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  • Global trends or local market conditions? Microsoft shuts down Pakistan office after 25 years

    Global trends or local market conditions? Microsoft shuts down Pakistan office after 25 years

    Microsoft has closed its Pakistan office, marking the end of its physical presence in the country after 25 years.

    As per the details, the decision is part of a larger global restructuring initiative as the company reduces its workforce by over 9,000 positions globally and focuses more intensely on a cloud-based Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) model.

    Although Microsoft did not have a complete commercial operation in Pakistan, it operated liaison offices that catered to enterprise, education and government clients. Much of this work had already been transitioning to local partners and regional centers, especially in Ireland. The local team had reportedly diminished considerably in recent years.

    In response to media inquiries, a Microsoft representative said that the company would continue to support Pakistani customers through regional offices and a robust partner network. The representative also noted that this model was already implemented in various other countries.

    The announcement also elicited responses from former officials and industry analysts. Former president Dr Arif Alvi described it as a “worrying sign,” indicating that the company had previously contemplated expanding its operations in Pakistan but opted for Vietnam instead, citing political and economic unpredictability. “The opportunity was lost,” he said on X.

    Jawwad Rehman, the first country manager for Microsoft Pakistan, also acknowledged the decision in a LinkedIn update. He remarked that the move was indicative of the current business environment where even prominent global firms struggled to maintain operations.

    Tech entrepreneur Habibullah Khan pointed out that Microsoft’s revenue from Pakistan was estimated at approximately $50 million — less than 0.02% of its total global earnings. He contended that the company’s relationship with the country was never deeply established and characterised the exit as part of a broader trend towards cloud-first services.

    The Ministry of IT and Telecommunications recognised the development but clarified that Microsoft’s action did not equate to a complete withdrawal. Instead, it indicated a transition to a service delivery model that did not necessitate a physical office. The ministry connected this to the global shift away from capital-intensive and on-premise software installations to cloud-based subscription solutions.

    Analysts also opined that Microsoft’s transition was more influenced by global market trends rather than local market conditions.

  • ‘Don’t mock my condition’: Babu Baral’s son appeals for help

    ‘Don’t mock my condition’: Babu Baral’s son appeals for help

    Nabeel Baral, son of the late stage legend Babu Baral, has released an emotional video message pleading for help from the public and authorities, highlighting his struggles as a disabled person with no source of income or shelter.

    The video message,  recorded on June 28, shows Nabeel saying he has no house of his own and cannot afford rent. “I am making this video because I am in great need of help. I don’t have my own house and I can’t even afford rent. I swear to Allah, I am the only breadwinner for my family but my condition is such that I cannot manage anymore,” he said.

    Showing his broken prosthetic leg, he explained, “You can see for yourself, even this prosthetic I had is now broken. Let me show you the condition of my leg. Please tell me, people say ‘go and work’, does anyone think I enjoy asking for help? Tell me, with this leg, how can I work? I can’t even stand properly.”

    Nabeel urged people to share his video so his voice reaches the authorities. “My voice should reach the people. Please help me and follow me too, so that I can become an influencer. I hope to generate some income from here because my situation is getting worse, both financially and physically.”

    He continued saying, “What should I do? I swear to Allah I am alone. I have no one else to earn for my family. I am the only man. Please take this seriously. Reach out to the government, I should get a house, that’s all I ask. Please, I can’t do any work, my condition is not good. Whatever savings I had are gone, there is very little left. It’s becoming very difficult to survive. Please help me.”

    In the end, he made a humble request, “Thank you and please don’t mock me. It’s very rude. Please look at my condition and then if you still call me a scammer or make fun of me, then please fear Allah. Thank you.”

    Nabeel’s father, Babu Baral, was one of Pakistan’s most beloved theatre comedians. He began his career in 1982 as a stage performer in Gujranwala and quickly rose to fame for his remarkable mimicry and improvisational comedy. He became a prominent figure in Lahore’s theatre scene, performing in over a thousand plays including hits like Shartiya Mithay, Bhukay Haatha Bataira, and Kuch Na Kaho. 

    Babu Baral was also known for his writing and direction, and his contributions to Pakistani theatre earned him the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz and Sitara-e-Imtiaz. He passed away in Lahore in 2011 at the age of 47 after battling cancer, hepatitis, and kidney disease.

  • Yasir Hussain shrugs off Nadia Khan’s court warning with jokes

    Yasir Hussain shrugs off Nadia Khan’s court warning with jokes

    Actor and director Yasir Hussain has once again used sarcasm to respond to Nadia Khan’s warning of legal action, turning their online spat into a new round of social media mockery.

    TV host Nadia Khan released a video a few days ago in which she warned her critics that she would “drag them to court” for passing personal remarks about her. However, Yasir Hussain, staying true to his mischievous reputation, responded with jokes instead of concern.

    In his Instagram stories, Yasir took a dig at the situation and wrote, “Yeh @sabafaisal.official ji aur @sarwatg ne hi kuch bola hoga. Mery 1.5 numbers se agar kisi ko bura laga hai toh mai sorry kehta hun aur 2.5 number kar leta hun. I hope we are ok now?!? Happy to you.”

    He then reshared the story, adding a line in the style of Bollywood actor Salman Khan, “Mai karon to sala character dheela hai.”

    Yasir continued his mocking tone with, “@sabafaisal.official ji tusi bary hi mazakia. Tuhada kutta Tommy, tay saada kutta kutta.”

    The situation escalated when popular YouTuber Junaid Akram posted a story on Instagram, writing, “Nadia Khan’s Warning: Hypocrisy or Bullying? @yasir.hussain131 sudhar jao.”

    Yasir reshared the story and responded,“Bhai mai nahi hun @mominalimunshi, @sabafaisal.official aur @sarwatg. Mai ne toh sorry kar liya hai boss.”

    In another story, Yasir continued, “Numbering ki zaroorat toh kisi ko bhi nahi hai magar ap bhi toh de hi deti hain. So ap k career k jo 2 dhai number banty hain please qubool farmaen.”

    He didn’t stop there. Taking another shot, he added, “Baqi Paradise ki ap fikar na karen. Ap apny chughli show ki fikar karen jis ki watch se sari industry ‘thu thu’ kar rahi hai. Adaab. Faqat apka bohot junior.”

    Social media users had mixed reactions to Yasir’s response. While some called it “jesa ko tesa”, others praised him for his bold and unapologetic tone.

    The feud between Yasir Hussain and Nadia Khan has been going on for weeks. Last month, Yasir took a jab at Nadia’s acting career by saying he gave her performance a score of only 1.5 out of 10.

  • Pak vs WI: ODIs to not be converted into T20s

    Pak vs WI: ODIs to not be converted into T20s

    Pakistan and the West Indies will play their three One Day Internationals (ODIs) as originally scheduled.

    The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) proposed converting the ODIs into T20s; however, the West Indies Cricket Board has chosen to proceed with the originally scheduled format and ticketing plan.

    Tickets for the T20 matches, which will be played in the USA, are priced at $25 and $30. Meanwhile, tickets for the ODIs are available for $8 and $5. The West Indies Cricket Board has already started selling tickets for the ODIs, which will be held from August 8 to August 12.

    Fans can purchase tickets for both the T20 and ODI matches online through the West Indies Cricket Board’s official website.

    The T20 series between Pakistan and West Indies will begin on July 31 in Florida, USA. The second match will be played on August 2, while the third T20 is scheduled for August 3.

    The first ODI will take place on August 8 at the Brian Lara Cricket Stadium in Trinidad and Tobago. The second ODI will be held at the same venue on August 10, with the third and final match of the series scheduled for August 12.

  • Imports from India hit three year high despite tensions

    Imports from India hit three year high despite tensions

    Pakistan’s imports from India have reportedly surged to a three-year high during the first eleven months of fiscal year (FY) 2024-25 amid heightened tensions following India’s unwarranted aggression in May 2025 and the continued suspension of formal trade relations since 2019.

    Figures released by the State Bank of Pakistan indicate that imports from India totalled $211.5 million during the first 11 months of FY 2024-25. This marks an increase from the $207 million import figure during the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year and $190 million the fiscal year before. 

    According to reports, imports from India were valued at $15 million, just slightly below the $17 million recorded in May last year. It merits mention that imports in May 2025 remained high despite the significant escalation in tensions between Pakistan and India. 

    In contrast, Pakistan’s exports to India remained abysmally low, as domestic exporters managed to export only $1,000 worth of goods in May 2025 to India. This figure grows if the first 11 months of FY 2024-25 are considered as total exports reached just $0.5 million. In the previous two fiscal years, the figures stood low as well, at $3.44 million and $0.33 million.

    Reports indicate that traders have remained hesitant to speak openly about the flow of goods during the conflict. A trader suggested the goods may have been ordered before the hostilities began and possibly arrived via the involvement of other countries.

    While official trade remains limited, Indian analysts claim the actual volume is far higher. The Global Trade Research Initiative, a New Delhi-based research group, estimated last month that informal exports from India to Pakistan total around $10 billion each year. Much of that trade reportedly moves through intermediaries in Colombo, Dubai and Singapore.

    Reports suggest that Pakistan’s reliance on imported raw materials, along with high production costs, makes unofficial imports difficult to control. An exporter has reportedly highlighted how local manufacturing is too expensive in Pakistan, which could pave the way for countries like India, Bangladesh and China to flood the domestic market with smuggled goods.

    Since the aforementioned countries have a lower average cost of production, smuggled goods from these destinations seem attractive to local customers given the lower tags that come with the smuggled goods.

  • 16 dead as five-storey building collapses in Karachi; rescue op continues

    16 dead as five-storey building collapses in Karachi; rescue op continues

    A rescue and search operation is underway to find survivors and recover bodies from the debris after a five-storey, decades-old building collapsed in Karachi.

    The residential building, located in Lyari’s Baghdadi area, that housed over 40 people in 20 apartments, crumbled on Friday. According to the authorities’ estimation, 10-12 people may still be trapped under the rubble.

    Reports, citing hospital administration, claimed that the rescuers have recovered 16 bodies—six women and 10 men—from the debris so far. Three people are undergoing treatment. While the rescue operation continues even after 20 hours.

    Rescue teams are using heavy machinery to remove the debris and a Trapped Person Locator — a device that can detect heartbeats beneath the rubble, to identify any survivors. The device is used after each layer of debris is cleared, which makes the process slow but careful. 

    District South Deputy Commissioner (DC) Javed Khoso on Saturday said that it could take another eight to 10 hours to complete the operation.

    “This building was declared dangerous three years ago. A notice was issued to the building a month and a half ago,” Khoso said, noting that there were still 22 extremely dangerous buildings in Lyari, of which 16 have been evacuated.

    Additionally, the DC said that efforts were underway to evacuate the remaining buildings, warning of legal action over failure to comply with the orders.

  • Hamas says ready to start Gaza ceasefire talks ‘immediately’

    Hamas says ready to start Gaza ceasefire talks ‘immediately’

    Hamas on Friday said it was ready to start talks “immediately” on a proposal for a ceasefire in Gaza, where the civil defence agency said Israel’s ongoing offensive killed more than 50 people.

    The announcement came after it held consultations with other Palestinian factions and before a visit on Monday by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Washington, where President Donald Trump is pushing for an end to the war, now in its 21st month.

    “The movement is ready to engage immediately and seriously in a cycle of negotiations on the mechanism to put in place” the terms of a draft US-backed truce proposal received from mediators, the militant group said in a statement.

    Hamas ally Islamic Jihad said it supported ceasefire talks, but demanded “guarantees” that Israel “will not resume its aggression” once hostages held in Gaza are freed.

    Trump, when asked about Hamas’ response aboard Air Force One on Friday, said: “That’s good. They haven’t briefed me on it. We have to get it over with. We have to do something about Gaza.”

    The genocide against the Palestinians by Israel worsened after Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which led to a massive Israeli offensive and has killed more than 57,000 innocents civilians in Gaza.

    Two previous ceasefires brokered by Qatar, Egypt and the United States have seen temporary halts in fighting, coupled with the return of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.

    Netanyahu earlier on Friday vowed to bring home all the hostages held in Gaza, after coming under massive domestic pressure over their fate.

    “I feel a deep commitment, first and foremost, to ensure the return of all our abductees, all of them,” he said.

    Trump said on Thursday he wanted “safety for the people of Gaza”.

    “They’ve gone through hell,” he said.

    – 60-day truce proposal –

    A Palestinian source familiar with the negotiations told AFP earlier this week that the latest proposals included “a 60-day truce, during which Hamas would release half of the living Israeli captives in the Gaza Strip” — thought to number 22 — “in exchange for Israel releasing a number of Palestinian prisoners and detainees”.

    Out of 251 hostages seized by Palestinian militants during the October 2023 attack, 49 are still held in Gaza, including 27 the Israeli military says are dead.

    Nearly 21 months of genocide have created dire humanitarian conditions for the more than two million people in the Gaza Strip, where Israel has recently expanded its military operations.

    The military said in a statement it had been striking suspected Hamas targets across the territory, including around Gaza City in the north and Khan Yunis and Rafah in the south.

    – Civil defence says aid-seekers killed –

    Gaza civil defence official Mohammad al-Mughayyir said Israeli strikes and gunfire killed at least 52 people on Friday.

    The Israeli military said it was looking into reports, except for a handful of incidents for which it requested coordinates and timeframes.

    Media restrictions in Gaza and difficulties in accessing many areas mean AFP is unable to independently verify the tolls and details provided by the civil defence agency.

    In a separate statement, the Israeli military said a 19-year-old sergeant “fell during combat in the southern Gaza Strip”.

    Mughayyir said the Palestinians killed included five shot while waiting for aid near a US-run site near Rafah in southern Gaza and several who were waiting for aid near the Wadi Gaza Bridge in the centre of the territory.

    They were the latest in a spate of deaths near aid distribution centres in the devastated territory, which UN agencies have warned is on the brink of famine.

    The US- and Israeli-run Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has distanced itself from reports of deadly incidents near its sites.

    – Displaced civilians –

    Mughayyir told AFP that eight people, including a child, were killed in an Israeli air strike on the tents of displaced civilians near Khan Yunis on Thursday.

    The civil defence official said eight more people were killed in two other strikes on camps on the coast, including one that killed two children early Friday.

    The Israeli military said it was operating throughout Gaza “to dismantle Hamas military capabilities”.

  • Six dead, 18 injured in Muzaffargarh bus-trailer collision

    Six dead, 18 injured in Muzaffargarh bus-trailer collision

    Six people have died in a collision between a bus and a trailer in the Langar Sarai area of Muzaffargarh.

    According to local police, the tragic accident also injured 18 people after the bus and trailer collided head-on.

    Among the deceased are reportedly two men, including the bus driver, two women, and two children.

    The bus was travelling from Jhang to Alipur when it crashed. Rescue 1122 teams arrived at the scene immediately and transported the injured to a nearby hospital for treatment.

    The District Traffic Officer, DSP, and SHO also arrived at the scene with their teams to manage the situation and begin an investigation into the cause of the collision.

    Authorities are investigating to determine the cause of the crash.

    Meanwhile, in a separate incident on Friday, a car carrying tourists plunged into a river in the Chilana area of Neelum Valley, resulting in six fatalities, including five women, while one child remains missing.

    Another fatal incident occurred in Neelum Valley last month when a jeep carrying passengers met with a terrible accident, claiming the lives of over a dozen people.

    According to SSP Neelum Valley, Khawaja Siddique, the jeep was carrying 23 passengers at the time of the crash. However, four of them miraculously survived.

  • Pakistan stuns India in Asian Junior Squash Championship final

    Pakistan stuns India in Asian Junior Squash Championship final

    Young Pakistani squash players have defeated India in the Asian Junior Squash Championship, clinching multiple titles and medals.

    In the boys’ Under-13 final, Pakistan’s Suhail Adnan overcame India’s Ayan Dhanuka with scores of 11-5, 11-2, 11-13, and 11-6 to secure gold. In the Under-15 final, Pakistan’s Nauman Khan dominated fellow Pakistani Ahmed Rayyan Khalil 12-10, 11-6, 11-2.

    In the girls’ Under-13 final, Pakistan’s Mahnoor Ali narrowly lost to China’s Yen Ziouan in a close five-game contest 9-11, 11-6, 11-9, 9-11, 10-12.

    Overall, Pakistan bagged two gold, two silver and one bronze medal in the main event and added two more titles in the Plate Division.

    The Asian Junior Squash Championship was held in Korea from July 1 to July 5.

     
  • Savannah Chrisley: Reality Star, Businesswoman, and Family Fighter

    Savannah Chrisley: Reality Star, Businesswoman, and Family Fighter

    Savannah Chrisley is a well-known American reality TV star, entrepreneur, and influencer. Most people recognize her as the daughter of Todd Chrisley, the star of the popular show Chrisley Knows Best. But Savannah is more than just a TV personality. She has built her own identity, faced serious family struggles, and grown into a strong public figure.

    In this article, we’ll take a deep look into her life, from early fame to her current role as a caretaker, influencer, and rising businesswoman. If you want to know more about Savannah Chrisley in a way that’s simple, honest, and complete, this article is for you.

     

    Early Life and Background

    Savannah Chrisley was born on August 11, 1997, in Atlanta, Georgia. She is the daughter of Todd and Julie Chrisley and one of five children in the Chrisley family. Growing up in a wealthy and sometimes controversial household, she became familiar with the spotlight at a young age.

    Her family rose to fame when Chrisley Knows Best premiered on the USA Network in 2014. The show followed their lives as a Southern, Christian, and high-profile family. Viewers were drawn to their drama, lifestyle, and over-the-top parenting. Savannah quickly became one of the breakout stars.

     

    Education and Personal Growth

    Savannah attended Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee, before transferring to Belmont University. She has often spoken about the importance of education and faith in her life, even while living in the public eye.

    Over time, she matured both emotionally and professionally. Savannah went through ups and downs, including public relationships and breakups, but she always used her challenges as fuel to grow.

     

    Rise as a Reality Star and Influencer

    Savannah Chrisley became a fan favorite because of her wit, style, and strong opinions. Beyond Chrisley Knows Best, she appeared in the spin-off Growing Up Chrisley with her brother Chase. This show focused on their lives as young adults trying to become independent while still dealing with family pressures.

    As her fame grew, so did her following. Savannah gained millions of fans on social media. Her Instagram posts often feature motivational quotes, beauty tips, family moments, and real talk about her struggles.

    She’s not afraid to be vulnerable, and that’s what makes her relatable to so many people.

     

    Business Ventures and Brand Building

    Savannah didn’t stop at TV fame. She stepped into the beauty world by launching her own cosmetics line called Sassy by Savannah in 2020. The brand includes lip kits, eye makeup, and more, all at affordable prices. The business reflects her fun, bold, and confident style.

    Sassy by Savannah was a hit, thanks to her strong social media presence and loyal fan base. She used her platform to promote her brand with authenticity. Unlike many influencers, she didn’t rely on just flashy promotions. She engaged with her audience and shared the real story behind her products.

    Savannah has also worked with several fashion and beauty brands and modeled for different campaigns. Her fashion choices are often praised, and she continues to influence trends, especially among younger women.

     

    Family Crisis: Todd and Julie Chrisley’s Legal Battle

    One of the biggest challenges Savannah has faced in recent years is the legal trouble involving her parents. Todd and Julie Chrisley were convicted in 2022 of tax evasion and bank fraud. They were later sentenced to serve time in federal prison.

    This event shook the entire Chrisley family. But Savannah stepped up in a big way. She became the legal guardian of her younger brother Grayson and her niece Chloe, who is the daughter of her brother Kyle.

    In interviews and on her podcast Unlocked with Savannah Chrisley, she’s opened up about how hard this time has been. She’s shared her sadness, anger, and the weight of responsibility she feels. But she’s also shown great strength.

    She continues to fight for her parents, claiming they were unfairly treated. She is outspoken about flaws in the justice system and uses her voice to spread awareness.

     

    Personal Life and Relationships

    Savannah’s love life has often been in the public eye. She was previously engaged to pro hockey player Nic Kerdiles. The couple broke off their engagement in 2020 but remained close friends. Sadly, Nic passed away in 2023 in a motorcycle accident, a tragedy that deeply affected her.

    She has been open about dealing with grief and heartbreak. Her emotional honesty has made many fans admire her even more.

    Right now, she is focusing on her family and career. Savannah has said she isn’t rushing into anything and wants to find someone who truly supports her journey.

     

    Podcast and Media Presence

    In 2022, Savannah launched her podcast, Unlocked with Savannah Chrisley. On the show, she talks about life, faith, love, mental health, and justice. She often invites guests and isn’t afraid to share personal stories.

    Her podcast has become a safe space for many listeners. It proves that she’s not just a reality star. She’s a thoughtful voice with something meaningful to say.

     

    Why Savannah Chrisley Stands Out

    Many influencers rise and fade. But Savannah Chrisley has stayed strong through controversy, heartbreak, and loss. Here’s what makes her stand out:

    • She’s authentic. Savannah doesn’t fake perfection. She talks about her flaws, fears, and failures.

    • She’s resilient. From public breakups to family legal issues, she keeps moving forward.

    • She cares for others. Taking on the role of guardian shows her heart and strength.

    • She’s building a legacy. Her beauty brand and podcast reflect her creative vision.

    Savannah is more than a reality TV personality. She is an evolving public figure who connects with people in honest ways.

     

    Final Thoughts

    Savannah Chrisley has been through more than most people her age. But instead of hiding, she has grown stronger. She continues to share her life openly, start businesses, care for her family, and speak her truth.

    Whether you’ve followed her since Chrisley Knows Best or just discovered her, it’s clear that Savannah’s story is still unfolding. And from what we’ve seen so far, her future looks bright.

    Also read: ‘Next personal attack will land you in court’: Nadia Khan warns actors, anchors as she takes a strong stand against defamation.