NADRA Suspends Nationality of Viral 'Chaiwala' Arshad Khan
Justice Jawad Hassan of the Lahore High Court has issued notices to the federal government and other respondents after viral ‘chaiwala’ Arshad Khan, challenged the blocking of his computerised national identity card (CNIC) and passport. Arshad Khan, who became famous in 2016 when a photo of him pouring tea went viral on Instagram, claims that his identity documents were unlawfully blocked by NADRA and the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports.
Represented by Barrister Umer Ijaz Gilani, Arshad Khan approached the court under Article 199 of the Constitution. His petition argues that the actions taken by NADRA and the immigration authorities were unconstitutional and illegal. Mr. Gilani stated that Arshad Khan represents the ideal Pakistani dream, rising from modest beginnings to global fame after his candid photograph as a tea seller went viral. He further claimed that despite his international recognition, the actions of NADRA and other authorities were harming Khan’s career and reputation.
Violation of Basic Rights
Gilani also argued that the requirement by NADRA for pre-1978 proof of residency was unjustified, with no legal basis. He emphasised that Mr. Khan’s family had documented citizenship history. Referring to Articles 4, 9, 14 and 18 of the Constitution, the lawyer highlighted that Khan’s rights to livelihood, dignity, and lawful treatment were violated.
The court was informed of precedents from the Sindh High Court, Islamabad High Court, and previous judgments of the Lahore High Court, which had declared the blocking of CNICs and passports without due process to be illegal. In response, the assistant attorney general and NADRA’s law officer questioned the maintainability of the petition, arguing that Khan had failed to provide enough documentation proving his Pakistani nationality.
Justice Hassan issued notices to the respondents, requesting para-wise comments and ordering senior officials from NADRA and the Directorate of Immigration and Passports to present relevant records to explain their actions. The court also barred the authorities from taking any adverse actions against Khan.
In a related matter, Justice Hassan restrained the authorities from taking any coercive action against another petitioner seeking recognition of Pakistani citizenship by birth. The petitioner, born in Pakistan to Afghan refugee parents, had presented a birth certificate issued by the Government of Pakistan. The court directed NADRA to make a decision on his citizenship claim within a month and prohibited any government agency from taking action against him until the matter was resolved.
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How Tariffs Work, and How They Will Affect the Global Economy
“Trump’s tariffs” have taken the world by storm. Now, every day, we hear a new tariff policy being thrown at us, which is followed by a ruckus worldwide. But what even are tariffs? How do tariffs work, and why are they affecting the global economy to such a great extent?
What are Tariffs?
At their core, tariffs are taxes imposed by a government on goods imported from another country. Think of them as a surcharge that foreign products must pay to enter a domestic market. Unlike income tax, tariffs vary based on the product and the country of origin. It is stated that the goal of tariffs is to raise funds for the government and help in the distribution of money. But honestly, it is mostly used as a weapon against foreign exporting firms.
The intention behind a tariff is typically to make imported goods more expensive, thereby giving locally produced goods a price advantage.
There are two main types of tariffs:
Specific Tariffs: a fixed fee per unit (e.g., $10 per ton of steel).
Ad Valorem Tariffs: a percentage of the value of the imported good (e.g., 25% of the value of a car).
Governmental bodies implement tariffs for their own political benefits, but who pays the cost of it? The consumers, which means the locals. Think of it like this: when you go to the store to buy a new shirt, the price of that shirt has increased. Then the rest of the impact is borne by those in the middle—the retailers and firms—that are purchasing those goods from foreign countries and taking them all the way to the stores to you.
What are Tariffs?
The Economic Chain Reaction
When a country imposes tariffs, it sets off a domino effect. Imported goods become more expensive, which might seem like a win for domestic producers who now face less foreign competition. However, the benefits are rarely black and white.
Here’s why: Many industries rely on global supply chains. For instance, a car manufactured in the U.S. might use parts from Germany, Japan, or Mexico. If tariffs are imposed on those parts, the entire cost structure of the vehicle rises — and that increase is often passed on to consumers.
In short, while tariffs aim to protect domestic jobs, they can just as easily lead to higher prices, lower consumer spending, and even job losses in industries reliant on imports.
The Political Tool that Cuts Both Ways
Tariffs are often used as bargaining chips in trade negotiations. We saw this happen dramatically during the ongoing U.S.- China trade war. Both nations imposed wave after wave of tariffs on each other’s goods. While the U.S. aimed to curb China’s trade surplus and protect intellectual property, the tit-for-tat escalation ended up hurting businesses and consumers on both sides.
Stock prices on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange
This kind of economic brinkmanship can create uncertainty in global markets. Investors become jittery, businesses delay investments and supply chains are forced to reorganise — sometimes at great cost.
Moreover, when large economies like the U.S. or China engage in tariff wars, smaller economies often get caught in the crossfire. Emerging markets that depend on exporting intermediate goods or raw materials may see demand drop, leading to currency instability and slower growth.
In the long run, persistent tariff use risks reshaping global trade itself. Companies might start “reshoring” or “nearshoring” production to avoid future disruptions. While this could boost local manufacturing in some regions, it might also fragment global supply chains, reduce efficiency, and increase production costs worldwide.
There’s also the threat of retaliatory measures. No country wants to be the loser in a trade fight, and when one imposes tariffs, others often respond in kind. This tit-for-tat approach can spiral into a full-blown trade war, where everyone ends up worse off — a scenario economists have warned about for decades.
Future of Global Trade
The future of global trade depends on cooperation, not confrontation. If nations continue to treat tariffs as political power plays rather than strategic tools, we may find ourselves paying a much higher price than any import tax could justify.
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The 10th edition of the Pakistan Super League is set to start on Friday, April 11, in Rawalpindi, but PSL lacks the usual buzz that typically surrounds such an event. The opening match will feature defending champions Islamabad United against Lahore Qalandars at 8:30 pm PST at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
This season includes 34 matches from April 11 to May 18. Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium will host 13 matches, including the two Eliminators and the final. Rawalpindi will host 11 matches, while Karachi and Multan will each host five.
Despite this being a big milestone for PSL, fan interest is notably low this time, mostly due to Pakistan’s poor performance in international cricket over the past one-and-a-half years. Junaid Ikram, a marketing associate from Karachi, said, “I have given up on Pakistan Cricket and am in no mood to spend even five rupees for the PSL matches which are commencing here (in Karachi) next week.”
He added, “What is there to watch, you tell me. The recent disaster in New Zealand was, perhaps, the last straw. Can you imagine any team losing seven out of eight matches? We are worse than Zimbabwe, even Fiji Island.” Even the return of Saim Ayub didn’t impress him. “Saim is a terrific player, but even his presence will not be compelling enough for me to visit the National Stadium in Karachi.”
An Ongoing Disappointment
Shamim Nazish, a lecturer from Karachi, said, “The PSL is a farce and an attempt by the PCB to hoodwink the general public into believing that Pakistan Cricket is alive and kicking.” She added, “I have always supported Pakistan Cricket with all my enthusiasm… But enough is enough; I will not watch a single game now.”
Dr. Zaid Iqbal from Multan, once a big supporter of Multan Sultans, said, “I was so excited to see Multan Sultans beat all the other competitors… but not this time.”Speaking about the team captain, he said, “If the man (Rizwan) can’t get Pakistan to win, even in a home tournament like the Champions Trophy, his achievements in the matter zilch to me, really.”
In Lahore, Waheed Mirza and his sister Shireen are also planning to skip PSL 10. “We are not even inquiring about the PSL ticket rates, and the general response here in Lahore is very poor,” said Waheed.
His sister Shireen added, “All the teams in the world including Bangladesh, Zimbabwe and the West Indies have beaten our team in international matches, so what can motivate us to watch these poorly competitive PSL games?” She said, “My time and money is way too precious to be spent on PSL games.”
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PSL 10 Anthem Sparks Controversy: Is It Time for a New Voice?
Cricket fans, mark your calendars—April 11 is going to be a blockbuster! For the first time ever, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium will host the grand opening ceremony of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) to kick off the season 10 of the marquee league in style.
Let’s be honest, PSL isn’t just about cricket anymore. It’s a full-on entertainment package. And this year, season 10 is bringing the razzmatazz like never before.
The opening ceremony for the PSL 10 will kick off at 7:00 PM, and the lineup is simply star-studded. We’re talking Abrar ul Haq, Ali Zafar, Natasha Baig, Talha Anjum, and of course, the queen of Sufi music herself—Abida Parveen.
Yes, you read that right. Abida Parveen performing at a PSL opening ceremony? That’s the kind of unexpected but brilliant twist only PSL can pull off.
Add to that a contemporary act by Young Stunners and a cultural performance by Ali Zafar, and you’ve got a mix that’s bound to hit all the right notes—literally.
The official anthem “X Dekho” has already made waves online. Now imagine hearing it live, performed by the original artists, under the stadium lights, with a pumped-up crowd and fireworks in the background.
After all the music and magic, the cricket action begins. At 8:30 PM, defending champions Islamabad United will lock horns with Lahore Qalandars, the two-time champs. It’s the perfect curtain-raiser for what promises to be a thrilling season.
This season, matches will take place across Karachi, Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi, with the final showdown set for May 18 at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium.
From stadium chants to nail-biting finishes, PSL 10 promises the full package. But it all begins in Rawalpindi—with music, magic, and a whole lot of cricket fever.
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Pakistan Women take on Ireland in ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier
The ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier 2025 has officially begun in Lahore, with hosts Pakistan facing Ireland in the tournament opener at the historic Gaddafi Stadium. With temperatures soaring and pressure mounting, both teams are looking for a prized place in the main event.
Ranking 10th and 11th, respectively, Ireland and Pakistan are evenly matched on paper. History, however, has another story to tell. Since 2008, Pakistan has overwhelmed the Irish team in ODIs, including a clean sweep when the two sides last clashed in Lahore in 2022.
Pakistan Women take on Ireland in ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier
This distinction carries additional meaning for Pakistan—not only because it’s being played on home turf for the first time but because the side is determined to qualify for the fourth World Cup in a row.
Leading the side is 22-year-old all-rounder Fatima Sana, who also captained Pakistan in last year’s T20 World Cup. “It’s an honour to lead the team at home. We’re ready to play positive cricket and qualify for the World Cup, Insha Allah,”she said.
Strengths, Setbacks, and Key Players to Watch
Pakistan entered the tournament on the back of success, having beaten both Thailand and West Indies in warm-up games. Recent ODI series defeats to England, New Zealand, and West Indies highlight weaknesses, though. The return of injured 19-year-old batter Shawaal Zulfiqar is welcome, as is the experience of Sidra Amin and Diana Baig.
For Ireland, captain Gaby Lewis is at the helm of a team that mixes experienced talent with up-and-coming stars. Amy Hunter, still the record-breaking youngest-ever ODI centurion, and Kia McCartney are tipped to come good. Injury doubts notwithstanding, coach Ed Joyce views the tournament as a litmus test of squad depth and nurturing.
Heat, History, and High Stakes
With six sides—Pakistan, Ireland, Bangladesh, West Indies, Scotland, and Thailand—battling it out for two qualification spots, each game is a do-or-die match.
Source: Outlook
The searing Lahore heat, which rose to 41°C, will put fitness to the test, although Wednesday’s weather forecast does hold out some hope of cloud cover. With the games kicking off, supporters are looking forward to seeing if Pakistan can get their home advantage to pay—or if Ireland can pen another page in their return-to-form book.
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Pakistani fast bowler Ihsanullah has again been in the news—not for a blistering spell on the field, but for a photo that’s gone viral. The viral photograph, where he is wearing a Peshawar Zalmi jersey, has triggered a flood of rumours regarding a possible move before Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 10.
A Comeback Story Still Being Written
Ihsanullah became an overnight sensation in PSL 2023 with an astonishing 22-wicket tally for Multan Sultans and emerged as one of the tournament’s unexpected stars. This effort accelerated his promotion to the national team, and he got his T20I debut in March 2023 and later an ODI debut in the following month. Unfortunately, the elbow injury against New Zealand forced him out for a long while.
Source: ARY News
Returning from a long layoff, he resumed competitive cricket during the 2024 Champions T20 Cup. However, the Multan Sultans decided not to retain or draft him during the PSL 10 draft. Dejected, Ihsanullah went on record with his retirement from the PSL—only to take it back hours later. He subsequently apologised to the Sultans for his hasty decision and assured them of his availability if needed in the future.
Zalmi Jersey Goes Viral
Now, with PSL 10 just around the corner, Ihsanullah has sparked fresh buzz by appearing in a Peshawar Zalmi jersey. Though no official statement has come from Zalmi’s management, sources suggest he has joined their training camp.
What gives more strength to the speculations is that Zalmi had kept a Gold category position vacant in the recent replacement draft, suggesting late-season additions. Ihsanullah, if formally signed, could occupy that place as a replacement for Nahid Rana.
Supporters were quick to take sides on social media, with some embracing the fast bowler’s arrival in Zalmi and others condemning the ambiguity regarding his status. Whatever, the excitement has revived interest in the new season.
With the PSL getting more and more player-centric by the day, instances such as these—sensational departures, heartfelt apologies, and shocking returns—are giving flavor to the league’s ever-increasing narrative. Regardless of whether Ihsanullah actually makes the move to Peshawar Zalmi or not, one thing’s certain: the pacer’s next chapter is being observed very closely.
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PIA’s first annual profit in 21 years has marked a significant turnaround for the airline, which has long struggled with financial losses. According to Bloomberg, the airline recorded earnings per share of Rs5.01 for the year ending December 2024, based on its audited financial statements.
The PIA board of directors approved the financial report on Tuesday. The report showed that the airline earned Rs204.16 billion in revenue during 2024 and incurred Rs175 billion in expenses, which included fuel costs, aircraft leasing and employee salaries. As a result, PIA achieved an operational profit of Rs 9.357 billion and a net profit of Rs 26.2 billion, a major recovery compared to its Rs 104 billion loss in 2023 despite generating Rs 237 billion in revenue that year.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, in a post on social media, confirmed the board’s approval and said, “For the first time in 21 years, PIA achieved a net profit.” He mentioned an operational profit of Rs 9.3 billion and a net profit of Rs 26.2 billion for 2024. According to him, PIA’s operating margin exceeded 12%, which is comparable to some of the world’s top airlines.
Khawaja Asif said that PIA’s return to profitability is a result of the government’s full support and key reforms. These included cutting down the workforce, managing expenses, stabilising profitable routes, closing down loss-making routes and restructuring the airline’s balance sheet. He said that PIA’s first annual profit not only improves its image but will also benefit Pakistan’s economy.
In recent years, PIA has faced serious challenges, such as grounded aircraft, flight cancellations, and dependency on government bailouts. The government’s previous attempt to sell the airline failed due to a low bid under the $306 million minimum price.
Now, the government plans to restart the privatisation process, with new bids expected soon. To make the offer more attractive, around 75% of the airline’s debt has been removed. Usman Bajwa, secretary at Pakistan’s privatisation commission, stated in February that the debt removal has sparked fresh interest among potential buyers.
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The Pakistani smartphone market just got a serious boost with the release of the vivo V50 Lite—a phone made for users seeking flagship-grade performance without spending an arm and a leg. Merging a whopping battery, trendy looks, and a camera setup that punches way above its price tag, the V50 Lite sets itself up as a trusted all-rounder for both everyday users and tech enthusiasts alike.
Power-Packed Battery with Ultra-Fast Charging
The V50 Lite’s standout feature is its 6500mAh Ultra-Slim BlueVolt Battery, paired with 90W FlashCharge. This powerhouse combination ensures that your phone stays alive through gaming marathons, TikTok scrolling sessions, or long travel days. Vivo claims up to 5 years of battery health and 1,700 full charge cycles, making longevity a key selling point.
Source: Vivo
And that’s not all. Even with the massive battery, the phone is only 7.79mm thick, a new record for ultra-slim designs on high-capacity phones. You also have Reverse Charging, which makes the phone a power bank for your other devices when you’re on the move.
Under the bonnet, the V50 Lite is available in two flavours: a 5G model fueled by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300, and a 4G model with the Snapdragon 685. Both of these are designed for seamless multitasking, lag-free gaming, and quick downloads.
In addition to that, Vivo incorporates Memory Booster, Extended RAM, and App Retainer technologies to boost performance even more, so background apps do not drag your experience. Your phone will remain as responsive in years as it is today—up to 50–60 months, according to Vivo’s internal tests.
Striking Design Meets Durable Build
Looks aren’t everything—but in the case of the V50 Lite, they certainly don’t hurt. It comes in Titanium Gold, Phantom Black and Silk Green, and has a high-gloss metallic frame and futuristic profile. The phone boasts a 6.77-inch P-OLED Ultra Vision AMOLED Display with support for a 120Hz refresh rate and 1800 nits brightness, which makes it perfect for immersive viewing even in the brightest sunlight.
And not just good looking—the V50 Lite is IP65 water and dust resistant, military-grade approved, and has been extensively drop-tested and put through durability. You won’t have to pamper this device.
A Camera System Built for Creativity
The V50 Lite’s camera system revolves around the 50MP Sony IMX882 with Aura Light Portrait—a configuration that provides clear, well-exposed images in nearly any environment. There’s also an 8MP ultra-wide lens, 32MP front camera, and convenient AI tools such as AI Erase 2.0 and AI Photo Enhance for distraction-free, expertly balanced shots.
Source: What Mobile
AI Features that Make Life Easier
With intelligent capabilities such as Circle to Search, AI Live Text, and AI Screen Translation, Vivo’s software makes everyday tasks quicker and smarter. AI SuperLink even enhances call connection by recognising weak signals and automatically switching to stronger networks in real time—ideal for city living and constant travel.
Price and Availability in Pakistan
The vivo V50 Lite 5G retails for PKR 89,999, while its 4G variant costs PKR 73,999.Pre-orders are available starting from April 9, 2025, while the phone goes on sale all over the country from April 15 (5G) and April 23 (4G). It carries a warranty for 1-year, replacement facility for 15 days, and 6-month warranty for accessories.
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The Dangers of AI: 5 Things You Shouldn’t Tell ChatGPT
ChatGPT has made our lives so easy, right? Share anything and everything with the chatbot, and your query will be solved. We share, and the chatbot learns from it- simple give and take. Well, if only people knew the underlying consequences of this. The Dangers of AI.
The truth is, oversharing with ChatGPT can cost us in the long run. Some AI researchers say we should be more discerning about what we tell these human-sounding tools. So, before patients upload their blood work for analysis, customers input their credit card information and engineers paste snippets of unpublished code for debugging help; they must consider what they will be signing up for.
Don’t Tell These 5 Things to ChatGPT EVER!
Like it or not, the go-to ChatGPT is a “privacy black hole.” The way it treats data and the breach of privacy is concerning to say the least. Any data that is entered in AI becomes a public property. With this in mind, there are several things that absolutely should never be told to it – or any other public cloud-based chatbot.
1- Identity Information
Anything personal — whether it’s your social security number, driver’s license, passport, date of birth, phone number or address, must never be fed into AI. Unless you want it to be out there present for anyone to access.
Especially with the rise of agentic AI, the chatbots have become capable of connecting to and using third-party services. It’s possible that in order to do this, they need our login credentials. However, it must be known that once this data has gone into a public chatbot, there’s very little control over what happens to it. This is not just a conspiracy theory: there have been cases of personal data entered by one user being exposed in responses to other users. Clearly, this could be a privacy nightmare.
Identity Theft by AI
2- Healthcare and Medical History
In the healthcare world, confidentiality is a number one priority. Most of the time it is for our own good; to save us from embarrassment and discrimination. However, many chatbots are not trained for this protection of health data.
Sometimes getting checked by a health professional can be a big hassle and in these very moments people end up using ChatGPT as an easier way out. But they often underestimate the extreme consequences that come with this. Particularly due to the recent updates that enable it to “remember” and even pull information together from different chats to help it understand users better. While it may seem beneficial at first, none of these functions come with any privacy guarantees. Hence, it is advised to be aware of the sensitivity of the information that is being entered.
3- Financial Accounts Theft
It is very important to guard bank and investment account numbers. There is a reason why banks warn you regarding such information.
For similar reasons, it’s probably not a great idea to start putting data such as bank account or credit card numbers into AI chatbots. These should only ever be entered into secure systems used for e-commerce or online banking, which have built-in safety guards like encryption and automatic deletion of data once they have been processed. Chatbots have none of these safeguards. In fact, once data goes in, there’s no way to know what will happen with it, and putting in this highly sensitive information could leave you exposed to fraud, identity theft, phishing and ransomware attacks.
Financial Account Theft
4- Proprietary Corporate Information
Everyone has a duty of confidentiality to safeguard sensitive information for which they’re responsible. An employee who is using a chatbot for corporate purposes is directly or indirectly exposing client data and public trade secrets to the world even when they are just drafting a simple email or dissolving client query.
Sharing business documents, such as notes and minutes of meetings or transactional records can easily be considered a breach of confidentiality. All this is considered utterly irresponsible in the corporate world and often times have grave outcomes to it. Such was the case involving Samsung employees in 2023. Samsung banned ChatGPT after an engineer leaked an internal code to the server.
The moral of the story is that no matter how tempting it is to feed client data, it must be done at all costs. If it’s really necessary, then the enterprise version must be used.
Proprietary Corporate Information
5- Unethical and Criminal Requests
Using AI for illegal purposes isn’t only unethical and criminal but also quite dumb too. Why would you want a robot to generate your illegal requests?
If anyone plans to use AI for this purpose, they must know that most AI chatbots have safeguards designed to prevent them from being used for unethical purposes. And if your question or request touches on activities that could be illegal, it’s possible you could find yourself in hot water. Many usage policies make it clear that illegal requests or seeking to use AI to carry out illegal activities could result in users being reported to authorities.
These laws can vary widely depending on where you are. For example, China’s AI laws forbid using AI to undermine state authority or social stability, and the EU AI act states that “deepfake” images or videos that appear to be of real people but are, in fact, AI-generated must be clearly labelled. In the UK, the Online Safety Act makes it a criminal offense to share AI-generated explicit images without consent.
We all know that AI companies are hungry for data to improve their models, but even they are urging the users not to enter sensitive information in AI.
“Please don’t share any sensitive information in your conversations,” ChatGPT owner OpenAI urges. Google asked its Gemini users: “Don’t enter confidential information or any data you wouldn’t want a reviewer to see.”
Your personal information could be used to help train tomorrow’s AI—or come out in a data breach. Be mindful of how you use ChatGPT in today’s age.
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As the countdown begins for the 10th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), Lahore Qalandars skipper Shaheen Shah Afridi sounds fired up.
And why wouldn’t he be? With fresh firepower like Daryl Mitchell and Kusal Perera added to the squad, the Qalandars are aiming for nothing short of a comeback.
In a recent interview, Shaheen opened up about his expectations for this season—and he wasn’t holding back on the optimism.
Mitchell to the Rescue
Lahore Qalandars struggled with middle-order consistency in the past, but Shaheen Afridi believes Daryl Mitchell is the missing piece.
“With the arrival of Daryl Mitchell, the gap in our middle-order batting will be filled,” Shaheen said confidently.
He’s not wrong. Mitchell has shown time and again—whether in New Zealand colours or on Pakistani soil—that he thrives under pressure. He’s not just a solid bat; he’s a game-changer.
“Mitchell has already showcased his excellence in Pakistan,” Shaheen added. “We believe he will add significant strength to our batting lineup.”
Kusal Perera — The Impact Player
Another exciting name in the Qalandars’ roster is Kusal Perera. Known for his explosive batting and ability to shift gears quickly, he could be exactly what Lahore needs at the top.
“Kusal Perera will prove to be an impact player for us,” Shaheen predicted.
That one line says it all. Qalandars are betting big on Perera’s experience and flair to give them the early momentum in games.
But it’s not just the stars who have Shaheen excited. He made sure to show love to the entire squad—especially the emerging players.
“I have high hopes for all the players in the Lahore Qalandars squad,” he said. “All the foreign players have performed well for their countries.”
This shows a leader’s mindset. He’s backing the youth, appreciating the veterans, and building belief within the team before the first ball is bowled.
The Qalandars will start their PSL 10 campaign with a high-voltage match against Islamabad United—the defending champions—on Friday, April 11, at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. It’s a battle of heavyweights right from the start.
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Shahid Afridi is never one to sugarcoat his words, and this time, his advice was aimed directly at the top.
During a recent meeting with Army Chief General Asim Munir in Rawalpindi, the former Pakistan captain offered heartfelt condolences over the passing of the COAS’s mother.
But alongside that, Afridi shared some bold thoughts about Pakistan cricket — and more specifically, the man running it.
Afridi had a clear message for Mohsin Naqvi, the current PCB Chairman and Federal Interior Minister: choose one role and give it your full attention.
“In my view, holding two roles at the same time prevents him from giving full focus,” Afridi said bluntly. “You can’t sail two boats at once.”
He’s not wrong. Both the PCB and the Interior Ministry are full-time, high-pressure gigs. And with Naqvi recently adding the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) presidency to his plate, it’s fair to ask — how much is too much?
Shahid Afridi acknowledged Naqvi’s dedication and passion for cricket but reminded him that passion alone can’t carry everything.
“He has great passion and determination for improving cricket,” Afridi added.
“But focusing on one role will allow him to handle matters more effectively.”
With so much happening in Pakistan — politically, socially, and economically — cricket remains one of the few things that brings people together. From street matches in Karachi to packed stadiums in Lahore, the game is more than just a sport here — it’s hope.
That’s why Afridi feels Naqvi needs to give cricket the time and energy it truly demands. “Cricket is a full-time job. Two big tasks can’t be done at the same time,” he stressed.
Mohsin Naqvi took over as PCB chairman in early 2024 and was recently elected unopposed as President of the ACC, becoming the first Pakistani to do so since 2008.
That’s a massive achievement. But it also means added responsibilities, regional politics, and even more time away from managing domestic cricket.
And let’s not forget — he’s still the Interior Minister too.
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President, PM Express Deep Grief Over Demise of Taj Haider
The demise of Taj Haider, a senior leader of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and serving senator, was confirmed on Tuesday in Karachi by his family and party. He was 83 years old. His wife, Naheed Wasi, announced his passing in a Facebook post. She mentioned that the details about the funeral would be shared later.
Senator Zamir Ghumro stated that Haider had been battling cancer. His staff director, Nazakat Ali, said that Haider had been admitted to the intensive care unit at Ziauddin Hospital, Karachi, for the past two days.
The demise of Taj Haider has left a significant void in Pakistan’s political landscape. He served as a senator from March 2012 to 2018 and was re-elected for a term starting March 2021 till 2027. He was the chairman of the Senate Committee on Rules and the PPP’s central secretary-general.
President Asif Ali Zardari expressed deep sorrow and said,“Taj Haider was an important asset of the PPP. He was one of the ideological workers of the PPP. With the demise of Taj Haider, the PPP has lost an important political leader.”
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari paid tribute by stating, “His decades-long political, social and literary services will never be forgotten. He was a creative mind.”
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah also expressed his grief, saying, “The death of the deceased has deeply shocked all the workers, including myself.” He praised Haider as “a smart, thoughtful and determined political leader,” who always worked for democracy and public service.
Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori offered his condolences and said Haider’s contributions to politics and public service will always be remembered. “May Allah grant the deceased a high place in paradise and grant patience to the bereaved family,”he stated.
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan honoured him as “among the few politicians who stood uncompromisingly for economic justice, cultural rights and democratic governance in the country.”
President, PM Express Deep Grief Over Demise of Taj Haider
PPP Senator Sherry Rehman described him as “a true soldier of democracy, a religious and a true man of knowledge and action.” She highlighted his invaluable work for democracy, Pakistan, Sindh’s rights and the people’s welfare.
President, PM Express Deep Grief Over Demise of Taj Haider
Karachi Press Club President Fazil Jamili said, “He was a true comrade, a dedicated democrat and a committed political worker”
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Just when it seemed the stock market couldn’t get any worse, it did. Stocks again slid after the United States announced on Tuesday that 104% tariffs on China would take effect shortly after midnight. This coincided with the administration of President Donald Trump seeking to negotiate and reassure other trading partners that were targeted by sweeping tariffs. As a result, U.S. stocks dropped on Tuesday for a fourth straight trading day since Trump’s tariff announcement last week, with the S&P 500 closing below 5,000 for the first time in almost a year. The index is now 18.9% below its most recent high on February 19, which is close to the 20% decline that defines a bear market.
Global markets previously posted gains on hopes that Trump might be willing to negotiate with countries. These product-specific trade barriers are affecting the world’s largest consumer market. But the White House made clear that country-specific tariffs of up to 50% would nevertheless take effect at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time (0401 GMT), as planned. Despite the side effects on the market.
The tariffs are especially steep for China, as Trump has ratcheted up duties on its imports to 104% in response to the counter-tariffs Beijing announced last week. As a result, China has also announced that it refuses to bow to what it called blackmail and has vowed to fight to the end of this trade war. On the other hand, Trump administration officials have also said that they don’t prioritize negotiations with the world’s No. 2 economic power.
Trump’s sweeping tariffs have raised fears of recession and upended a global trading order that has been in place for decades. Meanwhile, China is bracing for a war of attrition, and manufacturers are warning about profits and scrambling to plan new overseas plants. It has cited internal risks, and the 2025 GDP growth forecast for China has gone to 4.2% from 4.7%.
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In a significant development for ties between Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the UAE has reportedly resolved previous visa-related issues for Pakistani citizens. As a result, Pakistani nationals can now apply for five-year UAE visas.
The announcement came during a meeting held at the Governor House in Karachi between Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori and UAE Ambassador Hamad Obaid Al Zaabi. UAE Consul General Bakheet Ateeq Al Remeithi was also present at the meeting.
Governor Tessori acknowledged the UAE’s ongoing investment in Sindh and Karachi, calling it a strong indicator of the growing cooperation between the two countries. He welcomed the improvement in visa policy, which is expected to benefit Pakistani citizens who seek opportunities in the UAE.
Ambassador Al Zaabi extended an invitation to the governor to visit the newly established UAE visa centre in Karachi. The centre is expected to ease the application process and ensure better service for applicants from the region.
The ambassador praised Governor Tessori’s development-focused initiatives and assured full support from the UAE for any collaborative efforts moving forward. The visit included participation in a tree plantation drive and a flag-hoisting ceremony at the Governor House.
Ambassador Al Zaabi also signed the guest book during his visit, describing the occasion as a reflection of the enduring friendship and deepening relations between Pakistan and the UAE.
This development is seen as a positive step towards strengthening people-to-people connections and expanding long-term cooperation between the two nations. The availability of 5-Year UAE Visas is expected to promote economic, tourism and cultural exchanges in the future.
The UAE has historically been a key investor in Pakistan, especially in Sindh. This renewed focus on easing visa restrictions and supporting developmental initiatives highlights the mutual interest in stronger bilateral ties.
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Musician Salman Ahmad has been booked under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016 (PECA) for allegedly sharing content online against state institutions and figures.
The case was registered on April 4 at the Defence A Police Station in Lahore. Sub-Inspector Ikram Hussain filed the complaint under Sections 11 (hate speech) and 20 (offences against the dignity of a natural person) of PECA, along with Sections 500 (punishment for defamation), 504 (intentional insult to provoke breach of peace), and 505-1(C) (statement likely to incite one community against another) of the Pakistan Penal Code.
The FIR stated that certain “malicious” elements have been using social media to “spread false and defamatory information” targeting government figures and institutions. It added, “This false campaign is often based on fabricated news and baseless allegations … to mislead the public and create distrust against respected and important institutions and individuals.”
Sub-Inspector Hussain claimed he had been informed of a post made by Salman Ahmad on the platform X (formerly Twitter), alleging that the post aimed to provoke the public against national institutions and personalities. According to the FIR, “Ahmad made a provocative and hateful post on Twitter. The profile has about 265.4K followers, to whom this hateful post is being spread.” Hussain also stated that Ahmad’s post was turning the minds of his followers against national and government institutions and figures.
Salman Ahmad was removed from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in December 2024 after he criticised Imran Khan’s wife, Bushra Bibi, for her involvement in political matters during the protests on November 26. His post drew backlash from PTI supporters, leading to the cancellation of his party membership for allegedly running a campaign against Imran Khan’s family.
Since its introduction in 2016, PECA has faced criticism for being used to suppress dissent. Over the years, politicians, journalists, rights activists, and ordinary citizens have been booked under this law. The National Assembly recently passed a controversial amendment to the cybercrime law, which faced opposition from PTI lawmakers and journalists, many of whom walked out during the session.
Earlier this year, another incident involved the arrest of a WhatsApp group administrator in Pakpattan, Punjab, for allowing a post that allegedly insulted Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. This too was considered a violation of PECA.
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This record was created when Mr. Shamsie caught a 198.4 lbs Striped Marlin approximately 40 nautical miles offshore of Karachi
Mr. Basir Shamsie, President & CEO of JS Bank, has been awarded a Record Striped Marlin Certificate by the Pakistan Game Fish Association (PGFA), the official game fishing body in Pakistan National Record, affiliated with the International Game Fish Association (IGFA).
This record was created when Mr. Shamsie caught a 198.4 lbs Striped Marlin approximately 40 nautical miles offshore of Karachi, at the continental shelf (Khadda). The fish, known for its speed and challenge, measured 110.4 inches in length with a girth of 40 inches. The catch followed an intense 75-minute fight and was reeled in using the trolling method. His achievement adds to the momentum of game fishing’s growing popularity in Pakistan, especially along the country’s expansive and diverse coastline.
In his remarks, Mr. Shamsie said: “Game fishing offers a unique way to connect with nature, test one’s patience and skill, and better understand the importance of marine conservation. Organizations like PGFA are doing important work in encouraging ethical fishing practices and highlighting the need to protect our marine ecosystems.”
PGFA also recognised Mr. Hassan Sohail, Director at Unibro Industries, an accomplished angler, for his contribution to the sport by catching and releasing three juvenile Marlins, two in November 2021 and one in November 2023. Mr. Sohail holds the national record for Blue Marlin and was a previous Striped Marlin record holder. PGFA and the Karachi fishing community appreciate his efforts in helping protect marine ecosystems for future generations.
With increasing local interest and international engagement, Pakistan’s sportfishing community continues to grow, supported by platforms like PGFA that are promoting both excellence in the sport and environmental responsibility.
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Scientists have Revived the Dire Wolf after 10,000 Years
Romulus and Remus are chasing, tussling, nipping, and nuzzling like puppies. However, any sane person can already guess that these snow-white 6-month-olds are nothing like normal puppies. Everything about them is very different. And that is their reality. The pups are wolves; not only that, they’re Dire wolves. Don’t mistake them for domestic canines, they are wild lupines.
What Is a Dire Wolf?
The dire wolf (Canis dirus) was one of the most iconic predators of the Ice Age. Larger and more muscular than modern gray wolves. Dire wolves were apex predators that once thrived across North America. Weighing up to 150 pounds, they hunted massive prey such as bison, horses, and even mammoths.
Unlike the wolves we know today, Dire wolves had stronger jaws, more robust skulls, and a stockier build. But despite their strength, they vanished about 10,000 years ago, likely due to a combination of climate change and competition with emerging predators, including early humans.
The Revival of the Dire Wolves
The Revival of the Dire Wolves
Thanks to advances in genetic engineering and ancient DNA recovery, a team of international scientists has managed to reconstruct the dire wolf genome using well-preserved fossilized remains. By combining this ancient DNA with modern gene-editing tools like CRISPR, researchers created a hybrid embryo that shares a near-identical genetic makeup with the original Dire Wolves.
The embryo was implanted into a surrogate canine, and after a successful gestation period, a live dire wolf pup was born—the first in over ten millennia. Early observations suggest the revived animal exhibits many traits seen in fossil records: larger bone structure, thick fur, and a powerful jaw.
Ethical Concerns and Scientific Debate
While this revival marks a scientific milestone, it also sparks heated debate. Should we bring back extinct animals? Some argue that de-extinction could help restore lost ecosystems, while others worry about the consequences of reintroducing prehistoric predators into modern environments.
There are also questions about animal welfare, ecological impacts, and whether the revived dire wolf is truly “authentic” or simply a close genetic recreation.
This revival of the Dire Wolves after 10,000 years isn’t just a leap for science; it’s a glimpse into the future of life on Earth. As genetic technology continues to evolve, we may soon have the power to resurrect long-lost creatures and perhaps even reshape ecosystems for the better.
But with great power comes great responsibility. The question remains: just because we can bring back extinct species, does that mean we should?
The global financial landscape has been rattled yet again. Just some months back Trump’s bitcoin was making headlines post-election and everyone was praising the president. However, Trump’s glory didn’t last long. The irony is that the current crisis in the digital currency is due to Trump’s tariffs.
The Effect of Trump’s Tariffs
Just a few days back, certain tariffs were proposed by President Donald Trump. These tariffs specifically targeted countries like China and Mexico who were once major trading partners with the USA. Now investors are bracing the impact.
Trump’s proposed tariff plans are a throwback to his 2018–2019 strategy, which rattled global supply chains and spooked investors. While proponents argue tariffs are a tool to protect domestic industries and correct trade imbalances, the immediate market response is often negative. And similar was the case this time too.
The traditional stock market has already shown signs of strain, with major indices dipping in response to fears of a full-blown trade war. But as Wall Street wobbles, an age-old question resurfaces with renewed urgency: What does this mean for digital currencies? Will they perish? No wonder investors are getting heart attacks right now.
A 20% tariff on top of those already imposed would cost the average U.S. household at least $3,400, according to one analysis.
Bitcoin: A Digital Safe Haven?
When traditional markets suffer, investors often flock to “safe haven” assets like gold or U.S. Treasury bonds. Over the last few years, Bitcoin has occasionally joined that list. During the COVID-19 pandemic, and later amid inflationary pressures, we saw crypto prices spike as investors looked for non-traditional hedges.
Bitcoin’s decentralised nature and its resistance to inflationary policies make it attractive in volatile economic climates. If tariffs begin to seriously disrupt trade, drive inflation, or strain U.S. economic growth, we may see digital assets rally once again—especially among younger, tech-savvy investors who already distrust traditional finance.
However, while Bitcoin may benefit from the chaos, other digital currencies may not face the same fate. Especially, Ethereum and other altcoins. This is because many of these digital assets are tied to platforms and ecosystems that rely heavily on global tech development and investment. If tariffs escalate into broader tech restrictions or slow international collaboration, it could hinder growth and innovation in these blockchain ecosystems.
Let’s not forget the political dimension. Trump’s relationship with the digital currency has been lukewarm at best. In the past, he’s dismissed Bitcoin as “not money” and warned against its use in criminal activities. If he regains influence, a new wave of crypto regulation could be on the table, potentially stifling innovation in the name of economic security.
However, some voices in Trump’s orbit—particularly from the libertarian-leaning factions—remain supportive of crypto as an alternative to centralised finance. The tug-of-war within political circles will be one to watch closely.
The Politics of Crypto Regulation
A Crossroads for Digital Currency
Trump’s tariff talk is more than just a geopolitical maneuver; it’s a litmus test for where the global economy is headed. In this context, digital currencies are standing at a crossroads. Will they evolve into reliable hedges and investment vehicles during times of global uncertainty? Or will they be swept away by regulation, volatility, and investor fear?
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Cheezious, Pakistan leading fast-food brand, has joined hands with Peshawar Zalmi to launch their official PSL anthem, “Jeet Ka Rang X Warka Dang” — a thrilling fusion of cricket passion, cultural pride, and youthful energy. More than just a song, the track is a powerful vibe, a movement, and a rallying cry for fans across the nation.
This anthem is the musical soul of Cheezious’ and Zalmi’s powerful collaboration. With pulsating beats, high-octane visuals, and lyrics that channel the unstoppable spirit of cricket and youth, the anthem is already setting social media on fire.
“Jeet Ka Rang X Warka Dang” brings together the color of victory (‘Jeet Ka Rang’) and the bold bite of Cheezious flavor (‘Warka Dang’) — fusing the rhythm of cricket with the zest of food culture. The music video features Zalmi players, electrifying fan moments, street cricket scenes, and iconic Cheezious elements — making it a celebration of Pakistani spirit in all its forms.
Zohaib Hasan, Head of Marketing at Cheezious, said “This anthem is our way of uniting the nation. It’s got the heartbeat of cricket and the flavor punch of Cheezious — made for fans, by fans. We wanted to create something that energizes the PSL season and echoes across every corner of Pakistan.”
Peshawar Zalmi’s management also expressed excitement “Music and cricket go hand in hand. ‘Jeet Ka Rang X Warka Dang’ is a bold and brilliant celebration of Zalmi energy, and we’re proud to collaborate with Cheezious on something that fans will remember long after the season ends.”
Whether you’re enjoying Zalmi meals at Cheezious outlets or cheering from the stadium with your favorite Cheezious treat, this anthem is here to ignite your PSL spirit and elevate the excitement of the season.
Launching a business can be fun until it has to be provided with funding too. It is one of the biggest reasons behind business ventures failing. Whether someone is starting from scratch or looking to scale, they must first see how they can secure the right financing all while keeping the costs as low as possible. This can be pretty basic yet very complex, especially when you don’t know how to fund your business with the right resources.
Capital: The Importance of Business Financing
Every business needs capital — for product development, marketing, staffing, and day-to-day operations. Consider it the “lifeblood” of a business venture. Without proper funding, even the best business ideas can struggle to take off.
If a business has enough capital, it will be able to cover it’s initial cost much better and run day to day expenses more smoothly. Especially, in a crisis.
Seeking Capital For a Business
Determining How Much Capital Is Required: Costs and Expenses
Before you start pulling your hair out over how to fund your business, it is important to understand how much capital you need to start with. As dreading it is to do calculations, it must be done. First make an estimate for the initial costs and regular expenses i.e:
Licenses and permits
Trademarks, copyrights, or patents for your brand and products
Business insurance
Legal or accounting assistance
Rent and utilities (for brick-and-mortar businesses)
Equipment required for production
Website platforms
Marketing materials (both print and digital)
Shipping supplies
Subscriptions to content management systems and sales or marketing platforms
Market research
Determining How Much Capital Is Required: Costs and Expenses
When this list is complete and the brain storming is done, you will have a proper estimate. Before raising capital, it’s also wise to familiarise yourself with how to read and create a balance sheet, income statement, and statement of cash flows. Financial literacy is a critical skill for entrepreneurs, and being aware of these financial statements will ensure you’re taking the necessary steps to become a responsible business owner.
Every business has different needs, and no financial solution is one-size-fits-all. Yet, here are some common ways people use to fund their business.
1. Bootstrapping: Starting with Your Own Money
Bootstrapping is the most organic way to fund your business — using your personal savings or revenue generated from the business itself. If your projected expenses add up to a manageable amount, you may be able to fund the business yourself. This can involve taking money from your personal savings account, dipping into your retirement funds, using credit cards and paying back the debt, or asking for donations from friends and family.
This allows you to retain 100% ownership and control. There are no underlying debts and no one is there sitting on your head waiting for a payment. This is a big relief and allows room for much more efficient business operations. However, it must be kept in mind that through this the business growth may be slow due to limited funds and there is always a risk of depleting personal savings or assets.
Pro Tip: If you choose bootstrapping, track your personal and business expenses separately to maintain financial clarity.
2. Getting Capital From Friends & Family
Borrowing money from people you trust is a common first step for many entrepreneurs, especially when bootstrapping falls short. This is a much easier way to secure funds in comparison to traditional loans. There are no hectic formalities involved and the repayment terms are quite flexible too; especially with no interest.
But keep in mind that in worst case scenario, your personal relationships can become strained if the business fails or repayment is delayed. You are warned, be careful with this none.
Pro Tip: In order to succeed in this, you can create a written agreement that outlines the repayment terms. Also, make sure you communicate everything regarding business progress.
3. Bank Loans and Business Lines of Credit
Traditional business loans and lines of credit are reliable sources of funding, especially for businesses with a track record. However, before applying to banks and credit unions you must prepare a business plan. This should involve the value proposition, expense report and financial projections for the next five years. Most banks or credit unions will surely ask to see some combination of these documents when considering your application.
Types of Loans:
Term Loans: Fixed amount repaid over a set period.
Lines of Credit: Flexible borrowing as needed, similar to a credit card.
SBA Loans: Government-backed loans with favorable terms for small businesses.
A plus point for these loans can be that they have a predictable repayment structure- quite straight forward. And it also give the opportunity to build business credit. However, it isn’t given to just anyone as it requires a strong credit score, collateral, and a solid business plan. Moreover, it’s approval can take weeks or months.
Pro Tip: Only get involved in this if you are a established businesses or startup with assets and revenue history.
4. Venture Capital: Scaling Big and Fast
Venture capital (VC) is a type of private equity where firms invest in high-potential startups in exchange for significant equity. This will allow for large amounts of funding to be available and an access to a network of experts, advisors, and potential customers.
However, a fallout will be that there will surely be a loss of significant ownership and control. The business owner will come under a lot of pressure as the VC firms often expect rapid growth and large returns, increasing the pressure.
Pro Tip: To attract VC funding, have a disruptive idea, scalable model, and a strong founding team.
The Best Way to Finance Your Business
Keep in mind that no two businesses are the same and hence the solutions for funding aren’t the same either. Only you know the ins and outs of your company’s needs. By weighing the risks and rewards of each funding option, along with your personal finances, predicted startup costs, and business expenses, you can select the best option for financing your business.
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