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  • Mahira launches her best kurta collection yet

    Mahira launches her best kurta collection yet

    As summer approaches, who doesn’t want a perfect white kurta for everyday wear? Well, don’t worry, Mahira Khan has your back. 

    The superstar has launched a new collection of the most wearable kurtas under her brand M by Mahira. 

    The launch’s photoshoot shows Mahira wearing stunning plain white structured yet flowy kurtas while looking absolute perfection. 

    Standing at a Railway Station, Mahira looks cool and collected under the sun  with her hair neatly slicked back. Colourful accessories complete the look. 

    A glance at M by Mahira’s website shows that one outfit is a set with white pants while the other two are shirts. The sizes extend from XS to XXL. 

    And if the prices are too steep for you, then you can simply admire the brilliant photoshoot with plenty of colourful bus interior shots,lots of qulis carrying luggage and black and yellow taxis loaded with old colourful suitcases and trunks.

  • Sugar to sell at Rs130/kg during Ramzan

    Sugar to sell at Rs130/kg during Ramzan

    Members of the Pakistan Sugar Mills Association (PSMA) have decided to supply sugar to customers at a subsidized rate of just 130 rupees per kg throughout Ramzan. As per reports, this sugar will be available to the general public at specific sale points across Pakistan.

    The sugar industry has pledged to aid federal and municipal authorities in ensuring economical sugar prices for the public during the holy month of Ramzan. According to a spokesperson from PSMA, sugar prices are determined by market forces such as supply and demand. However, a handful of speculators spread false information to distort the market and artificially inflate prices for personal monetary gain.

    This practice causes financial harm to consumers, farmers and the wider economy. In many cases, sugar is not a final good, as other industries use the commodity as an input in their production processes. The confectionery industry can serve as an example of this phenomenon, and it faces rising input costs when sugar suppliers manipulate the prices, causing profit margins to drop considerably.

    For the aforementioned reasons, PSMA has implored the government to take stringent action against such individuals or entities. If authorities can successfully crack down on such activities, the sugar market might be stabilised.

    Sugar exports have been prohibited by authorities during the ongoing crushing season, which has resulted in local sugar prices dropping compared to last year’s prices when sugar exports were uninhibited. According to reports, industrialists claim that domestic sugar manufacturers produce some of the cheapest sugar in the international market despite a multitude of factors working against them.

    These factors are reportedly extortionate taxation rates, high production costs and low sugar recovery rates. Despite the odds stacked against domestic producers, the cost of imported sugar exceeds 200 rupees per kg.

    The reason behind Pakistan’s ‘competitive’ prices is supply-side issues facing the world’s top sugar industries. For instance, Brazil, one of the leading exporters of commodities, is experiencing crop shortages. Similarly, sugar crop yields in India also face issues.

    Given the global developments surrounding sugar production, it might have been beneficial for Pakistan to export the commodity instead. While the restrictions on sugar exports could be chalked up as a missed opportunity for cash-strapped Pakistan, exports would have undoubtedly caused prices to rise during Ramzan.

    Sugarcane manufacturers have witnessed sugarcane prices rise beyond last year’s Minimum Support Price (MSP) to a staggering 600 rupees per maund. Coupling increasing prices with the high interest rates which mills have to face has resulted in an explosion in the cost of sugar.

  • FIR registered after viral video shows woman driver assaulting biker

    FIR registered after viral video shows woman driver assaulting biker

    A First Information Report (FIR) has been registered against a woman, days after a video went viral online showing her abusing a bike rider, Syed Irfan, in Islamabad.

    The FIR, filed at the Women’s Police Station in Islamabad’s Sector G-7 on Tuesday, stated that the unknown woman hit the rider from behind with her silver Toyota Corolla on Monday around 5 PM at Sector G-6, outside Polyclinic Hospital.

    “When I [Irfan] stopped, the woman again attempted to hit me at high speed,” the FIR stated, prompting the rider to put his hand on the car bonnet, causing the bike to fall to the ground.

    Additionally, the FIR stated that when the car stopped, the woman instantly came out and physically assaulted the rider. “While abusing, the woman beat and threatened to kill me. The unknown woman attempted to kill me through negligence, carelessness, and over-speeding,” the FIR read.

    In the viral video, the woman can be heard hurling abusive words while committing an offence against the rider, whereas the rider can be heard giving clarifications to the woman.

    “How dare you touch my car? Why did you hit my car?” the woman shouted at the rider, arguing that her car was more expensive than his bike. Bystanders tried to calm the situation, but the woman persisted in her aggressive behaviour before finally leaving in her car.

    Media reports claim that police have begun raids to arrest the accused woman, identified as Masooma Bibi, a resident of Bani Gala.

    Since the video went viral, it has sparked outrage online, with social media users lambasting her for assaulting the rider.

    A social media user wrote, “Instead of apologising after hitting the motorbike rider, she started beating the poor boy and also hurling nasty abuses. No one is going to question the elite who oppress the poor.”

    “It is possible that the Bykea rider was at fault, but the woman acted as if she were the judge. She hurled obscene insults at the Bykea rider and humiliated him. Does the poor have no one to speak for them? Will the Islamabad police take any action against the woman?” another user opined.

    One user, however, asserted that the woman was mentally unfit. In response, a netizen questioned how she could take the car on the road if she was mentally unfit, arguing that this is a tactic used to shield the elite from accountability.

  • Punjab’s debt drops by Rs24.8bn

    Punjab’s debt drops by Rs24.8bn

    Punjab’s total government debt decreased by 24.8 billion rupees during the second quarter of the fiscal year (FY) 2024-25, marking a 1.5 percent decline. As per reports, this reduction occurred as exchange rate movements favoured the rupee and resulted in an overall improvement in the province’s debt situation.

    By the end of December 2024, Punjab’s debt stock stood at a controlled 1,654 billion rupees — a significant improvement from the staggering 1,678.8 billion rupees recorded in September. Report data reveals that the bulk of this amount came from external loans, totalling a colossal 1,652.5 billion rupees, while domestic debt remained minimal at just 1.5 billion rupees.

    Punjab’s debt-to-GDP ratio during this period witnessed a slight improvement, dropping from 2.49 percent in the previous quarter to the current value of 2.46 percent. According to reports, this decline was driven by foreign exchange gains amounting to a significant 12.1 billion rupees.

    These gains resulted from the depreciation of the Special Drawing Rights (SDR), the Chinese Yuan, and the Japanese Yen against the rupee. For reference, the SDR is a basket of five currencies.

    In addition, provincial authorities managed to lower Punjab’s net borrowing by a respectable 12.7 billion rupees, thereby reducing its debt burden. This could be a result of the austerity measures prescribed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

    However, these figures may be misleading, as the Government of Punjab is liable to cover loans taken by certain government entities that are not included in official debt records. These guarantees were reportedly worth a whopping 103 billion rupees, of which a large portion was reserved for the purchase of wheat under the federally supported Cash Credit Limit (CCL) program.

    Foreign currency loans make up the largest portion of the province’s debts, exposing the province to exchange risk. The ‘risk’ can impact the payable loan values both positively or negatively depending on changes in the rupee’s value. For instance, an appreciating rupee is beneficial for Punjab because provincial loans are denominated in foreign currencies.

    71 percent of Punjab’s debts were USD-denominated, followed by SDR-denominated (21 percent), Japanese Yen (five percent), Chinese Yuan (two percent), and one in all the other currencies. This structure exposes the province to exchange risk, as a potential depreciation of the rupee can add value to its liabilities.

    However, reports outline that fixed interest covers 73 percent of the overall debt stock of the province, which offers some protection against exchange rate fluctuations. Nonetheless, Punjab’s preference to receive credit denominated in foreign currencies guarantees that exchange volatility will remain a serious issue looming over its fiscal stability.

  • James Rothschild: Behind the Billionaire Family Name

    James Rothschild: Behind the Billionaire Family Name

    The Rothschild name is one of the most famous in the world, synonymous with wealth, power, and influence. The Rothschild family has held a prominent position in finance, philanthropy, and high society for generations. Among the modern members of this illustrious family is James Rothschild, a businessman, investor, and heir to the family legacy. While his name alone carries significant weight, James Rothschild has carved his path, blending the responsibilities of his heritage with his achievements. In this blog post, we’ll look at who James Rothschild is and what has shaped his life behind the scenes of one of the most renowned families in history.

    Who is James Rothschild?

    James Rothschild is a British financier and a world-famous Rothschild banking family member. Born in 1985, he is the son of Sir Evelyn Rothschild and his second wife, Lynn Forester de Rothschild. His father, a prominent figure in finance and a member of the Rothschild family’s British branch, passed down the family’s strong legacy of wealth and influence.

    While James Rothschild’s name may be instantly recognizable, his rise to prominence results from his family’s legacy and his own hard work in the business world. He has followed in the footsteps of many Rothschild family members, making a mark in finance and high society. Still, he has also chosen to work behind the scenes, avoiding the glare of the public spotlight that often surrounds other prominent figures in the family.

    A Legacy of Wealth and Influence

    The Rothschild family’s history in banking dates back to the 18th century, when Mayer Amschel Rothschild, a German-Jewish banker, founded a banking dynasty in Frankfurt. His five sons expanded the family’s business into Europe, establishing banks in major cities such as London, Paris, Vienna, and Naples. Over the years, the family became known for its vast wealth and its involvement in international finance, including significant investments in railroads, mining, and even government bonds.

    James Rothschild is part of the family’s British branch, which became one of the wealthiest and most influential in Europe. His great-great-grandfather, Sir Nathan Mayer Rothschild, was one of the key figures in establishing the Rothschild banking empire in London. James’ deep connection to this legacy has shaped his upbringing and professional path.

    Though the Rothschild family is no longer as visibly involved in banking as it was in the past, its wealth remains vast, and its influence extends across various sectors. The Rothschilds are also well-known for their commitment to philanthropy, supporting causes such as education, the arts, and the environment.

    James Rothschild’s Career Path

    While many Rothschild family members have continued in finance, James Rothschild has also explored other business avenues. After completing his education, James pursued a private equity and investment career, focusing on making strategic investments in various industries. His background in business and finance and his strong understanding of global markets have helped him secure a solid reputation as a savvy investor.

    James’ career has also led him into venture capital and start-ups. He has worked with several companies and projects that emphasize innovation and growth. His ability to work with emerging industries while maintaining his family’s long-standing financial knowledge has made him a versatile businessman.

    While James Rothschild’s financial dealings are essential, much of his wealth and influence comes from the continued legacy of his family name. The Rothschilds are recognized for their vast wealth and connections to royalty, world leaders, and influential figures worldwide.

    Personal Life: Marriage to Nicky Hilton

    James Rothchild’s personal life has also attracted public attention. In 2015, he married socialite Nicky Hilton, the heir to the Hilton Hotel fortune and the sister of Paris Hilton. The wedding at Kensington Palace in London was a glamorous affair that attracted the attention of the media and high society. Their union brought together two of the world’s wealthiest and most prominent families, making it one of the most talked-about events in the social scene.

    Together, James and Nicky Rothschild have children and live relatively private lives compared to the public personas of other high society figures. Their relationship has been described as a partnership between two individuals who share a commitment to family and their business ventures.

    James Rothschild’s Role in Philanthropy

    Like many members of the Rothschild family, James has followed in their philanthropic footsteps. The Rothschilds have a long history of giving back to society and supporting various charitable organizations and causes. James Rothschild has continued this tradition, working with several charitable foundations focusing on education, the arts, and environmental sustainability.

    James’ role in philanthropy is often behind the scenes. He plays an integral part in managing the family’s charitable endeavors. The Rothschild family has always strongly emphasized using their wealth for the greater good; James is no exception.

    James Rothschild’s Impact on the Family Legacy

    While James Rothschild may not have made headlines for his financial ventures in the same way as some of his ancestors, he has undoubtedly played an essential role in continuing the family legacy. He actively preserves the Rothschild name and ensures it remains synonymous with wealth, influence, and responsibility.

    James’s business work and his deep commitment to philanthropy ensure that the Rothschild family’s legacy continues to thrive in the modern world. Though he doesn’t seek the spotlight, James Rothschild remains an influential figure in the family and business.

    Read Also: Kate Upton: The Journey of a Supermodel and Actress

  • Cop drives son to end of race on bike during police recruitment test

    Cop drives son to end of race on bike during police recruitment test

    A police constable in Dera Ghazi Khan has been suspended after helping his son cheat in a recruitment test for new hirings. 

    Constable Tauseef, stationed at the Sakhi Sarwar station, brought his son Adeel to the finish lane on his motorcycle, while all other contestants had to run on foot. 

    Constable Tauseef was arrested on the spot while his son Adeel managed to escape. RPO Dera Ghazi Khan Captain (Retd.) Sajjad Hassan Khan and DPO Syed Ali Kazmi ordered the force to conduct an inquiry into the matter.

    Officials have also suspended the issuance of recruitment permits for officers posted at Sakhi Sarwar police station so that the recruitment process can continue without more interference. 

    The 1600- meter race is considered mandatory in physical tests conducted for recruitment in the police force. It usually has to be finished within six minutes and thirty seconds. For candidates older than the age of 35, the race is usually shortened to 1400 meters while the stipulated time is lengthened to nine minutes. 

    Other parts of the physical test include a long jump and a high jump, with candidates getting three chances to finish the 3.8 meters and 1.1 meters distances respectively. 

    For female candidates, the race is shortened to 800 meters while the time is a crisp four and a half minutes.

  • ‘McDonald’s and KFC generation’: Shahid Afridi reacts to friendly relations between Pak-India cricketers

    ‘McDonald’s and KFC generation’: Shahid Afridi reacts to friendly relations between Pak-India cricketers

    Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has labelled the current generation of cricketers as the “McDonald’s and KFC generation.”

    Speaking to broadcaster Star Sports ahead of the Champions Trophy, Afridi expressed surprise over the friendly behaviour between Pakistani and Indian players on the field.

    When asked by the anchor about his aggressive on-field attitude compared to the current players, Afridi responded, “The present generation of players is a McDonald’s and KFC generation.”

    During the discussion, the anchor brought up the topic of fitness, prompting former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh to humorously remark, “You talking about fitness doesn’t sound right at all.” This led to laughter in the studio.

    Earlier, Afridi had also raised concerns over the inclusion of certain players in Pakistan’s Champions Trophy squad but refrained from naming them.

    Speaking to the media after an event in Lahore, Afridi commented, “All teams from around the world are coming to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy; India should also participate. Now that they are not coming, what more can I say?”

    He further remarked, “India is not coming to Pakistan, and that’s now in the past. The team should focus on defeating India wherever they play against them and make the nation proud.”

    “Winning brings joy to people across all four provinces, and the entire nation celebrates under one flag,” he added.

    He also made an interesting comment about Pakistan’s squad selection, hinting at certain players’ inclusion. “There are some players in the 15-member squad, and I know where they have come from. But we will talk about that later, as the Champions Trophy is just around the corner,” he said.

    Advising the national team, Afridi stressed the need for top-level performance in all departments. “All teams have come well-prepared. Pakistan needs to deliver its best in batting, bowling, and fielding,” he concluded.

    India refused to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025 amid political tensions. Instead, the BCCI agreed to a hybrid model, where India’s matches will be played at a neutral venue while the rest of the tournament takes place in Pakistan.

  • Fakhar Zaman injured, leaves field during match against New Zealand

    Fakhar Zaman injured, leaves field during match against New Zealand

    During the opening match of the Champions Trophy against New Zealand, star Pakistani batter Fakhar Zaman had to leave the field after suffering an injury during fielding. 

    Pakistan won the toss and opted to bowl first in the tournament’s inaugural match. During the very first over, Fakhar injured himself while attempting to stop a boundary and was forced to leave the field.

  • ‘Nobody can argue with me’; Trump says he will impose tariffs on India

    ‘Nobody can argue with me’; Trump says he will impose tariffs on India

    Just one day after hosting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the White House, US President Donald Trump has signalled that he will definitely be imposing tariffs on the country. 

    Talking to Sean Hannity on Fox News on Tuesday night, Trump, accompanied by Elon Musk, clearly said that he will charge the same tariffs that India charges the US.

    “Every country in the world takes advantage of us, and they do it with tariffs. They make it impossible for him [Musk] to sell a car, practically, in, as an example, India,” Donald Trump told Hannity. 

    “I told Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi yesterday, ‘Here’s what we’re going to do: reciprocal. Whatever you charge, I’m charging.’ Modi goes, ‘No, no, I don’t like that.’ ‘No, no, whatever you charge, I’m going to charge.’ I’m doing that with every country,” he said in the interview. 

    Elon Musk, owner of the electric vehicle brand Tesla, then chimed in to say that “Auto imports are 100 percent” in India on foreign manufacturer cars. 

    Trump then said that India asks car manufacturers to make their cars in India, a practice he stressed was “unfair” to the American economy. 

    Trump’s proposal is to impose the same tariff on India as India does on American products. “Nobody can argue with me,” President Trump insisted. “If I said 25 per cent, they’d say, ‘Oh, that’s terrible.’ I don’t say that anymore… because I say, ‘Whatever they charge, we’ll charge.’ And you know what? They stop.”

  • Qarz-e-Jaan leaves viewers stunned with emotional whirlwind

    Qarz-e-Jaan leaves viewers stunned with emotional whirlwind

    Qarz-e-Jaan gave us one of those rare drama episodes that stays with us long after the television goes dark. This episode was a rollercoaster of emotions, with gut-wrenching turns and soul-stirring moments that caused us to reevaluate our preconceived notions about the characters. 

    Fate stepped in most terribly just when it appeared that Burhan and Nashwa were finally coming together. What about Ammar? Nobody anticipated the turn his character went.

    Ammar’s breakdown: Is he really unredeemable? 

    Ammar has been portrayed as an unredeemable villain, which has caused criticism. He revealed a new side in this episode, one that was damaged, desperate, and even, for a brief time, deserving of pity. His response to his father’s cruelty and his request for an end to his pain provided a unique window into the harm that moulded him. Is it possible that his behaviour is not motivated by pure malice but rather by his upbringing? By daring to blur the boundaries between right and wrong, Qarz-e-Jaan forced viewers to see Ammar in a way they had never anticipated.

    Nashwa & Burhan: A love story cut short 

    The quiet, sincere talk between Burhan and Nashwa was a turning moment. She wasn’t prepared; he wanted forgiveness. Tragic events occurred just when it appeared like their connection would soften. In sharp contrast to the upheaval in their lives, his straightforward but profound request before he wiped away her tears served as a reminder of their mutual respect and understanding. However, that moment of bonding was cruelly interrupted in the most tragic way.

    The startling mishap: A game changer? 

    Nobody foresaw the shock of Nashwa’s accident. The sight of Burhan drenched in her blood was chilling to the bone. More than simply words, his anxious admission that “I am responsible for everything” was a representation of his crippling guilt. Could things change because of this accident?


    Is Nashwa’s destiny a decision or a sacrifice? 

    The stakes are higher today than ever before because of Dadi’s planned choice to marry Nashwa off to Ammar. Will Nashwa be able to influence the course of events, given that her mother’s future is at stake? Or will she be compelled to make a choice that will alter her life completely?

    What is up next? 

    The next episodes will undoubtedly cause even more upheaval in the family as Sidra finally speaks up and tensions increase. Will Burhan’s life change as a result of Nashwa’s accident? Will something even worse result from Ammar’s fragile situation? The actual storm is just getting started, and one thing is for sure: Qarz-e-Jaan isn’t holding back.