Pakistani small merchants adopt digital storefronts as smartphone use rises

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif witnessed the exchange of a memorandum of understanding between the Ministry of Education and the Federal Training and Gauth AI-based learning platform in Islamabad. Aisha Rasool served as the chief guest at the closing ceremony of a six-day Internationally Accredited Foundational Training Programme on Arbitration at the COMSTECH Secretariat.

The International Centre for Appropriate Dispute Resolution & Prevention and the International Law Institute from the USA provided the training team for the programme. Ehsan Ullah Khan thanked the training organisations and instructors for their contributions to the course.

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Muhammad Saqib Ayyaz called the programme a valuable learning experience for those in attendance. Attendees included members of the judiciary, the legal fraternity, Parliament, and representatives from academic institutions and federal and provincial governments.

Dam authorities released the current reservoir levels for several major water bodies on 20 October. Tarbela Dam and Mangla Dam were among the primary sites included in the official report.

The data also accounted for the water status at Khanpur Dam, Simly Dam, and Rawal Dam. In Islamabad, the pollen count was recorded on the same day.

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Meteorological reports for 20 October also detailed the minimum and projected maximum temperatures for the country's major cities.

The World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Committee addressed the need to actively engage in reforming the global health architecture. Negotiations must conclude on the Pathogen Access and Benefit Sharing annex to enable the Pandemic Agreement to begin ratification and take effect.

Officials noted that 10 months remains a significant period to achieve these objectives. The committee called for the approval of the next increase in assessed contributions during the World Health Assembly next year.

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Members aim to consolidate efforts from transformation and realignment to build an organisation that serves states with neutrality, impartiality, and integrity.

The MUSLIM Institute organised a human formation at the Shrine of Sultan Bahoo to symbolise the Makkah Accord and the Pakistan-Saudi-Türkiye alliance. Thousands of Pakistanis joined the initiative, which featured flags from Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye.

Participants played national anthems and chanted slogans stating that Islam is Peace. Sahibzada Sultan Ahmed Ali stated that the Makkah Accord was a significant step towards collective security and sovereignty.

This event followed a previous human formation by the MUSLIM Institute at the same shrine depicting New Zealand’s Al Noor Mosque.

The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) and the Arab Thought Forum (ATF) of Jordan held a bilateral meeting on 20 October. A Memorandum of Understanding between the two organisations was previously signed in October 2025.

Ambassador Moin ul Haque, Director General of ISSI, stated that Jordan holds a special place in the hearts of the people of Pakistan. Participants explored opportunities for joint research and engagement on matters of mutual interest.

The discussion focused on the right to self-determination and human dignity for the people of Palestine and Jammu and Kashmir. Dr. Amani Ghazi Jarrar highlighted four key pillars of cooperation during the talks.

These pillars include promoting shared security and human dignity, strengthening intellectual engagement, advancing strategic forecasting, and turning shared goals into practical results. Amina Khan, Director of CAMEA, attended the meeting.

US District Judge Zachary Bluestone dismissed a civil lawsuit filed by Annie Altman against Sam Altman in a Missouri federal court. Altman, who is 41 years old, denies the accusations of sexual abuse.

Annie Altman accused the OpenAI chief of raping and sexually abusing her between 1997 and 2006 at a family home in suburban Clayton, Missouri. The alleged abuse began when Altman was 12 years old and the plaintiff was 3 years old.

The Altman family stated that Annie Altman has mental health challenges and received financial support. Sam Altman stated that Annie Altman began accusing him on social media after the family rejected her demands for more funds.

Annie Altman refused to appear for an independent medical examination. Santos Perez withdrew as Annie Altman's lawyer this month.

Perez said, "I am no longer authorised to comment on this case, but I continue to believe in Annie."

DJI has reduced the price of the Osmo Pocket 3 to $395. Consumers can purchase the device through retailers including Amazon, Best Buy, and B&H Photo.

Equipped with a 1-inch sensor, the camera captures 4K footage at 120 frames per second. The hardware also supports integration with DJI Mic Mini wireless microphones.

While the Osmo Pocket 3 is available, the Osmo Pocket 4 is not officially for sale in the United States. Gaming hardware is also seeing price cuts, with the Glorious GMMK 2 mechanical keyboard discounted to $48.99 at Best Buy.

This 65 percent layout keyboard features Glorious Fox linear switches. Amazon is offering a two-pack of Anker Zolo MagSafe-compatible wireless chargers for $25.99.

These chargers provide up to 15W of power. Preorders for Nintendo Switch Sports Resort are open at Amazon for $49.94.

The game is scheduled to ship on 22 October 2026.

Arafat Minhas scored a half-century and claimed a five-wicket haul during a single ODI match. Minhas became only the third Pakistani cricketer to achieve this specific feat in one international game.

Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium hosted a packed crowd of spectators who filled the stands to watch the action. Flags flew across Rawalpindi as fans gathered for the high-profile sporting event.

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The International Monetary Fund projects that Sub-Saharan Africa will achieve 4.5% economic growth in both 2026 and 2027. Regional growth remains resilient despite being uneven across the continent.

Median inflation in the region is expected to reach 4.3% this year. Authorities should implement policies that ensure price stability and rebuild economic buffers.

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These measures must also support vulnerable households throughout the area.

Salman Ali Agha scored a triple century during the President's Trophy Grade-I competition. The batsman was awarded Player of the Match for his performance at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

Pakistan secured a victory in the contest. Agha has also reached his fourth ODI century while playing against Sri Lanka.

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"Give respect to domestic cricket," Agha said. In a separate fixture, Pakistan U17 dismissed Sri Lanka U17 for 159 runs.

That encounter served as the third one-day match of the series.

Logitech has listed a refurbished G Pro X2 Superstrike for $131.74. The standard retail price for this gaming mouse typically reaches $179.99.

Using the discount code PROXPRODUCTS15, the cost of the device falls to just under $117. Designed for right-handed users, the G Pro X2 Superstrike replicates the tactile sensation of mechanical switches through haptic feedback.

Users can adjust the strength of these haptic sensations via Logitech's companion software. The mouse also includes rapid trigger support and achieves lower click latency than competing mice with mechanical switches when haptics are active.

Logitech continues to sell and support the X2 Superstrike while also offering the X3 Superstrike. The X3 Superstrike model provides a more responsive sensor, enhanced battery life, and better weight distribution.

The Punjab government distributed Rs14.5 billion to mosque imams under the Chief Minister’s Imam Masjid Sahibaan Honorarium Programme. Provincial Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique led the fifth steering committee meeting for the initiative.

Khawaja Salman Rafique stated that the government was allocating more than Rs20 billion every year for this specific programme. The minister noted that mosque imams played an important role in nation-building, while mosques promoted peace, tolerance and positive social values.

More than 76,000 mosques have been registered by the Punjab Home Department. To support these religious leaders, the Home Department is launching a chatbot to provide assistance to imams.

The Bank of Punjab and the Punjab Information Technology Board received instructions to fix problems with the online application system. Imams are required to perform at least one transaction every three months using their designated bank accounts.

Faisal Moez Khan requested that the government and the State Bank of Pakistan refrain from raising interest rates during the next monetary policy meeting. Khan stated that hiking rates would harm industrial production, business activities, and the country's export capacity.

Rising operating costs, high energy prices, and fierce global competition currently pressure the industrial sector. The businessman warned that instability in the Gulf could disrupt supply chains and cause international oil prices and freight charges to fluctuate.

He argued that the Gulf situation is an economic concern rather than just a foreign policy matter. Khan suggested the government engage trade and industrial representatives to evaluate potential economic risks.

To counter external shocks, he proposed promoting renewable energy and improving facilities for industrial enterprises.

The Senate Standing Committee on Science and Technology requested additional examination of the Pakistan General Cosmetics Bill, 2026, during a session on 20 October. Senator Kamil Ali Agha presided over the meeting to review the legislative proposal.

The House returned the bill on 14 October, prompting Senator Saleem Mandviwalla to move amendments for a report and reconsideration. Several lawmakers attended the proceedings, including Senator Nadeem Ahmed Bhutto, Senator Husna Bano, and Senator Dr Afnan Ullah Khan.

Federal Minister for Science and Technology Khalid Hussain Magsi and Federal Minister for Defence Production Muhammad Raza Hayat Harraj were also present. Participants noted that the cosmetic industry has been active in the country for about 15 years.

The committee deliberated on a proposed eight-member Board, though Senator Saleem Mandviwalla suggested increasing that number by two. Officials decided to request further discussions with the Ministry of Law and Justice.

Nigeria confirmed one imported case of the Ebola Bundibugyo virus in the Federal Capital Territory on 20 October. The patient, a woman, began showing symptoms on 7 October after arriving in the country four days prior.

She sought medical attention at a private health facility in Abuja on 11 October. Recent travel history indicates the woman visited Uganda before her arrival in Nigeria.

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This marks the fifth country to detect the virus since an outbreak was declared in the Democratic Republic of the Congo on 15 May. Medical teams currently have the patient in isolation while providing necessary care.

Authorities have identified 44 contacts and are conducting contact tracing to monitor those exposed. The World Health Organization and its partners are collaborating with health authorities to prevent further transmission.

The World Health Organization advises against any trade or travel restrictions for the affected countries.

Sandy Powell will present the Film London Jarman Award as the guest of honour on 24 November 2026. The award was first established in 2008 to recognise excellence in the film industry.

Powell is a decorated designer who won Academy Awards for Best Costume Design for "Shakespeare in Love", "The Aviator", and "The Young Victoria". Four individuals are nominated for the prize, including Sadia Pineda Hameed, Ilona Sagar, Rhea Storr, and Alia Syed.

Molly Shannon served as an executive producer for "Summer 2000: The X-Cetra Story", which secured the Documentary Feature Jury Award at SXSW. The Los Angeles premiere for that documentary is scheduled for 24 October 2026.

Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon directed officials to speed up the construction of the Yellow and Red Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lines during a Transport and Mass Transit Department meeting on Tuesday. Memon ordered the rapid completion of bridges and other infrastructure along the BRT corridors to facilitate smoother transit.

Specific focus was placed on the second section of the Taj Haider Bridge and the construction of depots for the Yellow Line. The minister stated, "Building BRT lines alone is not enough; effective connectivity between them is equally important."

Officials were also instructed to finalise new routes for electric buses and double-decker vehicles, which are scheduled to arrive next month. Secretary Transport Asad Zamin, TransKarachi Chief Executive Officer Zubair Channa, Yellow Line Project Director Kamal Dayo, and Sindh Mass Transit Authority Managing Director Behzad Memon attended the session.

FX has renewed American Horror Story for a 14th season following the conclusion of its current run. The 13th season finale is scheduled to air on 29 October 2026.

Jessica Lange, Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters, Angela Bassett, Kathy Bates, Emma Roberts, Billie Lourd, Gabourey Sidibe and Leslie Grossman will appear together for the upcoming finale. Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk created the series, which remains the longest-running hour-long show on FX.

Since its debut in 2011, the anthology has generated more than 2 billion hours of engagement. 20th Television serves as the studio for the production.

Executive producers for season 13 include Murphy, Falchuk, Ned Martel, Charlie Carver, Eric Kovtun, Nissa Diederich, Scott Robertson, Tanase Popa, Crystle Roberson Dorsey, Jennifer Salt and Tim Minear.

Netflix restructured its executive leadership team to oversee content production, according to Variety. The company appointed Rice, a former executive at Disney and 21st Century Fox, to the leadership role.

Rice previously served as the chairman of Walt Disney Television before being removed by former CEO Bob Chapek in 2022. Sarandos, who has known Rice for approximately 15 years, stated, "I know that we could do better, and we want to build on that momentum."

Amazon is phasing out its Fire HD tablet line as the company shifts focus toward more expensive Alexa Tablets. The price of the Amazon Fire HD 10 has fallen to $72.99, representing a reduction of $82.

Despite the transition, the Fire HD 10 will continue to receive security updates for users. A 10.1-inch 1080p display defines the hardware, which also features 32GB of internal storage and a microSD card slot capable of expanding up to 1TB.

Battery life on the device lasts up to 13 hours, and it includes a 3.5mm headphone jack. In contrast, the Alexa Tablets support the Google Play Store out of the box.

Companies with a financial year ending 30 June must conduct their annual general meeting by 28 October 2026. The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan requires firms to submit an annual return within 30 days of that meeting.

For a meeting held on 28 October, the deadline for filing the required return is 27 November 2026. Businesses are also required to finish ultimate beneficial ownership compliance, which includes the submission of Form-19.

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Non-compliance with these regulatory requirements may result in penalties. Firms can complete these filings through the online portal at leap.secp.gov.pk.

Dr Muhammad Irshad promised full cooperation to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Gems and Jewellery Association (KPGJA) to formalise the regional gems trade. The official met with a KPGJA delegation led by president Muhammad Salman Niazi to discuss the initiative.

Director Iqbal Sarwar and Manager Akhtar of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Board of Investment and Trade (KP-BOIT) attended the meeting. Participants explored methods to move informal trade into the documented economy, which would increase foreign exchange earnings.

Irshad stated that every step will be taken to facilitate businesses and remove trade-related barriers. Niazi informed the group that a KPGJA delegation would travel to Germany to join an international exhibition.

Three association members arrived in Germany three days earlier to make the necessary arrangements.

Access: Horror Virtual Film Festival launched a programming lineup divided into three distinct blocks: Edibles, The Body Keeps the Score and Dead Darlings. The festival features Lee Cleaveland’s "Everhand", Charlie Gillette’s "Tal", and Priscilla Galvez’s "A Fermenting Woman".

Established in 2023, Access: Horror was founded to provide a platform for diverse cinematic voices. Curators Petrocelli and Ariel Baska selected the horror genre specifically because of the complex conversations it provokes.

Baska, who spent 15 years teaching Latin, transitioned into the film industry to help the pair achieve their mission of reclaiming disability's role in the genre. By showcasing novice filmmakers, the organizers ensure that their objectives regarding making films more accessible are heard.

Charli xcx has cancelled her "Music, Fashion, Film" performance in Arizona because of an illness. Ticketmaster will automatically issue refunds to customers who bought tickets through the platform.

All other ticket holders must receive their money back at the original point of purchase. The 12-date tour began in early September with an opening show in Philadelphia.

The artist also played two nights at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. Additional tour stops included cities such as Toronto, Atlanta, and San Diego.

This past weekend, xcx performed in Los Angeles, where Chappell Roan sang "Boom Clap" and PinkPantheress performed "Stateside". Friday marks the conclusion of the tour at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

YouTube is reportedly testing a feature that hides the dislike button on its video platform. At least two users on X shared screenshots showing the dislike button moved into a three-dots submenu.

A Reddit user also posted an image where the dislike button was completely missing. The platform previously concealed public dislike counts in 2021.

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Earlier this year, the company removed the dislike button from YouTube Shorts. Content creators maintain the ability to view dislike counts even if they are hidden from the public.

YouTube has encouraged users to use the options found in the three-dots menu for Shorts content. Google did not provide an immediate response to a request for comment regarding the changes.

It remains uncertain how many users will be included in this apparent test.

Disney+ and Hulu will debut Night Tales Club, a six-part Japanese supernatural anthology series, in January 2027. Kurosawa Kiyoshi and Shimizu Takashi are each scheduled to direct one episode of the production.

Additional directors for the anthology include Katayama Shinzo, Sode Yukiko, Sakashita Yuichiro, and Nakamura Yosuke. Nakajima Kenji will oversee the Hojo sequences within the series.

"As the original author of these stories, I feel an enormous sense of surprise and joy that they will soon be available on screen to scare audiences around the world," Sawamura said.

Park Min-young will star in the Korean office romance series Nine to Six. Yook Sung-jae joins the cast to portray Han Sun-woo, a legal intern.

Go Soo also features in the production as Park Hyun-tae, an executive director at the Seoul office of Chronic Motors. Choi Ji-oh penned the script for the drama.

The 12-episode series is scheduled to debut on Prime Video on 25 November 2026. Viewers in more than 240 countries and territories will be able to watch the show.

Median pay awards from employers rose to 3.1% during the most recent period, according to data from Brightmine. This figure represents an increase from the 3.0% median awards recorded in the three-month periods ending in July and August.

The growth in private sector wages marks the first upward trend observed since the conclusion of 2024. Brightmine examined 42 pay settlements involving more than 650,000 employees between 1 July and 30 September.

Most of these pay deals did not surpass the percentage increases granted a year prior. Analysts expected pay awards to remain at 3% throughout 2027.

Employers are currently facing constraints due to higher social security contributions. A potential rise in the minimum wage could further strain corporate budgets.

Andrew Bailey noted that second-round inflation pressures appear subdued for the time being.

The Asian Development Bank launched the Pacific Approach 2026 to 2030, a five-year strategy designed to support 12 Pacific island countries. Officials visited the Pacific Islands Forum in Palau to discuss the framework.

The strategy includes participation in the Pre-COP31 Leaders Program in both Fiji and Tuvalu. By pursuing regional solutions, the Pacific Approach seeks to build a more resilient Pacific region.

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Project delivery under this plan will be adapted to match the specific capacity of each country.

South Korea recorded a 105.4% increase in exports during the first 20 days of October compared to the same period last year. On a working-day average, the nation's exports grew by 65.9% to reach a record $4.74 billion.

Semiconductor shipments rose by 222.5% and represented 44.7% of the total export volume. Exports climbed 83.7% last month, surpassing $120 billion for the first time in history.

This monthly surge represented the largest jump in export figures since February 1974.

HUM TV announced that the popular drama series Humsafar will be dubbed and released in Spanish. Sarmad Khoosat, the show's creator, was denied royalties from this international release.

The director expressed his frustration regarding the lack of compensation, stating, "If only there were royalties." Pakistan abolished the royalty system for television actors during the 1990s.

At that time, prominent actors opted to exchange their royalty rights for increased salaries from the state broadcaster PTV. Mahira Khan discussed the issue of royalties in March 2021 while promoting her film Aag Lagay Basti Main.

Khan claimed that major stars like herself and Fahad Mustafa managed to succeed without receiving royalties. Naila Jaffery brought the topic into the public eye in 2021.

Jaffery suggested that regular royalty payments might have helped cover her medical costs.

Russia struck a cargo vessel transporting military supplies to Ukraine while it was heading toward the port of Odessa on Wednesday. The Russian Defence Ministry reported that forces also hit a warehouse complex in Poltava used for storing drones.

This specific facility houses an electric power substation that provides electricity to Kyiv's logistics centres, industrial sectors, and defence operations. These military actions took place only hours before Steve Witkoff was scheduled to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg.

Sindh has inaugurated its first engineered sanitary landfill at Jam Chakro to manage urban waste. Four planned garbage transfer stations will support the new disposal site.

The Sindh Assembly's Public Accounts Committee recently raised concerns regarding uncollected garbage across Karachi and questioned the Sindh Solid Waste Management Board's operations. Sanitation issues in Karachi often begin before waste reaches disposal areas, as residents in many localities depend on private collectors.

Waste frequently ends up in vacant plots and stormwater drains.

The Karachi Physics Society and Pakistan Physical Society jointly organised the Frontiers of Physics National Symposium at the University of Karachi on 6 and 7 October. High-energy physics, quantum technologies, condensed matter, biomedical physics and sustainable energy formed the core subjects of the academic gathering.

A delegation of 25 students and faculty members from Begum Nusrat Bhutto Women University, Sukkur, travelled to the venue to participate in the proceedings. Four faculty members joined the students, including two women and two men.

Nearly 12 hours of bus travel each way was required for the group to reach the symposium. Prof Dr Tehmina Mangan, the Vice Chancellor of Begum Nusrat Bhutto Women University, Sukkur, approved the trip despite current austerity pressures.

The author of the report retired from the University of Karachi during the course of the symposium.

Secret Cinema and TodayTix are producing the show, which features live storytelling as its primary element. The production incorporates selected clips from the film “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl” and lasts over two hours.

Audiences can roam the sets, meet characters, and take part in the story, which also includes a live band and stunts. Two-time Emmy winner Jason Sherwood serves as the production designer for the project.

Kait Kerrigan is the theatrical adaptor, while Alan Williams manages music supervision, arrangements, and orchestrations. Stuart Burt is the casting director, and Susan Kulkarni is responsible for costume design.

Helen Keane of Campbell Young Associates designs wigs, hair, and makeup, while Alex Payne serves as the fight director. Maguire previously won an Olivier Award for his role as Dave Davies in the musical “Sunny Afternoon”.

His screen credits include “EastEnders,” “Prime Suspect,” and “Borgia”.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar met with Maldives President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu on 21 October. Dar conveyed greetings from President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif to the Maldivian leader.

Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to its longstanding fraternal relations with the Maldives during the talks. The Foreign Minister underscored the importance of expanding bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, education, climate change and tourism.

A Maldivian business delegation participated in the Maldives-Pakistan Business Forum to facilitate economic ties. Dar expressed hope that B2B engagements would yield concrete trade and investment opportunities.

Pakistan will not compete in the 2027 Over-50 Cricket World Cup scheduled to take place in Hyderabad, India. Fawad Ejaz Khan, Chairman of the Pakistan Veterans Cricket Association, confirmed the national team would not travel to the tournament.

The association failed to obtain the required government authorisation to participate in the event. Khan stated that the association requested permission from both the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Interior.

Federal Interior Minister and Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi informed the association that the requested permission would be denied. Despite assurances from Indian veterans cricket officials regarding high-level security and visa arrangements, the association opted out of the competition.

Pakistan previously won the 2025 Over-50 Cricket World Cup held in Sri Lanka.

The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has cautioned Pakistanis living abroad against providing personal information to unverified individuals. No agents, dealers, or consultants are authorised by the agency to submit online applications or process identity papers.

Individuals residing outside the country can access official services at Pakistani embassies or through designated NADRA Registration Centers. A directory of these official facilities is hosted on the authority's primary website.

The Pak ID mobile app allows overseas citizens to request their first National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP). Applicants must pay the required fee, complete biometric verification, and upload supporting documents along with family and personal details.

Users can monitor the progress of their submissions via the mobile application. If online verification fails, the agency might require an in-person visit or further documentation.

Official online services are provided only through the Pak ID app and websites ending in gov.pk.

The Exchange Rates Committee of the Financial Markets Association of Pakistan published an exchange rates bulletin on 20 October. These figures apply to a settlement value date of 22 October.

The committee fixed the conversion rate for the US dollar at 276.8545. British pounds are valued at 368.7702, while the Euro stands at 310.3539.

Japanese yen rates were set at 1.7508.

A five-member bench led by Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja ordered the Election Commission of Pakistan to prepare and release the Islamabad local government election schedule on 21 October. Additional Deputy Commissioner Islamabad Uzair Ali Khan attended the hearing regarding the conduct of the local polls.

The commission stated that conducting local government elections in the capital is mandatory under the Constitution and relevant local government laws. Authorities must take every possible measure to ensure the completion of the election process, the bench instructed.

The bench further directed the commission's office to finalise and issue the official schedule.

Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal announced that 5,000 boys and girls from Balochistan and the former FATA will receive scholarships. The second phase of this scholarship program began on 20 October.

These awards enable recipients to pursue higher education at prominent universities throughout the country. Iqbal told the National Assembly that education is the most effective way to overcome backwardness and promote development in underdeveloped areas.

Ozzy Osbourne died following his final concert, which was titled Back to the Beginning. Sharon Osbourne said her husband was "so determined mentally to do this," despite suffering from emphysema.

The singer expressed a desire to perform one last time to offer a final goodbye and thank his audience. Jason Momoa acted as the emcee for the event.

Osbourne stated that "nobody sounded like" him and noted that she kept him "flying high" until the day he died. Trafalgar Releasing will distribute the concert film, Ozzy & Black Sabbath: Back to the Beginning, which arrives in cinemas worldwide on 28 October 2026.

The Punjab government approved a Rs580.632 million project to establish a Maryam Nawaz Satellite Campus for autism in Rawalpindi. Children with autism will receive free treatment and care at the new facility.

Officials issued a tender for the construction of the complete medical centre building and its associated development works. Work includes building the ground floor, first floor, and rooftop structure of the main building.

Infrastructure components comprise electrical installations, plumbing, gas connections, a canteen, a guard room, and garages. The site will also feature a boundary wall, entrance gates, parking sheds, and paved areas.

Water systems for the campus include a 10,000-gallon overhead reservoir, a 20,000-gallon underground tank, and a borewell with a submersible pump. Safety and utility features will include a fire alarm system, CCTV cameras, air-conditioning, and internet cabling.

The project contract is scheduled to be awarded through open bidding on 4 November 2026.

The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has resumed bus operations connecting Fateh Jang and Islamabad. Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan requested the restoration of the transport link after the suspension created hardships for daily commuters, employees, and students.

Governor Saleem Haider Khan contacted CDA Chairman Sohail Ashraf to facilitate the return of the service. Passengers can now travel on the route for a fee of Rs. 50 per trip.

The authority also discontinued the FR-13 route between Golra and Fateh Jang. National Highway Authority plans to initiate four major projects using a public-private partnership model.

The government has rejected an 18 percent IMF tax on electric vehicles. Punjab approved the establishment of a free autism care centre in Rawalpindi.

The World Health Organization inaugurated its Global Training Hub for Biomanufacturing in Incheon, Republic of Korea. More than 4,000 participants have already completed training at the new facility.

Students from over 100 low and middle income countries have attended the programmes. The Korean Government provided a $30 million investment to establish the Hub.

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This funding ensures that health education remains tuition-free for those who use the centre.

Pakistan will host the PUBG MOBILE Global Open (PMGO) Season 2 from 20 October to 25 October 2026. Lahore serves as the venue for the international competition.

A total of 32 competitive teams from around the world will participate in the event. The tournament offers a prize pool of USD 500,000.

Three local teams will enter the competition to represent the country. 4Thrives, 777 Esports, and Loyalty First Esports are the specific local organisations competing.

A delegation from the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Germany met with Pakistan’s newly appointed Ambassador to Germany, Salman Sharif, in Berlin on 21 October. Muhammad Anwar Butt, the Germany General Secretary for the party, led the group during the diplomatic visit.

Other members of the party present included Germany President Ejaz Ahmed Butt, Chairman Khawaja Mubashir Loon, and Dr. Aurangzeb. Rana Aamir Mahmood, who serves as the president of the PML-N youth wing, also participated in the discussions.

The representatives addressed several key issues, including education, youth development, and the general welfare of the Pakistani community. Investment opportunities and methods to improve communication between the diaspora and the Pakistani Embassy were also on the agenda.

Ambassador Salman Sharif stated his commitment to maintaining constructive engagement with the Pakistani community in Germany.

Punjab University has resolved to restart private BA and MA examinations, according to a recent decision by the university Syndicate. The institution sent a formal letter to the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and the Speaker of the Punjab Assembly to request the necessary permissions.

Two years ago, the HEC placed a ban on these private degree programmes, which the university argues has limited higher education opportunities for many people. University officials noted that private exams provided a critical route for residents in remote and rural regions to pursue further studies.

Furthermore, the Syndicate highlighted that these programs allowed students who are currently employed to continue their academic progress.

Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar arrived in Islamabad following a diplomatic mission to Dushanbe, Tajikistan. During his stay in Tajikistan, Dar took part in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Council of Heads of Government meeting.

The minister engaged in a series of bilateral talks to discuss sustainable development, regional economic cooperation, and connectivity. Dar met with the Tajik Foreign Minister Sirojiddin Muhriddin to reaffirm the brotherly ties between the two nations.

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The two officials exchanged views on global and regional developments while highlighting the necessity of expanding trade and economic cooperation. Dar and Muhriddin also emphasised strengthening cooperation in energy, security, and people-to-people exchanges to enhance regional connectivity.

Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar thanked Foreign Minister Muhriddin for the warm hospitality and excellent arrangements for the meeting. Daler Juma and Irfan Ahmed saw off the Foreign Minister at the airport as he departed Dushanbe.

Spotify is enforcing stricter rules for its Premium Family plan by requiring some members to complete an in-person QR code verification with the plan manager. To initiate the process, the plan manager must navigate to the Your Premium section of the Spotify mobile app, select Manage, and display a QR code.

While both individuals are in the same physical location, the other family member must scan the displayed code using their own mobile device. A 7-day window is provided for affected users to finish the scan after they receive the initial notification.

Users who fail to comply with these checks are barred from joining a different Family or Duo plan for a period of 12 months. Spotify stated it does not track the location of users for these specific address verification checks.

The company already mandates that all Premium Family members must reside at the same address.

CNN anchor Jake Tapper is creating a graphic novel about a historical investigation. Top Shelf will publish the work.

Tapper has previously authored eight books, including three novels. The narrative focuses on how a mass murderer escaped punishment, a topic Tapper describes as a suspenseful mystery.

The story examines the political failures that allowed the individual to remain free, presented in an accessible manner for fans of World War II history. Tapper collaborated with the daughter of Allan Ryan to develop the project.

Ryan, a former official at the U.S. Department of Justice, investigated how the perpetrator avoided legal consequences. Ryan serves as the narrator in the upcoming graphic novel.

"It’s obviously a very serious topic, but it’s kind of a suspenseful book about how they track down this mass murderer who’d gotten away with it," Jake Tapper said.

Jake Tapper

The price of 24-karat gold per tola fell by Rs900 to reach Rs434,536 on 21 October. A decrease of Rs772 brought the cost of 10 grams of 24-karat gold down to Rs372,544.

The 10 grams of 22-karat gold declined by Rs707, settling at Rs341,511. International gold prices dropped by $9 to reach $4,120 per ounce.

Silver per tola saw a reduction of Rs27, bringing the price to Rs6,207. The cost of 10 grams of 24-karat silver fell by Rs23 to reach Rs5,321.

Global silver prices fell by $0.27 to reach $57.29 per ounce.

Engr Amir Muqam held a meeting in Swat on 18 October. Muqam stated that the public response in the region demonstrated the growing popularity of the PMLN in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The politician asked his colleagues to descend from the stage to ensure direct interaction and maintain discipline. A large turnout occurred despite the event being announced with only one day of notice.

Muqam claimed that certain elements tried to transform an administrative request into a controversy. "Your love, respect and trust are my greatest assets. I have always valued you and will continue to remain among you with the same respect, sincerity and goodwill in the future."

Engr Amir Muqam said, "Your love, respect and trust are my greatest assets. I have always valued you and will continue to remain among you with the same respect, sincerity and goodwill in the future."

Engr Amir Muqam

The Balochistan government launched a telehealth application named “Sehat Dehleez” to provide free medical consultations with qualified doctors. The People’s Primary Healthcare Initiative (PPHI) Balochistan introduced the service, which is accessible via an Android app and a web application.

Residents can receive guidance on common illnesses, maternal and child health, and general health issues through the platform. Of those initial requests, 495 consultations were completed, while 718 calls included location information.

https://x.com/PakSarfrazbugti/status/2112793787466707071

The platform reached people across 35 districts during its opening period. Mir Sarfraz Bugti said, "The overwhelming response to Sehat Dehleez across Balochistan is a clear reflection of the trust and confidence of our people."

The application offers consultations around the clock to ensure continuous availability.

The Inter Boards Coordination Commission (IBCC) has started measures to tighten regulatory oversight on foreign examination boards and qualification-awarding bodies operating within Pakistan. Dr. Ghulam Ali Mallah, the IBCC Executive Director, chaired a meeting at the commission's secretariat in Islamabad to review Transnational Education (TNE) aspects.

Officials discussed creating a comprehensive monitoring and quality assurance framework for foreign bodies and their linked teaching and examination centres. This regulatory initiative targets foreign entities providing Level 3 qualifications, including Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSSC) and Secondary School Certificate (SSC) equivalents.

The commission plans to convene with representatives from foreign qualification-awarding bodies next week. Shahzad Ali Gill, Director Accreditation and International Linkages, attended the session alongside Irfan Ali Ansari, Director Media.

Sadia Naz, Deputy Director Capacity Building, and Muhammad Kashif, Deputy Director IT, were also present at the meeting.

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi stated that the Kashmir Chowk Underpass will open to traffic within 10 days. Naqvi visited the site to review the progress of the construction, which has been underway for 12 days.

Contractors and the Capital Development Authority are collaborating to finish the work, which is proceeding around the clock. The minister noted that traffic has not been halted at any point during the 12-day construction period.

Vehicles traveling from various parts of Pakistan toward Murree pass will use the underpass to bypass traffic jams at Kashmir Chowk. Naqvi said he will request Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to attend the official inauguration.

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Talal Chaudhry visited the residence of deceased student Laiba Ejaz in G-10, Islamabad, on 21 October. The officials offered their condolences to the family while Naqvi provided a briefing on the current status of the investigation.

The Chief Commissioner of Islamabad and the Inspector General of Police Islamabad attended the meeting. Naqvi stated, "The entire team worked day and night on the Laiba Ejaz case. Fulfilling the promise made to you was our duty."

Laiba Ejaz's father thanked the Prime Minister and the Interior Minister for their actions. The father said, "We had heard that the state is like a mother. Today, we have come to believe it."

Hulu will stream The Golden Life, a new series featuring favorites from Real Housewives of New York. The production team at Blink49 Studios is responsible for the show.

Palm Beach serves as the primary location where the cast members reunite. Tara Long, Nadine Rajabi, and Mark Ford serve as executive producers for the project.

Additional executive production roles are held by Ben Megargel, Paul Yuan, Janelle Couture, Rudy Castellon, and Daniel Rogge.

Pakistan and the United Kingdom reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral ties during a meeting focused on economic reforms and development priorities. British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott called on Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema to discuss these objectives.

The government is pursuing sector-oriented policies and reforms designed to support national economic growth. Ahad Cheema highlighted the Prime Minister’s priorities for strengthening agriculture, information technology, and other key sectors.

Cheema stated that the government is providing full support to multilateral investments and development partners. The FCDO is working closely with the Prime Minister’s Office on ongoing reform efforts.

Jane Marriott said the FCDO will continue supporting the Pakistan. Marriott also acknowledged the government’s efforts to improve the economy and noted the ongoing reforms across different sectors.

The Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH) conducted a youth awareness session on 20 October at the Capital University of Science and Technology in Islamabad. University students attended the event to learn about promoting healthier dietary habits and engaging in advocacy to combat the rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases.

Participants received briefings on how front-of-pack warning labels provide accessible information regarding excessive critical nutrients in ultra-processed food products. The session specifically underscored the necessity of placing warning labels on ultra-processed items to inform consumers.

PANAH stated that combining informed dietary decisions with better awareness of food labelling can prevent disease and foster a healthier future for the country.

Rear Admiral Khyber Zaman assumed the role of Commander Pakistan Fleet during a change of command ceremony at the Fleet Headquarters in Karachi. The Director General Public Relations (Navy) stated that Zaman is a graduate of the Naval Postgraduate College in the USA.

He also completed studies at the National Defence University in Islamabad and the Air War College in Karachi. Previous roles for the officer included serving as the Naval Secretary and as Commander Field and Operational Sea Training.

Zaman previously worked as Additional Secretary-III at the Ministry of Defence. The Hilal-e-Imtiaz (Military) award was granted to him for his service.

The world is currently approaching a global temperature rise of 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. The United Nations stated that maintaining warming below this limit would only be achievable if the planet exceeds the threshold and then cools back down by 2100.

Research suggests the Amazon rainforest possesses the capacity to recover from brief climate-related shocks. Scientists are uncertain whether the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation, a critical ocean current, could be revived following a collapse caused by climate change.

In Antarctica, the Thwaites glacier appears impossible to save even if melting driven by the ocean stopped immediately.

Daisy Ridley will star in and executive produce a new series of Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea. Paramount+ ordered the eight-episode production.

Legendary Television and the Irwin Allen estate are producing the project. Irwin Allen created the original 1961 feature film.

Walter Pidgeon, Joan Fontaine, Barbara Even, Peter Lorre and Robert Sterling appeared in that 1961 movie. That film paved the way for a television series that ran from 1964 to 1968.

Richard Basehart and David Hedison played the leads in the 1964-1968 show. Ridley is represented by CAA, Sloane, Offer, Weber & Dern and Narrative.

Captain (Retd) Muhammad Waseem replaces Amjad Hafeez as the Director General of Food and Cane Commissioner. The new appointee holds the rank of a BS-19 officer.

On 21 October, the Services and General Administration Department released a notification regarding the change. Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman signed the document, which was issued under the authority of the Governor of Punjab.

Amjad Hafeez, who also served as a BS-19 officer, was instructed to report to the Services and General Administration Department for subsequent orders.

Scientists presented 26 new research initiatives focused on modern pesticides and environment-friendly pest management methods for Rabi crops at the Ayub Agricultural Research Institute in Faisalabad. The Entomological Research Institute addressed its Annual Programme of Research Work for Rabi 2026-27 during the session.

Dr Waseem Akram, Chairman of the Department of Entomology at the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, co-chaired the meeting. Forty-four research findings were shared by the experts during the gathering.

Dr Ghulam Sarwar discussed the role of genetics in developing effective insect pest control strategies and managing pesticide resistance. Participants also covered the protection and management of honeybees alongside the control of major crop pests including whitefly, jassid, fall armyworm, fruit fly and citrus psylla.

Kid Cudi will portray Jean-Michel Basquiat in a motion picture titled “Jean” that he also wrote and directed. Earlier this year, production commenced in Los Angeles for his feature directorial debut, a project called “Doe”.

The musician is also set to direct the horror thriller “Wrong Number” and will appear in the film alongside Barbie Ferreira. A different Basquiat project was previously in development by director Kwame Kwei-Armah.

Paul Bettany and Jeremy Pop portrayed Andy Warhol and Basquiat, respectively, in “The Collaboration”, a film adapted from a 2022 stage play that currently lacks a release date.

Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf met with Governor Faisal Karim Kundi at the Governor House on Wednesday, 21 October. A delegation from the Hazara Division, led by Yousaf, joined the discussion to address matters of mutual interest and the current political landscape.

Murtaza Javed Abbasi, Deputy Speaker of National Assembly, and Babar Nawaz Khan were also present at the gathering. Sardar Shehjan Yousaf accompanied the group during the visit to the provincial headquarters.

Governor Faisal Karim Kundi stated that significant changes have occurred in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as the administration works toward better governance and solving public problems. The Governor also confirmed that an operation to remove encroachments has been launched across the province.

The delegation pledged its full cooperation and support to facilitate the development of the Hazara Division.

The Pakistan Senate passed the Passport Act Amendment Bill today to grant lifetime blue passports to all serving and retired senators. Under the new legislation, current and former members of the upper house will hold these documents for life.

This provision aligns the privileges of senators with those of members of the National Assembly, who already possess blue passports. Additionally, the upper house approved a Criminal Laws Amendment Bill during the same session.

Phantosmia describes a condition where individuals experience olfactory hallucinations or phantom smells. Patients undergoing chemotherapy for various types of cancer often report the phenomenon during or after their treatment.

Andy Croft reported a migraine aura that smelled like burnt toast. A neurologist stated that doctors observe migraine aura smells more frequently than the general public realises.

A friend of Ametrine Lavender also experienced a pre-seizure aura characterized by the scent of lemons.

The Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO) issued a power suspension programme for Thursday to accommodate development works by the district administration. Outages will affect limited feeders across several regions, including the Islamabad, Rawalpindi City, Attock, Jhelum, and Chakwal Circles from 0900 AM to 1400 PM.

Electricity supply in the GSO Circle will remain suspended for a longer duration between 0700 AM and 1700 PM. District administration projects involve road widening, the construction of flyovers and underpasses, and the installation of new 11kV feeders.

IESCO uploaded the shutdown schedules on its official website, Facebook page, and Twitter/X account. Consumers can contact the IESCO Helpline at 118 for further information.

Claire North published the novel As We Fall Through Time, which begins on the eve of the French Revolution in 1789. The character Cal seeks an artefact capable of healing breaches in reality.

Cal refuses to let Olivier, a young French soldier, die while serving Napoleon. Annalee Newitz, a columnist for New Scientist, released the novel A Wall Is Also a Road.

Gardenpath, a single-celled slime mould, attends an elite university and travels to Earth wearing a galaxy suit. The suit allows Gardenpath to appear as a human, enabling the organism to reach Pompeii before the eruption of Vesuvius.

Julia, a woman employed at a brothel, takes Gardenpath in. At night, Gardenpath and their friends cluster together to recharge.

Kaliane Bradley wrote The Ministry of Time, which is published by Hachette UK and Simon & Schuster in the US.