Lahore officials propose March 2027 dates for Basant festival

Sadiq Sanjrani, a Member of the Provincial Assembly of Balochistan and former Chairman of the Senate, stated that national security must never be compromised for political interests. The former Senate head argued that terrorism is a national tragedy rather than a tool for political bargaining.

Sanjrani noted that while Maulana Fazlur Rehman has every right to oppose government decisions, using the opposition as a pretext for rhetoric on Pakistan’s security and sovereignty risks reinforcing the enemy’s narrative. Pakistan’s future depends on responsibility, clarity of purpose, and an unwavering commitment to defeating terrorism.

The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) Islamabad Circle recovered Rs 82,000 from a woman who fell victim to a cyber fraud scheme. Officials returned the full amount to the complainant after investigating her financial grievance.

On 17 October, an NCCIA representative confirmed that the Islamabad Circle acted on the woman's specific complaint. The agency continues to process financial complaints submitted by members of the public while pursuing legal action against those involved in cybercrime.

Gold prices in Pakistan fell by Rs1,600 per tola on Saturday, bringing the cost down to Rs439,036. The 10-gram gold rate in the country dropped by Rs1,372 to reach a selling price of Rs376,402 on the same day.

International gold rates also saw a downward trend, declining by $16 to settle at $4,165 per ounce on Saturday. Silver prices in Pakistan decreased by Rs81 to reach Rs6,175 per tola on Saturday.

On Friday, the gold price per tola in Pakistan rose by Rs2,800 to reach Rs440,636. The 10-gram gold price in Pakistan was sold at Rs377,774 on Friday after an increase of Rs2,401.

Global gold rates were up by $28 to reach $4,181 per ounce on Friday, while the silver price in Pakistan rose by Rs108 to hit Rs6,256 per tola. The gold price in Pakistan remained unchanged at Rs437,836 per tola on Thursday.

YouTube is currently in discussions with various publishers to integrate audiobooks into its platform. The video-sharing giant reportedly intends to incorporate audiobook listening capabilities into the YouTube Premium subscription tier.

This new feature might be officially unveiled as early as 2027. Google has not issued an official statement regarding these reports.

Since 1 January 2018, users have been required to purchase audiobooks individually through the Google Play Store. In early 2023, Google introduced podcast support for YouTube Music, allowing Premium subscribers to stream content both online and offline.

While the YouTube Premium Lite plan excludes music, it does provide ad-free playback for podcasts. Earlier this year, Spotify expanded its audiobook offerings to more than 180 markets and introduced a Page Match feature.

Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar chaired a meeting on 17 October to evaluate preparations for the upcoming visit of the President of the Maldives to Pakistan. During the session, Dar directed relevant officials to maintain close coordination regarding the Maldivian leader's trip.

The review covered cooperation across several sectors, including health, education, climate change, investment, trade, tourism, and civil aviation. Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Bajwa participated in the proceedings.

Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar also met with Syed Iftikhar Gilani to discuss progress and development within Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Both leaders emphasized a unified strategy to meet the region's development requirements.

Dar reaffirmed that the Government of Pakistan remains dedicated to ensuring the welfare and prosperity of the people in AJK.

Syed Muhammad Nehal Hashmi issued a message on 17 October to mark the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. Hashmi stated that eliminating poverty is a fundamental requirement for establishing a prosperous and safe society.

Providing every citizen with affordable and secure housing serves as a critical move toward this goal. The message further noted that poverty can be defeated by guaranteeing public access to education, healthcare, and jobs.

Government bodies, private entities, and the wider community must collaborate to support vulnerable groups and remove poverty.

The Prime Minister’s Coordination Committee on Ease of Doing Business convened at the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) in Islamabad on 17 October. Adviser to the Prime Minister joined SIFC leadership and the Regulatory Reform Technical Team for the session.

Participants discussed provincial onboarding, coordinated reform implementation, and the adoption of the Asaan Karobar Bill across various regions. These measures intend to simplify licensing, business registration, and regulatory compliance by streamlining procedures between government institutions.

SIFC is facilitating engagement between federal and provincial stakeholders to create a transparent, business-friendly regulatory framework nationwide. The government aims to reduce regulatory complexities to support entrepreneurship and sustainable economic growth for investors.

Ambassador of Pakistan to the United States Rizwan Saeed Sheikh spoke to students, faculty, and academic members at the University of California, Berkeley on 17 October. The Department of Middle Eastern Languages and Cultures, Asian American and Asian Diaspora Studies, Department of Ethnic Studies, and Programme on Arab and Palestinian Studies organised the event.

Sheikh delivered a talk titled "Pakistan’s Role in a Changing Middle East: Geopolitics, War and Migration." Over the last year, Pakistan has developed into a stabilizing force across South Asia, the Middle East, and other regions.

The nation serves as a frontline state in the international struggle against climate change while remaining vulnerable to floods and extreme weather. Pakistan has experienced significant exposure to the political economy of the Middle East for more than 8 decades.

Suthra Punjab Agency Lahore (SPAL) deployed over 60 sanitation workers to maintain hygiene during a two-day food gala at Jilani Park. The event took place to observe World Food Day.

Ten zonal officers from SPAL monitored cleanliness arrangements across three shifts on Saturday. More than 20 wheelie waste bins were positioned throughout the park, where the agency also set up a cleanliness awareness camp.

Sheryar Arif Khan stated, "Special measures were also taken to maintain cleanliness on entry and exit routes and adjoining roads. Providing citizens with a clean and healthy environment during all events and festivals remains the top priority of SPAL."

Sheryar Arif Khan said, "Special measures were also taken to maintain cleanliness on entry and exit routes and adjoining roads. Providing citizens with a clean and healthy environment during all events and festivals remains the top priority of SPAL."

Sheryar Arif Khan

India and the West Indies finished their five-match Twenty20 International series with a 2-2 stalemate after the final game was abandoned. Rain halted play at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru after only 48 minutes of the deciding match.

The match began 1 hour and 45 minutes behind the original schedule, forcing the game to be shortened to nine overs per side. West Indies captain Shai Hope elected to have India bat first in the reduced fixture.

India reached a total of 118-5 within 7.4 overs, during which the team struck 8 fours and 7 sixes. Ishan Kishan struck the 100th six of the series during the Indian batting innings.

More than 20,000 spectators were present for the event, which marked the first international fixture at the stadium since the October 2024 Test match between India and New Zealand.

The Green Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) extension from Numaish Chowrangi to Municipal Park is scheduled for completion within the current fiscal year. Syed Muhammad Nihal Hashmi inspected the 1.8-kilometre project and instructed officials to speed up the construction work.

Stations are currently under construction along the designated route. The federal government has already disbursed its portion of the funding required for the project.

Hashmi stated that the federal government remains dedicated to Karachi's development despite the constitutional limitations introduced by the 18th Amendment. The official added that Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif continues to back initiatives for the city, which Hashmi described as the backbone of Pakistan's economy.

The original Green Line system was first launched during the tenure of Muhammad Nawaz Sharif.

Professor Dr Zabta Khan Shinwari became a Fellow of the International Science Council following an announcement on 16 October. Two Pakistani scientists earned the prestigious fellowship during this selection cycle.

Professor Zulfiqar Bhutta was also selected as a Fellow of the same international body. Shinwari currently serves as the Vice Chancellor of the Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science and Technology (FUUAST).

The academic has previously received the Sitara-i-Imtiaz and the Tamgha-i-Imtiaz awards. A UNESCO award also marks his previous recognition in the field.

The International Science Council operates as a primary global organisation that encourages international cooperation and the application of scientific knowledge to human development policy.

Syed Nayyer Hussain Bukhari paid tribute to the martyrs of the Karsaz tragedy on 18 October 2007. The attack resulted in the deaths of 177 martyrs and left 750 party workers injured.

Bukhari stated, "How many Bhuttos will you kill? A Bhutto will emerge from every home." The Pakistan Peoples Party has made unparalleled sacrifices to protect democracy, the dignity of Parliament, and the supremacy of the Constitution.

Under the leadership of Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, the struggle for constitutional supremacy and democratic stability will continue. The party remains committed to safeguarding economic, human, and constitutional rights.

Quentin Tarantino has finished writing the screenplay for his tenth feature film. Tarantino will postpone the production of the movie until his play, The Popinjay Cavalier, finishes its run.

The production, which originated as a screenplay, features Sacha Baron Cohen in the lead role. Next March, the play opens at London’s Phoenix Theatre for a three-month engagement ending on 13 June 2026.

Tarantino stated, "I think it will be thrilling," and added, "I’m keen with anticipation to give the West End a great night out." The director's previous release was Once Upon a Time in Hollywood in 2019, which earned nominations for best picture and best director.

That film also saw Brad Pitt win an Oscar for best supporting actor and Barbara Ling and Nancy Haigh win for best production design. Leonardo DiCaprio received a nomination for best actor for the same 2019 production.

Tarantino said, "I think it will be thrilling."

Quentin Tarantino

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated on 18 October that his government is working to provide every Pakistani with support, skills, and decent livelihood opportunities. The announcement came via a post on X on the same day.

These initiatives aim to ensure that every citizen has the chance to build a better future with dignity and care. The statement was issued on the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.

Federal Minister Engineer Amir Muqam announced on Monday that the government will double the compensation for victims of the private school collapse in Dir Colony. Muqam visited the site of the disaster to offer Fateha for the deceased and expressed his grief over the loss of lives.

The minister conveyed condolences to the affected families on behalf of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif. A press release issued here stated that the private school building was constructed on girders without proper oversight.

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif ordered an inquiry into the incident to identify those responsible for approving the construction and bring them to justice. The new compensation amount will be twice the sum originally announced by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa governor.

Engineer Amir Muqam pledged to establish a government school in Dir Colony to serve the local community.

The District Health Office Islamabad has ramped up field surveillance to ensure the timely detection of communicable diseases. Surveillance teams are monitoring the field situation to identify potential health risks at an early stage.

These measures are designed to prevent the spread of infectious diseases across the region. Health awareness activities are also being conducted in schools to protect children from preventable illnesses.

Students are being educated on disease prevention and the promotion of healthy practices through these school-based programs.

Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Professor Ahsan Iqbal unveiled the official logo for the Quaid’s 150th birth anniversary on 16 October. Iqbal stated that Pakistan aims to reach a $1 trillion economy by 2035 and transform into a first-class economy by 2047.

The minister argued that the nation has drifted from the guiding values of unity, faith, and discipline established by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. According to Iqbal, the country's strength depends on uniting people of diverse religions, languages, cultures, and ethnic backgrounds under a shared national identity.

He emphasized that the government must ensure equal development opportunities for all citizens without discrimination based on race, colour, or religion. Iqbal noted that the best tribute to the founding father is not found in speeches or commemorative events but in practicing his principles to build a self-reliant and inclusive Pakistan.

Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar met with the Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir on 17 October to review regional progress. During the talks, the two leaders exchanged views on the ongoing development of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Economic growth and social progress were highlighted as primary objectives requiring sustained efforts from both sides. A shared approach to addressing the development needs of the region was emphasised by the officials.

Expanding opportunities for the residents of Azad Jammu and Kashmir remained a key priority for the meeting. Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar expressed hope that the new AJK Government will meet the aspirations of the people of AJK.

The Government of Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare and prosperity of the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Federal Minister for Health Syed Mustafa Kamal met with Syed Anees Ahmed, the Chief Executive Officer and Country Head of Abbott Laboratories (Pakistan) Limited, in Islamabad on 17 October. The two officials used the session to deliberate on various issues affecting the pharmaceutical industry.

During the discussion, the ministry highlighted its current initiatives aimed at enhancing healthcare delivery across Pakistan. Industry representatives expressed satisfaction regarding the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination's recent performance.

Wajiha Qamar addressed the graduation ceremony on Friday, 16 October, for the final group of the Prime Minister’s Initiative for Short-Term Training of 1,000 Pakistani Agricultural Professionals in China. A total of 885 Pakistani agricultural experts finished their studies at five different Chinese institutions.

Candidates from Sindh attended a specific training course held at Sindh Agriculture University in Tandojam. Qamar noted that Pakistan’s farming industry struggles with climate change, limited technology access, water shortages, and low output.

The official stated that cooperation between Pakistan and China in scientific research and technology transfer would bolster the strategic partnership between the two nations. Pakistan is advancing agricultural modernisation through technological innovation and advanced training programmes.

The 6th Exchange Mechanism Conference of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Consortium of Universities concluded at Harbin Engineering University in China. More than 40 research institutions and universities sent over 120 representatives to the event.

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan and the China Association of Higher Education guided the proceedings. Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhtar attended the opening ceremony of the conference, which coincided with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China.

Participants launched the Annual Development Report on the CPEC Consortium’s Exchange Mechanism during the summit. Harbin Engineering University initiated the China-Pakistan Marine Information Workshop (CPMI) as part of the agenda.

The conference also saw the launch of the High-Level Graduate Student Research Visit Programme. Several cooperation agreements were signed between Harbin Engineering University and various Pakistani universities.

Four parallel forums were held to discuss youth collaboration, artificial intelligence, advanced materials, and marine information.

A 15-member cultural delegation from Bangladesh arrived in Islamabad to begin a four-day visit. The group aims to bolster cultural links and artistic cooperation between Pakistan and Bangladesh after a 30-year hiatus.

Mr. Md. Mizanur Rahman, the Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs for the Government of Bangladesh, leads the delegation. The National Heritage & Culture Division of the Government of Pakistan invited the visitors to the capital.

Performances and related cultural activities are scheduled for 17 and 18 October. Events will take place at Lok Virsa and the Pakistan National Council of the Arts.

The Health Services Academy (HSA), Cochrane Pakistan, and the Research Cell of Dental College HITEC IMS conducted a one-day workshop on 15 October. Held at Dental College HITEC IMS, the session focused on the theme "Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis: From Evidence to Impact."

Twenty-six participants attended the training to develop their capabilities in meta-analysis and evidence-based healthcare. Prof. Dr. Humaira Mahmood facilitated the workshop in her capacity as the Focal Person for the HSA–Cochrane Pakistan Collaboration.

The HSA reiterated its dedication to fostering research capacity and advancing evidence-informed healthcare across Pakistan.

Pakistan and China will produce joint documentaries to commemorate 75 years of bilateral friendship. Ashfaq Ahmad Khalil called for broader media collaboration between Pakistan Television (PTV) and the China Media Group (CMG).

Speaking on CGTN Urdu’s programme “Top View,” Khalil described the 75-year bond between the two nations as a model relationship for the world. The China Media Group issued an official press release on Friday regarding the diplomatic ties.

Khalil emphasised that media outlets play a vital role in promoting the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Relations between the two countries are built on a foundation of mutual trust and cooperation, Khalil stated.

The Digital Communication Department of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting is currently working to counter false and misleading information. Information and Broadcasting Minister Attaullah Tarar proposed inviting Chinese social media influencers to visit Pakistan.

Pakistan and China commenced their inaugural joint military exercise, titled Karakoram 2026, in Korla, Xinjiang. The opening ceremony took place in Korla to mark the start of the drills.

Military personnel began specialised training in precision firing and the detection and engagement of moving targets. Troops also underwent instruction in drone operations and long-range marksmanship.

The exercise focuses on joint command operations and practical combat drills designed to improve interoperability. Participants aimed to enhance combat capabilities and strengthen counterterrorism cooperation.

Pakistani and Chinese troops exchanged operational expertise and experiences regarding counterterrorism. Personnel from the Pakistan Army familiarised themselves with Chinese weapon systems during the event.

WaterAid Pakistan organised an interactive awareness session in Islamabad to observe Global Handwashing Day 2026. The organisation partnered with the Health Services Academy (HSA) to host the event for students and healthcare professionals.

Prof. Dr. Shahzad Ali Khan attended the gathering to stress that healthcare workers must maintain strict hand hygiene to ensure safer medical practices and prevent infections. Mian Muhammad Junaid spoke at the session about protecting public health by washing hands during critical moments to stop the transmission of diseases.

Participants engaged in a poster competition, interactive discussions, and a practical demonstration of proper handwashing techniques. WaterAid Pakistan intends to inspire medical staff to become 'Handwashing Heroes' as part of its ongoing hygiene advocacy.

The Society of the Inner Temple welcomed Justice Yahya Afridi as an Honorary Bencher during its Benchers’ Night in London. Participants engaged in talks regarding the development of judicial capacity, specifically focusing on judgment writing and case management.

The event also addressed methods to improve professional standards in advocacy and legal ethics. Afridi explored avenues to enhance institutional cooperation between the judicial and legal bodies of Pakistan and the United Kingdom.

Justice Shahram Sarwar Chaudhry will hear a petition seeking to restrict Punjab's Basant celebrations to a single day in 2027. Citizen Shahid Islam filed the legal challenge against the provincial government and senior officials.

The Punjab government is scheduled to be represented by Additional Advocate General Khawaja Mohsin Abbas. Authorities previously announced that the festivities would run from 29 January to 7 February 2027.

Islam argues that a 10-day period of kite-flying festivities poses significant safety hazards to local residents. The petitioner also contends that extended celebrations exacerbate environmental pollution and noise levels.

Fatalities during the 2026 Basant celebrations reached 17 people.

A serious incident at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright in western Alberta province sparked a major fire that resulted in fatalities and injuries. The blaze spread rapidly because of high winds and crossed the base fence into the nearby district.

Located about 200 kilometres southeast of Edmonton, the base housed 1,310 military and civilian personnel as of 2021. The Canadian military and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police are investigating the incident, while General Jennie Carignan said, "Our priority remains the welfare of our members, their families and their community."

The fire was being held as of late Saturday, and the advance voting station in the town of Wainwright, which has a population of about 6,600, closed. McGuinty added that more information would be shared in the coming hours and days.

Faisal Karim Kundi invited domestic and international firms to establish joint ventures for mineral extraction in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on 17 October. Kundi stated, "Minerals are meant to be extracted," while addressing reporters in Peshawar.

The provincial leader heads an 11-member advisory council and recently attended the 59th convocation of the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan as chief guest. Dr. Sarfaraz Ali Shah manages the mines and minerals portfolio under the current administration.

President Asif Ali Zardari authorized Governor’s Rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on 11 October under Articles 232 and 234 of the Constitution. Pakistan possesses 92 known minerals, 52 of which are currently extracted for commercial use.

Estimated at $8 trillion, the country's mineral reserves contribute less than 3 percent to the national GDP. The government plans to develop 10 to 12 terrorism-affected districts as model areas for peace and security.

The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) intends to eliminate two traffic signals on Shahra-e-Quaideen to streamline vehicle movement. Tariq Mughal stated that the planning for this infrastructure project has reached its final stage.

Officials plan to make the road signal-free as far as the Society Office. To improve traffic flow, the KMC will introduce U-turns at specific locations.

One U-turn will be established before Allah Wali Chowrangi, while another will be placed between Allah Wali Chowrangi and Noorani Chowrangi. These modifications are designed to assist motorists traveling from Shahra-e-Faisal toward Mazar-e-Quaid.

The signal located near Khudadad Colony will continue to operate as usual.

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari hosted several political leaders at Zardari House on Friday to deliberate on public concerns and the current political climate. Faisal Mumtaz Rathore, a member of the AJK Legislative Assembly and former prime minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, met with Zardari to review the political landscape in AJK.

National Assembly member Abdul Qadir Gilani visited the chairman to provide a briefing on public matters specifically affecting Multan. Engineer Khurram Dastgir Khan, a leader from the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), also held talks with Zardari regarding the country's prevailing political situation.

Arbab Alamgir Khan and Arbab Zarak Khan, both PPP leaders from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, met the chairman to discuss the political environment in the province, with a focus on Peshawar. The government lowered the price of petrol by Rs3.93 per litre while maintaining the current price for diesel.

A delegation of Lalkurti residents met with Malik Ibrar Ahmad, Chairman of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Cabinet Division, to protest the closure of the area's historic dispensary. Haji Jamil, Haji Shabbir, Khan Akhlaq, Arshad Qureshi, and Mirza Ghulam Mustafa represented the local community during the meeting.

The medical facility dates back to a period before the partition of the subcontinent. Cantonment Board authorities moved the dispensary to its current site and equipped the facility with a modern laboratory and diagnostic tools.

Hundreds of patients from low-income families in Lalkurti and surrounding neighborhoods visit the clinic every day. The delegation warned that shutting down the clinic would deny thousands of people access to necessary healthcare.

Malik Ibrar Ahmad promised to bring the matter before the appropriate forums. Attempts to reach Rawalpindi Cantonment Board spokesperson Imran Habib for an official stance yielded no response.

Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) launched a new online facility for learner driving permits, licence renewals, and duplicate licence applications. Citizens can access these services through the official portal at https://dlims.islamabadpolice.gov.pk/.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Islamabad Captain (Retd) Muhammad Sohail Chaudhry directed the launch of this initiative. Renewed and duplicate licences will be delivered to doorsteps via the TCS courier service.

From 19 October 2026, these specific services will no longer be available at Traffic Headquarters Faizabad or other Islamabad Police Khidmat Centres. Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Islamabad Kainat Azhar Khan stated that the introduction of online services marked an important step towards improving public facilitation and making driving licence services more accessible.

Khan added that the Islamabad Traffic Police was working to improve the quality of its services through the effective use of technology, with public convenience and efficient service delivery remaining its top priorities.

Pakistan is scheduled to become the first country to sign the Digital and AI Compact. Shaza Fatima Khawaja departed for South Korea to attend the Global AI and Digital Summit 2026.

The official will participate in the AI and Digital Ministerial Meeting to discuss the compact. During a session on the Digital and AI Compact, Khawaja will present Pakistan’s future roadmap.

South Korea will host several high-level discussions where Khawaja is set to hold a bilateral meeting with Google’s vice president. A meeting with the World Bank vice president is also on the itinerary for the Pakistani representative.

Khawaja will also join key sessions focused on ensuring equitable access to digital services and the internet worldwide.

James Austin Johnson appeared on "SNL U.K." to perform a Donald Trump impression during the show's first appearance by the former US president. This performance represented the inaugural crossover between the casts of "SNL U.K." and "SNL".

Saturday night's cold open featured a recreation of a meeting between Ukraine's President Zelenskyy and U.K. Prime Minister Andy Burnham. Johnson, portraying Trump, asked, "Did somebody say Richard E. Grant?"

He continued the bit by stating he wanted "to see my favorite comedian" who was "performing live at high court in the role of defendant". Production costs for the movie, which features Nathan Fielder and Lance Oppenheim secretly filming Elizabeth Holmes, reached $7 million.

Elizabeth Holmes is currently serving an 11-year prison sentence. Daisy Edgar-Jones and Esmé Creed-Miles star in "Sense and Sensibility", a production that cost $25 million.

Sohail Ashraf inspected the under-construction Islamabad jail to review the progress of the project. During the visit, the official received a briefing on the current construction status and the development of essential infrastructure.

Ashraf was also updated on the timeline for the project's completion. The CDA director general (services), the relevant assistant commissioner, and senior jail officials accompanied him during the tour.

He examined various sections of the site while discussing construction standards and quality requirements with the officers in charge. Ashraf directed the officials to finish the work within the approved timeframe and ensure that all prescribed quality standards are met.

The official further instructed the team to provide all essential facilities as part of the CDA’s ongoing monitoring of development projects.

The Ministry of Housing and Works established 31 December 2026 as the date to hand over possession of plots in Blocks A, B and D of the Federal Government Employees Housing Authority’s Sky Garden Housing Project. Secretary Housing and Works Captain (Retd.) Muhammad Mahmood issued these instructions during a site visit to the development.

Captain (Retd.) Zafar Iqbal and Chaudhry Ismail joined Mahmood during the inspection of the site. Development work for Package-I in Blocks A, B and D has reached its final stages.

The Sky Garden Housing Project contains 4,255 plots, of which 2,470 have already been allotted. Mahmood directed officers to guarantee that drainage and sewerage systems are available before the possession handover occurs.

Zafar Iqbal promised to provide the technical, administrative, and financial support required to complete the project.

Pakistan suspended trade with Iran through the Taftan and Gabd-Rimdan border crossings. The Ministry of Commerce issued a memorandum on 16 October withdrawing a previous order.

Shahid Rind stated the temporary closure intends to address security concerns, stop smuggling, and make the border system more effective. Esmail Baqaei claimed the closure is temporary and attributed the move to technical issues.

The Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry told its members to stop placing new import and export orders with Iran. Passenger traffic through the Rimdan-Gabd crossing is still running despite the trade suspension.

Over 4,000 tonnes of LPG are imported through the Gabd-Rimdan route every day. Pakistan Customs rejected claims of a disruption in LPG imports in June.

An Iranian delegation visited Islamabad in August for the 10th session of the Pak-Iran Joint Trade Committee. Pakistan and Iran agreed to raise bilateral trade to $10 billion.

The District Health Office (DHO) Islamabad has ramped up sanitary inspections throughout various sectors of the federal capital. Field teams and sanitary inspectors are visiting multiple locations to evaluate the cleanliness of public spaces.

During these visits, officials are providing guidance to business owners, food handlers, and other relevant individuals regarding hygiene protocols. The DHO Islamabad stated that public awareness and consistent monitoring are vital components for preventing health hazards.

Residents are being asked to work with the health teams and notify authorities about any sanitation issues they observe.

The Pakistan Pharmacists Association (PPA) and the Pharmacy Council of Pakistan (PCP) held talks in Islamabad on 16 October to discuss strengthening pharmacy education and professional standards. PPA President Dr. Alamgir Rao and Punjab PPA General Secretary Dr. Umair Dar met with PCP President Dr. Muhammad Zaeem Zia and Secretary Dr. Nauman Rahim Khan.

Representatives from the PPA advocated for regulatory measures to increase the salaries of pharmacists working in academic institutions. The PPA leadership also called for comprehensive audits of all facilities providing Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm-D) degrees.

Pharmacists urged the PCP to take a proactive stance in resolving professional issues through its existing regulatory framework. Dr. Muhammad Zaeem Zia acknowledged the concerns raised by the PPA and promised the Council's cooperation and support.

Zia reaffirmed that the PCP remains committed to implementing significant reforms within its statutory mandate.

The Directorate General of Special Education (DGSE) observed White Cane Safety Day at the National Special Education Centre for Visually Handicapped Children in Islamabad on 16 October. Syed Tauqeer Hussain Shah, Director General of the DGSE, recognised the essential roles played by educators, parents, and various stakeholders in supporting these students.

Attendees included representatives from Sightsavers, the Health Services Academy, Allama Iqbal Open University, SZABIST, International Islamic University, and Isra University. The Pakistan Blind Cricket Council Chairman also spoke at the gathering, which was joined by members of the PID, APP, and other media outlets.

The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) issued Notification No. S.R.O. 1688(I)/2026 on 6 October to bring eight categories of health products under tighter regulatory control. Vitamins, dietary supplements, medicated soaps, shampoos, and specialized infant milk are included in the new requirements.

Manufacturers and marketers must now obtain registration, approval, and quality-control clearances before selling these items in Pakistan. By recognizing specific health and over-the-counter products as therapeutic goods, the authority intends to ensure items with medicinal claims adhere to prescribed safety standards.

Increased scrutiny is expected to improve the monitoring of product composition, labelling, manufacturing processes, and quality standards. This initiative might assist in stopping the marketing of substandard or counterfeit products sold as antiseptic or medicinal treatments.

Pharmacists and healthcare professionals have expressed appreciation for the issuance of the notification.

PARCO Gunvor Limited secured a Blue Dragon for Best Campaign of Pakistan at the Dragons of Asia 2026 ceremony. The company also received a Gold Dragon in the Small Budget Category during the regional awards held in Malaysia.

This achievement marks the first time a Pakistani oil marketing company has won a Blue Dragon at the Dragons of Asia Awards. The #SplitTheTimeTax campaign, which was developed under the Bangles of Strength platform, was launched to observe International Women’s Day.

A nomination for the Best Campaign in Asia category was also earned by the initiative. To represent invisible labour and the ticking clock of effort, the campaign utilised the specific sound of glass bangles.