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England Secures Hosting Rights for Next Three World Test Championship Finals

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In a significant development, England has been selected to host the next three ICC World Test Championship (WTC) finals, dealing a notable blow to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The ICC opted for England citing its favorable cricketing infrastructure, neutral location, and history of successfully hosting global events.

The decision has stirred debate among Indian cricket fans and officials, as India was seen as a strong contender to host at least one final, given its fan base and commercial influence. However, concerns over weather, logistics, and neutrality reportedly influenced the final call.

The upcoming WTC finals in 2025, 2027, and 2029 will be played at iconic English venues, likely including The Oval and Lord’s, both of which have previously hosted high-stakes international matches.

This move signals the ICC’s emphasis on tradition, stability, and a consistent environment for Test cricket’s pinnacle event, despite growing calls for broader host representation.

England will host the 2025, 2027, and 2029 WTC finals, sidelining India’s chances due to neutrality and infrastructure preferences. The decision has sparked mixed reactions, particularly from Indian cricket circles, as the BCCI was expecting to host at least one final.

WTC finals, ICC cricket decisions, England cricket

Pakistan’s U16 Volleyball Champions Honored with Rs 8.2 Million Reward

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Pakistan’s U16 volleyball team received a hero’s welcome upon returning after their historic victory at the Asian U16 Volleyball Championship. The players were greeted by a cheering crowd at the airport, accompanied by officials from the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) and the volleyball federation.

In recognition of their achievement, the PSB announced a cash reward totaling Rs 8.2 million. Each player will receive Rs 500,000, the head coach will be awarded Rs 300,000, and the assistant coaches will each receive Rs 200,000.

This marks the first time a Pakistani team has won this continental title, defeating Iran in the final—a milestone that has ignited national pride and heightened interest in developing volleyball across the country.

U16 Volleyball Championship, Pakistan Sports Board reward, Youth sports achievements

Islamabad International Airport Wins Prestigious International Award

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Islamabad International Airport has received global recognition by securing the Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Award for the fourth quarter of 2024. The honor was granted in the category of airports serving 5 to 15 million passengers annually. This achievement highlights the airport’s consistent commitment to passenger satisfaction, efficient operations, and overall quality service. Operated by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA), the airport’s staff and management have been praised for maintaining international service standards. The ASQ program, run by Airports Council International (ACI), measures traveler experiences based on global benchmarking. Islamabad Airport’s performance stood out in several key areas including cleanliness, staff behavior, facilities, and ease of travel.

Islamabad International Airport has been awarded the ASQ Award for Q4 2024, recognizing its excellence in service among airports handling 5 to 15 million passengers. The airport earned praise for high standards in cleanliness, efficiency, and passenger experience, reflecting Pakistan’s growing commitment to global aviation standards.
aviation, international recognition, airport services

Pakistan to Introduce Upgraded Passports with Advanced Security Features

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Pakistan is set to upgrade its passport system by introducing new versions equipped with enhanced security features. These new passports will incorporate advanced chips, improved data encryption, and international compatibility standards to ensure greater protection against forgery and identity theft. The initiative aims to streamline immigration processes and improve global acceptance of Pakistani passports. Officials suggest that the updated passports will be rolled out in phases, replacing the existing versions gradually while maintaining ease for travelers and citizens.

Pakistan is planning to launch upgraded passports with advanced security chips, better encryption, and international standards. The move aims to enhance identity protection, reduce fraud, and improve the global standing of Pakistani travel documents. The rollout will be phased for smoother public transition.
passport upgrade, digital security, Pakistani travel documents

Punjab Launches “School on Wheels” and “Library on Wheels” to Promote Education Access

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The Punjab government has rolled out two transformative educational initiatives: “School on Wheels” and “Library on Wheels.” These mobile units aim to reach underprivileged and remote communities, ensuring children receive basic education and reading resources. Equipped with teaching staff and books, these vehicles will travel across various districts, making education more inclusive and accessible.

Punjab introduces mobile schools and libraries to provide education and reading materials in underserved areas. These vehicles will travel to remote regions, offering structured learning, basic literacy, and access to books. The initiative aims to combat illiteracy and improve educational outreach in marginalized communities.
education reform, literacy access, Punjab government initiative

Islamabad to Install Thousands of New Cameras Under Safe City Project

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The government is expanding Islamabad’s Safe City initiative by adding thousands of advanced surveillance cameras across the city. This move aims to boost public safety, monitor traffic, and deter criminal activities. The new system will cover major intersections, public areas, and sensitive locations, improving real-time monitoring and emergency response capabilities.

Islamabad is set to receive thousands of new cameras under the Safe City project to enhance security and surveillance. The expansion will aid law enforcement in monitoring traffic and preventing crime, covering key points across the capital for more effective public safety management.
Islamabad security, Safe City project, surveillance cameras

Govt to Offer 100,000 E-Bikes on Easy Loans

The federal government is developing a new scheme to provide 100,000 electric bikes to the public on convenient loan terms. The initiative aims to promote eco-friendly transportation and ease the burden of rising fuel costs. The program will prioritize students and low-income earners, making electric mobility more accessible across Pakistan.

The government will offer 100,000 electric bikes through easy loan schemes to encourage green transportation and support those hit hardest by fuel price hikes. Students and low-income individuals will be given preference under the program.
electric bike scheme, green transportation, affordable mobility

Home Economics University Launches Six New Specialized Degree Programs

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The Government College University for Women, Home Economics, has introduced six new degree programs aimed at enhancing educational diversity and career opportunities for female students. These include BS programs in Education, Interior Design, Fashion Design, Human Nutrition and Dietetics, Textile Design, and Sociology. The announcement marks a significant academic expansion at the university, aiming to align education with modern-day professional demands.

All six BS (Hons) programs will be offered in the afternoon shift, providing more flexible learning options. The university is currently finalizing admissions criteria and procedures, which will be available soon. The new programs are designed to equip students with practical and theoretical knowledge to meet the evolving job market and societal needs.

This move reflects a broader vision to promote women’s empowerment through education and specialized skill development in growing sectors such as design, nutrition, and social sciences.

Home Economics University has introduced six new BS programs in fields like Fashion Design, Sociology, and Human Nutrition. Offered in afternoon shifts, these degrees aim to expand educational access and meet modern career demands. Admission details will be released soon.
education reform, women empowerment, university programs

10% Tax on Imported Solar Panels Raises Concerns for Pakistan’s Green Energy Goals

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The government’s decision to impose a 10% sales tax on imported solar panels has sparked concern among industry experts. They fear this move will slow down the adoption of renewable energy in Pakistan, increase installation costs, and discourage investment in clean energy infrastructure, affecting long-term sustainability efforts.

The new tax could significantly hinder affordability and accessibility for residential and commercial users, especially as the country seeks to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. Stakeholders are calling for tax exemptions or incentives to promote solar energy rather than deter its growth.

Increased solar costs, slower adoption of clean energy, and reduced investor confidence could all emerge as side effects of the policy.

Pakistan’s renewable energy transition may face new hurdles due to added financial burden on solar imports, pushing consumers away from affordable clean alternatives.

Pakistan’s solar energy future under threat, 10% tax discourages adoption, stakeholders demand policy rethink
solar panel tax, renewable energy policy, green transition Pakistan

OICCI Expresses Deep Concern Over Climate Change Threats in Pakistan

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The Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) has raised serious concerns regarding the accelerating effects of climate change in Pakistan. The chamber emphasized that the country’s vulnerability to environmental challenges like floods, heatwaves, and droughts demands urgent and coordinated policy action from both public and private sectors. The OICCI pointed out that Pakistan ranks among the most climate-vulnerable countries despite contributing minimally to global emissions. It called for aggressive strategies focusing on sustainability, carbon reduction, and resilience-building across industries.

The chamber also urged the government to incentivize green investments, introduce climate-smart regulations, and improve institutional capacity to mitigate these risks. Business leaders affiliated with OICCI also advocated for awareness campaigns and joint ventures for environmental sustainability.

The OICCI has voiced alarm over Pakistan’s climate vulnerability, urging swift reforms and collaboration to tackle environmental threats. It stressed policy support for green investment, climate-smart practices, and resilience-building. Pakistan’s minimal emissions contrast sharply with its high exposure to climate impacts.
climate change, environmental policy, Pakistan economy