Punjab faces shortage of 839,000 textbooks as academic year progresses

High Commissioner of Malaysia to Pakistan Dato Mohammad Azhar bin Mazlan will speak at the National Press Club Islamabad on 13 October. The interaction is set to begin at 3:15 pm during the signature 'Meet the Press' event.

Mazlan intends to share his perspectives on cooperation and matters of mutual interest regarding Pakistan-Malaysia bilateral relations. Dr Furqan Rao, the National Press Club Secretary, issued an invitation for this engagement on 12 October.

No Man’s Sky will arrive on iOS platforms starting 28 October 2026. The game will be playable on the iPhone 11, the third-generation iPad Air, and any newer models.

A 5GB download size will accommodate the mobile version of the title. Developers have included touch controls, mouse and keyboard support for iPad, controller compatibility, and screen casting features.

Multiplayer functionality and planetary settlements are omitted from the mobile release. Sean Murray stated, "I guess I should say this is not No Man’s Sky Lite."

The studio focused on battery life and thermodynamics to allow for extended play sessions, according to Murray. Players can try the game for free at launch following the September release of the Cosmos update.

Sean Murray said, "Perhaps most importantly we’ve put tons of work into battery life and thermodynamics, and we’re super proud that No Man’s Sky can be enjoyed for really long comfortable play sessions."

Sean Murray

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), International Organization for Migration (IOM), Department of Health, and International Medical Corps provided integrated healthcare services to 194 women. Medical teams delivered these services in Phandu and Pakha Ghulam through four separate outreach campaigns.

The initiative sought to enhance access to primary healthcare, reproductive services, and maternal care for women living in underserved communities. During the campaigns, staff offered nutrition screening, mental health support, psychosocial aid, and referrals for newborn care or emergency obstetric needs.

Meta is releasing two new models, Muse Wonder and Muse Wonder Full, to its technology suite. Subscribers of Muse Code will gain access to both versions starting 12 October 2026.

Developers can reach Wonder through the Meta Model API. The company intends to use Wonder as the engine for its Muse AI agent.

Meta stated it will create specific models that "can bring to everyone using Muse." These new releases are expected by Meta to compete with GPT-6 Astra, Claude Opus 5.5, and Claude Fable 5.1.

The Superintelligence Labs division recently introduced Muse Spark as part of its expanding portfolio. Additional recent launches from the firm include an AI agent named Muse and a dedicated image model called Muse Image.

Houthi rebels claimed they launched a ballistic missile at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh on Monday. Yahya Saree stated, "Our armed forces were able to target (King) Khalid International Airport in the Saudi enemy’s capital Riyadh this evening with a ballistic missile and the hit was precise."

A Saudi-led coalition reported that it successfully shot down one missile over the capital. The rebels also deployed a drone to strike the Khamis Mushait base located in the southern part of the kingdom.

Yahya Saree stated, "Our armed forces were able to target (King) Khalid International Airport in the Saudi enemy’s capital Riyadh this evening with a ballistic missile and the hit was precise."

Yahya Saree

The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has officially recognised the District Health Office (DHO) Islamabad for its work to eradicate Hepatitis C and advance public health. Dr. Syeda Rashida Batool visited the NAB Headquarters in Islamabad to receive the commendation.

During her visit, she met with the Director General of NAB and was presented with a shield as a token of appreciation. This acknowledgement highlights the necessity of consistent initiatives to bolster disease prevention and healthcare awareness within the capital.

Field Marshal Asim Munir met with Admiral Renato Rodrigues De Aguiar Freire at General Headquarters in Rawalpindi on 12 October. The two nations committed to increasing military-to-military cooperation during the discussions.

Participants explored regional security dynamics and identified various ways to improve bilateral defence and security ties. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) stated that the leaders expressed satisfaction with longstanding cordial relations between Pakistan and Brazil and agreed to further strengthen military-to-military collaboration.

Munir highlighted Pakistan's dedication to deepening defence links with the Brazilian nation. Admiral Freire commended the professionalism and operational readiness of the Pakistani military.

A tri-services contingent presented a guard of honour to the visiting admiral. Prior to this meeting, Lieutenant General Aleksandr Volfovich visited Munir on 7 October.

Dr Abdullatif Bin Rashid Al Zayani also met with the Field Marshal three days before the Brazilian admiral's visit.

The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Health Department will launch its first province-wide vaccination campaign against cervical cancer between 2 November and 14 November. Officials aim to vaccinate approximately 2.9 million girls aged nine to 14 during the two-week period.

The target group comprises 1.6 million school-going girls and 1.3 million girls who are out of school. Punjab and Sindh initiated similar HPV vaccination campaigns one year ago.

Cervical cancer causes more than 350,000 deaths every year globally, while Pakistan estimates over 3,000 annual deaths and more than 5,000 new cases. Asad Zia stated awareness campaigns are being conducted in schools, mosques and communities to educate parents about cervical cancer and the HPV vaccine.

Health officials met religious scholars, community leaders and residents in remote Kurram district to address questions about the vaccine.

"Cervical cancer is increasing rapidly in Pakistan and vaccination offers an important means of preventing the disease. If parents have any questions or concerns, they should discuss them with the Health Department's vaccination teams and seek clarification," said Dr Bawar Shah.

Dr Bawar Shah

The Islamabad district administration decided to expand its Plastic-Free Islamabad campaign by launching a crackdown on single-use plastic bottles starting 13 October. This next phase of the drive prohibits both single-use plastic bags and bottles throughout the city.

Enforcement teams will take action against violations involving the sale or use of these prohibited items. Indiscriminate action against plastic bottles will begin across the capital on 13 October to address pollution.

Officials are already conducting daily operations to ensure compliance with the campaign's rules. Ongoing action against polythene bags will continue as part of the broader initiative.

Daily enforcement operations would continue to ensure implementation of the campaign's goals. The district administration has called on traders and citizens to cooperate with the Plastic-Free Islamabad initiative.

Residents are urged by authorities to avoid banned items and play their part in reducing plastic waste in the city.

President Asif Ali Zardari called for regional cooperation and global initiatives to bolster disaster risk reduction on 13 October, the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction. Zardari emphasised that nations must shift their focus from responding to disasters toward active preparedness.

Pakistan has faced a history of floods, earthquakes, heatwaves, and droughts. To modernise its management system, the country is integrating satellite technology, artificial intelligence, and real-time data.

The president advocated for a global water resilience programme alongside an initiative to protect the cryosphere. He also proposed the creation of a global fund dedicated to climate adaptation and food security.

Regionalisation of disaster risk reduction is necessary by strengthening ties among areas sharing common risks, Zardari urged. Stronger environmental protection laws and international cooperation on shared rivers are essential to address common disaster threats.

The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) reduced the price of motor spirit for a 24-hour period, lowering it by Rs. 2.93 to Rs. 395.37 per litre. Diesel prices rose by Rs. 0.61 to reach Rs. 396.85 per litre during the same update.

Previous adjustments on 9 October saw petrol prices fall by Rs. 0.66 to Rs. 398.3 per litre, while diesel costs increased by Rs. 0.52 to Rs. 396.24 per litre. Since the daily fuel rate updates began, petrol prices have climbed by Rs. 84.26 per litre and diesel has risen by Rs. 72.33 per litre.

Records show petrol prices fluctuated between Rs. 370.80 per litre on 10 September and a peak of Rs. 398.96 per litre on 8 October. The price of petrol stood at Rs. 395.37 per litre on 12 October, following a steady trend from Rs. 387.40 per litre on 30 September.

The Punjab Environment Protection Agency (EPA) has deployed 67 Quick Response Units (QRUs) across 10 hotspot districts to manage agricultural waste fires. These units are equipped with tractor-mounted fire bowsers and stationed along major motorway routes.

Abdullah Nayyer Sheikh conducted a surprise inspection of the units along the Gujranwala-Sialkot Motorway on 11 October. During the visit, Sheikh confirmed that all units were at their designated locations with staff present.

Coordination on monitoring rice-harvesting activities was reviewed by the EPA chief during a meeting with agriculture department officials. Fire-anomaly detection, drone surveillance, and motorway patrolling have been used over the past three days to identify stubble-burning incidents.

The initiative aims to reduce the impact on air quality during the smog season.

The second leg of the W-15 Islamabad Junaid Family Foundation World Tennis Women’s Championships 2026 starts on 13 October. Main draw matches are scheduled to commence at 10:00 at the Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) Tennis Complex.

Thirty-one players from 17 countries will compete in the championship, which is sponsored by the Junaid Family Foundation. Participating nations include France, China, Russia, Denmark, Mexico, Uzbekistan, South Africa, the Netherlands, Korea, Nepal, Japan, Hong Kong, Germany, Thailand, Türkiye, the Czech Republic, and Pakistan.

Five Pakistani athletes are taking part in the event: Ushna Suhail, Mahin Aftab Qureshi, Meheq Khokhar, Romaisa Malik, and Hajra Sohail. Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi serves as the President of the PTF, while Col. (R) Zia-ud-Din Tufail holds the position of Secretary General.

Prime Minister Barrister Iftikhar Gillani appointed Adil Qureshi as Political Assistant to the Prime Minister for Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs on 12 October. During a meeting in Muzaffarabad with a Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz workers' delegation, Gillani presented the official notification to Qureshi.

The Prime Minister committed to upgrading Muzaffarabad into a capital city that reflects its official status. Gillani stated his administration would provide uniform development from Bhimber to Taobat while addressing public grievances as a priority.

Omoda & Jaecoo Pakistan has launched the #MyJaecooJourney campaign to select 100 winners who will receive free service for one year. The complimentary maintenance package covers a standard periodic schedule for an estimated 20,000 km per year.

Eligible participants must share a video or travel picture featuring the JAECOO J5 or J7 on social media platforms with their profiles set to public. Entrants are required to include the #MyJaecooJourney hashtag and tag @omodajaecoopk on Facebook or @omodajaecoopk on Instagram.

Selection of the winners depends on the highest combined engagement from likes, comments, and shares. The company may disqualify entries that use bots, automated tools, paid services, or any other artificial means to generate engagement.

Service 1 of the free package includes an air filter, cabin/AC filter, engine oil, and oil filter. For Services 2, 3, and 4, the free maintenance includes only the oil filter and engine oil.

The Social Reckoning earned $5.5 million over the past weekend. Production costs for the film fell between $30 million and $42 million.

Critics gave the movie a 55% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. $27.5 million was collected by Other Mommy during the same weekend period.

The Social Network generated $22 million in its opening window and secured three Oscars for editing, score, and screenplay. Aaron Sorkin stated that Jesse Eisenberg had no interest in being in The Social Reckoning.

Mikey Madison said the project aims to "authentically and faithfully represent[ing] a real person".

Professor Dr Zabta Khan Shinwari joined the list of the world’s top 2% scientists following a release on 7 October. The Vice Chancellor of the Federal Urdu University achieved this recognition for his academic contributions to plant biology and botany.

Shinwari has appeared on this global ranking for six consecutive years between 2018 and 2023. Approximately 700 research papers authored by the professor have been published in international journals.

Other researchers have cited his scientific work more than 27,000 times.

Film producer Linda Duncombe died on 11 October at the age of 55. Born in Australia on 10 February 1971, Duncombe moved to the United States in 2015.

She enrolled at Harvard Business School in 2008 before starting a banking career at Citibank in Australia in 2010. In 2015, Duncombe relocated to New York as a founding member of Citi Fintech.

City National Bank in Los Angeles hired her in early 2019, where she managed the delivery of more than $1.8 billion in Paycheck Protection Program loans. Duncombe was featured on Variety’s "Most Powerful Women in Hollywood" list and served on the boards of the Grammy Museum, Habitat for Humanity Greater L.A., the SAG-AFTRA Foundation, and the Australian Wildlife Conservancy.

Her film credits include "The Queen's Jewels" and "Killing Time," which are scheduled for a global release in 2027.

Apple officially launched Apple Music in Pakistan through local accounts on 30 September. The country joined the service alongside Albania, Brunei and Burkina Faso.

Individual subscriptions for the music streaming platform cost Rs379 per month in Pakistan. Family plans are priced at Rs649 monthly, while new users can access a one-month free trial.

Listeners can stream more than 100 million songs with an ad-free experience and the ability to download tracks for offline use. Technical features include support for lossless audio, Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos, and synchronised lyrics.

The local storefront features curated playlists such as Atif Aslam Essentials, Junoon Essentials, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan Essentials and All-Time Pakistani Hits. Users can access the service on compatible iPhones, iPads, Macs, Apple Watches, Android devices, Windows computers and via a web player.

The Sindh government has proposed a $9.15 million climate-resilient floating agriculture project to develop 400 hectares of flood-resistant cropland. Targeting 100 waterlogged and flood-prone villages in lower Sindh, the initiative aims to improve food security by 30%.

Completion of the project is scheduled for 2029. The Environment, Climate Change and Coastal Development Department (ECC&CDD) of Sindh will execute the project with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Additional backing comes from the National Agriculture Research Centre, Sindh Agriculture University Tandojam, and the Sindh Agriculture Department. The project intends to train 10,000 farmers, with women expected to comprise between 20% and 30% of the trainees.

Direct benefits are expected for 12,500 people, while an estimated 50,000 others will benefit indirectly. Authorities are currently processing the project for inclusion in the World Bank Country Partnership Framework for Pakistan for fiscal years 2026–2035.

Dmitry Bivol will defend his light-heavyweight titles against Callum Smith on 12 December in Yekaterinburg. Matchroom Boxing confirmed the bout on 12 October.

The 35-year-old Bivol currently holds the WBA, WBO, IBF, and Ring Magazine titles. Bivol previously relinquished the WBC belt in 2025 and underwent elbow surgery in July 2026.

Callum Smith, aged 36, enters the ring as the WBO’s mandatory challenger and interim belt holder. Smith maintains a professional record of 31 wins and two defeats across 33 fights, including a loss to Artur Beterbiev in 2024.

Bivol is pursuing a third encounter with Artur Beterbiev, who defeated him before losing a subsequent rematch.

Islamabad Medical and Dental College (IMDC) and Dr. Akbar Niazi Teaching Hospital (ANTH) screened more than 60 people for hepatitis C in Shahpur, Bhara Kahu. This free medical camp served as the second specialized screening visit by these institutions to the local area.

Medical students, doctors and nursing staff provided consultations and health education while identifying cases for further treatment. Patients requiring advanced care received counselling and were referred to hospital services for follow-up evaluations.

The event was organised to bolster the Prime Minister’s National Hepatitis C Elimination Programme.

Rawalpindi authorities have set a target to cultivate wheat on 416,000 acres for the 2026-27 Rabi season. Additional Deputy Commissioner Revenue Captain (retd) Tayyab Sami Khan chaired a review meeting at the DC Office on Monday to discuss these goals.

Officials have finished measures to ensure that certified seeds are available to farmers on time. Strict monitoring of fertilizer quality and prices, specifically for Urea and DAP, will be enforced across the district.

The strategy includes conducting field surveys, village-level farmer training sessions, and awareness drives. Yield competitions and incentives for high-performing farmers are also being integrated into the agricultural plan.

Captain (retd) Tayyab Sami Khan instructed all executing agencies to maintain close coordination and monitoring of these activities.

The Punjab Revenue Authority (PRA) has decided to bolster its Vigilance Wing and digital monitoring systems to combat tax evasion via fake receipts and non-digital transactions. PRA Chairman Moazzam Iqbal Sipra presided over a review meeting to evaluate the performance of enforcement teams.

The Commissioner of the PRA Lahore Division received instructions during the session to increase field operations immediately. Authorities will now conduct immediate examinations of complaints submitted by the public through social media platforms.

More than 70 restaurants have already been issued notices regarding alleged regulatory violations. Companies must ensure that all digital payments are directed only to bank accounts they have officially declared.

QR codes will become mandatory on all receipts generated through the Electronic Invoice Monitoring System (E-IMS). Heavy penalties await entities that collect taxes through fraudulent means but fail to deposit those funds with the authority.

Google Chrome can occupy 1GB or more of storage space on a user's device. Switching from Chrome to another browser on a Pixel 9 Pro XL recovered between 300MB and 500MB of storage.

The Android version of Chrome lacks the same support for traditional browser extensions found on desktop computers. Firefox Focus provides privacy by blocking many trackers by default, while Samsung Internet allows the use of content-blocking add-ons.

Kacey Musgraves posted a comeback on X following a public confrontation initiated by Kristi Noem. Noem criticized the singer for her association with James Talarico, who attended one of Musgraves' concerts over the weekend.

Talarico shared a message on social media stating, "Thank you for having me last night, Musgraves!" The former South Dakota governor also attempted to start a feud with Ella Langley.

Langley's team removed her X handle from a tweet posted by Noem. Donald Trump appointed Noem as Homeland Secretary before firing her from the position in March 2026.

Noem currently serves as the U.S. special envoy to the Shield of the Americas. A Trafalgar poll of prospective Texas voters showed Talarico holding 47.1% support, while Ken Paxton held 43.6%.

Previous reports noted that Noem shot her 14-month-old dog, Cricket, to death in a gravel pit.

Adéla moved her single “Nicole Kidman” from the number 12 spot to nine on the Hot 100 chart. The track marked her initial appearance on the weekly chart last month.

Her other single, “Ain’t in LA,” continues to hold a position within the top 30. Early September saw the release of her debut album titled “Prima.”

Adéla is currently touring North America for the “Red Bottoms” show.

Lebanese Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Abdulaziz Issa met with Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif on 12 October. During the discussion, both countries reaffirmed their shared commitment to enhancing bilateral relations.

Pakistan remains dedicated to improving its ties with Lebanon according to the meeting's outcomes. The two nations will now investigate fresh opportunities for cooperation in sectors of common interest.

A division bench led by Justice Khadim Soomro and Justice Umair Majid Malik reserved its verdict on the federal government’s intra-court appeal. The legal challenge addresses a single bench ruling regarding the role of intelligence reports in appointing trade and investment officers at Pakistani embassies abroad.

Counsel for Kashif Malik argued that no allegations were made against his client during the proceedings. The legal team claimed the proceedings were started to benefit a different candidate.

Rashid Hafeez stated that even a candidate declared medically unfit would have their appointment cancelled. Hafeez further noted that the primary duty of trade and investment officers is to draw investment into Pakistan.

The Establishment Division made these appointments conditional on reports provided by intelligence agencies, according to Hafeez.

Zong launched the Digital Scholars Programme in partnership with Knowledge Platform to empower 10,000 college and university students. The initiative marks the International Day of the Girl Child and aims to ensure 60 percent of participants are young women.

Knowledge Platform has already reached 5,000 young women across 300 schools in 35 cities. A total of 50,000 students have been reached through previous efforts.

Over the next year, the programme will introduce self-paced, game-based learning focused on critical thinking and artificial intelligence. Particular attention will be given to underserved communities along the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Nabila Yazdani, Zong’s Director Strategy and Company Spokesperson, said: "Technology must create opportunities for everyone, particularly young women who remain underrepresented in the digital economy. By investing in future-ready skills and inclusive learning, we can help ensure that girls are not merely users of technology but active contributors to Pakistan’s digital future."

Nabila Yazdani, Zong’s Director Strategy and Company Spokesperson, said: "Technology must create opportunities for everyone, particularly young women who remain underrepresented in the digital economy. By investing in future-ready skills and inclusive learning, we can help ensure that girls are not merely users of technology but active contributors to Pakistan’s digital future."

Nabila Yazdani, Zong’s Director Strategy and Company Spokesperson

Dr Buddhika Bandara departed Safari Park on 10 October to return home following the death of a family member in Colombo. The physician remained at the park for 17 days last year, despite an initial plan to stay for a minimum of one week.

Bandara had been monitoring the tuberculosis treatment of Madhubala online since his first visit more than a year ago. Madhubala experienced drastic weight loss in recent months and collapsed twice within her enclosure.

The tiger developed acute weakness and multiple infections, which Dr Khalil attributed to bacterial and parasitic issues alongside the tuberculosis treatment. Dr Khalil also stated that Madhubala suffers from a linear fracture in the carpal joint.

Safari Park authorities sought assistance from Four Paws three weeks ago after keeping the organisation out for over a year. Veterinarians at Safari Park failed to identify the specific factors causing the health crisis of Madhubala.

President Asif Ali Zardari summoned sessions of the National Assembly and Senate for today, Tuesday, to address urgent legislative matters. The proceedings are scheduled to begin at 6:15 pm on 13 October 2026 at Parliament House.

Zardari exercised his powers under Article 54(1) of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to call for these meetings. This gathering marks the 30th session of the 16th National Assembly.

Legislators will deliberate on developments regarding governor’s rule and the imposition of a state of emergency in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The two Houses might approve the declaration of an emergency and governor’s rule within a period of 3 to 4 days.

Simultaneously, the government reduced petrol prices by Rs2.93 per litre while increasing diesel costs by Re0.61 per litre.

Mohammad Zikria Akbar Zia called for the promotion of practical business models, joint ventures, and technology transfers to strengthen economic cooperation between Pakistan and China. Zia addressed a five-member Chinese business and investment delegation during the meeting.

Cindy Chen of MERA PC led the visiting group, having consistently advocated for Pakistan as a viable destination for Chinese investors. Abrar Ul Haq moderated the session and provided the delegation with a briefing on the Chamber’s various initiatives and milestones.

The participants reached an agreement to establish a structured framework for institutional cooperation, product information exchange, and trade facilitation. Mohammad Waqas Khan emphasized that structured Business-to-Business (B2B) meetings are essential for turning investment interest into actual business transactions.

Zia offered Chinese manufacturers the chance to showcase their products at the ICCI Display Centre.

Security forces killed 12 terrorists during an exchange of fire after foiling an infiltration attempt by Khwarij and Afghan Taliban from Afghanistan into Pakistan. Naib Subedar Hidayat Aman, a 40-year-old resident of District Ghizer, was martyred while confronting the infiltrators.

The Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) stated, "While security forces, maintaining a high state of alertness and vigilance, effectively thwarted the infiltration attempt, Afghan Taliban Posts also opened fire to support the infiltration attempt by Khwarij. Skilful and precise engagement by vigilant troops resulted in killing of twelve Khwarij and Afghan Taliban." Troops are currently conducting a sanitisation operation to remove Indian-sponsored Kharji from the region.

This action occurs under the counter-terrorism campaign approved by the Federal Apex Committee on National Action Plan, known as vision “Azm-e-Istehkam”.

Donald Trump held a political rally in Clarksville, Tennessee, to endorse Republican candidates Marsha Blackburn and Senator Bill Hagerty. The former president stated he visited the state specifically to express gratitude to his supporters.

During the event, Trump highlighted border security, a strong military, and lower taxes as his primary political objectives. Trump told the crowd, "We want to have a border, we want to have low taxes, we want to have a great military."

He remarked on the atmosphere of the venue, saying, "There is such love in these rooms." The speaker added that while he could say "the stupidest things and you’d clap," the campaign focuses on common sense.

Donald Trump said, "We want to have a border, we want to have low taxes, we want to have a great military."

Donald Trump

Hassan Mushtaq Sukhaira convened a meeting at Police Lines Headquarters to evaluate security protocols for the Pakistan-Sri Lanka T20 cricket series. The session also served as a platform to assess the general law and order conditions throughout Rawalpindi.

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Operations, SSP Investigation, SP Security, SP Headquarters, divisional SPs, SDPOs, SHOs and other senior police officers participated in the briefing. Sukhaira stated that foolproof security measures have been established for the cricket matches.

Special protocols are active to preserve peace and order in the region, with Sukhaira confirming that Section 144 is currently in effect across the city. Law enforcement will ensure strict adherence to these restrictions and initiate legal proceedings against any individuals who violate them.

Sukhaira emphasized that the primary duty of the police is to safeguard the lives, property and assets of the public.

At least 4 passengers died and several others sustained injuries when the Rehman Baba Express derailed near Sher Shah Bridge in Multan, Pakistan, on 13 October. The train was travelling from Karachi to Peshawar when it went off the tracks at approximately 05:15.

Rescue officials have cleared 13 coaches, while operations continue in one remaining coach. Injured people were moved to Nishtar Hospital in Multan for medical attention.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ordered authorities to accelerate rescue efforts and provide necessary medical treatment to those affected. Workers reportedly repaired the nuts and bolts of coach number nine near Rohri before the accident occurred.

The official cause of the derailment has not yet been established. A previous derailment involving the Hazara Express near Nawabshah in Sindh on 1 August 2023 resulted in at least 30 deaths and more than 100 injuries.

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has launched an official helpline for its Pre-Departure Facilitation Desk at Islamabad International Airport. Travelers can call 0303-5099581 between 9am and 5pm to receive assistance regarding immigration rules, travel documents, and other related matters.

Passengers may also visit the desk in person at the airport for document verification and guidance. The FIA clarified that 0300-5805760 is not the official number for this desk.

Furthermore, the agency stated it prohibits offloading passengers based solely on verbal orders.

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) issued a new 12-page standing order to govern immigration procedures across Pakistan. Standing Order No. 07/2026 took immediate effect, replacing the previous instructions issued in 2005.

Immigration officers are now prohibited from offloading passengers based only on verbal instructions. The new order supersedes previous instructions regarding general duties to the extent that they conflict with these updated rules.

Decisions made by immigration staff must now involve risk-based screening, written records, and personal accountability for the officers involved. Officers are required to record every immigration decision completely within the Integrated Border Management System (IBMS).

These regulations apply to all immigration operations at airports, seaports, and dry ports throughout the country.

The National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) released its latest currency selling and buying rates for several international denominations. A selling rate of 278.79 was set for the US dollar, while the bank offered a buying rate of 275.79.

British pounds are being sold at 369.27 and purchased by the institution at 364.91. Euro transactions involve a selling price of 312.51 and a buying rate of 308.84.

Japanese yen rates stand at 1.7619 for selling and 1.7412 for buying. Middle Eastern currencies include a Saudi riyal selling rate of 74.25 and a buying rate of 73.37.

United Arab Emirates dirhams are priced at 75.90 for selling and 75.01 for buying.

The Punjab Agriculture Department has instructed farmers across the province to refrain from burning rice stubble to combat smog. Farmers are advised by the department to harvest coarse rice varieties only when they reach the correct stage of maturity.

Harvesting should commence once the uppermost panicles are fully ripe, provided that two to three grains at the bottom remain green. At this specific point in the growth cycle, the moisture content of the grains should measure between 20 and 22 per cent.

After collection, the harvested grains must be dried until their moisture levels drop to between 12 and 13 per cent. A department spokesman recommended that those using mechanised harvesting equipment should preferably opt for a ‘Kubota’ rice harvester.

KDA Director General Zain-ul-Abideen Ansari ordered the acceleration of construction on the Peoples Skyview housing project in Surjani Town Sector 7-B. The Sindh government-backed initiative seeks to provide affordable housing for the public.

During a site visit, Ansari inspected workmanship, construction progress, and materials at the model flat and site office. Syed Zain Shah, Director Estate Enforcement of the KDA, accompanied Ansari during the inspection.

The Director General instructed the relevant executive engineer to rectify existing shortcomings and increase the speed of work. Ansari demanded a comprehensive report within one week detailing construction costs, material types, causes for delays, and other pending matters.

Plainclothes men allegedly abducted anchor Iqrarul Hassan from his Lahore residence in the early hours of Monday, 12 October. The raiding party entered the premises at approximately 3am by breaking open the main gate.

Authorities seized one laptop and two mobile phones belonging to Farah Iqrar's husband, along with a single mobile phone from Farah Iqrar. A masked woman within the group was observed wearing an identification tag from the National Counter Terrorism Authority (NCCIA).

Punjab minister Azma Bokhari stated that police have not arrested Hassan and confirmed an ongoing investigation into the matter. Mian Ali Ashfaq, representing the anchor, denied that the NCCIA had taken Hassan into custody and asserted that the journalist had not made any anti-state comments.

"We will move the Lahore High Court for his safe recovery," Ashfaq said. Hassan had previously used social media to voice criticism regarding various government policies.

"We will move the Lahore High Court for his safe recovery," Mian Ali Ashfaq said.

Mian Ali Ashfaq

Rawalpindi Cantonment Board Vice President Zahid Bakhtawari assured the public and business community that their legitimate issues will be addressed. Bakhtawari, who also serves as the Group Leader of the Markazi Tanzeem Tajran Cantonment Board Registered Rawalpindi, stated that the board's doors remain open to them.

Resolving public complaints promptly and tackling challenges faced by traders are among the top priorities for the administration. The Vice President claimed that practical steps are essential to facilitate the business community and resolve grievances.

Bakhtawari noted that traders play a significant role in the national economy and their legitimate demands have always received due attention. Efforts will continue to improve coordination with the public and traders to facilitate the resolution of their problems.

Regular communication with relevant authorities would be maintained to promote commercial activities in Rawalpindi Cantonment, reduce difficulties for traders and improve facilities for residents.

Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police launched the Hajj and Umrah Welfare Scheme 2026 to benefit its staff. Inspector General of Police (IGP) Muhammad Sohail Chaudhry issued special directions to implement the program.

Five employees can win a chance to perform Hajj through a lucky draw, while four others may be selected for Umrah via the same method. One staff member will be chosen by lucky draw to perform Umrah every three months.

Police personnel ranging from the rank of constable to Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) are eligible to apply for the scheme. The deadline for submitting applications is 21 October 2026.

Interested applicants must submit their forms to the SSP Headquarters Office.

The Pakistan Federal cabinet recommended imposing an emergency in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Sunday. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif addressed the federal cabinet to discuss the recommendation, which falls under Articles 232 and 234 of the Constitution.

The Prime Minister’s Office has submitted formal advice to the Presidency concerning the implementation of emergency rules. Authorities cited a worsening law and order situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as a primary reason for the move.

The federal government also noted that the provincial administration is allegedly disengaged from counter-terrorism efforts. Sharif stated, "I will not allow them (PTI) to destabilise the economy."

Pakistan recently reached a staff-level agreement with the International Monetary Fund. Last month, Sharif met IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva at the United Nations General Assembly.

The Prime Minister also visited London last month to consult with senior executives of global financial institutions.

Shehbaz Sharif said, "I will not allow them (PTI) to destabilise the economy."

Shehbaz Sharif

TECNO will release the POVA Curve 2 5G in Pakistan on 15 October. The manufacturer markets this device as the thinnest smartphone within its specific category.

A curved body design defines the aesthetic of the new model. Google Chrome can occupy 1GB or more of storage space on Android mobile devices.

Users who moved away from Chrome on a Pixel 9 Pro XL reportedly recovered between 300MB and 500MB of storage. Unlike the desktop version, Chrome on Android lacks support for traditional browser extensions.

Firefox Focus provides isolated browsing sessions and blocks numerous trackers by default. Samsung Internet offers compatibility with add-ons designed to block content.

The Punjab government has prohibited the sale of specific beverages, food items, and tobacco products within educational institutions across the province. Schools, colleges, universities, and other learning centers are included in this new mandate.

Prohibited items include energy drinks, carbonated beverages, artificial drinks, and products containing monosodium glutamate (MSG). The ban also covers vapes, tobacco products, ice lollies, cotton candy, and gola ganda.

A three-category system—green, yellow, and red—now classifies food based on its nutritional value, with nutritious foods designated as green. Businesses operating within 100 metres of any educational institution must adhere to these amended rules.

The official regulations were published in the Punjab Gazette.