Exclusive Insights on Pakistan’s Digital Industry With Omar Abedin – CEO Starcom Mediavest.
Interview of Hassan Imtiaz | Market Development & Strategy Lead | Google
Interview of Hassan Imtiaz | Market Development & Strategy Lead | Google
Subway’s New Spicy Chicken Sub Slider… is a Must Try!
What is fresh, round, served on a freshly baked bun and affordable at the same time?
It’s Subway’s new Spicy Chicken Sub Slider that is so delicious you may not be able to stop after the first one!
Take it with a Sub or with another Spicy Chicken Sub Slider to make it a meal. Whatever you do, just remember the amazing taste and aroma surrounding the new sub in town.
What makes the Spicy Chicken Sub Slider a must try, is the fact that it is prepared in your presence and you have the option of adding your favorite toppings and ingredients.
Add onions or tomatoes if you like them more than other vegetables or make it a veggie-haven as per your requirement.
Since everything is fresh, the taste you get from the first bite is nothing short of heavenly.
All this for just Rs. 190 only which is far less expensive than all the other sandwiches in the market.
The flavor is also unique as the Tender Spicy Chicken Patty is one of a kind only available at Subway. The New Spicy Chicken Sub Slider can serve as a late night snack or a quick bite ahead of an afternoon meeting as it is easily available and can be eaten on- the- go.
The amazing combination of different sauces from Mayonnaise to Mustard will refresh your taste buds and keep those hunger pangs in check away for a decent amount of time
First, there was a 6-inch Sub and now you have a perfectly round 4-inch Handy Bite Sub that never disappoints.
Giving Your Spicy Chicken Sub Slider a Super Twist!
You can be super creative with your spicy chicken sub slider, be as unique and different as possible!
Throw on some extra cheese or a couple of crushed Lays. If you really want to go the extra mile, spice it up with spicy sauces, a few jalapenos, and pickles, and don’t forget the lettuce for that additional crunch!
You can go completely desi with all the mirch masala or give it your own modern touch, that’s completely up to you!
So what are you waiting for? Grab the sub slider at your nearest Subway outlet.
CNIC Fee Structure by NADRA Pakistan Changed Ahead of Elections
With the general elections coming up and citizens making sure that they get their CNIC’s ahead of time in order to cast their votes, there has been a drastic change in the CNIC fee Structure by NADRA Pakistan
However, exorbitant price hikes from the National Database and Registration Authority has dampened the enthusiasm for Pakistani’s who are struggling financially.
How to Apply Online for Pakistani Passport Renewal Before Expiry
The federal government has increased the fee for CNICs through a statutory notification (SRO) in all categories by more than a hundred percent. While the fees have been doubled in all categories, those looking to apply for an urgent CNIC will have to pay a fee that has been increased by 300%.
In order for any citizen to vote, a CNIC is needed for the person to cast his/her vote in the elections. However, by increasing the price, they have imposed a financial burden on the masses.
The fee in all categories has been increased by amending National Database and Registration Authority (National Identity Card) Rules 2002 in the exercise of the powers conferred under section 44 of Nadra Ordinance 2000.
New Fee Structure by NADRA Pakistan Revealed
- While the normal fee of the CNICS’s has been increased from Rs.200 to Rs.400, the urgent fee has been increased from Rs.300 to Rs.1150.
- Those looking to apply for the executive CNIC (Teslin based) will also suffer the price as it increases from Rs.1000 to Rs.2150.
- Similarly, the fee for the normal smart card (chip-based CNIC) has been increased from Rs400 to Rs750
- The price of the urgent smart card has been raised from Rs800 to Rs1,500 and executive smart card from Rs1,600 to Rs2,500.
- Overseas Pakistanis looking to apply for a NICOP will also have to pay the higher prices.
- For a normal smart NICOP (chip-based card) the price has been fixed at $39 while the price for the urgent NICOP is $57.
- Executive NICOP is at $75 for Zone-A countries including Europe, the US and Canada while Middle East countries, which fall in Zone-B category, the new rates for smart NICOP (chip-based) normal has been fixed at $20, $30 for urgent and $40 for executive smart NICOP.
- According to the notification, $3 less would be charged for all categories of NICOPs having Teslin-based cards (without chip).
However, the Sindh Assembly on Tuesday has urged the federal government to make the process of issuing CNICs free of charge so that the citizens are able to cast their votes in the general elections. For that, the provincial legislature has passed a resolution for the withdrawal of the fee hike.
The motion, which was moved in the House out of turn towards the fag end of the proceedings, states:
“This House resolves and recommends to the Sindh government to approach the federal government to withdraw the recent increase in charges for CNIC registration by Nadra.”
The motion further read:
“The exorbitant charges related to Nadra registration will make it difficult for citizens to have CNICs and to cast votes. Therefore, to ensure that voting is accessible to everyone, free NICs should be issued and the number of mobile registration vans should be increased. All these initiatives will definitely increase the representation of citizens in the upcoming elections.”
It has been advised that a resolution on the issue be moved so that a debate can be held to properly discuss the matter.
General Elections 2018: How to Register for Vote in Pakistan
What are your views on this price hike? Let us know in the comments!
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.
How to Apply Online for Pakistani Passport Renewal Before Expiry
Japan Plans Studio Ghibli Theme Park
The fantasy world of Oscar-winning animator Hayao Miyazaki will come to life as a theme park set to open in central Japan in 2022, the regional government said Wednesday.
Miyazaki is the co-founder of Studio Ghibli, Japan’s premier animation studio, and renowned internationally for works including “Princess Mononoke” and “Spirited Away”.
Studio Ghibli has released a basic concept for the vast park to be built by 2022 near Nagoya in Japan’s Aichi region.
It will feature rides and forest trails based on the master animator’s popular fantasy films, including “My Neighbor Totoro”, “Kiki’s Delivery Service” and “Howl’s Moving Castle”, according to the Aichi government.
The park will also be dotted with the European-themed brick towers that appear frequently in Miyazaki’s work, as well as giant installations of spider- and boar-shaped spirits in imaginary landscapes that evoke Japan’s mythical and idyllic past.
The park will be built at the Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park in Nagakute city, the local government said.
Its construction cost and other details were yet to be decided, an Aichi official told AFP.
Miyazaki is among the world’s most acclaimed animators, with huge followings in Japan and abroad.
“Spirited Away” won the Oscar for best animated feature in 2003, the first Japanese film to do so, and also scooped the Golden Bear prize at the Berlin International Film Festival, among other major gongs.
Studio Ghibli already operates the hugely-popular Ghibli Museum on the outskirts of Tokyo.
Tickets for the museum only go on sale at the beginning of each month and regularly sell out within hours.
CinemaCon 2018: Disney & Warner Bros. Go Head to Head!
Hollywood rolled out the big guns at the CinemaCon convention on Tuesday as Disney and Warner Bros. locked horns with rival presentations of their upcoming movies.
Disney kicked off the day of the big beasts at the annual Las Vegas film industry get-together with footage from its hotly-anticipated “Solo: A Star Wars Story,” while Warner answered the challenge by wowing fans with new images from “Aquaman.”
Disney traditionally keeps back its juiciest surprises for its own biennial D23 Expo, but delighted delegates with footage of the first meeting between Alden Ehrenreich’s young Han Solo and Donald Glover’s Lando Calrissian.
Scenes from the Ron Howard movie — the second “Star Wars” spinoff after “Rogue One” (2016) — showed the pair’s encounter in a sleazy dive bar on a snowbound world, watched by a colorful menagerie of new alien characters.
There was also a glimpse of what looked like the pivotal moment in “Star Wars” lore when Han wins the Millennium Falcon from Lando in a card game.
– Innovators –
Hollywood decamps to the Nevada desert for four days every year, taking over the iconic Caesar’s Palace hotel to show theater owners what they can expect to be making their money from over the following 12 to 24 months.
While most studios wheel out their biggest stars to promote their performances, Disney opted this year to let its movies do the talking.
The audience was treated to preview footage of Tim Burton’s “Dumbo,” Jon Favreau’s “The Lion King,” and a behind-the-scenes making-of featurette for Guy Ritchie’s “Aladdin.” All three movies are due out next year.
“Aladdin is one of those perfect stories. It just burrows down inside of you,” the movie’s star Will Smith said in a preview video.
CinemaCon was also shown a new trailer for “Ant-Man and the Wasp” as well as the opening sequence of animation “Incredibles 2” from Disney-owned Pixar and scenes from Rob Marshall’s upcoming holiday release, “Mary Poppins Returns,” starring Emily Blunt.
There was a marked difference in presentation style as Warner Bros. previewed its slate later in the day, adding some welcome pizzazz with a roll call of its biggest stars.
It set out its stall with a parade its DC Comics superheroes, treating delegates to behind-the-scenes footage from “Aquaman” and sending director James Wan onstage to introduce a “work-in-progress” trailer.
The footage of what is expected to be one of this year’s big Christmas films gave delegates a glimpse at the mythical underwater world of Atlantis, its residents riding seahorses into battle.
Comedian and actor Will Arnett, playing host on behalf of Warner Bros., lightheartedly chided “Aquaman” star Jason Momoa for indulging in some rather colorful language.
“You went from ‘Game of Thrones’ to ‘Aquaman,'” Arnett told the Polynesian American, his mouth curling into a smirk.
“Does it feel good to work in something that’s more realistic?”
Fans of Momoa, who got his break on HBO’s “Thrones” as Dothraki warrior king Khal Drogo, enjoyed the spectacle of the musclebound 38-year-old pulling a submarine out of the water.
– Cheeky questions –
“Have you ever wanted to play a character who wears a shirt?” Arnett demanded to know, as Momoa, joined onstage by co-stars Amber Heard, Patrick Wilson and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, took the cheeky line of inquiry in good spirit.
Warner showed a brief sizzle reel of the numerous superhero projects in its DC Extended Universe pipeline, featuring David F. Sandberg’s “Shazam!” and Patty Jenkins chatting about “Wonder Woman 2,” which she revealed will be set in the 1980s.
Warner showcased Melissa McCarthy comedy “Life of the Party” before the cast of female-skewed heist spin-off “Ocean’s 8” — led by Sandra Bullock and Cate Blanchett — took to the stage.
Arnett introduced “Small Foot,” with stars Channing Tatum, Zendaya, and Common addressing the crowd, and “Mowgli,” directed by Andy Serkis, who appeared alongside Blanchett and Benedict Cumberbatch.
Bradley Cooper turned up to talk “A Star is Born,” which he stars in and directs, showing a trailer of the love story between his character and pop sensation Lady Gaga’s.
“I always wanted to tell a love story and this project was around before and it always stayed with me… to me, music is the purest way you can communicate love,” Cooper said.
Entertainment writers and other industry professionals reacted positively to what they saw, but appeared most excited about “Aquaman,” a standalone spin-off from the critically-savaged 2017 ensemble feature “Justice League.”
“This is DC’s next big hit… and will make everyone forget about Justice League,” tweeted box office analysis firm Exhibitor Relations.
Cooperation Ignites Promising Prospect: FAW& PSO J5P-360 Handing-over Ceremony
On April 3rd, 2018, a splendid FAW J5P Key Handing-over Ceremony was held in Karachi, Pakistan, At the ceremony, the first 10 FAW J5P-360 oil tankers were delivered to Pakistan State Oil (PSO contractors), and another 50 oil tankers would be handed over to PSO contractors in short future.
The event was attended by dignitaries including Senator Taj Afridi, MD & CEO Sheikh Imranul Haque of PSO, MD AlHaj FAW Motors (Pvt.) Ltd, Representative Mr. Nian Haoyu of FAW Pakistan. Other senior company officials from PSO, representatives from China FAW Group and Al-Haj FAW Pakistan, and 470 PSO carriage contractors also attended the ceremony.
FAW, founded in 1953, is known as China’s first and largest automotive group. Along with the motto of ” first class product and first class service”, FAW is widely credited in China and abroad since its foundation therefore has become an icon among Chinese vehicle producers. And still, to keep the dominant position in markets, FAW is striving tirelessly to create the best products through strict production control, massive R&D investment, and persistent innovation. In 2017, FAW manufactured a total of 3,407,810 units, and sold 3,346,000 units in China and overseas, the sales revenue reached 469.8 billion RMB, ranking 125th in Fortune Global 500.
In view of PSO’s urgent need of upgrading its gas & oil transportation fleet, FAW provided the product that is economical，safe and with strong power within the shortest time. FAW J5P, a customized reformative vehicle with 28 configurations improved was optimized. It is built in complete compliance with the Oil & Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) and National Highways Authority (NHA) standards. The highlight is the enhancement of engine power, from 330Hp to 360Hp. On service aspect, 36 months deferred payment, a two year’s or 120,000Km’s quality guarantee and special VIP service constitute the competitive service support scheme among the industry, which enables the carriage contractors of PSO to induct compliant vehicles in PSO Transportation system conveniently.
“PSO is glad to be with FAW, to ensure implementation of OGRA and NHA standards in the transportation of petroleum products. The induction of new tank lorries will not only enhance PSO’s capacity to transport more fuel but also prepare the company to fulfill the country’s increasing fuel needs in wake of new business opportunities emerging from a consistent economic growth and mega projects like China Pakistan Economic Corridor.” On the occasion, MD & CEO PSO, Sheikh Imranul Haque addressed.
The latest fleet of FAW J5P oil tanker displayed at the event:
“FAW appreciate PSO’s determination on modernizing Pakistani road transportation system and PSO’s strategic ambition towards Pakistani market”, addressed at the ceremony, Mr. Nian, representative of FAW Pakistan, “As the leader of China’s automakers, FAW inherits the mission of independent innovation and continuous improvement for 60 years and wins trust and support from over 6 million global users. Relying on world-class research and development team and world-level truck-manufacturing base, FAW provides customers with safe, reliable, fuel-saving, comfortable and efficient world-class products. FAW will offer more excellent products and complete solution to join hands with our clients for a win-win future.”
The Pakistani market for oil and gas transportation, once dominated by Hino, Isuzu and Mitsubishi, and now Faw is playing a more important role gradually. The strategic cooperation between FAW and PSO indicated the increasing demands of Pakistani market for better commercial vehicles, and with the persistent creed of “first class product and first class service”, FAW will not only provide highly competitive products and services, but work deeply with Pakistani clients to set the new benchmark for the Pakistani transportation industry.
Saudi Arabia Postpones Launch of ‘Entertainment City’
Saudi Arabia on Tuesday said it has delayed by three days the launch of an “entertainment city” near Riyadh, part of a series of multi-billion dollar projects as the oil-reliant kingdom seeks to diversify.
King Salman had been scheduled on Wednesday to launch construction of the 334-square kilometer project in Qiddiya, southwest of Riyadh, touted as the kingdom’s answer to Disneyland.
“King Salman will inaugurate next Saturday the Qiddiya project, which is the new entertainment, sports and cultural destination in the kingdom,” the state-run Saudi Press Agency
Construction for the first phase of development, which would include high-end theme parks, motorsport facilities, and a safari area, is expected to be completed in 2022, officials say.
The facility highlights a “relentless effort to develop giga-projects that will help achieve many direct and indirect economic returns”, project official Fahd bin Abdullah Tounsi was quoted as saying in a government statement on Monday.
Qiddiya chief executive Michael Reininger has said the project in the entertainment-starved kingdom is expected to draw foreign investment but gave no figures.
Saudi Arabia has dazzled investors with plans for three hi-tech “giga projects”, funded in part by its sovereign wealth fund, but skeptics question their viability.
Aside from Qiddiya, the kingdom has unveiled blueprints to build NEOM, a mega project billed as a regional Silicon Valley, in addition to the Red Sea project, a reef-fringed resort destination — both worth hundreds of billions of dollars.
Such projects are the brainchild of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, architect of a sweeping reform programme dubbed “Vision 2030”.
The reforms stem partly from a motive to boost domestic spending on entertainment as the kingdom has been reeling from an oil slump since 2014.
Saudis currently splurge billions of dollars annually to see films and visit amusement parks in neighboring tourist hubs like Dubai and Bahrain.
In February, Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority said it would stage more than 5,000 festivals and concerts in 2018, double the number of last year, and pump $64 billion in the sector in the coming decade.
Meesha Shafi-Ali Zafar’s Controversy Takes an Ugly Turn With Legal Notice!
Meesha Shafi and Ali Zafar controversy takes a new turn as the former receives a legal notice from Ali’s counsel for Rs.1 Billion.
Any hope that the fans of these two might have fostered about the issue being handled outside of court have been crushed.
Hopes of a potential reconciliation between the duo has now been crushed in light of the latest development.
Pakistani Celebrities Declare their Stance on Meesha Shafi-Ali Zafar Controversy
The latest twist to the story is that Ali Zafar’s counsel has sent a notice to the songstress, demanding her to delete the tweet accusing the Teefa in Trouble hero of harassment.
The copy of the letter, revealed by Geo News, further states that if Meesha fails to do that, then a defamation case amounting to Rs. 1 billion will be filed against her.
The notice also sought “an apology using the same social media platform of Twitter proclaiming our client’s innocence.”
It added:
“However, if you fail to delete the tweet and issue an apology based on Twitter within 14 days of receipt of the legal notice, we have definite instructions from our client to seek remedy for redressal of his grievance and claim damages to the tune of at least Rs.100 crores.”
Quoting Meesha’s tweet in which she alleged harassment, the notice read:
“That you have accused our client of repeated sexual harassment of a physical nature and through this accusation you have made yourself a part of the global #MeToo movement raising affinities and sympathies for yourself based on a lie and a defamatory campaign being spearheaded by you as a result of which all news channels, newspapers and social media platforms in the country and abroad are reaching conclusions about the character of our client.”
It further read:
“That the fiction tweeted by you is actionable as libel as our client has never sexually harassed you neither has he ever had any intention of sexually harassing you. Your tweet has come as an absolute shock and brought dismay to his person, his family and millions and millions of his followers worldwide.”
But it seems that Meesha’s legal team is not ready to concede to the terms of the notice.
Barrister Muhammad Ahmad Pansota said:
“Meesha’s allegations of sexual harassment against Ali Zafar are based on truth thus the issue of defamation does not arise,”
Armeena Rana Khan Roasted Rabi Pirzada in an Intense Twitter Feud!
For those who are unaware, last Thursday Meesha took to her Twitter account where she accused Ali Zafar of physical abuse.
Sharing this because I believe that by speaking out about my own experience of sexual harassment, I will break the culture of silence that permeates through our society. It is not easy to speak out.. but it is harder to stay silent. My conscience will not allow it anymore #MeToo pic.twitter.com/iwex7e1NLZ
— MEESHA SHAFI (@itsmeeshashafi) April 19, 2018
However, instead of calling Meesha out on social media, he chose to handle the matter differently by tweeting that he will take this matter to the court.
— Ali Zafar (@AliZafarsays) April 19, 2018
Well, it seems that this battle seems to have just begun. Who will emerge the winner? Is there even a winner here, we wonder?
What are your thoughts on this issue? Let us know in the comments below.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.
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Regal Motors DFSK Glory 580 SUV Price in Pakistan, Specifications & Features
Regal motors have launched the Prince DFSK 580 SUV in Pakistan after receiving the greenfield status under the Automotive Development Policy 2016-21 to assemble & manufacture DFSK (Dongfeng-Sokon) vehicles under the ‘Prince’ brand name in Pakistan.
The automaker previously was well-known for their motorbikes, the brand announced a new venture at the Pakistan Auto Show 2018.
DFSK Glory 580 SUV Specs & Features
The 7-seater is equipped with a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine mated to a CVT transmission that produces 147.4 hp and 220 Nm of torque. The fuel tank is capable of storing up to 58-liter of fuel.
The Glory 580 SUV also features Front Dual Airbags, Electronic Brake Assist (EBA), Adjustable Steering Wheel, Electronic Parking Brake (EPB), ABS, EBD, Parking Camera, Dual-tone Horn, etc.
Biometric Verification For Transfer Of Vehicles Now Compulsory!
Other features include:
- Vehicle Burglar Alarm System
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- Reverse Radar
- Rear Windshield Wiper
- Power Windows
- PEPS (Keyless Entry + Push-start)
- Multi-functional Adjustable Steering Wheel
- LED High Mount Brake Lamp
- LED Daytime Running Lamp
- GPS Navigation
- Dual Electronic A/C
- Doors Auto-locking
- Child Lock
- Boneless Front Windshield Wiper
- Anti-dazzling Inner Rear View Mirror
- 12V Power Outlet
DFSK Glory 580 SUV Price & Booking
The Glory 580 SUV has been priced at PKR 32.5 lac according to a source, bookings will be taken against PKR 5 lac. The Glory 580 will be available as a CBU import contrary to other DFSK products that will be assembled locally.
Customers will be able to take the vehicle on test ride from their closet company’s dealership from 02 May 2018.
What do you think of Regal Motors’ DFSK Glory 580 SUV? Share your thoughts with us below!
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.
Sana Cheema: Pakistani-Italian Woman’s Honor Killing Case Makes Headlines
Pakistan police Wednesday exhumed the body of a Pakistani- Italian ‘Sana Cheema’ over claims she had been murdered by relatives in a so-called honor killing, in a case that has made headlines across Italy.
Police in the eastern city of Gujrat launched an investigation earlier this week into the death of Sana Cheema — of Pakistani origin and believed to have been in her mid-twenties — after allegations she had been murdered went viral online.
“After the news of her death spread on social media, police found the family and started an investigation,” said police officer Waqar Gujjar.
Cheema’s father, brother, and uncle are currently being held in custody for questioning but have not been charged, added Gujrat police officer Mudassar Sajjad.
“Now it depends on the post mortem report. If it determines the cause of death is due to murder, only then will police charge the suspects,” said Sajjad.
According to family members, Cheema died earlier this month after succumbing to an unspecified illness, said police officer Syed Mobarak.
Police said Cheema’s father Ghulam Mustafa brought her back to Pakistan to get married. This ultimately led to a confrontation with a nearby family who spurned the offer of a match, according to the woman’s family.
Because of the rejection Cheema refused to eat, fell ill and died, relatives told police.
Reports in Italian newspapers alleged Cheema was killed because she wanted to marry a man in Italy against her family’s wishes.
Hundreds of women in Pakistan are killed by their relatives each year after allegedly bringing shame on their families in the deeply conservative Muslim country.
Under the previous legislation,, the culprits — usually men — could escape punishment if pardoned by members of their own family.
A new law removes the power to forgive culprits in such cases but critics contend some loopholes still exist.
PIA Airhostess’s Dance Lands Her a Movie Offer!
An air hostess’s video from Pakistan International Airlines went viral on social media that has led to her landing a movie offer.
The video caught the attention of popular Pakistani movie director, Masood Butt, who approached Sadia, air hostess at PIA, to work as the heroine for his upcoming movie ‘Paishi Gujran Di’.
According to details, the director was impressed by Sadia for her dance moves and the expression on the Bollywood song ‘Laila Main Laila”.
The video clip shows the staff of PIA dancing and celebrating the victory of People’s Unity won Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) CBA union referendum 2018.
The video has gone viral in a short amount of time, attracting the notice of Masood Butt.
According to the director, the script for the movie has been finalized and the hunt for the cast is on.
This is not the first movie for the director; Masood has also directed several Urdu and Punjabi movies including Zameen Kay Khuda, Nagin Jogi, Madam Rani and Badshah Gujjar.
Here is the video of Sadia and a steward entertaining the crowd and celebrating the victory on this popular song.
https://youtu.be/1seFIcrCZvg
Here’s another video of Sara dancing to the song.
At least somewhere #PIA performance is above board. Magamboo khush hova. pic.twitter.com/doBjmWTHm5
— ShakilKhatak (@KhatakShakil) April 21, 2018
What do you think of her dancing moves? Love it – hate it? Let us know in the comments!
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.
Shoaib Malik & Sania Mirza Announce Pregnancy of ‘Mirza Malik’
Biometric Verification For Transfer Of Vehicles Now Compulsory!
The Excise and Taxation Department has now installed new biometric machines for the transfer of vehicles as a new practice.
According to Excise department official Iqbal Dogar, the individual who is selling their car first need to visit the office, undergo biometric verification, and then only they will be permitted to sell it ahead.
Previously, Punjab Excise Department (PED) had warned automobile owners in an open letter.
An official of taxation department while talking to media expressed that computerized transfer deeds would be issued and the complete information of transferee, transferred and the vehicle will be printed on them.
According to the new policy, the buyers and sellers just need to sign and put their thumb impressions on transfer deeds and submit them to the authority.
A total of 500 people will be recruited purely on merits in Excise and Taxation Department, said Ashraf Gondal, the director general of Excise and Taxation Department Punjab.
An official added that this practice will be implemented across the province and will be affected from May 1st, 2018. The online biometric verification system for the transfer of vehicles is being introduced in motor branches of 36 districts of Punjab.
He further added that Punjab government had directed to conduct impartial audit of over 72,000 commercial markets, plazas, and banks for assessment of property tax. A private party has been hired upon a contract of 45 million rupees for the purpose, he said.
What do you think about it?
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.
Pakistan’s First Milk Vending Machine To Launch Next Month
The first automated milk vending machine is all set to launch next month in Pakistan under the aegis of the Punjabi government for the provision of cheap and pure milk.
Saira Iftikhar, Chief executive officer at Punjab Livestock and Dairy Development Board (PLDDB), said talking to Agriculture Journalists Association (AJA):
“The basic idea behind introducing this automated milk dispenser unit, built locally at a cost of around 0.6 million, is to encourage dairy farmers to sell milk through this vending machine”
According to the Iftikhar, the current milk scenario had raised many questions about the distribution and packaging that was raising many concerns. This had led to the intervention of the public sector to introduce new dairy businesses.
According to the PLDDB official, sealed packaging would ensure the purity of the milk. She further revealed that around 2000 liters of milk would be produced at Khizerabad farm near Sargodha.
World Malaria Day, April 25th: Prevention Tips For Travelers
Sahiwal breed of cows are being used for the production of milk and would be sold at a market in the Township area for Rs.75 per liter through automated dispensers.
Iftikhar revealed that,
“This healthy milk comes from elite local milch cattle being reared at green pastures, while seasonal fodders along with corn silage and other healthful feed stuffs that are free of any impurities or harmful substance like aflatoxin are being fed to these healthy animals”
Labeled as A2 type, this nutrient-rich milk is made to be more nourishing, digestible and healthier compared to other cows’ milk being sold in the market.
She claimed:
“With four percent fats and 3.60 percent protein and enriched with calcium, vitamin D, phosphorous, protein and potassium and healthy fats, it is an ideal milk for all. It is also free of any additives”
The whole purpose of this initiative is to show a new successful business venture to dairy farmers for their as well as the consumers’ benefit.
Marcel’s Karachi: Location, Menu & Other Details
The “City of Lights” bringing A Taste of Two Cities Marcel’s opened its doors to Karachi’s Boat Basin hosting a gathering attended by socialites and celebrities.
The outlet was graced by the honorable French Consul General who inaugurated the patisserie with a Valrhona edible gold cake.
It is located at World Trade Center Fl-10 Khayaban-e-Roomi Block 5 Clifton, Karachi
The first of its kind, the cafe takes its name after a world traveler Marcel Le Roux, born in Paris, who embarked on a journey from France stopping in Italy, China, USA, Marcel and putting his adventure to rest in Karachi.
Marcel was sixth in the line of a family that prided itself on providing baked treats as it was in his family for generations and it is well known in Paris where the journey started and now all over across the world.
According to the founders, Ali Khalili and Umair Khalili;
“Whether a snack or to satisfy those sweet cravings Marcel’s has specializes in freshly-baked croissants, over a dozen types of breads baked fresh three times a day, éclairs, macaroons, Danish pastries among other mouth-watering products. The hot kitchen menu is a fusion of flavours from Paris to Karachi and everything in between!”
Head of Starbuck’s Asia, Gary Martin came in for R&D and Cordon Bleu chef Neha Akbar developed the menu for the cafe. Marcel always decided to work hard at being the best and work towards building an empire based on excellence, a French-inspired experience, and romance with the product.
From architecture to processing tools, all have been carefully aligned keeping the message in mind. Marcel’s aims to attract the most discerning audience by keeping traveling as a prominent theme of this boulangerie, patisserie, and bistro.
When you walk into the restaurant as a customer, you will be happy to know that an underprivileged person will be fed by Marcel’s. The remaining food will be given to the Robin Hood Army who works to get surplus food from restaurants across to let unfortunate people.
The event was put together by ‐ Frieha Altaf and her company, Catwalk Event Management and Productions Pvt Ltd.The PR Managed by Catalyst PR & Marketing and IAL Saatchi & Saatchi has been the creative partners right from its inception.
5 Upcoming Hollywood Movies to Release this Week!
Launching in the same week as blockbuster superhero movie “Avengers: Infinity War” are L.A. riots drama “Kings,” United Nations crime thriller “Backstabbing for Beginners,” high-stakes romance “Disobedience,” and Deputy Sheriff caper “The Escape of Prisoner 614.”
1. Avengers: Infinity War (PG-13)
https://youtu.be/QwievZ1Tx-8
Starring Chris Evans, Chris Hemsworth, Chris Pratt, Josh Brolin, Karen Gillan, Robert Downey Jr., Scarlett Johansson, Zoe Saldana
Studio Synopsis: The Avengers and their allies must be willing to sacrifice all in an attempt to defeat the powerful Thanos before his blitz of devastation and ruin puts an end to the universe.
Director: Joe and Anthony Russo (“Captain America: Civil War,” “You, Me and Dupree”)
Selected release dates: Australia, Belgium, France, Hong Kong, South Korea, Malaysia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam – April 25; Ireland, UK – April 26; South Africa, USA – April 27; China – May 11
2. Kings (R)
https://youtu.be/bqZIo7MFV0w
Starring Halle Berry (“Monster’s Ball,” “Die Another Day,”) Daniel Craig (“Casino Royale,” “Logan Lucky,”) Lamar Johnson (“The Next Step” TV series)
Studio Synopsis: The life of a foster family in South Central Los Angeles, a few weeks before the city erupts in violence following the verdict of the Rodney King trial.
Director: Deniz Gamze Ergüven (“Mustang”)
Selected Release dates: USA – April 27; South Africa – July 13; Netherlands – July 19
3. Disobedience (R)
https://youtu.be/HEVonh8bjC0
Starring Rachel Weisz (“The Lobster,” “The Mummy,”) Rachel McAdams (“Spotlight,” “The Notebook,”) Alessandro Nivola (“American Hustle”)
Studio synopsis: A woman returns to the community that shunned her for her attraction to a childhood friend.
Director: Sebastián Lelio (“A Fantastic Woman”)
Selected release dates: USA – April 27; Canada – May 18; France – June 13; Netherlands – July 12; UK – September 28
4. Backstabbing for Beginners (R)
https://youtu.be/P3GdyaVQ20I
Starring Theo James (“Divergent” franchise) Ben Kingsley (“The Jungle Book,” “War Machine”)
Studio Synopsis: A young program coordinator at the United Nations stumbles upon a conspiracy involving Iraq’s oil reserves.
Director: Per Fly (“Follow the Money” TV series)
US release date: April 27
5. The Escape of Prisoner 614 (PG-13)
https://youtu.be/WiJ79sekuCw
Starring Jake McDorman (“American Sniper,”) Martin Starr (TV series “Silicon Valley,”) George Sample III, Ron Perlman (“Hellboy”)
Synopsis: Two inept small-town sheriff’s deputies catch an escaped prisoner that they come to believe was wrongly convicted.
Director: Zach Golden (writer on “Gigi Does It”)
US release date: April 27
‘Jumanji’ Sequel All Set To Release In 2019
At the CinemaCon event in Las Vegas, Sony Motion Pictures chairman, Thomas Rothman, revealed that the studio has a sequel to the 2017 movie “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle” in store for the holidays in 2019.
Released in December last year, “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle” grossed $950M at the global box office. It therefore comes as no surprise that Sony already has another installment in the pipeline for Holiday 2019. The release schedule is particularly strategic, since “Star Wars: Episode IX” is also slated for release around this time.
There’s no word yet on a potential storyline for the new movie. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Jack Black, Kevin Hart and Karen Gillan will be reunited on the cast, but a new director could step in to replace Jake Kasdan.
Itself a sequel to the cult 1995 movie starring Robin Williams, “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle” relaunched the franchise with the tale of four high school students who are transported into the video game world of Jumanji after discovering an old games console.
Eternal Movie Confirmed by Marvel
As “Avengers: Infinity War” ushers the Marvel Cinematic Universe towards the end of its Phase Three plan, an adaptation of the cosmic-scope Eternals is on the cards as part of a future Phase Four.
With the battle between Thanos and the Avengers coming to a head in this week’s “Avengers: Infinity War,” Marvel is in the process of tying up Phase Three of its Marvel Cinematic Universe plan.
“Ant-Man,” “Captain Marvel,” 2019’s untitled “Avengers” film, and a sequel to “Spider-Man: Homecoming” are “taking up 90 percent of our time,” Feige told TheWrap.
The other 10 percent is going towards future projects.
“Some of that is you can take cues from everything we’ve done in the 22 movies before those — which is sequels to existing characters, new interpretation of existing characters and trying whole new swings with stuff that most people never heard of.”
“‘Eternals’ is one of many many many things that we are actively beginning to have creative discussions about to see if we believe in them enough to put them on a slate,” he said.
The Eternals are a race of incredibly powerful, genetically engineered superhumans originally created in order to defend the Earth.
Despite his antagonist status, “Infinity War” big bad Thanos is one of the Eternals, though in appearance looks more like their sworn enemies, the Deviants.
Multiple screenwriters have been asked to create a storyline for an Eternals movie, per TheWrap, which reports that a female character called Sersi is its focus.
Over the course of her comic book history, Sersi has been connected to various members of the Avengers as well as the group as a whole.
The Eternals were created by comic book legend Jack Kirby, who was also intrinsic to the creation of Captain America, Thor and Loki, Black Panther, Ant-Man and The Wasp, and Guardians of the Galaxy member Groot, as well as The X-Men and the Fantastic Four.
Four volumes of The Eternals have been published since their 1976 introduction. Volume 3 arrived in 2006 with Neil Gaiman as its writer; it cast Sersi as a New York publicist with no knowledge of her true identity as a near-immortal, immeasurably powerful cosmic being and previous member of the Avengers.
As it happens, Kirby came up with the expansive Eternals mythology after a stint at Marvel rival DC, where he had unfurled a conceptually similar New Gods line-up.
Several outlets, including SlashFilm, io9 and ScreenRant, note that DC Films already has a New Gods movie in development, with Oscar-nominated Ava DuVernay of “Selma,” “13th” and “A Wrinkle in Time” installed as co-writer and director.
Facebook Reveals Internal Rules for Removing Controversial Posts
Facebook said Tuesday it will give users the right to appeal decisions if the social network decides to remove photos, videos or written posts deemed to violate community standards.
Plans to roll out an appeals process globally in coming months came as Facebook provided a first-ever look at internal standards used to decide what posts go too far in terms of hateful or threating speech.
“This is part of an effort to be more clear about where we draw the line on content,” Facebook public policy manager in charge of content Siobhan Cummiskey told AFP.
“And for the first time, we’re giving you the right to appeal our decisions on individual posts so you can ask for a second opinion when you think we’ve made a mistake.”
The move to involve Facebook users more on standards for removing content comes as the social network fends off criticism on an array of fronts, including handling of people’s data, spreading “fake news,” and whether politics has tinted content removal decisions.
California-based Facebook already lets people appeal the removal of profiles or pages. The appeal process to be built up during the year ahead will extend that right to individual posts, according to Cummiskey.
The new appeal process will first focus on posts remove on the basis of nudity, sex, hate speech or graphic violence.
Notifications sent regarding removed posts will include buttons that can be clicked to trigger appeals, which will be done by a member of the Facebook team.
While software is used to help find content violating standards at the social network, humans will handle appeals and the goal is to have reviews done within a day.
“We believe giving people a voice in the process is another essential component of building a fair system,” vice president of global product management Monika Bickert said.
“For the first time, we are publishing the internal implementation guidelines that our content reviewers use to make decisions about what’s allowed on Facebook.”
Some 7,500 content reviewers are part of a 15,000-person team at Facebook devoted to safety and security, according to Cummiskey, who said the team is expected to grow to 20,000 people by the end of this year.
“It’s quite a tricky and complex thing drawing lines around what people can and cannot share on Facebook, which is why we consult experts,” said Cummiskey, whose background includes work as a human rights attorney.
Google Photos is Making it Easier to Edit Videos!
Android enthusiasts seem to have discovered a future Google Photos update that simplifies video editing.
It has been two years since Google Photos was introduced and now the media storing and sharing service has over 500 million users — many of whom will be happy with Google’s latest changes that make video editing just that bit easier.
According to AndroidPolice, Android users will soon get to enjoy a version of the Google Photos video editor, currently only available for iPhone and iPad fans.
The brand has brightened things up a little with a white color scheme and cleaner interface. Some of the functions remain the same, however, there are some additional editing tools when you click on the action overflow button.
AndroidPolice has posted screenshots comparing the two views and demonstrating the list of new tools. These include “simple commands for moving a clip up or down in the timeline, showing or hiding the unused portions of a clip, muting the audio, inserting a new clip, duplicating the current one, or removing it from the timeline,” according to the publication.
Furthermore, the video preview is now right at the top of the screen with multiple rows of clips lined up below, allowing users to edit clips simultaneously, much like with a desktop view, potentially saving time.
As for when this will become fully functional and available, it remains unclear as Google has not yet posted any information to confirm. But tech-savvy Android users seem to have already downloaded the latest APK mirror (v3.18.0.192689168) and rebooted the app for a sneak peak, according to AndroidPolice.
It says that a “teardown of v3.16 added text referencing a new editor and referencing a matching set of features,” indicating that a new movie editor would soon be coming out.
The “matching set of features” refer to the ones that iOS already uses, which are supposedly based on those from the Clips app, originally developed by Fly Labs then acquired by Google back in 2015.
Some video editing enthusiasts may find the lack of “Instagram-style” filters disappointing, as well as the ability to add text overlays. However, these may be available in a future update.