Paris of Sindh

Sindh News 31-07-2009
CM presentes Bhitai, Ayaz and Josh awards
KARACHI, July 31 (APP)- Sindh Chief Minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah has said that poets, writers and intellectuals are an important segment of our society and they have a significant role to their credit for reformation in the society. He was speaking as chief guest at Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai, Shaikh Ayaz and Josh Malihabad Awards distribution ceremony held at Chief Minister House on Thursday night. Paying glowing tributes to poets, writers and intellectuals, he said they are playing a conspicuous role towards guidance and betterment of the society and he feel delighted in presenting them the awards. Qaim Ali Shah said that democracy has made its inroad into the country after quite a long period and it was due to the struggle and sacrifices of Shaheed Quaid Benazir Bhutto. He said the present government has specially focussed on the promotion of culture and tourism and in this regard he referred to steps taken for development of Gorakh Hill Station. He said with the efforts being made, this recreational resort would soon be opened for people of Sindh and outside the province. He said steps are also being taken for the development of Moenjo-Daro and Hawksbay. Earlier speaking on the occasion, Provincial Minister for Culture and Tourism, Sassui Palejo said that poets, writers and intellectuals of Sindh always raised their voice during the dictatorial era of Yahya, Zia and Musharraf without any award or reward and always highlighted social injustices. She said Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai is the symbol of our civilization and his poetry has been a source of guidance for us. Similarly Shaikh Ayaz and Josh Malihabadi has had a significant role to their credit. Sassui Palejo said that for the first time in 62 years, an endowment fund is being instituted for poets, artists, writers and intellectuals and also for the first time an Archaeological award is being conceived. She said her department is working for the develompent of Keenjhar lake where large scale plantation has been carried out and people would notice a clear change there. She pointed out that earlier only one mushaira used to be held and one or two books published, but now research committees are being formed and Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Chair established in three universities. Besides, a 17-volume Encyclopedia is also being brought out. Later, the Chief Minister presented Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai Excelence Awards with cash Rs 100,000 to Jamal Abro, Dr Farman Fatehpuri, Ustad Bukhari, Ada Jaffery, Syed Saleh Mohammed Shhah and Zarina Baluch (Posthumous) and Moin Akhtar for their valuable services. Fahmida Riaz, Mazhar Jamil Siddiqi, Asif Farukkhi, Dr Hasan Manzar, Dr Akhtar Hussain Raipuri were presented Shaikh Ayaz Awards with cash Rs 75,000 while Haleem Brohi, Tajil Bewas (Posthumous), Dr Fahmida Hasan, Wali Ram Walibh were given Josh Malihabad Awards with cash Rs 75,000. Later, Mohammed Usman Deeplai was awarded life achievement award which was received by his son Mohammed Ali Deeplai.

Protest against transfer of DPO Sukkur, July 31 (APP): A large number of citizens, traders and workers of different NGOs staged a protest against the transfer of the District Police Officer (DPO) Ghotki Javed Sonharo Jiskani. They said the DPO had brought the law and order under control by launching a major drive against the harbourers of criminals.

2nd edition of "The Jinnah Anthology" launched KARACHI, July 31 (APP): In a befitting tribute to the Founder of Pakistan, Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah, the Oxford University Press (OUP) Pakistan and The Jinnah Society in collaboration with the Pakistan High Commission In London launched the book- The Jinnah Anthology: Second Edition. An OUP Pakistan statement issued here on Thursday said that the second edition of "The Jinnah Anthology" has been compiled and edited by Liaquat Merchant and Professor Sharif al- Mujahid and published by the OUP Pakistan. It is a follow-up to the first edition of the book published in 1999 and contains much more extensive material on the Quaid. The present edition is a compilation of newly written and previously published essays, articles, excerpts, personal recollections and tributes by renowned authors and distinguished individuals worldwide, along with quotes, speeches, and statements of Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah, focusing on the character of the Quaid as a statesman and founder of Pakistan. This collector's item intends, primarily to be a source of inspiration for the general reader and aims to re-emphasisze the Quaid's vision, ideals, and principles relating to democracy, justice, equality, integrity, honesty, supremacy of the rule of law and rights of women and minorities. Through this volume, the editors of the book strive to document and celebrate the Quaid's life, his work, and achievements. The Jinnah Anthology is a presentation of The Jinnah Society as a nation-building exercise and with the intention of developing leadership in the role model of the Quaid. Liaquat Merchant is the Administrator, Estate of Quaid-i-Azam; Managing Trustee, The Jinnah Foundation; Executive Trustee, Quaid-i- Azam Aligarh Education Trust, President, The Jinnah Society, and author of several publications on Jinnah, including the M.A. Jinnah CD ROM Project. Professor Sharif al- Mujahid is a renowned scholar of the Pakistan Movement and Jinnah. He is presently Distinguished National Professor, Higher Education Commission, Pakistan. The book launch held at the Pakistan High Commission in London was well-attended by diplomats, academics, and media people. Group Communications Director, Oxford University Press UK, Rachel Goode, was present at the function and read out the speech on behalf of Managing Director, Oxford University Press Pakistan, Ameena Saiyid, who was unable to travel to the UK to attend the launch. Ameena Saiyid's speech highlighted that this event gives us a chance to commemorate the life and work of a great man and as time goes by we realise how rare his qualities were and how infrequently history comes up with such a convergence of brilliant qualities. During his presentation on The Jinnah Anthology, Liaquat Merchant spoke of the need to follow Jinnah's ideals, principles, and vision, and the need to encourage development of leadership in the role model of Jinnah. While giving an overview of the book, he showed rare and valuable photographs and video footage of Jinnah which received great applause from the audience. Pakistani High Commissioner to the UK, Wajid Shamsul Hasan, also spoke on the occasion and was lavish in his praise for the Jinnah Society, Oxford University Press, the two Editors of the book, and of course, Jinnah, who he admires immensely. The High Commissioner expressed his full support for the continuous publication of books on Jinnah and for holding similar talks in England. Some of the notable guests present at the launch included Jameel Dehlavi, Hasan Askari, Ken Barrington, Paul Flather and lan Talbot, who gave his concluding remarks.

Beginning of IDPs return from Sindh has belied nationalists stance: PPP leader
HYDERABAD, July 31 (APP): Information Secretary Pakistan Peoples Party Hyderabad Division Dr. Tehseen Shaikh has said that the beginning of return of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from Sindh to their native areas has exposed the anti-democratic stance of the so- called nationalist parties and their negative propaganda against Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). The temporary settlement of IDPs was purely on humanitarian grounds but the vested interests who do not want peace and brotherhood among the people had raised a hue and cry soon after the arrival of IDPs in Sindh. However, their return after restoration of normalcy in the troubled areas has proved the stance of the party leadership, Dr. Tehseen Shaikh said in a statement, issued here on Thursday evening. He said President Asif Ali Zardari and Sindh Chief Minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah had promised that after restoration of law and order in Swat and Malakand, the IDPs would be returned to their homes and today, the departure of such a large number of IDPs from Sindh has proved their commitment, which they had made with the people of Sindh. He called upon the people of the province not to pay heed towards the biased propaganda of the so- called nationalists who are engaged only to destabilise the elected government by carrying out politics on baseless issues.

Govt committed to improve socio-economic conditions of fishermen:Minister
THATTA July 31 (APP): The government is committed to improve the socio economic conditions of fishermen, this was stated by the Minister Fisheries Zahid Ali Bhurgri at fish seed release ceremony organized by Keenjhar Fishermen Welfare Society in collaboration with Indus for All Programme WWF. The Minister said that contract and license system has been abolished to ensure the local fishermen fishing rights who were previously deprived of this basic right. He said that Shaheed Benazir Bhutto card has been given to fishermen as authority for fishing in 1209 water bodies located in various parts of Sindh province. He added that three hundred houses along with two hundred boats have been given to fishermen of Manchar Lake and similarly one hundred houses would be given to fishermen of Keenjhar Lake free of cost. The Minister said that fisheries pen and cage culture would be introduced at the lake in collaboration with Taiwan government. He urged the fishermen that illegal nets should not be used. He lauded efforts of WWF for promotion of sustainable fisheries and said that department would implement such schemes in joint venture with WWF.

Instutute of Plant Sciences at Sindh Varsity
HYDERABAD, July 31 (APP): The authorities of University of Sindh (SU) Thursday renamed the Institute of Botany as "The Institute of Plant Sciences." SU Registrar Muhammad Saleh Rajar informed that the Institute has been renamed following decision of the 35th meeting of the Academic Council of the University.

Judicial Conference at district level on August 1 LARKANA, July 31 (APP):
District and Sessions Judge Larkana Bashir Ahmed Khoso will preside over Judicial Conference at district level on August 1, at the Conference Hall, District Court Building Larkana at 1.00 p.m. In the Conference the formation of judicial policy for quick disposal of cases will be discussed.

HESCO faces 491 MW power shortage: spokesman
HYDERABAD, July 31 (APP): A total of 1776 megawatts of electricity is available in the system of Hyderabad Electric Supply Company (HESCO), however, the company is still facing a shortage of 491 megawatts, causing difficulties to the management in maintaining uninterrupted power supply to the consumers in Sindh except Karachi. A HESCO spokesman said here Thursday that the shortage of 491 megawatts of power is forcing it to carry out six hours of load- shedding in Hyderabad, Mirpurkhas, Nawabshah, Khairpur, Sukkur, Larkana, Jacobabad, Shikarpur and other urban parts of Sindh and eight hours duration load shedding in rural parts of the province. The load management programme is being carried out in different timings during 24 hours in a day, he said. The spokesman further said that load management programme is being communicated to the customer through print and electronic media on regular basis with clarification that no unannounced load shedding is being carried out in any part of Sindh except Karachi. However, he said that due to faults in power transmission system, some cases of power outage are being reported, which are being addressed promptly by HESCO staff. The spokesman appealed to the customers to pay their outstanding dues in time and use the electricity through legal connections. The use of electricity through illegal means is a crime and hooking "Kunda" on high voltage wire, could claim the life of those involved in power theft, he pointed out. He also appealed to the customers to avoid unnecessary use of electricity and use energy savers in place of common bulbs.

IDPs return process continues: DCO Hyderabad
HYDERABAD, July 31 (APP): District Coordination Officer (DCO) Hyderabad Aftab Ahmed Khatri has said that the return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Hyderabad is in progress and till- date 43 families comprising 372 persons have left from here for their native places. He said that according to reports of Hyderabad Police, one IDP family with six persons left Hyderabad as early as July 13, 2009. Similarly, two IDPs families comprising 25 persons left for their native towns on July 16, he said and added that 16 more IDPs families with 186 persons left on July 21. Likewise, he said six IDPs families with 37 persons left on July 26 and 18 IDPs families with 118 persons left for their native towns on July 27, 2009. He said that the remaining 26 families with 132 members are also actively preparing to leave Hyderabad for their native towns and hopefully the process of repatriation of IDPs to their native towns would be completed within shortest possible time.

BSEK defends promotion of senior officials
KARACHI, July 31 (APP): The Board of Secondary Education Karachi (BSEK) has defended the promotion of its senior officials. An official of the BSEK said on Friday that the promotions of the Secretary, Hoor Mazhar, and Controller of Examinations, Kaleem Asghar Kirmani, were the senior most officers in Grade 18 and have been promoted to the next higher grade. He said that as per past practices, these two officers have been promoted in accordance with seniority-cum-fitness. Once again promotion on these two posts were carried out from amongst the senior staff of the BSEK and that the staff of the BSEK is happy on this elevation, it was further stated.

PEC accords accreditation to FUUAST Electronic Engineering
KARACHI, July 31 (APP): The Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) has accorded accreditation to the Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science and Technology (FUUAST) for the discipline of Electronics Engineering. This was announced by the spokesman of the institution here on Friday. Consequently, he added, the degrees of the B.Sc. Electronics Engineering of batch 2005 of the students of FUUAST would be recognized by the PEC. It was further pointed out that the degrees of the students of this discipline of the batch 2004 were also recognized by the PEC.

NMC delegation calls on City Nazim
KARACHI, July 31 (APP): A delegation of trainee officers of National Management College, Lahore led by Chief Instructor NMC Syed Asghar Hussain Gillani called on City Nazim Karachi Syed Mustafa Kamal at his office. Talking to delegation, Nazim Karachi described Karachi an important financial and commercial hub in the region. However, he said, certain groups in a bid to destabilize Pakistan, were trying to create instability in Karachi. He said a number of members of suicide bombers were killed or arrested in Karachi in police encounters. He emphasized the need for better coordination between police, community and city district government Karachi. If police are placed under city government's control , it would be the best way to maintain and improve Law and order in Karachi, he stated. The Nazim said that Karachi provides oxygen to whole country and, therefore, it deserves every attention. He said a favorable environment and world class infrastructure here alone can ensure inflow of foreign investment.

LUMHS announces MBBS third profesional results
HYDERABAD, July 31 (APP)- The Controller of Examinations Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences Jamshoro Friday announced the result of Third Professional M.B.B.S. Annual Examinations. According to announcement, Madiha Zaheer d/o Zaheer Udin Soomro has secured first position while Marvi d/o Maqbool Memon and Maria d/o Ghulam Ali Memon have clinched second and third positions respectively in the examinations. The examinations were conducted at Liaquat University Jamshoro, Chandka Medical College Larkana, Peoples Medical College for Girls Benazirabad and Ghulam Muhammad Maher Medical College Sukkur in the month of May 2009.

Work on Corridor IV to start after 14th August
KARACHI, July 31 (APP): City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal has said that construction of fourth Signal-free Corridor from Jinnah Bridge Tower to Jinnah Terminal Airport will be taken in hand after inauguration of Corridor-III on August 14, 2009. He announced this while addressing Century Business & Economics Club and Pak China Business & Economics Forum at a local hotel which was attended by MNA Khushbakht Shujaat, MPAs and representatives of trade and business community. Nazim Karachi said that Haq Parast leadership had initiated a rapid development process to provide better facilities to citizens. Various sectors including transport, education, health, water and sewerage system and infrastructure were paid special attention during the last four years. He pointed out that Karachi is the backbone of national economy and it has been developed as a regional hub and an important city of Pakistan. Mega development projects like signal-free corridors have been completed here to provide convenience to citizens and promote business and commercial activities in the city. Mustafa Kamal reiterated that progress of Karachi means progress of Pakistan and that was why the Haq Parast leadership carried out development works in various sectors which elated standard of life in Karachi. Speaking on this occasion MNA Khushbakht Shujaat paid tribute to Nazim Karachi for extraordinary development carried out during the last four years here. She pointed out that City Nazim was nominated as world's second best, an honor for Karachi and Pakistan. Addressing the ceremony representatives of trade and business community too praised the efforts of Mustafa Kamal for bringing Karachi into the ranks of world mega cities

CJ SHC to be chief guest at Judicial moot on Aug.1
HYDERABAD, July 31 (APP): The Chief Justice Sindh High Court Mr.Justice Anwar Zaheer Jamali will be the chief guest at the concluding session of day-long Judicial Conference, to be held here at District Council Hall on August 1. This was stated by the District and Sessions Judge Hyderabad Abdul Rasool Memon here on Thursday. District and Sessions Court Hyderabad is the host of Judicial Conference on "Implementation of National Judicial Policy (NJP)". He informed that the inaugural session would be commenced at 10.30 am and its concluding session would be held at 06.45 pm. He said that the purpose of this Judicial Conference is to educate the stake holders about the National Judicial Policy.

Shisha Huqqa banned in Gulshan-e-Iqbal Town
KARACHI, July 31 (APP)- On the directive of Nazim Gulshan-e- Iqbal, Wasey Jalil, ban has been imposed on use of "shisha huqqa" in various restaurants and other places within the town's jurisdiction. In this regard a resolution was unanimously passed in the Town's Council meeting. The TMA took up the matter following repeated complaints from residents requesting ban on use of shisha huqqa. In this regard, the Land department was directed to carry out a survey which revealed that the tobacco used in shisha huqqa is harmful for health. Town administration warned that wherever shisha huqqa will be found being used, the trtade licence of that place would be revoked and action would be taken against those involved.

Expert to discuss common dermatological problems at PMA House on Saturday
KARACHI, Jul. 31 (APP)- Scientific Sub committee of Pakistan Medical Association has selected "Common Dermatological Problems" as the topic for its Lecture scheduled for Saturday at PMA House. Dr. Khurram Mushir, a consultant dermatologist and cosmetologist will be the main speaker on the occasion. PMA has invited all doctors and medical students to attend the session, organized as part of PMA's Lecture of the Month series.

Sindh Chief Justice to inaugurate free legal aid call center on Sunday
KARACHI, July 31 (APP)- Chief Justice of Sindh High Court, Anwar Zaheer Jamali will inaugurate the much warranted Legal Aid Call Center, with provision for free legal advice and guidance via phone, here on Sunday. The facility to be known as APWA Legal Aid Call Centre has been put in place with trained personnel and universal access numbers (UANs). It will operate as a community service to provide free legal advice to the people, Legal Aid Call Center (LACC) Project Coordinator, Justice (retd) Nasir Aslam Zahid told APP. He expressed his gratitude to APWA for providing the space for "phone-in center." "Our target group is the large majority of masses who either are not fully aware of their rights or are less privileged to obtain such services through other legal channels," he said. "Any aggrieved caller from any part of the country "if required" will also be guided to lawyer or human rights organization," he said. Answering a question, the senior human rights activist said the guidance will be for appropriate legal representation on reasonable fee. He, however, mentioned that besides legal advice, private consultation will also be provided, over the phone, to those members of the community, who cannot afford to engage a private lawyer. Justice (retd) Nasir Aslam Zahid said a significant number of committed and reputable lawyers from Sindh and Members of Sindh Bar Council have expressed their willingness to support the cause. To a query, he said LACC project would require public support and financial assistance on regular basis so as to sustain the public service on long term basis. Discussing the procedure to be adopted at the APWA Legal Aid Call Center (LACC), he said ten advocates have been trained to receive calls and provide required service in Urdu, Sindhi and English. Role of these advocates will be to assist clients and to see if they have a problem to which there may be a legal solution and to explain what options are available to them and from where they may obtain further assistance. In case it is not possible to provide on the spot advice and assistance the details will be taken down and discussed with senior lawyers who would also be available at the LACC. "They will not directly respond to the callers but appropriate recommended advise by them would be conveyed through phone by the advocates available at phone-in centers" elaborated the man committed to the cause of public rights.

Two day care centres to be set up in city soon: Minister
KARACHI, July 31 (APP)- Two day care centres would soon be set up in the metropolis. This was announced by the Sindh Minister for Women Development, Ms. Tauqeer Fatima Bhutto, here on Friday. She said that her Department was establishing these day care centres to help facilitate the working mothers so that they could fully perform their role towards the development process in the society. The Minister further stated that these two day care centres would come on ground soon.

Gen. Shahid chairs DHA Executive Board meeting
KARACHI, July 31 (APP)- A meeting of the DHA Executive Board was chaired by its President, Lt. Gen Shahid Iqbal, here on Friday to discuss the pace of progress of ongoing projects in DHA. The Administrator DHA, Brig Khalid Tirmizi, gave a resume of various development schemes and measures initiated by the Housing Authority to improve the living environments in DHA. A detailed briefing was given to the Executive Board on the recent monsoon rains and its effects in the area. The Board was informed that the quantum of rain water (225 mm in 24 hours) due to cloud burst was enormous and resulted in local flooding of some areas. However, all major roads and localities were largely cleared in 12 hours compared to four weeks time taken for the same during 2007 rains. The low lying catchment areas remained under water for 36 hours before the water was drained out through pumping action. The Corps Commander and President of DHA Board directed the DHA management to conduct a proper survey of the area and remove all inadequacies in the drainage system to meet any untoward eventuality in future. He also directed DHA to tap the collective wisdom for further improving the efficacy of the drainage system. Gen. Shahid Iqbal asked DHA to immediately establish a Camp Office at the site of upcoming DHA City. He also directed that proper sign posting of DHA City encompassing Super Highway frontage and installation of lights in the area be carried out to facilitate the public visiting the site. The Housing Authority will establish a Free Medical Camp at DHA City site for the surrounding villagers and natives of the area as a good will gesture. The President of the Executive Board asked DHA to ensure development of a modern farm house and a theme park etc concurrently with commencement of fast track development of the modern city, so as to bring a resemblance of active life in the area. The Executive Board was informed that repair work of DHA Cogen Plant had since been completed but the pre-commissioning/testing trails is being planned in the next week. In a meeting of Cabinet Committee on Energy Crises held in Governor House here on July 29, the KESC had agreed to restore electricity required for kick starting and commissioning of the plant. DCL and KESC will review and renegotiate Power Purchase Agreement during this interim time. Arrangements are being made to make the Cogen plant functional at the earliest. The President Executive Board asked DHA to reinvigorate the garbage waste disposal system and to get it revived as per the original European Union Project. He asked DHA to observe cleanliness week to inculcate sense of cleanliness amongst residents by involving them in the drive. The Corps Commander in his concluding remarks directed the DHA management and staff to serve the residents with utmost dedication, to bring quality to their undertakings and to ensure a versatile resident-responsive approach in their dealings.

VC Sindh University suggests formation of think-tank
HYDERABAD, July 31 (APP)- The Vice Chancellor University of Sindh Mazhar-ul-Haq Siddiqui has underlined need to form a think tank for effective liaison between University and Industries so that both the important sections of society could work together and cater to the society's needs. The Vice Chancellor emphasized this while speaking at a reception hosted by Hyderabad Chamber of Commerce in his honour at Hyderabad Gymkhana on Friday. The reception was also attended by former Presidents HCCI Haji Muhammad Yakoob, Abdul Razaq Memon, members, office bearers of HCCI. Educationists, writers and intellectuals including Aftab Ahmed Shaikh, Dr. A.Q.K Rajput, Mir Rafiq Talpur, Dr. A.D Memon, Dr. Kazi Khadim Hussain, Nazar Muhammad Qureshi and Muhammad Saleh Rajar were also present on the occasion. The Vice Chancellor said that Chambers of Commerce and Industry possessed important place in the society and need to play their role for the development of not only industrial sector but also for sustainable development of the community. Healthy industry is back bone of any country and development of economy too, he said. He said that University of Sindh is offering multiple degree programmes that include Information and Communication Technology, Business Administration and Commerce, Public Administration and Analytical Chemistry. The President Chambers of Commerce Shafiq Ahmed Qureshi speaking on the occasion said that University of Sindh is a hope for the society and assured all cooperation from Hyderabad Chambers of Commerce. He welcomed the suggestion regarding formation of think tank and said that think tank should aim to develop academic relationship between the University and Industry. He termed the reappointment of Mazhar-ul-Haq Siddiqui as Vice Chancellor University of Sindh a good decision and hoped that the university would achieve more glories. HCCI President on the occasion presented a memorable shield to the Vice Chancellor.

Swiss investors foresee further investments: Consul General
KARACHI, July 31 (APP)- The Swiss investors in Pakistan are satisfied with their current business result and foresee further investments to consolidate their market position. This was stated by the Consul General of Switzerland in Karachi, Martin Bienz, here on Friday on the eve of the Swiss National Day to be marked on August 1. In his message on the occasion, he pointed out that the Swiss Confederation was founded in 1291 when three rural cantons formed a historic alliance to protect their freedom. Switzerland's existence as a modern federal state dates back to 1848 with the introduction of the first federal constitution taking into special consideration the cultural diversity of the country. The Consul General further stated that the Government is composed of seven Federal Councilors elected by the Federal Assembly. The members of the Government take their turn to act as President of the Swiss Confederation for one year. He is regarded as Primus inter pares, or first among equals, for the duration of his tenure. Finance Minister Hans-Rudolf Merz is holding this office in 2009. The traditional Swiss neutrality had to be redefined after the end of the Cold War but remains a significant factor in Swiss foreign and security policy as a peace-related and humanitarian instrument. Neutrality is basically defined as non-participation in a war between other states. However, Swiss neutrality does not apply in the event of sanctions being imposed by the UN and does foresee the participation in peacekeeping missions. Swiss foreign policy pursues five main goals, namely the peaceful coexistence of nations, respect for human rights and promotion of democracy, safeguarding the interests of Swiss businesses abroad, alleviation of need and poverty in the world, and preservation of natural resources. The Swiss Consul General in his message stated that Pakistan is facing a difficult time right now. Many people have lost their lives in tragic incidents, others continue to suffer hardship because they had to flee their hometowns. He said that the Swiss Government, a long time bilateral donor, joined international efforts to provide assistance and participated in the Tokyo meeting of the Friends of democratic Pakistan. Furthermore, multilateral agencies and NGOs engaged in relief operations receive financial support from Switzerland. Martin Bienz also hoped that peace and normality will prevail soon. He pointed out that the long-standing bilateral relations between our two countries were initiated right after Pakistan's independence in 1947, when Switzerland immediately recognized the new state. The year 2009 marks the 60th anniversary of Swiss diplomatic presence in the city of Karachi. As a matter of fact, in 1949 Switzerland opened its first diplomatic mission in Karachi which was then called Legation and subsequently became the Embassy. When the Embassy moved to Islamabad in 1968, the Consulate General of Switzerland opened its doors in Karachi to assure a continuous official Swiss presence in this important economic center. During these six decades, our two countries have been working together in various domains. Martin Bienz said that in the 1970s and 1980s, Switzerland concluded several debt-rescheduling agreements with Pakistan. The signing of a bilateral agreement on technical and scientific cooperation led to the opening of the Swiss Cooperation Office in Islamabad in 1977. Over the years, he added, a remarkable number of programmes have been implemented throughout Pakistan and today's focal points are income generation (poverty alleviation) and good governance. The Consul General said that the economic ties between Switzerland and Pakistan have over the years reached a remarkable level. In 2008 the trade volume saw a new record high of close to 500 million Swiss Francs. Moreover, Switzerland ranks among the leading countries in terms of foreign direct investment in Pakistan. A number of Swiss multinational companies are successfully operating in Pakistan in sectors like food processing, pharmaceuticals, chemicals as well as banking and other service industries. Martin Bienz stated that a survey recently conducted by the Consulate General of Switzerland to assess the perception of the Swiss investors in the country revealed that they remain satisfied with their current business results and that they foresee further investments to consolidate their market position. He said that it is a fact that the global recession will have its repercussions on the bilateral economic performance in 2009. The Swiss Business Council in Pakistan which was formed a year ago, can make an important contribution in these challenging times to stimulate trade and investment between our two countries. The opening of new office premises in Karachi and the launch of a website are the latest achievements of this young and dynamic organization.

CM briefed on food department performance
KARACHI, July 31 (APP)- Sindh Chief Minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah was Friday briefed about wheat procurement in Sindh, storage and other related matters at a meeting of Food Department. Addresing the briefing Chief Minister said that Sindh is an agriculture province and is self sufficient in food, specially wheat. He directed that steps be taken for wheat protection in government godowns to make the commodity last long. On the occasion Food Minister Mir Nadir Magsi and Secretary Food Naveed Kamran Baluch in a detail briefing informed that for Sindh the wheat procurement target was fixed at 1.200 million metric tons while food department not only met it but surpassed the target to procure 1.216 million metric tons. They informed that Sindh has wheat storage capacity for 642,220 million tons including 156,700 mt in Karachi, 175,200 mt in Hyderabad, 96,740 mt in Mirpurkhas, 168,480 mt in Sukkur and 45,100 mt in Larkana. They said the department has an additional capacity to store 185,780 mt of wheat as all the flour mills have been bound down to maintain wheat stocks while godowns of TCP have also been hired. The CM was informed that private godowns too have been hired where 120,000 mt wheat has been stored and storage capacity in open spaces enhanced with the technical assistance from Pakistan Agriculture Research Council and 267,000 mt wheat kept protected. Both Minister and Secretary Food told the meeting that federal government had on June 3, 2009, recommended the provinces to start release of wheat at the issue price of Rs 975 per 40 Kg while atta retail price is 28.09 per Kg. It was informed that Sindh has more tham 1955 atta chakkis and because of better quality they sell atta at price higher than that of flour mills. The briefing was told that during 2008-09 105.543 million metric tons of wheat was released throughout the Province. It was assured that atta will be supplied at concessional rate during Ramazan under Ramazan package. Qaim Ali Shah appreciated the performance of of Food Department and announced a financial award equal to one month salary for the procurement and security staff.

Karachi University announces B.A. Part I result
KARACHI, July 31 (APP)- The University of Karachi on Friday announced the result of B.A. Part I External Annual Examination 2008. According to statistics, 8,448 candidates appeared in the examination and of these 2,843 were declared as successful with a pass percentage of 33.65. A Karachi University statement said that marks certificates are being issued.

Population growth rate to be lowered
KARACHI, July 31 (APP): The population growth rate in Pakistan which is over 3.2 per cent would be brought down to 1.8 per cent by the year 2020. This was stated by the Federal Minister for Population Welfare, Dr. Firdous Ashiq Awan. She said that bringing down the population growth rate to 1.8 percent is in accordance with the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The Minister said that if we were unable to meet this target then our country's population would double in the next 20 years' time. She was of the view that because of poverty in some cases some people are compelled to sell kidneys, we can start a voluntary sterilization programme for males who have completed their families and want sterilization then the state should pay him. In return, the family planning procedures should be adopted in accordance with his desire. Dr. Firdous said that a programme that was initiated by Bangladesh in this connection would be replicated here with the support of the donor agencies. She pointed out that our indicators are poor in the region with respect to mother and child healthcare. The Minister was of the view that we should learn from the experiences of other countries in this regard. She cited the example of Sri Lanka for controlling the infant and mother mortality rates.

Federal Population Minister attends conference in Kathmandu
KARACHI, July 31 (APP)- The Federal Minister for Population Welfare, Dr. Firdous Ashiq Awan, returned here after attending a three-day SAARC countries conference on advocating universal access to reproductive health service. The Minister led a five-member Pakistan delegation at the conference. PML-N MNA Said Khosa was also a member of the delegation. On return here, Dr. Firdous Ashiq Awan, described the moot as very successful. She said that the moot was inaugurated by the President of Nepal, Ram Dran Yadav. The Minister further stated that she also called on the President of Nepal on the occasion. She said that she also called on the Prime Minister of Nepal, Madahav Kumar, who had also hosted a dinner. Ms. Fridous said that during the recent meeting at Sharmul Shaikh in Egypt, Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani had invited his Nepalese counterpart to visit Pakistan. She said that she also requested the Nepalese Premier to visit Pakistan at the earliest. The Minister said that a meeting of a bilateral commission of Pakistan and Nepal is also due to be held in Pakistan. The Commission pertains to bilateral trade, agriculture science and technology etc. About the conference, she said that this was a very successful and informative. She said that the focus of the moot was population explosion which is a big challenge of this region and how we can sit together and learn from one another's experiences and adopt the population welfare methods. The Minister said that the moot was hosted by the United Nations Fund for Population and co-hosted by Asian Forum of Parliamentarians on Population Development Issues. She stated that the agenda of the moot was how we can further collaborate and help strengthen one another's family planning programmes. Ms. Firdous pointed out that Bangladesh was a role model country and UNFPA ran a programme with that country which curtailed the population growth rate. She said that in Pakistan one of the biggest challenges is population explosion and it can be tackled in accordance with the needs of our country. The Minister was of the view that an action plan in this respect should be according to our own requirements. She said that we have asked the UNFPA and other UN donor organisations to help replicate in Pakistan the programme they implemented in Bangladesh. Ms. Firdous said that the plan should be in accordance with our needs so that we could implement it and evaluate its results. She said that we want to bring such programmes under one umbrella rather than overlapping. The Minister said that we would also foster awareness of our parliamentarians on population issues so that they could work in their respective constituencies with the partnership of the Ministry of Population Welfare. She said that there is also a plan to form a media advocacy forum on population development issues across the country.

President National Council of Homoeopathy disqualified
KARACHI, July 31 (APP): The Vice-President National Council for Homoeopathy, H.Dr Syed Javed Hussain Shah, has taken over the acting charge of President of the Council, according to a notification issued by the Ministry of Health. H.Dr Javed Shah, who hails from Karachi, has taken over the charge in the wake of disqualification of Council President H.D Mahmoodul Haq Abbasi. H.Dr Javed Shah will act as President till the election of new President, the notification said.

Tributes paid to Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah
KARACHI, July 31 (APP)- Rich tributes were paid to Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah on the occasion of her 116th birth anniversary here on Friday. The Sindh Minister for Women Development, Ms. Tauqeer Fatima Bhutto, was the chief guest at the cake-cutting ceremony on the occasion. Speaking on the occasion, she said that Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah is a role model for the women in Pakistan . The Minister said that by following the footprints of Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah, the women in the country can play their due role towards the progress and development in the society. She also recalled the immense contributions of Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah towards the creation of Pakistan along with his brother Quaid- i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. The Minister said that there is a need to apprise the younger generations of the lives, works and achievements of the leaders of the Freedom Movement.

Hearing of petition of City Nazim put off
KARACHI,July 31,(APP):The hearing of a constitution petition filed by City Nazim Karachi, Syed Mustafa Kamal and five town nazims was adjourned till Aug 6 here on Friday by a division bench of High Court of Sindh (SHC) comprising Justice Khilji Arif Hussain and Justice Syed Mehmood Alam Rizvi. When the petition came up, petitioner side sought adjournment. The bench allowed the request and put off further proceedings till next Friday.

Pakistani mangoes can capture Japanese market
KARACHI, July 31 (APP)- Pakistani mangoes have a great potential to capture the Japanese market. This was stated by the Country Director of the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), Minoru Uga. In a statement here on Friday he said that JETRO strongly believes that the Pakistani mangoes have a great potential to capture the Japanese market because of the steady increase in the Japanese demand, huge difference in the domestic market price of mangoes in Pakistan and Japan and the high interest of the Japanese Trading Houses in mango business. It pointed out that the JETRO has arranged a field trip along with the representatives of all the seven big Japanese Trading Houses in Pakistan to major mango exporting factory as well as the observation of the VHT Plat at the Plant Protection Department on August 6. Japan is hopeful for Pakistani mangoes imports, it was further stated.

Dr Firdaus Awan inaugurates Family Welfare center at Services Hospital
KARACHI, July 31 (APP)- Federal Minister for population Welfare Dr Firdaus Ashiq Awan has described population explosion as biggest challenge of the present day and said it has indirectly given rise to terrorism. She was speaking as chief guest at the inauguration of Family Welfare Center at Services Hospital here Friday. Sindh Minister for Population Welfare Jam Mehtab Hussain Daher, Provincial Secretary Bashir Ahmed Mangi, MS Services Hospital Dr Aslam Peechuho, Incharge Reproductive Health Services Dr Rukhsana Mughal and others were also present on the occasion. Dr Firdaus said that medical is very demanding field for people after politicians as, after politicians, people have great hopes in doctors. "The people expect politicians to be their role models and find out solution to their problems and so is the importance of foctors whom the people wants to mitigate their sufferings". She described medical a very noble and unique profession as helpless and agonised people get relief once they are in their hands. However, she was of the view that, there is no room for error both for politicians and doctors. The Federal Minister said life and death is in the hands of Allah, but Allah has made doctors a source for the welfare of fellow human being. She said that there is no reason why a change should not come in Pakistan and take out the country from the painful period it is passing through, if everyone performed his/her responsibilities with honesty and a sense of dutifulness. Dr Firdaus said that present is the government of people and PPP was voted to power to bring a change in the country. She said for the government, it is a moment to ponder whether or not a step has been taken to bring the required change and if the goal is not being achieved, then there must be some flaw in the policies implementation or in the roadmap. She pointed out that PPP government has made an effort that people are benefitted from population welfare department which is present everywhere in the Province as against the past when only individuals were the beneficiaries. Referring to population explosion, Dr Firdaus described it as one reason responsible for terrorism and said it would be not surprising for terrorism to appear when there is poverty, illeteracy, unemployment, lack of better opportunities and supremacy of law being non-existent. "Instead of increasing the number of people, attention will have to be paid on quality population", she emphasised adding that if human resource will not be having a conducive environment along with education and held, then certainly there would be creation of Mulla Umer like people and such unwanted people who are not acceptable to the society. The Federal Minister said that to control terrorism, it is imperative to check population explosion because both are inter- linked. She was of the view that terrorism takes place where there is sense of deprivation and unequitable distribution of resources. She said the country is faced with energy crisis, economic and law and order problems and particularly Karachi has very acute energy crisis. She said all these crisis relate to demand and because of resource constraints, the supply is not as per demand and basic cause is against the population increase for which cooperation of religious community is more important. She described the opening of family welfare centre at Services hospital a welcome step and said greater need is to make highly efficient to benefit the people at large.

SHC allows application, clubs land mafia petition with Nazims's petition
KARACHI, July 31 (APP):A division bench of High Court of Sindh (SHC) comprising Justice Khilji Arif Hussain and Justice Syed Mehmood Alam Rizvi on Friday allowed an application moved by a petitioner to club his petition pertaining to encroachment of land in Karachi and resultant killings, along with the one filed by City Nazim Karachi Syed Mustafa Kamal. The petitioner Syed Muhammad Iqbal Kazmi moved the court making MQM, ANP, Government of Sindh and others respondents in the petition. The bench today after hearing the petitioner appearing in person who stated that points raised by him and by Nazim-e-Aala Karachi Syed Mustafa Kamal are identical and thus both the petitions be clubbed and heard together, allowed the request ordering the roster branch to club the petitions and fix on same date before a same bench of SHC.

State Bank signs MoU with Tameer Microfinance Bank for Rs 82 million ISF grant facility
KARACHI, July 31 (APP) :- State Bank of Pakistan on Friday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Tameer Microfinance Bank (TMB) under which SBP will provide Rs 82 million to TMB over a period of one year under the Institutional Strengthening Fund (ISF). Governor, State Bank of Pakistan, Syed Salim Raza who was present at the signing ceremony held here at SBP , expressed the hope that this grant facility will help TMB to launch branchless banking operations and build its institutional capacity, said SBP statement issued here. State Bank in 2008 introduced Prudential Regulations for Branchless Banking to provide a regulatory framework for banks to provide services in areas where they cannot be physically located. Earlier this month, the State Bank also signed two MoUs with Pakistan Microfinance Network (PMN) and NRSP Microfinance Bank wherein SBP agreed to provide a total of Rs 215 million under the ISF. The State Bank has also developed the National Microfinance Strategy, which envisages maximizing the microfinance outreach to three million clients by 2010 and 10 million by 2015. The strategy targets the demand-and-supply side bottlenecks to enhance microfinance sector sustainability to help raise its capital base and human resource capacity. Moreover, the strategy promotes substantive up-scaling through entry of new players, development of market infrastructure and promotion of alternative delivery channels through partnerships and use of technology. As part of a multi-pronged strategy to expand frontiers of financial access, SBP has initiated programs to strengthen institutions that provide financial services to the un-banked segment of the population. Earlier, SBP had launched the Microfinance Credit Guarantee Facility (MCGF), Institutional Strengthening Fund, and Improving Access to Finance Services Fund (IAFSF). The MCGF and ISF are part of the GBP 50 million 'Financial Inclusion Program' (FIP) supported by the UK Department for International Development (DFID) and IAFSF is an endowment fund worth dollars 20 million under the ADB's Improving Access to Financial Services Program.

International Housing and Construction Industry Show
KARACHI, July 31 (APP)- The Fifth Build Asia- International Housing and Construction Industry show will be organized here from August 1 to 3 at the Karachi Expo Centre. This was announced by the Ecommerce Gateway Pakistan in a statement here. It said that the event will focus on the immense potential of the housing and construction industry and will display global technological advancements in product, equipment, material and services. The statement said that it will provide an opportunity to local entrepreneur to interact with overseas exhibitors for joint venture, transfer of technology etc. The event also incorporates Fifth Furniture Asia and Second Stonefair Asia International Exhibitions and Fourth International Conference on Construction Industry and International Conference on Marble and Granite.

SHC-SALARY SHC discharges petition regarding equaling of salary in three provinces
KARACHI,July 31 (APP): A Constitution petition pertaining to equaling of salary of employees in BPS-1 to BPS-16 to that given in Punjab was discharged here on Friday by a division bench of High Court of Sindh (SHC) comprising Justice Khilji Arif Hussain and Justice Syed Mehmood Alam Rizvi. Earlier the court inquired from the petitioner Haji Gul Ahmed, appearing in person about his locus standi and that what concern he has with the salary of lower staff of SHC, Punjab and other provinces (NWFP and Balochistan). The court also inquired that who told him that that they can not meet ends with present salary structure. The petitioner gave eight names out of which four later appeared before the bench. The petitioner told the court that corruption is rampant in SHC and no file moves unless palms of officials are greased. He also told the court that thrice filed of petitions filed by him were misplaced and traced later but despite applications, no action was taken and it was not inquired that how a file went missing and surfaced later. The bench later ordered that his petition be discharged, to be heard later.

Doshanbe declaration to open up new chapter of collaboration
KARACHI, July 31 (APP)- Advisor to Chief Minister, Ms. Sharmila Faruqui Friday termed decisions of four-nation security summit held in Dushanbe a great achievement and said these would bear fruits in curbing terrorism, uprooting drug trafficking and boosting economy of the region. In a statement, the Advisor said that through this summit, the Presidents of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Russia and Tajikistan reached the consensus to initiate, in the interest of four nations, a joint struggle against extremism and drug trafficking which is resulting in financial assistance to militants operating in the region. Ms. Faruqui congratulated President Asif Ali Zardari for taking bold steps against militancy and said that through his political wisdom, the country would not only get rid of militancy and anarchy like situation but also get major crisis problems like energy resolved. While refererring problems being faced by Pakistan related to security, energy and trade issues, she recalled when with efforts by Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, USSR setup heavy steel complex in Karachi and now the present government to going to have collaboration of Tajikistan to get energy crisis resolved. President Asif Ali Zardari is going to write a new chapter in the history of region by extending Pakistan's cooperation to boost trade amongst four countries and fight militancy which has damaged regional peace. She maintained that only option to put South Asian countries on track of development is to chalk out joint policies against internal and external threats and adopt an economic order which allows the Asian states to expand range of their trade activities and resolve poverty issue.

SA Standing Committee on Home meets
KARACHI, July 31 (APP)- The Sindh Assembly Standing Committee on Home Friday met here at Sindh Assembly Building with Haji Anwar Ahmed Khan Mahar, MPA in the chair and discussed proposals/suggestions of parliamentary leaders for improvement in law and order situation in the Province. Mr Mahar welcomed the parliamentary leaders as special invitees and said the committee has heard the point of view of police officers regarding law and order and he has invited parliamentary leaders in order to incorporate their suggestions in the report. Thanking the Chairman for inviting him to the meeting, leader of the opposition, Jam Madad Ali proposed that like DPOs and DIGs, the SHOs should be appointed on merit and be made responsible for all the black and white happening in his jurisdiction. On the other hand, he said, SHOs should be guaranteed certain time period within which he would not be transferred unless inevitable. Syed Sardar Ahmed, MQM's Parliamentary Leader suggested that the committee should propose improvements in Police Order-2002 by inserting certain useful clauses of previous Police Act while District Public Safety Commissions should be revitalized and strengthened. Arif Mustafa Jatoi, Parliamentary Leader NPP, was of the view that if economic conditions are improved the law and order would improve automatically. The meeting was attended by MPAs Dr. Nasrullah Baloch, Abdul Karim Soomro, Waseem Ahmed, Muhammad Aleem-ur-Rehman, Rehan Zafar, besides special invitees Jam Madad Ali, Syed Sardar Ahmed, Abdul Razzaq Rahimoon, Arif Mustafa Jatoi and others. The Standing Committee will again meet on August 10, 2009, it was decided.

MPA meets VC of University of Sindh
HYDERABAD, July 31 (APP): The Member Provincial Assembly (MPA) from Jamshoro Dr. Sikandar Ali Shoro Friday held meeting with the Vice Chancellor University of Sindh Mazhar-ul-Haq Siddiqui. The Vice Chancellor on the occasion informed the MPA about development and academic programmes introduced and implemented during last eight years. The Vice Chancellor also briefed him about the future programmes towards academic and research and also new disciplines and institutes to be introduced. MPA Dr. Sikandar Ali Shoro expressed full confident on the ability of the Vice Chancellor and satisfaction towards development and new academic programsme took place in the University and said that society is also expecting the same as the university has done during eight years. He said that University of Sindh is most important university where students from all sections of society study in higher education and hoped that this university would continue its journey of development and improvement for quality of higher education under able leadership of Mazhar-ul-Haq Siddiqui. He said that society is expecting still more from him and from the University of Sindh towards higher education and assured all cooperation and help. He said that priority of the present government is to educate society and for the purpose the Sindh Government as well as federal government has been continuously emphasized on education. The Registrar of the University Muhammad Saleh Rajar was also present on the occasion

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