On Thursday, the price of gold in Pakistan once again saw an upward trend, mirroring the global surge in rates.
The valued yellow metal reached Rs222,800 per tola in the domestic market, marking a noteworthy single-day gain of Rs2,200.
The 10-gramme gold, as reported by the All Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association (APGJSA), was traded at Rs191,015 following an increase of Rs1,886.
This escalation follows a Rs1,000 per tola rise in gold prices in Pakistan on the preceding Wednesday.
Internationally, gold prices experienced a $20 increment, reaching $2,105 per ounce (with a premium of $20), as highlighted by APGJSA.
Concurrently, silver rates remained constant at Rs2,680 per tola in the local market.
The Pakistani rupee continued its upward trend against the US dollar for the 12th consecutive session, appreciating by 0.1 per cent in the inter-bank market on Thursday.
The State Bank of Pakistan reported that the rupee settled at Rs281.93, marking an increase of Re0.27. A day earlier, the rupee had experienced a slight gain, closing at Rs282.20 against the US dollar.
In a related development, the Ministry of Finance acknowledged the persistent challenge of higher markup payments. The ministry stressed the importance of both revenue enhancement and prudent expenditure control.
Internationally, the US dollar faced substantial losses on Thursday, poised for a yearly decline after two years of robust gains.
Anticipation of interest rate cuts from the Federal Reserve in the coming year influenced market sentiments. As the year concludes, limited market activity is expected until the New Year due to thin liquidity.
The dollar index, measuring the US currency against six rivals, reached a five-month low of 100.81. It declined by 0.5 per cent on Wednesday and is on track for a 2.6 per cent decrease this year, breaking a two-year trend of strong gains. I
Investors are closely monitoring the timing of potential interest rate cuts from the Fed, with markets indicating an 89 per cent chance of a cut in March 2024, according to the CME FedWatch tool. Futures suggest up to 158 basis points of Fed easing in the coming year.
Oil prices, a significant indicator of currency parity, stabilised on Thursday following a previous sharp decline.
Concerns about shipping disruptions along the Red Sea route eased, despite escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Brent crude futures rose by 2 cents to $79.75 a barrel, while US WTI crude futures traded 3 cents lower at $74.08 a barrel, rebounding from a nearly 2 per cent drop on Wednesday as major shipping firms resumed operations in the Red Sea.
Former Pakistani actress Noor Bukhari, is all set to venture into politics. She has joined the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) and has submitted papers for a reserved seat for women.
Noor personally visited the Punjab Election Commission office to confirm her nomination papers. The verification process for her papers has been successfully completed.
In the match played between Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) and State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) in the President’s Cup 2023, fast bowler Shahnawaz Dahani, who played for SNGPL, made his debut in the tournament and got the first hat trick. His hat trick included the wickets of Ramiz Aziz, Mohammad Imran, and Kashif Bhatti.
Not only did he take his first hat-trick, he also took five wickets in an innings for the first time in first-class cricket. The SBP (State Bank of Pakistan) batting line-up was in trouble when the fast bowler took a brilliant hat trick. At that time State Bank scored 133 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in 45 overs.
The 25-year-old fast bowler has faced limited opportunities in international cricket due to recent injuries.
Dr. Sawera Prakash has become the first Hindu woman to contest from Buner, while Nadia Sher Khan has become the first woman to contest from Shangla, Swat.
The elections, scheduled for February 8, mark a significant step towards inclusivity and representation in the region, traditionally known for its conservative values.
Dr. Sawera Prakash, who has submitted nomination papers for both reserved seats of the National and Provincial assemblies, is affiliated with the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) for an impressive 35 years. She is now set to create history as the first woman to contest elections for the provincial assembly from constituency PK-25 on a general seat, reports Samaa News.
The PPP, recognising her potential, urged her father Dr. Om Prakash, an active political and social worker, to bring his daughter into the political arena. Her father is known for his dedication to the welfare of humanity, and has played a pivotal role in serving both public and private sector health centers, reports Dawn.
In Shangla, for the first time, Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf MPA Nadia Sher Khan of Saidu Sharif, Swat, has submitted nomination papers for the Shangla’s PK-30 constituency. She is running for the general elections on Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf-Parliamentariticket. A tough competition is expected between PTI and PML-N in this district.
India may be forced to forfeit a Davis Cup play-off hosted by rival Pakistan, with the local tennis association saying Thursday the team was waiting on New Delhi’s approval to travel.
The nuclear-armed neighbours have fought several wars since winning independence from British rule in 1947, and sporting contests between the two have long been the victim of their enduring animosity.
The All India Tennis Association (AITA) asked the sports ministry for approval to travel to Pakistan after a request to shift the fixture to a third country was rejected by the International Tennis Federation tribunal.
“The proposal is still pending with the ministry and we are awaiting a decision,” AITA secretary-general Anil Dhupar told AFP.
Pakistan Tennis Federation president Salim Saifullah Khan said 18 members of the Indian squad had requested visas for the World Group 1 clash scheduled for February 3-4.
“We have all the arrangements put in place. They will be given the best security and accommodation,” he told AFP. “Let politics be kept away from sports and better sense prevail.”
New Delhi last hosted the Pakistani tennis team in 2006 and the Indian Davis Cup team last travelled to Islamabad in 1964, according to news outlet India Today.
Local media reports said a 2019 match was moved to Kazakhstan, with the AITA citing political tensions as the reason for the request.
Sports matches between India and Pakistan are rare owing to decades of hostility between the two nations.
They share one of the world’s great sporting rivalries in cricket, by far the most popular sport in both countries.
But their teams have not played a bilateral series in more than a decade, and typically only face each other in larger tournaments.
India refused to travel to Pakistan for the 50-over Asia Cup in September, a move that forced its neighbour to partially relinquish hosting duties to Sri Lanka.
Pakistan travelled to India the following month for the Cricket World Cup after its request to stage some matches in a third country was rejected.
Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari presented an ambitious 10-point election manifesto during a public gathering in the party stronghold Garhi Khuda Bakhsh on the 16th death anniversary of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto.
The manifesto, outlined on Wednesday, aims to establish a “pro-people” government after the upcoming February 8 elections.
Here’s a breakdown of what Bilawal promised his party would do if they came into power: • Double salaries within five years • Free solar energy of 300 units for the poor; every district to have green energy parks • Education for all — rolling out projects for better education • Free health for all across Pakistan • Three million houses for flood affectees and the poor • Expand BISP’s scope; introducing more welfare schemes • BSIP-like programme for farmers and ‘Hari Card’ • Enhanced support for labourers through Benazir Mazdoor Card • ‘Youth Card’ for unemployed youth and ‘Youth Markaz’ • ‘Bhook Mitao Programme’
چیئرمین پاکستان پیپلز پارٹی بلاول بھٹو زرداری کا قوم کے نام پیغام
پاکستان پیپلز پارٹی حکومت بناکر ۱: تنخواہوں میں دوگنا اضافہ ۲: غریب ترین عوام کو 300 یونٹ تک مفت بجلی کی فراہمی ۳: ہر اضلاع میں گرین پارکس بناکر کم قیمت پر بجلی کی فراہمی ۴: عالمی طرز کے تعلیمی ادارے ۵: مفت… pic.twitter.com/jnIdrnP4YL
At the core of the agenda is a commitment to double salaries and provide 300 free units of electricity per household. This goal is to be achieved through the creation of green energy parks in every district, focusing on harnessing solar and wind energy sources.
In addition to economic measures, Bhutto-Zardari pledged to overhaul the health sector by replicating successful models such as NICVD, SIUT, and the Gambat Institute of Medical Sciences across the country. Another significant project, titled ‘Apni Zamin, Apna Ghar,’ aims to construct three million houses nationwide.
The manifesto also includes provisions for free education, the expansion of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), the introduction of Hari and Benazir Mazdoor Cards, and the establishment of youth centers in all divisional headquarters for career counseling and skill development.
Bhutto-Zardari called for public support to navigate the current crisis, expressing confidence in the PPP’s ability to address national issues and strengthen the federation. Reflecting on the party’s past achievements, he highlighted the devolution of powers through the 18th Amendment and the successful implementation of the NFC award.
The PPP chairman criticized certain politicians without naming them, accusing them of engaging in politics to evade legal challenges and jail time.
“I had told my team that I wanted to contest from Lahore. I’ll take the battle to Lahore. Let’s see what happens,” he said.
“Is it Lahore’s destiny that the same person will be installed for the fourth time?” Bilawal said while taking a jibe at the PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif, who is eying a record-fourth term as the country’s prime minister.
“Our paths are different with that of those we were in government for 16 months,” Bilawal said while referring to the PML-N-led Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) government of which the PPP was a key part.
Former President Asif Ali Zardari, speaking on the occasion, reaffirmed his commitment to fulfilling the promises made by his son. He criticized the central administration in Islamabad for its detachment from the struggles of the common people, contrasting it with the PPP’s “people-centric” approach.
"انشاء ﷲ پاکستان کو ہم بنائیں گے، ہمارا مقصدصرف یہ ہی ہے کہ عوام کو حقوق ملیں، غریبوں کو حقوق ملیں، عوام کو پانی ملے، اناج ملے، ملک میں نہروں کی لائینگ ہو ڈیمز بنے، تھر سرسبزو شاداب ہو، بلوچستان اور گلگت بلتستان کو سیراب کیا جائے، گلگت بلتستان سے چائینہ براہ راست تجارت شروع کی… pic.twitter.com/BH9ohwJvcA
As this year ends, we’ve picked the most controversial dramas of 2023, a tough job since so many serials keep throwing out objectionable stories. These dramas stood out in the sea of shows, focusing on themes like marriage and family conflicts. They’ve earned recognition for capturing large audiences and getting top ratings but also angered parts of the audience with misogynistic or sexist content.
Here’s the list for the most controversial dramas of 2023:
Mayi Ri
Writer:Sana Fahad Director: Meesam Naqvi Channel: ARY Digital
Mayi Ri, aired on ARY Digital, created waves in the drama scene, garnering attention, criticism, while also generating significant discussion. Considered a game-changer, it proved pivotal for stars like Aina Asif and Samar Jaffry, and marking a significant comeback for Maya Khan. While anticipated to address child marriage issues, the drama’s controversial content led to divided opinions. Despite criticism, the drama amassed a massive fan following defending its storyline against perceived problems.
2. Jurm
Writer: Sana Fahad Director: Mehreen Jabbar Channel: Geo Entertainment
Jurm was another mini-series this year which cannot be overlooked. It was the first mini-series of its kind which had it all – drama and mystery. Jurm also marked Mehreen Jabbar’s comeback to television and she made her presence felt in a way that only she can.
The story follows a newlywed couple deeply in love, willing to go to any lengths for each other. Their happiness takes a hit when Wahaj is attacked by thugs, and his wife gets kidnapped. Despite Wahaj appearing innocent due to his injuries, suspicions arise suggesting his possible involvement in the abduction of his wife. However, Jurm’s underwhelming end was the worst part of the series.
3. Jaisay Aapki Marzi
Writer: Naila Jaffri Director: Saba Hameed Channel: ARY Digital
Jaisay Aapki Marzi is a current favorite among viewers. It’s not just a show earning good ratings; many women, in particular, find it relatable. Unlike other dramas, it strikes a chord with the audience, connecting with their experiences and resonating with their lives.The story of drama revolves around Aleezay’s journey. She dreams of a successful career and living life on her terms but succumbs to parental pressure, marrying Sheheryar.
The plot unfolds as Aleezay grapples with a harsh reality—a marriage into a family dominated by abusive clinical narcissists.Despite some repetitive elements, it remains engaging, particularly when approached without a critical perspective. Mikaal Zulfiqar and Kiran Naz’s performances receive praise for their exceptional quality.
4. Hadsa
Writer: Zanjabeel Asim Director: Wajahat Rauf Channel: Geo Entertainment
Hadsa, the story of a rape survivor, landed in a perfect social media storm. Critics alleged that the serial insensitively portrayed a sensitive and distressing subject. Rape is a serious issue, and it’s crucial for media outlets and creators to consult with experts and survivor advocacy groups when tackling such topics. The drama, aired on Geo, left many expressing discomfort due to its perceived mishandling of the sensitive subject and its resemblance to a real-life horrific incident on the motorway in 2020. Supporters said that the drama highlights struggle and bravery of a rape survivor who fights against sexual violence.
5. Tere Bin
Writer: Nooran Makhdoom Director: Siraj-ul-Haq Channel: Geo Entertainment
Tere Bin has gained immense popularity, winning the hearts of millions worldwide. Its engaging storyline and outstanding performances have made a lasting impact on television, creating a remarkable presence in the entertainment landscape. As the highly popular Pakistani drama Tere Bin nears its conclusion, fans are preparing to bid a bittersweet farewell to the beloved characters of Murtasim and Meerab. Meerab and Murtasim, childhood friends, experience separation when Meerab is forced into a marriage she doesn’t want. After years apart, they reunite, and their bond evolves into love.
The series explores themes of love, separation, and the chance for a fresh start.But a surprise allusion to a marital rape scene cast a negative light on the chemistry between the lead cast. The shocking scenes stirred heated reactions on social media, with Tere Bin trending on Twitter. People voiced their concerns to the makers, questioning the decision to include such content at a time when women in Asian nations are already grappling with domestic violence issues.
In the months preceding the delivery, she shared pictures of her baby bump. While some showed love, the morality police criticized her for being “vulgar”.
Ye hmaray so cold celebrities ne ajeeb besharmi phelai hui hai, Banda pooche is ki zrurat kia hai pic.twitter.com/vpxIBaMBHH
Motherhood is perhaps the most beautiful part of a woman’s life but unfortunately neither Pakistan men nor women understand it. They won’t miss any chance to humiliate a pregnant woman.#Pakistan#pregnant
Noo Tooba babies are not dropped off skies. It involves protrusion of a woman’s abdomen & a lot more. And showing that off is absolutely a woman’s choice and right. https://t.co/y42ys1MXev
Fellas is being pregnant wrong now? were y’all downloaded or what what’s this obsession with hiding pregnancies till the baby arrives as if it’s some sort of behayai bro ajeeb https://t.co/jHXChzWpx9
Motherhood is perhaps the most beautiful part of a woman’s life but unfortunately neither Pakistan men nor women understand it. They won’t miss any chance to humiliate a pregnant woman.#Pakistan#pregnant
A professor at Kanpur’s Indian Institute of Technology died of cardiac arrest on stage while delivering a speech on a health-related topic. Sameer Khandekar’s last words reportedly were “Take care of your health….” after which he collapsed. He was immediately taken to the hospital where he was declared dead upon arrival.
The professor, 52, was speaking at an alumni meet on the campus on Friday evening. He was the head of the mechanical engineering department and also served as Dean, of student welfare. According to Indian media, he had been grappling with cardiac health problems since 2019.
