Current Final

Author: News Desk

  • FBR exempts Chinese imports to Gilgit-Baltistan from sales, income taxes

    FBR exempts Chinese imports to Gilgit-Baltistan from sales, income taxes

    The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has granted a tax exemption for Chinese products imported for use in Gilgit-Baltistan through the Customs Dry Port in Sost, eliminating the need for sales or income taxes as well as federal excise duty.

    As per the details, the exemption, effective immediately, has been formalised through a notification, which details a unique procedure for clearing goods imported from China.

    The notification includes over 2,403 Chinese products identified by particular Pakistan Customs Tariff (PCT) codes as eligible for this exemption.

    According to the outlined procedure, eligible imports will not incur taxes, provided that an online consignment-wise authorisation is obtained through the Customs Computerized Clearance System. This authorisation must be issued by an authorised representative of the Government of Gilgit-Baltistan using the designated format in the system.

    The notification states that the non-levy of taxes will be granted by the collector of Customs on a first-come, first-served basis within the specified quota. Any goods brought in for use in Gilgit-Baltistan that exceed the allocated quota will be liable for the applicable sales tax, income tax and federal excise duty.

    The Government of Gilgit-Baltistan is responsible for ensuring that all goods imported under this notification are exclusively used within the region’s boundaries.

    Additionally, the notification includes measures to prevent tax-exempt goods from being transported outside of Gilgit-Baltistan.

    In situations where Customs operations are hindered by protests or road blockages, the collector of Customs, may, in collaboration with the Government of Gilgit-Baltistan, suspend the exemption from sales tax, income tax and federal excise duty as stated in the notification.

    The collector of Customs also has the authority to deny tax exemptions in individual instances where there is significant misdeclaration that necessitates legal action under the Customs Act, 1969, or if goods cleared under this exemption are taken outside the jurisdiction of Gilgit-Baltistan.

    The board will also establish a special procedure to differentiate, monitor and clear goods imported via Sost intended for consumption in other regions of the country from those cleared under the exemption for Gilgit-Baltistan.

    All relevant laws and regulations under the Imports and Exports (Control) Act, 1950, the Import Policy Order and the Customs Act, 1969, will still apply to all goods imported through the Sost Dry Port, regardless of whether they are meant for use in Gilgit-Baltistan or other areas of the country.

  • Italy offers 10,500 jobs for Pakistani workers

    Italy offers 10,500 jobs for Pakistani workers

    Italy has allocated 10,500 jobs for Pakistani workers over the next three years, creating a structured legal pathway to enter Europe.

    According to the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, the arrangement will allow 3,500 Pakistanis to work in Italy annually, split between 1,500 seasonal positions and 2,000 non-seasonal roles.

    With the initiative, Italy has become the first European country to formally open its labour market to Pakistan through a quota-based system. Officials believe the model could encourage similar agreements across Europe.

    The development comes as outward migration from Pakistan accelerates sharply.

    According to reports, nearly 2.9 million Pakistanis left the country over the past three years due to low wages, high inflation, unemployment and rising education costs.

    The Economic Survey 2024-25 showed more than one million Pakistanis went abroad for work in a single fiscal year.

    Officials view the Italian quota as a legal alternative to irregular migration, which reportedly surged 280% in 2022. 

    Thousands of Pakistanis attempt dangerous journeys through Libya, Egypt and other transit routes, often falling victim to smugglers or facing detention, deportation or death while crossing the Mediterranean.

    The state-backed European access aims to reduce desperation-driven migration and direct workers into regulated channels.

    The positions in Italy have been allocated across shipbreaking, hospitality, healthcare and agriculture. Available roles include welders, technicians, chefs, waiters, housekeeping staff, nurses, medical technicians, farm workers and agricultural laborers. The scheme targets skilled and semi-skilled labor to address Italy’s workforce shortages.

    Punjab, Pakistan’s largest source of overseas labor, stands to gain most from the arrangement. Official records show the province has sent more than 7.2 million emigrants since 1981, followed by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Sindh and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

    Reports indicate around 40% of Pakistanis, particularly in urban areas, want to leave the country, creating urgent demand for safe and legal migration options.

  • 2025: Pakistan’s Spotify scene wrapped

    2025: Pakistan’s Spotify scene wrapped

    As 2025 comes to an end, Pakistani music made its mark on Spotify with several tracks topping playlists and gaining significant streams.

    Among the most listened-to songs were Jhol by Maanu and Annural, Gal Sun by Sabaat Batin and Zeeshan Ali’s romantic track Ishqaya Ve, each drawing attention for their unique styles and engaging performances.

    Pop music also had an impact with Pal Pal, an Afusic and Ali Soomro collaboration that combined modern sounds with relatable lyrics about longing and love. 

    With its unique style, laid-back energy and distinctive sounds, Hassan Raheem’s Obvious captivated listeners and continued to attract a lot of attention on the streaming platform.

    These songs showcase the variety of Pakistani music in 2025, ranging from soulful ballads, experimental sounds and pop to rap.

    Beyond national popularity, Pakistani music in 2025 also increasingly gained recognition on a global scale. International listeners are discovering the country’s unique musical landscape through streaming platforms and social media, praising the fresh sounds, emotive vocals and creative production. 

    Artists like Hassan Raheem, Annural Khalid, Bayaan, Talha Anjum, Abdul Hannan, Natasha Noorani and Zeeshan Ali reached audiences far beyond Pakistan, highlighting the growing global appeal of the country’s music scene.

  • Six arrested as FIA cracks down on human smuggling

    Six arrested as FIA cracks down on human smuggling

    Following successful operations across southern Punjab, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has taken into custody six people linked to migrant smuggling and visa fraud.

    As per the details, the arrests were executed by the FIA’s Anti-Human Trafficking Circles in Multan, Lodhran, Muzaffargarh, Bahawalpur and Dera Ghazi Khan.

    The arrested individuals were identified as Muhammad Qasim, Abdul Manan, Shakeel Ahmed, Ajmal, Sajjad Hussain and Muhammad Irfan.

    Officials reported that Qasim had gathered Rs350,000 by assuring citizens of job opportunities in Iraq, while Abdul Manan allegedly extorted Rs790,000 with a similar promise for employment in Saudi Arabia.

    Shakeel Ahmed amassed Rs1,460,000 by offering positions in Iraq, and Ajmal allegedly took Rs800,000 with similar claims.

    Sajjad Hussain received Rs250,000 for misleading citizens about job opportunities in Saudi Arabia.

    According to the FIA, Irfan was already a suspect in three separate cases and had swindled millions of rupees by claiming he could send numerous individuals overseas.

    Authorities said that none of the arrested individuals had actually facilitated anyone’s travel abroad.

    They are accused of collecting substantial amounts from individuals and later evading arrest.

    Further probe is underway, officials said.

  • Internet divided over Mahira Khan’s Christmas celebration

    Internet divided over Mahira Khan’s Christmas celebration

    Pakistani actress Mahira Khan has shared festive moments from her Christmas celebration on Instagram, sparking a mix of reactions online.

    Some users questioned the trend of Pakistanis celebrating Christmas; however, supportive comments outweighed criticism, highlighting a largely positive response. 

    On Friday, the 41-year-old superstar posted a series of photos and videos showing her enjoying the holiday. The photos show Mahira celebrating around a decorated Christmas tree, with a Christmas-themed dinner completing the festive setting.

    In her caption, she reflected on life and success: “I don’t know what the secret to success is … but I think the secret sauce to life is gratitude. For the big things … but mostly for tender mercies as my Ama says.” She also recommended the film Jay Kelly, saying it made her feel “so seen.”

    The discussion online highlights broader conversations about celebrating minority festivals in Pakistan. After years of limited public observance due to religious extremism, initiatives like the 42-foot Liberty Christmas tree and celebrations in Punjab has created space for inclusive festivities. 

    Mahira’s post underscores that sharing in Christmas celebrations can be a positive, personal experience, centered on gratitude, joy, and holiday spirit.

  • Angeline Malik announces she is ‘cancer-free’

    Angeline Malik announces she is ‘cancer-free’

    Following her latest medical scans, Pakistani director, producer, writer and actor Angeline Malik has announced that she is now “cancer-free”.

    In an Instagram post, Malik announced that the scans showed no signs of the disease, describing it as an important step in her recovery.

    “Today I am cancer-free,” she wrote, adding that the risk of recurrence, however, remained. 

    Malik said that while the results were encouraging, the journey toward full recovery continued as doctors typically require patients to have clear reports for two to five years before considering them fully cancer-free.

    Monitoring sometimes extends up to ten years, she added.

    Malik also reflected on the emotional aspects of her treatment, saying some days bring hope and others fear, but she faces each phase with determination. 

    She expressed gratitude for the present while remaining prepared for the future.

    Her post drew an outpouring of support from fans, friends and fellow members of the entertainment industry, who shared prayers and messages of encouragement.

    Malik had earlier this year revealed that she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

  • Rajasthan panchayat in India bars married women in 15 villages from using smartphones

    Rajasthan panchayat in India bars married women in 15 villages from using smartphones

    A village panchayat in Rajasthan’s Jalore district has decided to prohibit married women and daughters-in-law in 15 villages from using camera-enabled mobile phones starting January 26. Under the decision, women will be allowed to use only basic keypad phones for voice calls.

    The resolution was ratified during a gathering of the Sundhamata Patti panchayat of the Chaudhary clan, which took place in Ghazipur village on December 21. The meeting was led by community leader Sujanaram Chaudhary. Panch Himmataram presented the proposal, which was accepted following discussions among panchayat officials and community elders.

    According to the decision, daughters-in-law and young women will be barred from carrying smartphones to weddings, public events, or while visiting neighbors. They are permitted to possess and use only keypad phones for calls. 

    In an interview, Chaudhary explained that the decision was made by Panch Himmataram after consultations with the community. “After deliberations among panch members and community participants, it was concluded that daughters-in-law and young women should exclusively use keypad phones for communication,” he stated.

    The resolution contains a limited provision for education. Per the panchayat’s guidelines, school-aged girls who need smartphones for their studies may use them at home. However, they are prohibited from bringing mobile phones to social occasions, weddings, or to the homes of neighbors.

    Clarifying the rationale behind the decision, Chaudhary noted that children frequently use the mobile devices of women in their homes, which can harm their eyesight due to prolonged screen exposure. “Some women hand their phones to children to distract them, enabling them to attend to daily responsibilities,” he remarked.

    The ban will be enforced in Ghazipur, Pawali, Kalda, Manojiyawas, Rajikawas, Datlawas, Rajpura, Kodi, Sidrodi, Aldi, Ropsi, Khanadewal, Savidhar, Hathmi Ki Dhani, and Khanpur.

  • Hania Aamir reacts to marriage rumours

    Hania Aamir reacts to marriage rumours

    Continuing her streak of witty social media comebacks, actor Hania Aamir has this time addressed rumours of her “upcoming marriage”, leaving fans in fits of laughter.

    “Hania suna ha ap shadi karne wali ha [Hania, I’ve heard you are about to get married],” commented a fan on an Instagram post by Hania.

    The actor responded with, “Mene bhi suna he hai [I have also only heard].” 

    Screenshots of the reply quickly went viral and fans took to the same comment section to flood it with laughing emojis. 

    This marks the latest in a series of cheeky exchanges between Hania and her Instagram followers.

    Just days earlier, she responded to a fan asking her why she had not used singer and her former partner Asim Azhar’s song on a new reel.

    “Tum log yaind daalna shuru kr dete ho [you people start with unnecessary chaos],” Hania replied.

    The response resonated with her audience as they reacted with “Hahaha slayed it girl!” and “Kamaal kr diya kya reply dia hai [Amazing… what a response]”.

    Fans have watched closely since Hania and singer Asim Azhar, who dated until their 2020 breakup, appeared in renewed proximity. Asim’s recent album includes tracks and teasers that some listeners believe reference their past relationship.

    A few days ago, Hania posted a reel featuring Asim’s track “U Got This”, triggering fresh speculation about a possible reconciliation. 

    Observers also noted small coincidences like similar accessories or posting styles from both stars.

  • Sajal Aly breaks silence on marriage rumours with Hamza Sohail

    Sajal Aly breaks silence on marriage rumours with Hamza Sohail

    Actress Sajal Aly has addressed swirling rumours about her alleged wedding plans with fellow actor Hamza Sohail, dismissing speculation that the pair will marry in early 2026.

    The actress took to her Instagram story with a clear message after multiple social media pages began circulating reports about wedding preparations. “Chill guys! Any life news, if ever, will come directly from me,” she wrote.

    Both actors rank among Pakistan’s most popular television stars. 

    Sajal Aly built her reputation through acclaimed dramas including O Rangreza, Gul-e-Rana, Chup Raho, Yaqeen Ka Safar, Ye Dil Mera, Aangan, Dhoop Ki Deewar, Kuch Ankahi, Sinf-e-Aahan and Main Manto Nahi Hoon.

    Hamza Sohail gained recognition through successful serials like Fairy Tale Season 1 and 2, Zard Patton Ka Ban, Burns Road Ke Romeo Juliet and Dil Wali Gali Mein.

    The two first appeared together in Zard Patton Ka Ban, where audiences praised their on-screen chemistry. They reunited for Dil Wali Gali Mein, which solidified their pairing as a fan favourite.

    Neither actor has publicly confirmed any romantic relationship. However, fans responded enthusiastically to the marriage rumours, flooding social media with congratulations and good wishes.

  • Punjab announces free public transport in Lahore during Basant days

    Punjab announces free public transport in Lahore during Basant days

    The Punjab government has decided to provide free public transport in Lahore for three days in February 2026 in connection with Basant-related activities.

    The goal of the initiative, that will extend from Feb 6 to 8,  according to Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari, is to restrict motorcycle use and reduce the likelihood of traffic-related accidents during the festivities.

    A proposal to allow restricted kite-making activities starting on December 30 under rigorous regulatory controls is also being considered by the provincial administration. 

    Bokhari emphasized that the ban on metallic kite strings, chemically coated thread, and any other hazardous materials will not change.
     

    She added that all individuals involved in the production, sale, or distribution of kites would be required to register with the relevant deputy commissioner, warning that violations could lead to deregistration, substantial fines, and jail terms.

    The minister further said that anyone found flying or selling kites without official approval would face harsh punishment, including extended imprisonment.

    Bokhari clarified safety precautions, stating that only cotton-based thread would be allowed for kite strings and that the use of strings with more than nine strands would be strictly prohibited in order to lower the risk of fatal accidents and injuries.


    Separately, a civil society representative stated that a well-run Basant may help Lahore’s tourism industry flourish and generate jobs. 

    The Walled City Authority has been directed by the authorities to conduct a public opinion survey to find out what people think about having a safe and controlled Basant celebration.