by Zhu Zhaojiang, the founder and Chairman of Transsion Holdings, during a meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Shenzhen. Prime Minister Sharif instructed the Federal Ministers and Pakistan’s Ambassador to China to collaborate with Transsion Holdings to develop a strategy soon. He emphasized that the government is committed to providing facilities for foreign investors and businesses. Sharif invited Transsion Holdings to produce goods locally in Pakistan and export them…
The national cricket team’s all-rounder, Imad Wasim, is set to miss the first match of the ongoing T20 World Cup in the USA. Team captain Babar Azam confirmed that Imad Wasim is suffering from a side strain, which will prevent him from playing in the first match. However, he expressed hope that Wasim would be available for the remaining matches. Azam also downplayed the lack of a warm-up match, noting that the team had arrived in the United States right after concluding another series. He emphasized that this is the first time cricket is being played in America, so any…
KARACHI: The Federal B Area Association of Trade and Industrialists (FBATI) has condemned the murder of its member, Asif Bilwani, which occurred in broad daylight in Karachi’s upscale Defense Housing Authority (DHA) area. According to police, 63-year-old Asif Bilwani was shot dead in Defence Phase 2 by unknown assailants while he was driving home. Authorities have labeled the incident a targeted killing. FBATI President Syed Raza Hussain expressed his outrage over the killing of the former FBATI member and garment factory owner, criticizing the inadequate security measures by law enforcement in such a prominent neighborhood. In his statement, Hussain warned…
ISLAMABAD: The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has introduced new regulations that are expected to increase the financial burden on electricity consumers by restricting the payment options for electricity bills. These changes are likely to have a significant impact on those who rely on installment plans to manage high electricity costs. Previously, consumers enjoyed greater flexibility in paying their bills through installments. However, under the revised Consumer Service Manual, they will now be allowed to pay their bills in installments only once a year. Any remaining balance after the first installment will incur a 14% interest markup. This decision…
The 2024 ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup, co-hosted by the United States and the West Indies, has ignited excitement worldwide, with Google celebrating the event through a vibrant, cricket-themed doodle on its homepage. This marks a significant milestone as the T20 World Cup is being held in the United States for the first time, highlighting the sport’s expanding global appeal. The animated doodle, brimming with colors and dynamic cricket imagery, captures the essence of the high-energy, fast-paced T20 format that has enthralled fans globally. The artwork showcases enthusiastic players in action, reflecting the spirit and passion of cricket that…