Newly appointed Pakistan’s Team Director Mohammad Hafeez disclosed details of his conversations with all-rounder Imad Wasim and pace bowler Mohammad Amir.
During a press conference, Hafeez revealed his discussions with Imad Wasim, expressing that Wasim was part of the team’s plans for the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand, despite not having signed the central contract at that time.
“I reached out to Imad Wasim, assuring him of his role in Pakistan cricket. Despite being awarded a central contract, he was yet to confirm his availability [for the New Zealand series],” stated Hafeez. “However, he later opted out of the series and announced his retirement two days after.”
While acknowledging Imad Wasim’s contributions to Pakistan cricket, Hafeez extended his best wishes for Wasim’s future endeavours.
Hafeez further detailed his conversation with Mohammad Amir, who surprised the cricketing world with his sudden retirement in 2020 at the age of 28.
“I personally contacted Mohammad Amir, offering him the opportunity to return to Pakistan’s cricket setup if he desired,” mentioned Hafeez. “I assured him that his performance in domestic cricket would be the key criteria, providing equal chances based solely on merit.”
“Amir expressed that he has moved on and his priorities in life have shifted, a choice we respect,” Hafeez concluded, respecting Amir’s decision.
Imad Wasim has faced severe criticism for choosing league cricket over national duty since Hafeez revealed about his conversation.
Artificial Intelligence is becoming more and more common everyday, with quite a widespread application. There was a time when people used to watch movies that showed a ruined future with an A.I antagonist. However, what we are seeing now is actually good technological development occurring each day. No matter where we look to, AI is planting itself firm in various industries.
Just like that, there are quite a lot of applications that we utilize AI in. The technology is new and it is still growing, thus there are sectors where it can be highly useful. Let us take a look at some of these,
Image Source: bolton.ac.uk
1. AI Marketing and Advertising
When it comes to the marketing domain, it deals with facing customers and clients. Thus, AI can play a major role in the creation of various tools that assist with marketing. Even the creation of chatbots that interact with the people is a good application of AI in this sector.
2. AI-Powered Agriculture
Since Pakistan is an agriculture based economy, this would be a good application. What we can do is move towards the development of smart farming solutions using AI for improved crop yields and farm operations. Crop health monitoring, and automation of farming tasks can be two of the major goals that we can pursue in this domain.
Image Source: intellias.com
3. Cybersecurity Applications
When it comes to online privacy, there has to be a lot of caution that must be taken. Providing intrusion prevention and real-time security monitoring services can help quite a lot of enterprises with their security applications.
4. Education and Learning
If we were to create an AI-based learning platform, that would be able to assist students quite a lot. To have a place where artificial intelligence learns from other courses and education can be quite useful. Offering intelligent tutoring, content adaptation to learning styles can all be part of what AI brings to the table.
Image Source: elearningindustry.com
5. Healthcare Services
To offer diagnostic tools, predictive analytics, and personalized treatment recommendations is what we can make a part of healthcare services. Patient care is the most important aspect of healthcare, thus it must be focused on. To have machines which reduce human effort can also put doctors in areas where there is less of a presence.
Islamabad 28 November, 2023: Zong 4G, Pakistan’s leading telecommunications company, has launched a suite of new features on its My Zong App (MZA), further enriching the user experience and providing unparalleled convenience to its customers.
MZA Sprint has added 13 new Digital Value Added Services (VAS) to cater to diverse user preferences. From entertainment options and exclusive Golootlo deals to Islamic and infotainment services, instant gaming portals, tournaments, and sports and gaming currency, users can seamlessly access these services through the dedicated Z Play module, making MZA a one-stop platform for a variety of digital experiences.
In addition, MZA Sprint introduces a Complaint Handling and Status Check feature that will enable customers to easily share their grievances through the app.
The update also brings convenient payment gateways for buying bundles and offers, offering multiple payment options like Debit/Credit Cards, Jazz Cash, and EasyPaisa. The user-friendly “Online Recharge” interface and exclusive Monthly Pro Max offers further elevate the financial services offered on MZA. MZA also offers an offline maps integration that streamlines the discovery of 250+ regional/city offers, contributing to an improved MZA experience for users.
“Zong 4G is committed to delivering the best possible experience to our users. The new features on My Zong App reflect our dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction,” said the official spokesperson for Zong 4G, “MZA has been the largest telecommunication app with over 15 million subscribers and with these added features, it will continue to lead the market for years to come.”
MZA Sprint features are now available to all users. These updates reaffirm Zong’s position as a leader in the telecommunications industry and the frontrunner in Digital Innovation and Technologies.
Celebrity and actress Shazeal Shoukat was recently invited to ‘Had Kardi’ – a show by Momin Saqib. In her interview, the actress talked about what is looking for in a partner and a strange proposal she received a few years ago.
Shazeal Shoukat At Momin Saqib Show
The actress while talking about her interaction with fans shared an instance where she received a DM from a stranger asking her to marry in exchange for a Range Rover.
‘I got a DM where someone asked me to marry him, I’ll give you a Range Rover.’
Her hilarious response to the DM was surely surprising she said ‘Bro I can give you two range rovers, what is this behavior?’
Another hilarious DM she shared is a person who asked her every day to wake up for Tahajjud.
While discussing what she wants in a life partner and whether she has any plans of getting married Shazeal says she wants to marry someone she is in love with.
Shazeal Shoukat later described her definition of love, ‘Love for me is putting my needs before him and his needs before me.’
‘Putting his needs before mine would be the most important thing and that is love for me.’
While talking about the person she is going to marry Shazeal says that she would never be with a partner who would not prioritize her career or would have a problem with that.
Shazeal has performed an item song for a movie and talking about the experience she said that she loves dancing and she just wanted to do it without thinking about the criticism from the public.
To watch the detailed interview check out the video link mentioned above.
Samsung is gearing up for a revolutionary leap in smartphone technology with its upcoming Galaxy S24 Ultra. Confirming it as an ‘AI Phone.’ The buzz around this handset has been building, and recent revelations offer a glimpse into its impressive capabilities.
Trademark Pursuits and Innovation
The focus on artificial intelligence (AI) is a pivotal aspect of the Galaxy S24 series. Signaling a significant shift in how smartphones will operate. Samsung’s emphasis on this technology is evident from its trademark applications for names like ‘AI Phone’ and ‘AI Smartphone.’ Although these trademarks might be deemed generic, they underscore Samsung’s commitment to integrating AI prominently into its upcoming flagship.
Source: Gizmochina
Moreover, Samsung’s plans to introduce the Galaxy AI experience alongside the S24 lineup promise a range of AI-powered features that will redefine user experiences. This dedication to AI has heightened expectations for the Galaxy S24 series. Setting the stage for its highly anticipated unveiling in San Jose, California, on January 17.
Certification Milestone
In parallel to its AI-centric approach, Samsung is pursuing trademarks for various other innovations. This includes ‘Magic Pixel,’ ‘Flex Magic,’ and ‘Flex Magic Pixel.’ These trademarks hint at developments spanning augmented reality (AR) products, smartphone displays, and televisions, with a particular focus on AR glasses.
While the anticipation for the Galaxy S24 series builds, the Galaxy S24 Ultra has achieved a significant milestone in its journey towards launch. Recently certified by Thailand’s NBTC (National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission). The S24 Ultra bears the model number SM-S928B/DS. Indicating a global variant with a dual-SIM card slot. This certification solidifies the phone’s compatibility with 5G, 4G LTE, 3G, and 2G networks, signaling its imminent arrival in the market.
Revelations on Specifications
Leaked details about the Galaxy S24 Ultra’s specifications paint a picture of an exceptional device. With a 6.8-inch screen boasting up to 2,500 nits peak brightness, a potential titanium frame variant, an IP68 rating, stereo speakers, and an in-display ultrasonic fingerprint reader. The S24 Ultra aims to deliver a premium user experience.
Source: Gadget 360
Moreover, its powerful hardware lineup, including the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 For Galaxy processor, up to 16GB RAM, and storage options up to 1TB, ensures top-notch performance. The device’s imaging capabilities, featuring a 200MP primary rear camera and a suite of other lenses, combined with fast charging, wireless charging, and a robust battery, make it a photography and productivity powerhouse.
Expected to integrate AI and Generative AI features, including a two-way satellite communication system for emergencies. The Galaxy S24 Ultra is poised to redefine smartphone standards. A potential launch running on Android 14 and a promise of long-term software updates. Samsung appears ready to deliver a groundbreaking device set to impress tech enthusiasts worldwide.
The highly-anticipated release of Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA VI) has sparked immense excitement among gamers, particularly with recent leaked gameplay footage showcasing an aspect that’s traditionally been a sore spot for the series: loading times.
Rockstar Games’ GTA VI has been in development for a considerable duration, with the official announcement made in February 2022. The game’s setting in Vice City and the introduction of two playable characters were confirmed earlier, fueling fans’ anticipation.
Seamless Loading
The footage leak, although removed swiftly, provided a glimpse into the game’s astonishingly fast loading times. Previous iterations, especially on last-gen hardware, were notorious for their lengthy loading screens, often hampering the immersive experience of exploring the game’s expansive worlds. However, the leaked video presented a remarkable departure from this norm.
Source: Supercar Blondie
The clip showcased a seamless transition between two protagonists, Lucia and Jason, in a motel setting, with the switch occurring in less than a second. Jason effortlessly stepped outside to explore, highlighting the almost instantaneous character switch without any discernible loading delays.
Redefining Gaming Standards
While it’s crucial to note that the leaked footage represents an early build of the game and may not entirely reflect the final product, it’s ignited excitement and raised expectations among fans. The efficiency showcased in loading times indicates a potential significant improvement over the predecessors, especially considering the capabilities of new-gen hardware like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S.
The leaked video’s removal didn’t deter fans from sharing their awe over the apparent advancements in GTA VI. The discussions have underlined the anticipation for a smoother, more immersive gaming experience, free from the sluggish loading times seen in prior titles like GTA V, even after recent updates for newer consoles.
Source: Daily Star
Impact of New-Gen Hardware
Rockstar Games’ utilization of SSD technology and its potential impact on enhancing the overall gameplay experience have piqued curiosity and anticipation. The industry is eager to witness how GTA VI sets a new standard for rapid loading times and seamless character transitions, potentially redefining open-world gaming on modern consoles.
As the gaming community eagerly awaits the official unveiling in December, the leaked footage has acted as a tantalizing glimpse into the potential advancements awaiting players in Grand Theft Auto VI, promising a more fluid and engaging gameplay experience.
Merub Ali recently visited the Gurudwara Kartarpur and the actress has been trolled on Instagram after she shared her visit online.
Merub Ali In Gurudwara
The actress in her visit to Gurudwara posted her experience at one of the holiest places for Sikhs. Ali shares her visit as a great experience while posting a video from Gurudwara. However, her visit didn’t sit well with the social media trolls as they left comments asking her to visit a mosque instead of a Gurudwara.
The derogatory comments led Merub to post a befitting response and before we dive into that, here’s her post from her visit below.
While there were many hate comments one which gained Merub’s attention was extremely derogatory and insensitive. Asking her if she was converting to Sikhism, and that she would never visit a mosque but a non-Muslim site.
Merub in her response asked her to visit the Gurudwara too so that he could learn a thing or two about being kind.
Ever since Gurudwara opened its way to Hindus, many Muslims have visited Kartarpur for recreational purposes. What are your thoughts on Muslims visiting the Gurudwara Kartarpur? Do you think it is a good idea to learn about other cultures and religions? If you have visited let us know in the comments below.
Pakistani cricketer Imam-ul-Haq’s wedding festivities concluded on Sunday night, but the online buzz surrounding the groom and Babar Azam’s bromance continues.
In the virtual realm, the consensus was clear – there’s no one cuter than Babar Azam, exuding innocence in a light grey suit with brown detailing.
The star-studded event witnessed the attendance of cricket luminaries such as Azhar Ali, Shaheen Afridi, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Shan Masood, Hassan Ali, and Usman Qadir.
Online camaraderie crowned Babar Azam as the man of the night, as fans spun imaginative scenarios around candid clicks and snippets featuring the cricket sensation.
Interpretations ranged from interactions between Babar Azam and the groom to humorous takes on rumoured tensions with Shaheen Afridi over professional competitiveness.
Imam-ul-Haq sealed the deal with his ‘best friend’ Anmol Mehmood in a grand wedding affair, surrounded by friends and family, including cricketing icons. Their love story navigated the challenges of a long-distance relationship, with Anmol interning in Norway.
Imam-ul-Haq looked dapper in a deep blue pantsuit, complementing the theme with a pastel peach-colored necktie. Anmol radiated elegance in a mint-green Lehnga Choli designed by Lajwanti, accentuated by minimalist makeup and a classic bun adorned with a ‘Maang Tika’ and an extravagant choker.
Stay tuned to Bransynario for latest news and updates.
In the last few days, the temperature in Karachi has changed quite a lot. From warm nights, the atmosphere has morphed into colder days and chillier nights. People have started to use heaters in their homes late at night or early in the morning. During this time, many people get worried about the electricity bills. They prefer to not use dedicated heaters because they consume more electricity.
Instead, they use heaters that are built into the modern inverter ACs in their homes. The heater in an inverter AC works opposite to what the AC usually does and it starts to throw heat into the environment. It can certainly heat up a room well and fast, but is it actually energy-efficient? Let us check out the details.
Image Source: fixandfeed.com
Heaters in Inverter ACs
Modern inverter ACs provide users with a lot more efficiency during operation. Older split ACs consume a lot more electricity over a shorter time, where inverter ACs consume the same electricity over a longer time. However, the heater functionality built inside these air conditioners can be quite useful in winters. In Karachi, the winters are not quite extreme, this this functionality works well here.
Additionally, due to inverter technology, using an inverter AC as a heater does not consume a lot of electricity. Instead, it lets the user run the system for a longer time without needing to turn it off. However, since the heater feature of the system is not its primary function, it cannot be used in colder areas.
Image Source: thespruce.com
Knowing Which System to Use
If you are living in colder areas like Skardu or Hunza, then it would be preferred to use dedicated heater systems. In such an area, the heater functionality of an AC would not be of much use. That said, we encourage you to use AC heaters in Karachi since the cold is not as extreme. They are quite efficient, heat up the room fast and keep the room heated for longer times.
While the price of inverter ACs is certainly higher than regular split ACs, they provide a return of investment over a longer period of time. You will see your benefit after using the product for more than a few months, seeing the difference on the electricity bill.
Pakistan fast bowler Haris Rauf, who is part of Melbourne Stars in the Big Bash League (BBL), is still uncertain about his participation in the competition.
Haris Rauf confronts a potential snag as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is poised to delay the issuance of the No-Objection Certificate (NOC) needed for his involvement in the league.
As per ESPNCricinfo, Rauf’s NOC could face a delay until at least December 11, just four days after the BBL commences. Subsequent confirmation of immediate issuance remains uncertain.
The delay is linked to the ongoing National T20 Cup in Pakistan, slated until December 10. PCB urged all the national players to partake in the National T20 Cup, denying NOC for the T10 League as well.
PCB will delay Haris Rauf's NOC for BBL. BBL set to start from 7th Dec while National T20 will end on 10th Dec. Haris's NOC likely to be issued from 11 December so that he can participate in NT20. Via (ESPNcricinfo)
The potential absence of Haris Rauf from the BBL could pose concerns, notably for Melbourne Stars, who signed him as a marquee player.
Melbourne Stars have also introduced special memberships titled “House of Rauf” for the initial three games at the MCG, alongside a dedicated seating zone called Haris Rauf Bay.
To market BBL to South Asian crowd, BBL is exclusively selling "House of Rauf" memberships to fans at MCG on the name of Melbourne's marquee player Haris Rauf.
PCB on the other hand is all set to delay Haris' NOC for BBL. Good luck getting marquee Australian players for PSL!
Adding more to that, continuous delays in Rauf’s NOC could raise concerns among other players as well. Usama Mir (Melbourne Stars) and Zaman Khan (Sydney Thunder) are also set for the BBL.
Negotiations between the PCB and players faced hurdles, including disagreements over the number of foreign leagues players could play annually. They seem to have reached a resolution, limiting players to two leagues, pending PCB’s NOC issuance.
The BBL is scheduled to kick off from December 7, 2023, running until January 24, 2024.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.
If you thought you would never be able to see a Pakistani version of an alien then you are in luck. This masterpaint Ad featuring Tabish Hashmi is everything you need to watch to have a good laugh.
Tabish Hashmi Debuts As An Alien
After airing hit talk shows, Tabish is taking a dig at acting with his latest TV commercial. While one must have never thought that this is the crossover we would get, it certainly looks like we needed one.
Master Paints’ advertisement takes an unconventional approach, featuring the host dressed as an alien who has descended to Earth to purchase a house. While the ad may miss the mark in terms of outfit, makeup, and production quality, there’s an undeniably humorous aspect to the entire commercial that will leave you in fits of laughter.
It’s not just on Earth that individuals seek the perfect transformation; across the galaxy, sentient beings have come to understand that the quality of paint is the hallmark of any remarkable change. From distant planets to far-flung galaxies, the word is out – Master Paints is the wallet’s best friend and the path to budget-friendly brilliance.
With Master Paints, the alien certainly didn’t need a spaceship full of tokens; all he needed was the desire to transform his surroundings into something extraordinary.
What are your thoughts on the hilarious commercial featuring the comedians? Share your views in the comments below.
Pakistani cricketers Sohaib Maqsood and Aamer Yamin sparked outrage over alleged corruption within the Sindh Police after a troubling encounter.
Both representing Multan Regions in the National T20 Cup, encountered Sindh Police while returning home from Karachi to Multan.
They accused law enforcement officials of stopping them forcefully on their way home and demanding bribes.
Sharing their ordeal on social media, Sohaib Maqsood and Aamer Yamin criticized the Sindh Police for their conduct, expressing relief that they didn’t reside in Sindh.
“We’re lucky to live in Punjab, not in Sindh. This was my first time travelling from Karachi to Multan by road, and the Sindh police’s corruption is evident,” Sohaib Maqsood stated on X (formerly Twitter).
money then they will stop you again after 50 km and ask for money again corruption at it’s peak in sindh police 🙏🏻 We told them that we are international cricketers travelling to multan after our match in Karachi they still took 8000 thousand rupees and then let us go it will
Narrating their experience, Sohaib Maqsood highlighted how the police stopped them repeatedly, asking for money and even threatening them without valid reasons.
“Even after we explained we were international cricketers heading home after our match in Karachi, they still extorted 8000 rupees from us,” Maqsood lamented.
Aamer Yamin also voiced the same sentiments and even mentioned relevant authorities in his post on social media to bring their attention to the issue.
travelling to multan after our match in Karachi they still took 8000 thousand rupees and then let us go it will never happen with you in Punjab or in any other province of Pakistan At area sakrand police station
Responding to their allegations, Inspector General (IG) Sindh Riffat Mukhtar took prompt action, directing DIG Shaheed Benazirabad to conduct an urgent investigation into the incident. The IG emphasized strict measures against those found involved, confirming the Sindh Police’s representative.
Social media reaction over the incident
The incident highlighted concerns over alleged misconduct within law enforcement, prompting many people to come forward and share their similar experiences with Sindh Police.
Same happened with us! When we travelled from Quetta to Multan, the journey was osm until we pass through Sukkhar during Esha time. The police asked us to pay 15k or we will capture the car we were afraid but one of our friend has this experience and immediately asked police his…
I know our players and actors are not very vocal about fellow citizens in Pakistan but trust me bro you just saw a minor glimpse and now feeling bad. You all are powerful voices which are silent to make them stronger.Pakistan is being killed by the current corrupts we need youall
Oh sorry😌 sir main aap se apni Sindh police ke taraf se mafi mangta ho sub aik jise nahi hote un loogon ko pata nahi hoga ke aap aik cricketer ho as liye sorry😌 🙏💔😌
While some expressed sympathy with cricketers, some people called them out for ‘racial superiority’ in their posts as corruption is a common problem across the country.
What do you mean by that, you are not living in Sindh? This racial superiority of Punjabis led this country to this point today. Corruption is a common enemy & part of our system. Whether It's Punjab Police or Sindh Police. Both are same faces of a coin.@sohaibcricketer
Quetta Gladiators asked three players for Naseem Shah?
While United and Sultans posted just awaiting posts, Peshawar Zalmi’s Javed Afridi went a step ahead with an Instagram story, hinting at Gladiators ‘unreasonable demands’.
Source: Screengrab
This further gave fire to the rumours that Quetta Gladiators sought Saim Ayub, Haseebullah, and Mohammad Haris in exchange for Naseem Shah.
However, Quetta’s Head of Player Acquisition, Nabeel Hashmi, debunked the claim, labelling it an “unreasonable demand” in a clarifying post on X.
Lot of people are sharing this and tagging me. I can categorically say it is false information by miles 😊😊😊
Itni unreasonable demand to koi franchise kisi dusri franchise se nahi karegi 🙏🙏 pic.twitter.com/k2ufrqGygw
Amidst the speculation, there’s speculation that Naseem Shah could join Islamabad United after opting not to continue with Quetta Gladiators. Meanwhile, Quetta eyes hard-hitting Azam Khan as a potential replacement, or pace bowler Hasan Ali in exchange.
Franchisees will submit relegation requests for players before finalising retentions. Following the floating of relegation requests, all teams have the chance to match the player’s base category. If the player’s base category is not matched, they may be relegated to a category below their base category.
The PSL 9 Draft is set to follow the National T20’s conclusion, promising a riveting prelude to an action-packed season ahead.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs in Pakistan has officially initiated the acceptance of Hajj applications for the year 2024. Marking the commencement of a significant pilgrimage season. A total of 15 designated banks across the nation have been appointed to facilitate the application process. As announced by the ministry.
Application Window and Expected Participants
Running from November 27 to December 12, the application submission period for the government-sponsored Hajj scheme has begun. Allowing interested individuals to apply within this stipulated timeframe.
According to the ministry’s projections, around 89,605 Pakistani citizens are anticipated to undertake the sacred Hajj pilgrimage next year through the government-sponsored program.
Source: Samaa
Bank Facilities Accepting Hajj Applications
Several banks, including Bank AL Habib, Bank Alfalah, Meezan Bank and HBL have initiated the process of accepting Hajj applications for 2024.
Bank Al Habib
Bank AL Habib is currently open for applications for the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage until December 12th, 2023. The package offers two scheme options, with varying durations and prices based on the South and North regions of Pakistan. Basic facilities encompass essential aspects like training, medical provisions, accommodations, transportation, meals, and a 5-liter Zamzam offering.
Additional amenities are available at varying costs, such as different accommodations, discounts, and optional expenses like Qurbani. Prospective applicants must meet specific criteria, including possessing valid travel documents, vaccination and medical certificates, and an active bank account. Those without an account can easily open an AL Habib Asaan Account for application processing. The submission deadline for applications is December 12th, 2023. Applications can be initiated online and submitted at any Bank AL Habib branch.
Bank Alfalah
Bank Alfalah has also announced the opening of applications for Hajj 2024, accepting submissions from November 27th to December 12th, 2023, across all its branches. Applicants must provide various documents including original valid CNIC and passport, COVID vaccination and medical certificates, along with three photographs and a valid bank account.
The Regular Hajj Scheme selection process involves a Ministry of Religious Affairs ballot, open to applicants who haven’t participated in the government Hajj Scheme from 2017 to 2023. Pricing for Hajj packages varies for different regions and durations, offering optional facilities such as Qurbani charges and various residential categories at additional costs, refundable if not provided.
The Government Sponsorship Hajj Scheme operates on a “first come, first serve” basis, accepting only USD for foreign remittance into the Ministry of Religious Affairs collection account. Sponsors abroad must send a single remittance per applicant according to Place of Departure (POD), with foreign currency remitted directly into the specified ministry account from abroad.
Habib Bank Limited
Habib Bank Limited (HBL) has initiated the acceptance of Hajj applications across a vast network of 1700+ branches nationwide, starting from November 27th until December 12th, 2023. For those aspiring to undertake the pilgrimage in the South region, the estimated cost stands at PKR 1,065,000, while participants from the North region can expect an estimated price of PKR 1,075,000.
Alternatively, there’s a sponsorship program available, with costs listed at USD $3,765 for the South and USD $3,800 for the North regions. For further assistance or to submit an application, individuals are encouraged to fill out the provided form, with terms and conditions applied, ensuring a smooth process for their Hajj journey through HBL’s services.
Meezan Bank
Meezan Bank is offering packages for both the South (Karachi, Quetta, Sukkur) and North (Faisalabad, Islamabad, Lahore, Multan, Peshawar, Rahim Yar Khan, Sialkot) regions of Pakistan. The estimated prices for the Long Package (38 to 42 days, including 8 days in Madina) range from Rs. 1,065,000 to Rs. 1,150,000, varying based on region and the inclusion of Qurbani. Accommodation options in Makkah are available at different rates, including double and triple bed arrangements.
Application submission dates are set from November 27th to December 12th, 2023, without any age limit for applicants. The eligibility criteria cover various scenarios related to past Hajj participation under government or private schemes, specifying conditions for both males and females intending to apply.
Allied Bank
Allied Bank is facilitating Hajj applications for the Government Hajj Scheme 2024, allowing individuals to apply hassle-free at any of its branches. The application submission window spans from November 27th to December 12th, 2023, without any age restrictions for pilgrims. Mandatory requirements include a valid CNIC, a Machine-Readable Passport valid until December 16, 2024, and an active bank account. Under the Regular Hajj Scheme, varying packages are available for both North and South regions, ranging from RS 1,065,000 to RS 1,150,000 depending on duration and location.
The selection process for the Regular Scheme involves computerized balloting conducted by Hajj Authorities. Additionally, the Sponsorship Hajj Scheme offers packages ranging from USD 3,765 to USD 4,050 for North and South regions, with quotas on a first-come, first-serve basis. Foreign currency deposits must follow specific instructions via SWIFT remittance into the Ministry of Religious Affairs’ designated account for the sponsorship scheme. Each Hajj applicant requires a separate remittance, and detailed information including purpose code and bank charges must be included in the SWIFT message.
The sponsorship scheme is based on first-come, first-serve quotas from abroad only, with strict instructions on USD remittance into specific MORA accounts. Documentation requirements include valid CNIC copies, photographs meeting specified criteria, original passports, medical and vaccination certificates, among others, to be submitted with the application.
Government issued Hajj Packages
The Hajj packages for 2024 vary based on regions and duration, with basic facilities including Hajj training, vaccination, medical facilities in KSA, round-trip tickets, accommodation, transportation, food, and a 5-liter Zamzam facility, among others. Optional facilities and additional expenses are also provided, offering flexibility to applicants.
The selection process for the government Hajj scheme will employ a ballot system overseen by the Ministry of Religious Affairs. Additionally, certain criteria regarding the applicants’ prior Hajj performances and accompanying conditions for minors have been outlined.
Source: Munafa
Foreign Remittance and Sponsorship Scheme
The sponsorship scheme is governed by a “first come, first serve” basis without balloting. Accepting only US Dollars (USD) against foreign remittance in the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MORA) collection account.
The opening of Hajj applications for 2024 signals the beginning of an important pilgrimage season. With the government and designated banks facilitating a seamless application process for prospective pilgrims. Aspiring Hajjis are encouraged to adhere to the specified requirements and apply within the designated timeline.
Karachi has quite a few places that people can visit for relaxation and leisure activities. No matter where you are in the city, there might be a place nearby where you can go with friends and have some fun. Moreover, Maritime Museum and PAF Museum are some of the oldest ones in Karachi. There was also a place where you could use a zipline!
Even though Safari Park has recently installed one, its certainly not the first one. Go Aish Adventure park was the first place in Karachi to install a zipline for adventurers, more than 14 years ago! It still holds itself as a pioneer in that regard.
"Exciting news for Karachites! Mayor Karachi @murtazawahab1 just unveiled the city's first zipline facility at Safari Park.
While the zipline is certainly a most exciting attraction, it is not the first one. Go Aish used to have a zipline called ‘The Flying Fox’. It took the person swinging across a body of water, with the wind hitting their face. People from all over the city used to visit the place and have a go at the zipline. Students from colleges used to enjoy the thrill of that zipline as far back as 2012.
Image Source: zameen.com
The Adventure Never Stops
Places like Go Aish tell us exactly how important it is to have a sense of fun and adventure in our lives. It lets us break free of the daily routine and do something entirely different. We encourage you all to partake in leisure activities as much as you can because they really help relax.
It does not only have to be obstacles courses though, it can be playing a board game too.
Pakistani actress Madiha Imam and her Indian husband Moji Basar are keeping the wedding festivities alive with yet another reception, this time among Moji’s family in India.
The cross-border couple, who initially grabbed headlines with their May Nikah and two receptions, is making waves again with their ongoing celebrations in Arunachal Pradesh.
Madiha Imam can be seen exuding grace in a stunning pink Arunachal traditional dress, radiating elegance as she celebrated the union with the groom’s friends and family.
The actress also treated her fans to a delightful dance performance by the groom.
Not one to keep her fans in the dark, Madiha Imam also shared a post-wedding trailer with her husband, providing glimpses into the cherished memories in India.
Nestlé Pakistan won two top awards in the categories of Gender Equity and Agri Tech & Food Security at the Sustainability Awards hosted by Sustainable Policy Development Institute (SDPI).
Nestlé Pakistan’s recognition in the two categories were for its Creating Shared Value (CSV) initiatives, the Nestlé-BISP Rural Women Sales Program that has supported 2800 rural women to achieve financial empowerment with the ambition to reach 5000 women by 2025; and Smart Soil Moisture Sensors on 548 acres, which assist farmers detect the sub-soil moisture level, helping Nestlé achieve its Waters Pledge of regenerating the water used by its Waters Business to have a net positive impact by 2025.
The awards were aimed at honoring exemplary efforts and achievements in the corporate sector and civil society organizations, “recognizing and celebrating sustainability achievements vital in fostering positive change and inspiring a collective commitment towards a sustainable future”. The winners were selected by an independent panel of esteemed experts and thought leaders who evaluated the nominated cases studies.
SDPI hosted the 26th Sustainable Development Conference in Islamabad, where Nestlé with SDPI also jointly hosted a plenary on Climate Change & Food Security: Does regenerative agriculture offer hope in despair, under this year’s theme Light at the End of the Tunnel.
Talking at the event, Sheikh Waqar Ahmad, Head of Corporate Affairs & Sustainability, Nestlé Pakistan said, “We are delighted to be acknowledged for our efforts towards communities and the planet. We are also accelerating our efforts to reduce GHG emissions, and we believe we can address this challenge by transforming the way we source ingredients by scaling up regenerative agriculture. Regenerative Agriculture is one of our focus areas to reach our Net Zero commitment by 2050. Nestlé’s approach is centered around universal agronomical principles that help protect and restore natural resources – primarily soil, as well as water and biodiversity,” he added.
Stressing on climate change’s impact, Dr. Adil Najam, President WWF International, highlighted that, “Climate change is no longer a problem for the future – it is here, and we are suffering from its effects already. On January 1, 2024, we will see that 2023 was the hottest year on record. We need to act now, and regenerative agriculture offers us hope in these times of despair.”
Narrating her experience from her native country Vietnam, Van Nguyen, Deputy Representative, UNDP Pakistan said, “Due to three yearly crop cycles for rice, soil health has significantly deteriorated in Vietnam. We need to come up with solutions that regenerate nature while making business sense. This cannot be achieved without the support of the private sector,” she stressed while appreciating the role of companies like Nestlé that have taken the lead on this and put their size and scale to work.
Dr. Abid Suleri, Executive Director, SDPI, moderated the discussion. Dr. Masoud Al-Marri Director General Islamic Organization of Food Security discussed the importance of regenerative development for Islamic countries, asking Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) members to leverage their individual strengths in order to help all members in order to improve food security.
Lahore – November 27, 2023: ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) has today published a new guide entitled ‘Sustainability reporting – the guide to preparation’. It is published ahead of COP28, the UN climate summit starting on 30 November in the UAE, in which ACCA is participating. Driving forward sustainability reporting – and increasing its global adoption – will be among the topics discussed.
Aimed at professional accountants, senior management and talent developers, this guide sets out key steps to help organisations start to prepare for sustainability reporting. It includes an eight-stage reporting cycle and suggestions with examples. It can be adapted to organisations of various sizes. The guide focuses on preparing for sustainability reporting in accordance with the inaugural ISSB (International Sustainability Standards Board) Standards, however it is equally relevant to organisations applying other sustainability reporting standards.
Businesses are facing increasing demands for sustainability information from customers, suppliers, lenders, potential new recruits and regulators. Those that interconnect sustainability and financial information are more equipped to make decisions that will lead to long-term success. They will have better access to finance, be better able to attract good quality staff, and will be more attractive to customers. They will also more likely to be compliant with the growing number of new sustainable business regulations and reporting requirements in this space. Businesses and professionals are asking for more support and guidance to prepare this information.
This first-in-a-series guide is complemented by a series of videos, produced in partnership with the ISSB. Intended to help understand and apply the standards, they focus on the first two standards: IFRS S1 and IFRS S2, which were published in June this year.
Report co-author Sharon Machado, head of sustainable business at ACCA said, ‘Achieving quality in sustainability reporting needn’t be a race; what’s important is having the courage to get started, the ability to apply judgement in the context of your organisation, getting others on board, and findings ways to improve.’
Report co-author Hsiao Mei Chow, head of corporate reporting insights – sustainability at ACCA, added: ‘There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. We encourage all involved to take time to work through the suggested processes, then design processes appropriate to their organisation and implement them.’
Report co-author Aaron Saw, head of corporate reporting insights – financial at ACCA, commented: ‘Sustainability reporting is likely to cover a range of matters, but the emphasis should be on material information for the intended users. Determining material information about sustainability-related risks and opportunities for reporting requires a three-step approach.’
ACCA director of policy & insights, Mike Suffield said: ‘Sustainability reporting requirements extend to explaining the approach and progress made on sustainability-led strategies – for many professional accountants this is a big change. On the other hand, this more holistic reporting requirement supports achieving benefits over the short-, medium-, and longer-term.’
Contestants participating in the adrenaline-pumping game show ‘Squid Game: The Challenge’ have recently raised serious concerns about their well-being during filming. Two contestants, whose names have been kept private, are seeking legal support, alleging they endured significant health setbacks while participating in the gripping competition.
Allegations of Harsh Conditions
A renowned British law firm, Express Solicitors, has stepped forward to represent these contestants. They claim that the harsh filming conditions, particularly during the nerve-racking ‘Red Light, Green Light’ game, led to distressing physical repercussions. The chilling cold prevailing at Cardington Studios, where the competition was shot, contributed to their suffering. Reports indicate that during a cold snap in the UK, these contestants battled hypothermia and nerve damage, exacerbating their health concerns.
Source: ReelScreen
Express Solicitors, known for their expertise in handling compensation claims, expressed distress over the contestants’ plight. Daniel Slade, the firm’s CEO, highlighted the contestants’ unexpected ordeal, emphasizing their initial anticipation of participating in an enjoyable challenge. He described how these participants now grapple with injuries sustained due to prolonged, uncomfortable positions and freezing temperatures, contrary to their expectations of engaging in a spirited game.
Legal Threat Against Netflix and Studio Lambert
Netflix, alongside Studio Lambert, the show’s co-producer, faces the threat of legal action in light of these claims. Despite the contestants’ legal warnings, a spokesperson for ‘Squid Game: The Challenge’ asserted that no formal lawsuit has been initiated, affirming their unwavering commitment to contestant welfare.
The safety of contestants during the filming of ‘Squid Game: The Challenge’ has been a topic of scrutiny. Reports emerged earlier this year suggesting that several contestants required medical attention due to the challenges faced during the production. Consequently, an independent safety inspection was conducted, prompted by these medical incidents, to evaluate the filming environment’s safety standards.
Source:: Yahoo
Health and Safety Executives Decision
Britain’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE) intervened, urging production units to diligently assess and manage risks associated with replicating the popular Korean drama. Following a thorough review, the HSE concluded that while precautions should be meticulously planned, no further immediate action against the production was deemed necessary.
As these legal tensions escalate, the incident highlights the crucial need for stringent safety measures in the entertainment industry. It underscores the significance of prioritizing participant welfare, ensuring that the excitement of these games does not compromise individuals’ health and well-being.
Social media abounds with videos featuring individuals trying out various food and drink experiments. Recently, a video capturing a person crafting a cheese soda blast drink has gained viral attention. Shared on Instagram by the account foodie addicted, the video highlights a street vendor in Surat, Gujrat India preparing the unique beverage.
Cheese & Peanut Soda
The footage begins with the vendor adding ice and peanuts to an empty glass, followed by the pouring of differently colored blueberry sodas. The video concludes with the vendor grating a block of cheese over the concoction.
If you are not sure what we are talking about, take a look at the video.
The caption of the post reads, “First time in Surat: Cheese Blast Soda. Have you ever had the courage to take one sip of cheese blast soda? Crushed ice loaded with peanuts, followed by two different layers of soda like pineapple and blueberry, topped with cheese for this Summer Special Drink.”
With over 580k views and numerous reactions, the video sparked confusion among viewers regarding the need for peanuts and cheese in what seemed like a visually appealing soda. Many commented on the combination, deeming it visually unappealing. While others expressed their thoughts about the taste, highlighting the contrasting flavors of soda and cheese. However, for us, the concoction is simply painful to contemplate.
Now the only thing left is the comments from the post and here are some you can check out below.
Image source: InstagramImage source: Instagram
What do you think about this bizarre drink? Is it a yay or a hard pass for you? Let us know in the comments below.
Imam-ul-Haq looked dapper in a deep blue pantsuit, complementing the theme with a pastel peach-colored necktie. Anmol radiated elegance in a mint-green Lehnga Choli designed by Lajwanti, accentuated by minimalist makeup and a classic bun adorned with a ‘Maang Tika’ and an extravagant choker.
