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Xiaomi 12 Series Redefines Flagship Category

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Xiaomi 12 Series Redefines Flagship Category

Xiaomi today announced the launch of the all-new flagship Xiaomi 12 Series for local markets, featuring two groundbreaking devices: Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 12. Designed to empower users around the world with a cutting-edge videography studio and entertainment powerhouse, Xiaomi 12 Series delivers impressive advancements in Xiaomi’s AI algorithm, flagship processing power, and an all-round elevated experience. 

Capture cinematic shots at any time 

Xiaomi 12 Series enables users to record studio-quality shots no matter the scenario, be it challenging lighting conditions or moving objects. Both phones boast a pro-grade triple camera array for versatile shooting, starring a massive 50MP main wide angle camera, with 8K recording capabilities on both Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 12.  Xiaomi 12 Pro stands out with its state-of-the-art triple 50MP array, which features a cutting-edge Sony IMX707 ultra-large main sensor. This sensor is capable of catching large amounts of light and empowers advanced imaging capabilities with faster focus speeds and increased color accuracy. Xiaomi 12 features a 13MP ultra-wide angle camera, along with a 5MP tele macro camera, for filming life from different perspectives.  

Beyond impressive hardware, Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 12 also advance Xiaomi’s proprietary AI algorithms. These innovations make it easier than ever for users to record every moment the way they want to, even in low-light or moving subjects. Xiaomi ProFocus intelligently identifies and tracks objects, preventing blurring or out-of-focus shots of moving or veiled subjects. These advancements also include eye and face auto focus capabilities. Ultra Night Video uses Xiaomi’s proprietary algorithms to record video even under extreme low-light, meaning moody, atmospheric shots are clearer than ever.  

Available on both devices, One-click AI Cinema offers numerous creative options for show-stopping video editing, such as Parallel World, Freeze Frame Video, and Magic Zoom modes. 

Flagship processing, unprecedented performance and power-efficiency  

Flagship experience requires flagship performance. Xiaomi 12 Series features advanced Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ mobile platforms. Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 12 boast a Snapdragon® 8 Gen 1 processor – Qualcomm’s most advanced mobile platform. Built on a 4nm process, this processor also boosts GPU graphic rendering capabilities by 30% and energy efficiency by 25% when compared to the previous generation. Both three devices come with UFS 3.1 exceptional loading and data transfer speeds, along with LPDDR5 RAM for memory speeds up to 6,400Mbps. For optimal product experience, Xiaomi 12 Series packs a high-performing cooling system, bolstered by a super-large vapor chamber and multiple layers of graphite to offer a leading–cooling capability. 

All-around elevated entertainment experiences 

Xiaomi 12 Series not only lets users capture every moment in exquisite detail, but also allows them to relive those moments in astonishing detail via an exceptional entertainment experience.  Both devices offer vivid viewing on an AMOLED Dot Display rated A+ by DisplayMate, and with TrueColor support. For added peace of mind, the display features scratch-resistant Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus®, and supports Dolby Vision®, industry’s leading imaging technology that brings your content to life with vibrant color and details. Xiaomi 12 Series also supports HDR 10+. Xiaomi 12 Pro is SGS Eye Care Display Certified, showing care for users’ long-term visual health during marathon sessions.  

Meanwhile, Xiaomi 12 Pro redefines flagship display with incredibly smooth viewing, scrolling, swiping, and sliding. The device’s highly power-efficient 6.73-inch WQHD+ display leverages AdaptiveSync Pro to intelligently adjust dynamic LTPO display between 1Hz and 120Hz based on content. 

Xiaomi 12 delivers Xiaomi’s most colorful smartphone display to date, with more than 68 billion colors on 6.28-inch full-HD+ displays. Both feature 120Hz AdaptiveSync, for an impressively high-definition, vibrant, and flicker-free display that conveys every detail.  

 No cinematic experience is truly complete without pro-grade audio. Xiaomi 12 Series features SOUND BY Harman Kardon, and creates an immersive audio experience powered by Dolby Atmos®, delivering spatial sound with rich detail, clarity, and realism across all your favorite entertainment. Xiaomi 12 Pro’s quad speakers – in the form of two tweeters and two woofers – deliver clear details and cover an astounding range of sound. Xiaomi 12 delivers balanced stereo sound ideal for immersive gaming or video.  To optimize core user experience further, Xiaomi 12 Series incorporates MIUI 13, released globally earlier this year. The update includes faster storage, higher background process efficiency, smarter processing, and longer battery life. New features in the upgraded experience include Xiaomi’s proprietary Liquid Storage, Atomized Memory, Focused Algorithms, and Smart Balance. 

Next-generation charging 

Xiaomi 12 Series delivers pro-grade cinematic and entertainment experiences all day, the devices deliver next-level charging speed and safety.  

 Xiaomi 12 Pro features an incredibly fast 120W Xiaomi HyperCharge. With a 4,600mAh battery fully charged in just 18 minutes using Boost mode, Xiaomi 12 Pro delivers next-generation charging capabilities that keep up with user demands.  Xiaomi 12 fits a 4,500mAh battery into compact body designs. Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 12 also support 50W wireless charging and 10W reverse charging.  Both leverage Xiaomi AdaptiveCharge, a smart charging algorithm that learns and adapts to charging habits, which prolongs battery life. 

Flagship capabilities packaged in an iconic design  

These portable pocket-sized studios fit comfortably in the palm of your hand thanks to Xiaomi 12 Series’ iconic and user-centered design. Slimmer high-capacity batteries and a narrower ridge gap save precious space within the device. Xiaomi 12 Pro’s 6.73-inch display is encased in a sleek middle frame with sophisticated 3D curves. Meanwhile, Xiaomi 12’s 6.28-inch display measures just 69.9mm in width and is accented by smooth curves for a perfect fit. Both devices are available in Gray, Purple, and Blue. 

Market Availability   

Xiaomi 12 Pro comes in one variant 12GB+256GB, and recommended retail price starts from PKR 208,999/-.

Xiaomi 12 comes in one variant, 12GB+256GB, and recommended retail price starts from PKR 179,999/-.

Purchase these devices and get a sweet bundle deal where you get a Mi Band 6 and a bag with the Xiaomi 12. Similarly with the Xiaomi 12 Pro, get a Mi Portable Bluetooth Speaker and a 10000mAh Mi Power Bank 3.  Available at top distributor partners such as Phonezo, Airlink, Smartlink etc. For those looking to purchase these online, we’ve news for you  too as these are also available on MiStore and Daraz. 

Quick Specs:

 Xiaomi 12Xiaomi 12 Pro
Display120Hz +  AMOLED DotDisplay120Hz 6.73” AMOLED Dot Display 
Rear Camera50MP main camera 13MP ultra-wide camera 2MP macro camera 5MP depth camera50MP wide angle, ultra-wide and tele macro camera
Front Camera32MP32MP in-display selfie camera
Dimension & Weight152.70mm x 69.90mm x 8.16mm – 180g163.60mm x 74.60mm x 8.16mm 205g
ProcessorSnapdragon ® 8 Gen 1Snapdragon ®r 8 Gen 1
Charging4500mAH – 67W charge4600mAH – 120W charge
Variant12GB + 256GB12GB + 256GB
Color AvailableGray, Purple & BlueGray, Purple & Blue

About Xiaomi Corporation  

Xiaomi Corporation was founded in April 2010 and listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on July 9, 2018 (1810.HK). Xiaomi is a consumer electronics and smart manufacturing company with smartphones and smart hardware connected by an IoT platform at its core.  

Embracing our vision of “Make friends with users and be the coolest company in the users’ hearts”, Xiaomi continuously pursues innovations, high-quality user experience and operational efficiency. The company relentlessly builds amazing products with honest prices to let everyone in the world enjoy a better life through innovative technology.  

Xiaomi is one of the world’s leading smartphone companies. The company’s market share in terms of smartphone shipments ranked no. 3 globally in the third quarter of 2021. The company has also established the world’s leading consumer AIoT (AI+IoT) platform, more than 400 million smart devices connected to its platform as of September 30, 2021, excluding smartphones and laptops. Xiaomi products are present in more than 100 countries and regions around the world. In August 2021, the company made the Fortune Global 500 list for the third time, ranking 338th, up 84 places compared to 2020.  

Xiaomi is a constituent of the Hang Seng Index, Hang Seng China Enterprises Index, Hang Seng TECH Index and Hang Seng China 50 Index. 

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TECNO to launch its new Spark phone in Pakistan soon

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TECNO to launch its new Spark phone in Pakistan soon

TECNO to launch its new Spark phone in Pakistan soon

After massive success in the Pakistani Mobile market, TECNO is rumored to be preparing for a new addition to its Spark series. The globally eminent smartphone brand TECNO has been working tirelessly in Pakistan for quite some time now. The brand has brought forward some great phones over the years with advanced technologies, pocket-friendly prices, and stylish designs. 

Spark is TECNO’s famous mid-range series, bringing you quality devices at lower prices. Spark 8C is an entry mobile that is expected to be around PKR 19,499 to PKR 22,999. The price is not confirmed yet but we are expecting it around this segment. The phone is going to be a stunner in this range with Stylish Design and great Battery.

According to sources, Spark 8C will be equipped with better memory and memory fusion features than any other phone in this range. Memory Fusion Technology is specially designed to channel RAM operations by using unused read-only memory (ROM). This means it can expand the memory of 4+128GB to 7+128GB and that of 3+64GB into 6+64GB maximum. The RAM can be updated or expanded from 3GB to 6GB and 4GB to 7GB depending on the variant. If this is true, then Spark 8C shall be the only smartphone to provide such an amazing feature with 128GB in such an affordable price range.

Moreover, the phone is anticipated to provide efficient performance with a powerful processor and big battery. The 90Hz refresh rate, great display, and handy body design will make it a user-friendly device. The phone is expected to launch somewhere in mid-March 2022. Furthermore, the phone is being assembled in Pakistan to make it economical and pocket-friendly for the local consumers. 

So, fingers crossed for this new Spark device to be soon launched in Pakistan. Stay tuned for more updates and much more about tech!

Jazz appoints Atyab Tahir as CEO JazzCash

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Jazz appoints Atyab Tahir as CEO JazzCash

Jazz appoints Atyab Tahir as CEO JazzCash

Jazz, Pakistan’s leading digital operator (part of VEON Group NASDAQ: VEON, Euronext Amsterdam: VEON), announces the appointment of Atyab Tahir as the CEO of JazzCash effective May 1 2022.

Atyab, currently serving as Country Manager MasterCard Pakistan & Afghanistan, has over two decades of international experience in banking and consulting. Atyab has also held senior positions at Fidelity Investments, HBL, Telenor Bank and easypaisa. He holds a BA from Dartmouth College and an MBA from Babson College.

Commenting on Atyab’s appointment Aamir Ibrahim, CEO, Jazz  said: “While mobile phones and payment solutions have accelerated financial inclusion in the country, a significant portion of Pakistan’s adult population remain unbanked. I am confident that under Atyab’s dynamic leadership JazzCash will help boost financial inclusion across the board through innovative and customer-centric products.”

“JazzCash is at the forefront of Pakistan’s digital revolution processing more than 5 million transactions every day and accounting for almost 7% of Pakistan’s GDP. Our aim is to build a world-class fintech serving every single Pakistani, from youth, SMEs, freelancers, with a very strong focus on the unbanked and the underbanked. I look forward to joining the Jazz family and collaborating with our partners in the telecommunications and financial services sector to unlock the true potential of Digital Pakistan.” said Atyab.

A division of Jazz, JazzCash has grown rapidly to become a leader in the country’s marketplace for digital financial services. As shown in VEON Group’s FY21 results that were released on 28 February 2022, JazzCash has 15.2 million monthly active users (+24.9% YoY) and 130,800 monthly active merchants (up by 2.3 times YoY). 

Jazz appoints Atyab Tahir as CEO JazzCash.

vivo V23 5G — The Best in Camera, Technology, Performance and Appearance

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vivo V23 5G — The Best in Camera, Technology, Performance and Appearance

Due to the constant development in the technology space for smartphones, there is always hype surrounding any new ‘firsts’ in the market. There is always excitement as to what will be introduced and how well it will be accepted by the audience. 

Keeping this in mind, Vivo’s latest smartphone vivo V23 5G finds itself in a similar situation. The day it was announced, it received a lot of attention for its color-changing design. The design itself represents a significant advancement in smartphone research and design. Making smartphones not only technologically superior but also cosmetically superior is a step forward.

The continual excitement and experience since the smartphone’s launch has not only solidified its market position but also demonstrated that it is a well-balanced phone that isn’t only focused on aesthetics.

Delving more into the device, the vivo V23 5G dons a high-resolution 50MP AF Portrait Selfie camera on the front. This device focuses heavily on the selfie experience which makes it stand out in the market. The latest ISOCELL 3.0 technology helps the camera increase light sensitivity to capture a more crystal-clear picture for the user. Furthermore, the Eye Autofocus feature enables the users to be the center of attention while clicking the picture as the camera focuses on the user, even if they are in motion. 

The dual front camera system offers a much larger field of view with the help of its 8MP Super Wide-Angle Camera. Furthermore, with modes like the AI Extreme Night Portrait mode, the front camera delivers an unparalleled experience in this price range. The phone also sports a 64 MP main rear camera with an 8MP wide-angle lens and a 2MP Macro that can handle wide natural landscapes very easily. The user experience is further increased with features like the Super Night Mode, Bokeh Flare Portrait, and Ultra Stabilization. It is only right to say that both, the front camera and the rear camera together offer a device that is picture-perfect. 

When it comes to the visual and performance aspects of this phone, there’s no doubt that it’s the best of what vivo has to offer. vivo has always been on the cutting edge of device design and aesthetics. It’s also fair to say that Vivo takes pride in its technological advancements and innovations. Every device that vivo introduces exemplifies this completion.

V23 5G brings out the result of Vivo’s extensive research which is the Color Changing Fluorite AG Design. This material changes its color upon exposure to ultraviolet light and after about 30 seconds under the sun. This switch goes back to normal once the phone is out of sun exposure. Talking more about the appearance of the device, it is the combination of the Metal Flat Frame Design and the Color Changing Fluorite AG Design that gives the device the aesthetic appeal that has been the talk in the industry for a while now. 

All these powerful features that the phone flaunts are powered by the powerful MediaTek Dimensity 920 processor. This processor offers powerful performance and a fast user experience. The Extended RAM 2.0 further enhances the user experience with its versatile features to expand RAM when required. The 90Hz refresh rate display, a Liquid Cooling System, and Ultra Game Mode make it possible for users to enjoy super smooth gameplay performance. This experience is mutually assisted by the 4200mAh battery that features a 44W FlashCharge that helps in interrupted experience and performance. 

To summarise it all, the vivo V23 5G is a proud and well-balanced device that fulfills the requirements of every smartphone enthusiast whether it is for work, casual, or professional usage.

 

Tech Giant XIAOMI launches anticipated Redmi Note 11 Pro – Packing major upgraded to hardwares & software!

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Tech Giant XIAOMI launches anticipated Redmi Note 11 Pro – Packing major upgraded to hardwares & software!

Xiaomi announced the Redmi Note 11 Pro for Pakistani markets, pushing forward the legacy of the Redmi Note series with two all-new devices: Redmi Note 11 Pro and Redmi Note 11. Rising to the challenge to bring even stronger specs and features, Redmi Note 11 series packs powerful upgrades to its camera system, charging speed, display, and SoC—making flagship-level smartphone performance more accessible than before. All this available in a bundle deal, with Redmi Buds 3 completely free.

Flagship-level 108MP quad camera to deliver outstanding photography

Boasting a rear quad camera setup, Redmi Note 11 Pro delivers an outstanding photography experience with zero compromise. Its 108MP main camera captures stunning images in high-resolution and vivid colors; an 8MP ultra-wide angle camera extends your perspective with a 118-degree viewing angle; a 2MP macro camera that captures fine details up close and a 2MP depth sensor that’s for capturing more natural looking portrait shots. Accenting the front of the phone is a 16MP front camera that can capture clearer and natural-looking selfies. The 108MP pro-grade main camera utilizes the Samsung HM2 sensor with a large sensor size at 1/1.52 inch, and supports 9-in-1 pixel binning technology as well as a dual native ISO to deliver incredible images in all lighting conditions, with spectacular results especially in dim light.

120Hz FHD+ AMOLED DotDisplay packed into trendy flat-edge body

Featuring a large 6.67′ FHD+ AMOLED DotDisplay with 120Hz display refresh rate, Redmi Note 11 Pro levels up the screen experience with smooth scrolling response and lag-free transitions. The beautiful display is packed into a body with a trendy flat-edge design. Plus, with the dual super linear speakers located at the top and bottom of the phone, Redmi Note 11 offers immersive stereo sound for gaming or watching videos.

Performance powered by 67W turbo charging and MediaTek Helio G96

Redmi Note 11 Pro comes with flagship 67W turbo charging, allowing you to charge up

to 51% of its 5,000mAh high capacity battery in just 15 minutes Powered by MediaTek Helio G96, Redmi Note 11 Pro also delivers a smooth and seamless performance.

Market availability:

Redmi Note 11 Pro comes in two variants – 6GB+128GB, and 8GB+128GB and are available at top distributor partners such as Phonezo, Airlink Communication, Smartlink and Tech Sirat. For those looking to purchase these online, we’ve news for you  too as these are also available on MiStore.

Redmi Note 11 Pro

6GB+128GB: PKR 51,999/-

8GB+128GB: PKR 59,999/-

Redmi Note 11 Quick Specs:

 Redmi Note 11
Display120Hz  6.67” FHD+ AMOLED DotDisplay
Rear Camera108MP main camera 8MP ultra-wide camera 2MP macro camera 2MP depth camera
Front Camera16MP in-display front camera
Dimension & Weight164.19mm x 76.1mm x 8.12mm 202g
ProcessorMediaTek Helio G96
Charging5,000mAh (typ) battery Supports 67W wired Pro fast charging
Variant6GB+128GB, 8GB+128GB
Available ColorGraphite Gray, Polar White, Star Blue

The Redmi Note 11 Pro is available at PKR 51,999/- for the 6+128GB variant and PKR 59,999/- for the 8+128GB variant. A bundle deal with Redmi Buds 3 absolutely free!

About Xiaomi Corporation

Xiaomi Corporation was founded in April 2010 and listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on July 9, 2018 (1810.HK). Xiaomi is a consumer electronics and smart manufacturing company with smartphones and smart hardware connected by an IoT platform at its core.

Embracing our vision of “Make friends with users and be the Coolest Company in the users’ hearts”, Xiaomi continuously pursues innovations, high-quality user experience and operational efficiency. The company relentlessly builds amazing products with honest prices to let everyone in the world enjoy a better life through innovative technology.

Xiaomi is one of the world’s leading smartphone companies. The company’s market share in terms of smartphone shipments ranked no. 3 globally in the third quarter of 2021. The company has also established the world’s leading consumer AIoT (AI+IoT) platform, more than 400 million smart devices connected to its platform as of September 30, 2021, excluding smartphones and laptops. Xiaomi products are present in more than 100 countries and regions around the world. In August 2021, the company made the Fortune Global 500 list for the third time, ranking 338th, up 84 places compared to 2020.

Xiaomi is a constituent of the Hang Seng Index, Hang Seng China Enterprises Index, Hang Seng TECH Index and Hang Seng China 50 Index.

Goods Transport Rates Rise by 40% Across Pakistan

Usman Yaqoob
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Goods Transport Rates Rise by 40% Across Pakistan

The cost of transporting goods across Pakistan has increased sharply, with freight and goods transport rates rising by around 40%. The sudden increase is creating fresh problems for traders, manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, and consumers, as higher transportation costs are expected to push up the prices of many products in the market.

Transport is an important part of Pakistan’s business system. Almost every product sold in the country has to be moved from one place to another before reaching the final customer. Whether it is food, clothing, medicines, construction material, agricultural products, or industrial goods, businesses depend heavily on trucks and other commercial vehicles. When the cost of transport goes up, its impact is often felt throughout the entire supply chain.

The latest increase in goods transport rates has therefore become a major concern for the business community. Transporters are facing higher operating expenses, while businesses are worried that they may not be able to absorb the additional cost for long.

Why Transport Costs Are Rising

One of the main reasons behind the increase in transport rates is the rising cost of fuel. Fuel prices have a direct impact on the transport sector because trucks and other heavy vehicles consume large amounts of diesel during long-distance journeys.

When diesel becomes more expensive, transport companies have to spend more money on every trip. This includes the cost of taking goods between major cities as well as delivering products to smaller towns and remote areas.

Transporters also have to deal with other growing expenses. Vehicle maintenance, spare parts, tyres, engine oil, toll charges, driver salaries, and food costs have all become more expensive. Commercial vehicles are often used for long hours and travel thousands of kilometres every month. As a result, even a small rise in operating costs can have a major effect on the final transport bill.

For many transporters, the old freight rates are no longer enough to cover these expenses. They are therefore adjusting their charges to match the higher cost of running their businesses.

Heavy Impact on the Business Community

The 40% rise in goods transport rates is particularly difficult for businesses that operate on low profit margins. Small traders and wholesalers often work with limited room to increase their prices. A sudden increase in freight costs can therefore affect their earnings and cash flow.

Manufacturers are also feeling the pressure. Factories need transportation not only to deliver finished goods but also to bring raw materials from suppliers. If the cost of moving raw materials increases, the production cost also rises.

For example, a factory may need to transport raw materials from one province to another before production can begin. Once the products are ready, another truck may be required to move them to warehouses, distributors, or retailers. Every additional transport charge adds to the final cost.

Businesses may eventually pass these higher expenses on to consumers. This means people could pay more for everyday goods even when the original product price has not changed significantly.

Food Prices Could Come Under More Pressure

Food items are among the products most affected by transportation costs. Pakistan has a large agricultural sector, and crops often travel long distances before reaching urban markets.

Farmers send vegetables, fruits, wheat, rice, sugar, and other products to wholesale markets and cities. These goods can then move again from wholesale markets to smaller markets and retail shops.

A rise in freight rates at each stage adds to the final price.

Fresh produce can face an even bigger problem because fruits and vegetables have to reach markets quickly. Farmers and traders cannot keep them for long periods without risking losses. As transport becomes more expensive, sellers may increase prices to recover their additional expenses.

This can put more pressure on household budgets, especially at a time when many families are already dealing with high living costs.

Retailers May Also Increase Prices

Retail businesses are another major part of the supply chain. Most retailers do not purchase products directly from factories. Instead, goods often pass through distributors and wholesalers before reaching shops.

Each movement adds transportation expenses.

A retailer buying products from another city may now have to pay considerably more for delivery. The shopkeeper then has two choices: absorb the higher cost and accept lower profits, or increase the selling price.

For large businesses, absorbing the additional expense may be possible for a short period. However, smaller shops may not have enough financial strength to do this. As a result, consumers could see higher prices in local markets.

The impact may be more visible in products that are transported over long distances or require multiple delivery stages.

Small Businesses Face Greater Pressure

Small businesses are among the most vulnerable groups in this situation. Many small traders operate with limited working capital and depend on regular sales to cover daily expenses.

When transport rates rise suddenly, they may have to pay more to bring stock into their shops. At the same time, customers may become less willing to spend because prices are increasing.

This can create a difficult situation for small businesses. They may reduce their orders, delay purchases, or look for suppliers closer to their markets.

Some traders may also try to combine shipments with other businesses to reduce delivery costs. However, this is not always possible, especially when goods are time-sensitive or require special handling.

Manufacturers Could Face Higher Production Costs

Pakistan’s industrial sector could also feel the effects of higher freight charges. Manufacturing companies rely on transport for almost every stage of their operations.

Raw materials need to be brought to factories, finished products have to be moved to warehouses, and distributors then send them to different markets.

If transport becomes more expensive at all these stages, the overall cost of production rises.

Companies may respond by increasing the prices of their products. Others could reduce production to control costs. In some cases, businesses may delay expansion plans or reduce hiring because they are already dealing with higher operational expenses.

For export-oriented industries, the issue can become even more serious. Higher domestic transportation costs can make Pakistani products less competitive in international markets.

Higher Freight Rates and Inflation

The increase in transport rates could also add to inflationary pressure in the country.

Transport is not a separate part of the economy. It is connected with almost every sector. When the cost of moving goods rises, businesses across different industries have to adjust their budgets.

A furniture manufacturer, for example, may need to transport wood and other materials to the factory and then send finished furniture to customers. A construction company needs trucks to move cement, steel, bricks, sand, and other material. A pharmaceutical company also depends on transport to deliver medicines across different regions.

This means that a rise in freight charges can influence prices across a wide range of products and services.

The full impact may not appear immediately. Some businesses may continue using existing stock for a while or absorb the extra cost temporarily. But if high transport rates remain in place, the pressure is likely to reach consumers.

Transporters Say Costs Have Become Difficult to Manage

From the transporters’ point of view, higher freight charges are linked to the increasing cost of operating commercial vehicles.

Truck owners have to pay for fuel, regular maintenance, tyres, spare parts, taxes, tolls, and other expenses. Vehicles also lose value over time and require expensive repairs.

Drivers and supporting staff also need higher salaries as their own living costs increase.

A long-distance truck journey may take several days, which means the total expense of one trip can be very high. Transporters also face the risk of delays, vehicle breakdowns, road conditions, and empty return journeys.

When all of these costs increase together, transport companies say that charging the old rates becomes difficult.

Empty Return Trips Add to the Cost

One issue that often affects transport businesses is the empty return journey.

A truck may carry goods from Lahore to Karachi, for example, but may not always find another shipment to bring back. The transporter still has to pay fuel, wages, and other expenses while returning.

This means the cost of the return journey is indirectly included in the freight rate charged to customers.

When fuel and maintenance expenses rise, these empty trips become even more costly.

Transporters therefore try to adjust rates to make sure that their overall business remains financially workable.

Impact on Intercity Trade

Higher goods transport rates may also affect trade between provinces and cities.

Pakistan’s major commercial centres depend on the movement of goods from one region to another. Agricultural products move from farming areas to urban markets, while industrial goods travel from manufacturing centres to consumers.

If freight charges remain high, some traders may reduce shipments between distant markets.

This could affect the availability of certain products in smaller cities and rural areas. In some cases, consumers in remote locations may have to pay more simply because it costs more to bring goods there.

The situation may be particularly difficult for businesses located far from major industrial and commercial centres.

Government Attention May Be Needed

The sharp rise in transport rates could require attention from the government and relevant authorities.

Businesses may seek measures that can help reduce transportation costs or improve the efficiency of the logistics sector.

Better roads, faster cargo movement, improved transport facilities, and lower unnecessary charges can help reduce the overall cost of moving goods.

Fuel prices are also an important part of the discussion. Since diesel is a major expense for commercial transport, changes in fuel prices quickly affect freight rates.

A stable and predictable cost environment would make it easier for businesses and transporters to plan ahead.

Better Logistics Could Reduce Long-Term Costs

Pakistan also needs stronger logistics systems to reduce transportation expenses over time.

Modern warehouses, organized freight networks, improved highways, better traffic management, and digital tracking systems can make goods movement more efficient.

When trucks spend less time waiting at loading points or stuck in traffic, their operating cost can fall. Better planning can also help reduce empty journeys and improve the use of available vehicles.

Technology can play a role as well. Digital freight platforms can help match transporters with businesses that need shipments, potentially reducing unnecessary empty trips.

These improvements may not solve the immediate problem, but they can help make the transport sector more efficient in the long run.

Consumers Will Ultimately Feel the Impact

The biggest concern is that higher transport costs may eventually reach ordinary consumers.

Pakistanis are already facing pressure from household expenses, and any further increase in food, household items, construction material, clothing, or other products can make daily life more difficult.

When businesses face higher transportation charges, they usually cannot absorb the entire increase forever. At some point, part of the cost is likely to be reflected in the selling price.

This is why the 40% rise in goods transport rates is not only a transport-sector issue. It is also an economic issue that can affect businesses, jobs, trade, and household budgets.

A Challenging Time for Pakistan’s Economy

The increase in freight rates comes at a difficult time for Pakistan’s economy. Businesses are already managing high operating costs, while consumers are becoming more careful about spending.

For transporters, higher rates may provide some relief from rising expenses. For businesses and consumers, however, they create another layer of financial pressure.

The situation highlights how closely connected different parts of the economy are. A change in the cost of transportation can affect the price of goods, business profits, industrial production, and household spending.

A lasting solution will require efforts from both the public and private sectors. Transporters need a workable business environment, while businesses need affordable and reliable logistics services.

What Happens Next?

The future impact of the 40% increase will largely depend on how long the higher rates remain in place.

If fuel prices and other operating costs come down, transport rates may also ease. But if expenses continue to rise, businesses could face more pressure to increase product prices.

Much will also depend on government steps to control unnecessary costs and improve the movement of goods.

For now, traders, manufacturers, retailers, and consumers are likely to remain under pressure as they adjust to the new transportation charges.

The latest rise in goods transport rates shows that freight costs have become an important issue for Pakistan’s economy. With transportation playing a central role in almost every supply chain, any major change in freight charges can quickly spread across the market.

A 40% increase is significant enough to affect businesses of all sizes. From farmers and factory owners to wholesalers, shopkeepers, and ordinary families, many people could feel its impact.

Reducing these costs will require better planning, improved infrastructure, efficient logistics, and a stable business environment. Until then, the higher cost of moving goods is likely to remain a major concern for Pakistan’s economy and consumers.

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JazzWorld Supports Government’s Targeted Fuel Subsidy Initiative

Usman Yaqoob
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JazzWorld Supports Government’s Targeted Fuel Subsidy Initiative

The government’s plan to provide targeted fuel subsidies to deserving citizens has received support from JazzWorld, a digital platform associated with Pakistan’s growing digital services ecosystem. The initiative is aimed at helping people who are most affected by rising fuel prices while making sure that government support reaches the right families.

The rising cost of fuel has become a major concern for households across Pakistan. Petrol and diesel prices have a direct impact on transport costs, food prices, business expenses, and the overall cost of living. For low-income families, even a small increase in fuel prices can put additional pressure on monthly household budgets.

In this situation, a targeted subsidy can provide some relief without placing the full financial burden of a broad fuel subsidy on the government. JazzWorld’s support for the initiative highlights the possible role of digital platforms in making such a programme easier, faster, and more transparent.

Why Targeted Fuel Subsidies Are Important

Fuel is not only used by people who own cars or motorcycles. Its price affects almost every part of daily life. Public transport operators need fuel to run their vehicles. Farmers depend on fuel for tractors, tube wells, and other machinery. Businesses use fuel to move products from one place to another.

When fuel becomes expensive, transportation costs usually rise. These higher costs can then affect the prices of vegetables, fruits, groceries, medicines, and other everyday products.

For ordinary families, this creates a difficult situation. They may already be dealing with higher electricity bills, food prices, school expenses, rent, and other household costs. A further rise in fuel prices can make it harder for them to manage their monthly spending.

A targeted fuel subsidy is designed to reduce this pressure for people who need help the most.

Instead of giving the same benefit to everyone, the government can identify eligible families and provide assistance directly to them. This approach can help reduce unnecessary government spending while ensuring that limited public funds are used where they can make the biggest difference.

JazzWorld’s Role in the Initiative

JazzWorld’s support for the government’s targeted fuel subsidy initiative reflects the growing importance of digital platforms in the delivery of public services.

Pakistan has a large mobile and digital user base. This gives technology companies an opportunity to support government programmes that require communication with millions of citizens.

A digital platform can make it easier for eligible people to receive information about a government programme. It can also help improve communication, reduce paperwork, and make services more accessible.

For a subsidy programme, digital systems can potentially be used to inform citizens about their eligibility, explain the process, and provide important updates.

The use of digital channels may also help reduce the need for people to visit government offices repeatedly. This can save time and money, especially for people living in areas where government offices are far from their homes.

Helping the People Who Need Support

One of the main goals of a targeted subsidy programme is to make sure that financial support reaches low-income and vulnerable households.

A general subsidy can benefit everyone, including people who may not actually need government assistance. While such a system may appear simple, it can become expensive for the government.

A targeted programme takes a different approach. It focuses available funds on selected groups based on eligibility criteria.

This can be especially useful at a time when the government is trying to control its expenses and improve the way public money is used.

For a daily wage worker, a delivery rider, a small shop owner, or a family that depends on motorcycles for work and education, fuel costs can represent a significant part of monthly spending. Support aimed at such households could provide meaningful relief.

Digital Technology Can Improve Transparency

Transparency is one of the biggest challenges in any large-scale subsidy programme.

Whenever public funds are distributed among millions of people, there is a risk of mistakes, delays, or benefits reaching people who do not qualify. Digital systems can help reduce some of these problems by creating better records and making it easier to track transactions.

A technology-based system can connect information from different government databases and help identify eligible beneficiaries.

Digital payments can also reduce the need for cash distribution. When money or a subsidy is transferred through a formal digital channel, there is a clearer record of the transaction.

This can make it easier for authorities to monitor the programme and identify possible problems.

For citizens, digital access can also make the process more convenient. They can potentially receive messages, check information, and understand the status of their support without depending entirely on physical offices.

Rising Fuel Costs Affect the Whole Economy

The importance of fuel subsidies becomes clearer when we look at the wider economy.

Fuel prices influence transportation, manufacturing, agriculture, trade, and many other sectors. When transportation becomes more expensive, businesses often have to spend more money moving goods.

A company may then increase the price of its products to cover the additional expense.

The same situation can happen in agriculture. Farmers use fuel for tractors, pumps, harvesters, and transportation. Higher fuel costs can increase the cost of producing and transporting agricultural goods.

These pressures can eventually reach consumers.

This is why fuel prices have a wider impact than the amount people pay at petrol stations. They can affect the prices of many products and services used by families every day.

A well-designed targeted subsidy could therefore provide relief to vulnerable people while avoiding the high cost of subsidising fuel for the entire population.

The Need for a Fair and Reliable System

While targeted subsidies can offer important benefits, the success of such a programme depends on how well it is designed and implemented.

The government needs accurate information to identify eligible families. The eligibility rules should be clear and easy to understand.

The system should also be designed to prevent duplication and misuse.

Another important issue is accessibility. Pakistan has made significant progress in digital payments and mobile services, but not every citizen has the same level of access to technology.

Some people may have limited internet access, while others may not be familiar with digital applications or online procedures.

Therefore, digital solutions should be supported by simple communication and alternative assistance channels where necessary.

The goal should be to use technology to make the process easier, not to create another barrier for people who are already struggling.

JazzWorld and Pakistan’s Digital Future

The support from JazzWorld also shows how telecom and digital companies can become important partners in national programmes.

Pakistan’s digital economy has expanded rapidly over the past few years. Mobile phones are now used not only for calls and messaging but also for payments, shopping, banking, education, business, and access to government services.

This creates opportunities for technology companies to support programmes that were previously dependent on physical offices and paper-based processes.

A digital platform can help the government communicate with citizens on a much larger scale.

For example, people can receive information about a subsidy through mobile channels instead of waiting for announcements at local offices. Such systems can also make it easier to share instructions and important deadlines.

This can be particularly useful during programmes that involve millions of beneficiaries.

Making Government Support More Efficient

Public funds are limited, especially when a country is dealing with economic pressure. This makes efficient spending extremely important.

A broad fuel subsidy can require a large amount of money because it covers a very large number of consumers. A targeted model can reduce the cost by focusing assistance on households that meet specific criteria.

The money saved through better targeting can potentially be used for other important areas, including healthcare, education, social protection, and infrastructure.

However, the subsidy should be large enough to provide meaningful relief. If the amount is too small compared with rising fuel costs, families may not feel a significant benefit.

The government therefore needs to maintain a balance between affordability for the state and meaningful support for citizens.

What Citizens Can Expect

The exact benefits available to citizens will depend on the government’s final programme structure, eligibility rules, and implementation process.

People should rely on official announcements for information about who qualifies, how registration works, and how the subsidy will be delivered.

Citizens should also remain careful about false messages and online scams. Whenever a government relief programme is announced, there can be attempts by individuals to collect personal information through fake websites, messages, or phone calls.

People should avoid sharing sensitive financial or personal information with unknown sources.

Official communication channels should be treated as the main source of information.

A Step Toward More Targeted Social Support

The government’s decision to focus on targeted assistance reflects a broader change in the way social support programmes can be designed.

Instead of providing the same benefit to everyone, governments around the world increasingly use data and digital technology to identify people who need assistance.

For Pakistan, this approach can help improve the use of public funds while providing support to families facing the greatest financial pressure.

The involvement of digital companies such as JazzWorld can further strengthen the delivery system by using existing mobile and digital infrastructure.

This partnership between the public and private sectors can be useful if it is based on clear rules, strong privacy protection, transparency, and proper monitoring.

Challenges That Must Be Addressed

Despite the potential benefits, several challenges need attention.

The first is accurate identification of beneficiaries. If the government’s data is outdated or incomplete, some deserving families may be left out.

The second challenge is preventing fraud. Digital systems can improve transparency, but they still need strong security measures.

The third issue is awareness. People need clear information about how the programme works. Complicated procedures can discourage eligible citizens from applying for assistance.

Finally, the programme needs regular monitoring. The government should check whether the subsidy is reaching the intended people and whether the system is working as planned.

These steps are important for maintaining public trust.

Conclusion

JazzWorld’s support for the government’s targeted fuel subsidy initiative comes at a time when rising fuel costs are putting pressure on households and businesses across Pakistan.

A carefully designed subsidy can provide much-needed relief to low-income families without requiring the government to subsidise fuel for the entire population.

Digital technology can play an important role in making such support faster, more transparent, and easier to manage. With millions of people already using mobile services, digital platforms offer a practical way to improve communication and service delivery.

However, technology alone cannot guarantee success. The programme must have accurate data, clear eligibility rules, strong monitoring, and simple procedures. It must also make sure that people with limited access to digital services are not left behind.

If these issues are properly addressed, the targeted fuel subsidy initiative could become an important step toward providing focused financial support to vulnerable citizens.

The support from JazzWorld also points toward a wider role for Pakistan’s digital sector in helping deliver public services. As the country continues to expand its digital infrastructure, partnerships between technology companies and the government could become increasingly important in making social support programmes more efficient and accessible.

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25 Years After 9/11, Juan González’s Warning About the Toxic Legacy of Ground Zero

Usman Yaqoob
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25 Years After 9/11, Juan González’s Warning About the Toxic Legacy of Ground Zero

Twenty-five years after the September 11 attacks, the tragedy of 9/11 continues to affect thousands of people who survived the attacks and worked around Ground Zero. While nearly 3,000 people were killed on the day of the attacks, many more have died in the years since from illnesses linked to their exposure to the toxic dust and chemicals released after the World Trade Center buildings collapsed.

Journalist Juan González was among those who warned about the dangers soon after the attacks. At a time when government officials were telling New Yorkers that the air around Ground Zero was safe, González questioned those claims and continued reporting about the possible health risks.

His warnings became an important part of the long story surrounding the environmental impact of 9/11. Twenty-five years later, many of the concerns he raised have become even more serious as firefighters, rescue workers, emergency medical workers, residents, students and others continue to suffer from cancer, breathing problems and other diseases.

González recently revisited his reporting and his book Fallout: The Environmental Consequences of the World Trade Center Collapse. His comments have again brought attention to questions about what officials knew after the attacks, what information was made public and whether workers were properly protected.

A Disaster That Changed New York Forever

The attacks of September 11, 2001, destroyed the World Trade Center and changed New York City within minutes. Huge clouds of dust and smoke spread through Lower Manhattan after the towers collapsed.

The area around Ground Zero became a massive emergency and recovery site. Thousands of firefighters, police officers, construction workers, medical teams, volunteers and other workers entered the area to search for victims, remove debris and restore the city.

But the collapse also released a large amount of material into the air.

The buildings contained many different substances, including asbestos, lead, glass, metals and other chemicals. When the towers collapsed, much of this material was broken into tiny particles and spread through the surrounding area.

People who lived, worked or studied near Ground Zero were exposed to the dust. Rescue and recovery workers were exposed for long periods as they worked through the debris.

At the time, however, the full health impact of the disaster was not known.

González argued that this uncertainty itself should have been a reason for officials to be more careful.

González Questioned Official Assurances

In the weeks after 9/11, government officials repeatedly gave assurances about air quality around Lower Manhattan. These statements helped encourage workers and businesses to return to the area.

But González believed officials should not have described the environment as safe when there was not enough information to make such a conclusion.

In his reporting, he argued that nobody could guarantee that the air around Ground Zero was safe because the disaster was unlike anything the city had faced before.

His concern was not simply that officials lacked perfect information. His bigger concern was that they were giving people confidence at a time when important questions about toxic exposure remained unanswered.

According to González, government agencies should have released all available testing data and clearly explained what scientists knew and did not know.

Instead, he believed the early public message focused too heavily on returning New York to normal.

A Warning About Future Illness

One of González’s biggest concerns was that the health effects would not appear immediately.

People exposed to dangerous substances do not always become sick right away. Some illnesses can take years to develop.

That is why González warned that the environmental disaster could create a second wave of victims long after the attacks themselves.

He later said that his main prediction was sadly correct, although the timing was different from what he expected. He had feared that people would eventually die because of exposure to the toxic environment.

Instead of taking decades for serious deaths to begin, he said it took only about five years.

The number of people affected has continued to grow over the years.

Workers Paid a Heavy Price

The workers at Ground Zero faced some of the greatest risks.

Firefighters, police officers, paramedics, construction workers and volunteers worked in an environment filled with dust and debris. Many spent long hours at the site, often without the level of protection that would be expected at a dangerous industrial location.

For many workers, helping others came before thinking about their own health.

They were responding to one of the worst disasters in American history. Their main goal was to find survivors, recover victims and clear the site.

But the long-term consequences became clear later.

Many workers developed breathing problems, asthma, chronic coughs and other respiratory illnesses. Others were later diagnosed with different forms of cancer and other serious diseases.

The health crisis has therefore become a lasting part of the 9/11 story.

The Dangers Were Not Limited to Rescue Workers

The health effects of the disaster were not limited to people who worked directly at Ground Zero.

People who lived nearby were also exposed. Students attended schools in Lower Manhattan. Office workers returned to buildings near the World Trade Center. Residents remained in apartments and homes that had been affected by the dust.

This meant that the environmental impact spread beyond the immediate disaster site.

González and other journalists began reporting about illnesses among people who had been exposed.

At the time, however, many questions remained unanswered. How dangerous was the dust? How long did the contamination remain? Which chemicals were present? What levels of exposure could cause illness?

These questions were important because people needed accurate information to make decisions about their health and safety.

The Role of Government Information

One of the most important issues raised by González is the need for transparency during a disaster.

People cannot protect themselves if they do not know the risks.

If government agencies have test results showing dangerous substances, those results need to be made public. If scientists do not yet know whether an area is safe, officials should say so clearly.

González argued that giving people false confidence can be more dangerous than admitting uncertainty.

The recent release of previously unpublished records has renewed this debate.

In 2026, New York City officials began making public a large collection of documents related to air quality and contamination following the World Trade Center attacks. More than 170,000 pages of records had reportedly remained stored in city offices for years.

The records include air-quality reports, contamination information and internal communications.

Their release could provide a clearer picture of what city officials and health agencies knew during the months following 9/11.

Why the Newly Released Records Matter

The release of these documents is important because the debate over Ground Zero has never been only about what happened on September 11.

It is also about what happened afterward.

The attacks lasted only a few hours, but the cleanup and recovery continued for months. During that period, thousands of people continued to enter the area.

The decisions made during those months affected the health of many people for years to come.

The newly released documents may help answer questions about how officials assessed the risks and how information was shared with the public.

They may also help researchers better understand the long-term effects of exposure.

For families who lost loved ones to 9/11-related diseases, such information can provide another piece of a story that has remained incomplete for decades.

González’s Book Preserved an Early Record

González collected much of his reporting about the environmental impact of the attacks in his book Fallout.

The book focused on the dangers created by the collapse of the World Trade Center and the official response to those dangers.

His reporting was especially notable because it appeared when many people were focused almost entirely on the immediate tragedy.

The country was grieving. Rescue workers were searching through the ruins. New York was trying to recover.

In that environment, discussions about long-term environmental risks received less attention.

González continued to raise those questions.

He argued that the public deserved to know the truth, even if the information was uncomfortable.

The Message Was Not About a Secret Plot

González has also made an important distinction about his criticism of officials.

He has said that he was not arguing that there was a secret plan to deliberately hide the truth from the public.

Instead, he suggested that officials may have underestimated the danger, faced political pressure or simply wanted to believe that the situation was under control.

This distinction matters.

Disasters often create pressure on governments to restore normal life as quickly as possible. Businesses want to reopen. Workers want to return. Leaders want to reassure the public.

But public reassurance can become dangerous if it moves faster than the science.

The lesson from 9/11, according to González’s reporting, is that officials must be willing to admit when they do not have all the answers.

Twenty-Five Years Later, the Health Crisis Continues

The passage of time has not ended the 9/11 health crisis.

For many survivors and workers, September 11 is not simply an event from the past. It is connected to medical appointments, treatment, medication and memories of friends and colleagues who became sick.

The number of deaths linked to 9/11-related illnesses has continued to rise. According to current reporting, nearly 10,000 additional people have died from illnesses connected to the disaster in the years since the attacks.

That number shows why the environmental story of 9/11 remains important.

The attacks killed thousands immediately, but the wider human cost continued long after the smoke disappeared from Lower Manhattan.

A Lesson for Future Disasters

Perhaps the biggest lesson from González’s reporting is that public safety must come before the desire to return to normal.

After a major disaster, people need clear and honest information.

If the air may be dangerous, workers should be told. If testing is incomplete, the public should know. If scientists are still studying the risks, officials should not present uncertain information as a guarantee of safety.

Protective equipment, health monitoring and proper safety rules can help prevent long-term damage.

The experience of Ground Zero shows what can happen when people are exposed to a dangerous environment without fully understanding the risks.

It also shows why records and scientific information matter.

Remembering the People Behind the Numbers

Twenty-five years after 9/11, it can be easy to think about the tragedy only through statistics.

Nearly 3,000 people died on the day of the attacks.

Thousands more have died since.

But every number represents a person and a family.

There are firefighters who never came home. There are workers who developed serious illnesses years after helping with the recovery. There are residents who continue to deal with health problems. There are families who have spent years trying to understand why their loved ones became sick.

Their experiences show that the impact of 9/11 cannot be measured only by what happened that morning.

The disaster created a long-term health crisis that continues to affect people a quarter of a century later.

González’s Warning Still Matters

Juan González’s early reporting stands out because he raised questions that many others were not asking at the time.

He warned that the toxic material released after the World Trade Center collapse could create serious health problems in the future.

Twenty-five years later, the growing number of 9/11-related illnesses and deaths has made those warnings difficult to ignore.

The release of thousands of pages of previously unavailable records could now help the public understand more about what officials knew and when they knew it.

For González, the issue is not simply about proving whether someone was right or wrong in 2001.

It is about learning from the past.

Future disasters will happen. New York, the United States and other countries will face emergencies that may involve dangerous chemicals, damaged buildings or contaminated environments.

When that happens, officials will have to make difficult decisions with incomplete information.

The lesson from Ground Zero is clear: when public health is at risk, honesty and caution should come first.

People deserve to know what is known, what is unknown and what steps they can take to protect themselves.

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Pakistan Urges UN to Close Counter-Terrorism Gaps as Threats Evolve

Usman Yaqoob
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Pakistan Urges UN to Close Counter-Terrorism Gaps as Threats Evolve

Pakistan has called on the United Nations to strengthen global efforts against terrorism as terrorist groups continue to change the way they operate. Islamabad has warned that the nature of terrorism is no longer the same as it was years ago. New technologies, online platforms, illegal financial networks, and changing regional conditions have created new challenges for countries around the world.

Pakistan made the call while highlighting the need for stronger international cooperation to deal with emerging security threats. The country stressed that no state can successfully fight terrorism alone because terrorist networks often operate across borders and use modern tools to spread their activities.

The message comes at a time when governments are facing a wider range of security challenges. Terrorist organisations are finding new ways to communicate, collect money, attract supporters, spread propaganda, and plan attacks. At the same time, the use of digital platforms has made it easier for extremist groups to reach people in different countries.

Pakistan believes that the international community must respond to these developments with stronger cooperation, better information sharing, and more effective action against terrorist financing.

Terrorism Is Changing Quickly

Terrorism has changed significantly with the development of technology. In the past, terrorist groups mainly depended on physical networks, face-to-face meetings, and traditional communication methods. Today, many extremist organisations can use the internet and social media to connect with supporters without being physically present in the same country.

Online platforms can be used to spread extremist material, recruit new members and encourage violence. Terrorist groups can also use encrypted communication tools to make it harder for security agencies to track their activities.

These developments have made counter-terrorism work more difficult. Security agencies now have to deal with both physical threats and online activities.

Pakistan has therefore urged the UN and its member states to make sure that global counter-terrorism policies keep pace with these changes.

The country has also stressed that international laws and cooperation systems need to be updated when necessary. Terrorist groups should not be allowed to take advantage of gaps between countries’ laws, security systems, or financial controls.

One of Pakistan’s key concerns is that terrorism is a cross-border problem. A group may have members in one country, financial supporters in another, and online networks operating from several different locations.

This makes cooperation between countries extremely important.

Pakistan has called for better sharing of information among states and international organisations. Timely information can help security agencies identify threats before they become major attacks.

Countries also need to work together on border security, investigations, financial monitoring, and the movement of suspected terrorists.

According to Pakistan’s position, counter-terrorism efforts should not depend only on individual countries. The international community needs a coordinated system where states can work together against common threats.

Such cooperation is especially important in regions where terrorist groups take advantage of weak borders or political instability.

Terrorist Financing Remains a Major Challenge

Cutting off money is one of the most important parts of fighting terrorism. Terrorist organisations need financial resources to maintain their networks, recruit people, buy equipment, travel, and carry out attacks.

Pakistan has repeatedly supported international efforts to stop terrorist financing. The country has also highlighted the need for stronger action against illegal financial channels.

Modern technology has created new challenges in this area. Terrorist groups can try to move money through informal networks, digital systems, illegal businesses, and other methods that may be difficult to identify.

For this reason, Pakistan believes countries need stronger financial monitoring and better coordination between financial institutions and law enforcement agencies.

International organisations also need to ensure that countries have the tools and knowledge required to identify suspicious financial activity.

Technology Has Created New Risks

Technology has brought major benefits to societies, but it can also be misused by terrorist groups.

The internet allows extremist organisations to spread messages quickly and reach audiences far beyond their traditional areas. Social media can also help them create online communities and influence vulnerable people.

Artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies may create additional challenges in the future. Terrorist groups could potentially use modern digital tools to create propaganda, manipulate information, or improve their communication methods.

This does not mean technology itself is the problem. Rather, the concern is how criminal and extremist groups may misuse it.

Pakistan has therefore stressed the importance of developing international rules and cooperation to prevent terrorists from taking advantage of new technologies.

At the same time, countries need to balance security requirements with people’s legal rights and access to technology.

Online Radicalisation Needs Attention

Another growing concern is online radicalisation.

Young people can be exposed to extremist content through websites, social media platforms, messaging services, and online communities. Extremist groups may use emotional messages, false information, or carefully prepared propaganda to attract new supporters.

Stopping this process requires more than security operations.

Governments, schools, communities, technology companies, and civil society organisations can all play a role in preventing radicalisation. Young people need access to education, employment opportunities, and positive online spaces.

Pakistan has maintained that counter-terrorism policies should also address the factors that can make people vulnerable to extremist messages.

Education and awareness can help people identify false claims and extremist propaganda before they become influenced by it.

Regional Security Concerns

Pakistan’s call also comes against the backdrop of continuing security challenges in the region.

South Asia has faced terrorism and extremism for many years. Pakistan itself has suffered heavily because of terrorist violence. The country has lost thousands of civilians and security personnel in attacks over the years.

Pakistan says its own experience has shown the importance of international cooperation in dealing with terrorist networks.

The country has carried out a number of security operations and strengthened its counter-terrorism institutions. However, Pakistan argues that national efforts need to be supported by international cooperation, especially when terrorist networks operate across borders.

Border management and information sharing are therefore important parts of Pakistan’s approach.

The UN Has an Important Role

Pakistan believes the United Nations has a central role in bringing countries together against terrorism.

The UN provides a platform where countries can discuss security threats, develop common policies, and coordinate their efforts.

However, Pakistan has called for the global counter-terrorism system to become more effective in dealing with new threats.

The international community must make sure that existing systems are not left behind as terrorist groups adopt new methods.

This includes improving cooperation between countries, strengthening international institutions, and supporting states that need technical or financial assistance to improve their counter-terrorism capabilities.

Developing countries may not always have the same resources as richer nations. Pakistan has therefore stressed the importance of capacity building so that countries can better protect themselves against terrorist threats.

Terrorism Cannot Be Linked to a Religion

Pakistan has also consistently maintained that terrorism should not be linked to any religion, race, or nationality.

The country has argued that terrorism is a security and criminal issue rather than something that belongs to a particular faith or community.

This distinction is important because unfairly linking terrorism with a religion or group can increase discrimination and social tensions. It can also create an environment that extremist groups may use to recruit people.

Pakistan has called for a balanced approach that targets terrorist organisations and individuals involved in violence while avoiding unfair treatment of innocent communities.

The international community must also work against hate speech, discrimination, and extremist ideas that can create further divisions.

Addressing the Root Causes

Military and security measures are important, but they cannot solve every aspect of terrorism.

Pakistan has also highlighted the need to address the conditions that can help extremist groups gain support. Poverty, lack of education, unemployment, political instability, and weak institutions can create difficult environments where extremist groups may attempt to expand their influence.

This does not mean that poverty automatically leads to terrorism. However, weak social and economic conditions can make communities more vulnerable to criminal and extremist networks.

Countries therefore need wider policies that support economic development, education, employment, and social stability.

The international community can assist countries by providing technical support, development opportunities, and training.

Protecting Civilian Rights

Pakistan’s call for stronger counter-terrorism measures also comes with the need to protect fundamental rights.

Security measures must be effective, but they should also respect international law. Governments need to ensure that counter-terrorism policies do not unfairly target innocent people.

Protecting civilians is especially important because terrorism itself causes serious harm to ordinary people. At the same time, excessive or poorly designed security measures can create further frustration and mistrust.

A successful counter-terrorism strategy should therefore maintain a balance between national security and the protection of people’s legal rights.

Closing Gaps in the Global System

The main message from Pakistan is that gaps in the international counter-terrorism system must be addressed before terrorist groups can take advantage of them.

These gaps can exist in several areas, including financial monitoring, border controls, information sharing, online activity, law enforcement, and international legal cooperation.

Terrorist groups do not follow national borders, but security systems often do. This creates opportunities for criminals and extremists to move between jurisdictions or use differences in national laws to avoid detection.

Closing these gaps requires countries to trust one another and share information in a timely manner.

It also requires stronger international standards and better implementation of existing agreements.

A Need for a Long-Term Strategy

Pakistan’s appeal to the UN highlights the need for a long-term approach to terrorism.

Terrorist threats can change quickly. A group that operates mainly through physical networks today may use online systems tomorrow. New technologies can create opportunities for terrorists while also giving governments new tools to stop them.

This means counter-terrorism strategies cannot remain fixed.

Countries need to regularly review their policies, train security officials, improve technology, and strengthen cooperation with international partners.

The private sector also has an important role, particularly technology companies and financial institutions. These organisations can help identify suspicious activity and prevent their systems from being misused.

Pakistan’s Message to the International Community

Pakistan’s latest position reflects its broader call for stronger international cooperation against terrorism.

Islamabad wants the United Nations and its member states to recognise that the threat is evolving and that old approaches may not always be enough.

The fight against terrorism now involves much more than preventing physical attacks. It includes stopping terrorist financing, controlling extremist propaganda, dealing with online recruitment, protecting borders, sharing intelligence, and preventing the misuse of new technologies.

Pakistan has urged countries to work together instead of responding to terrorism only after an attack has taken place.

A stronger preventive approach could help identify threats earlier and reduce the ability of terrorist organisations to expand.

Conclusion

Pakistan’s call at the United Nations highlights a major challenge facing the international community: terrorism is changing, and counter-terrorism systems must change with it.

Modern terrorist groups can use technology, online platforms, illegal financial networks, and cross-border connections to support their activities. These developments have created gaps that individual countries cannot always close on their own.

Pakistan believes the UN can play a key role in helping countries work together, improve information sharing, stop terrorist financing, strengthen border security, and respond to new technological threats.

At the same time, the fight against terrorism must protect civilian rights and avoid unfairly blaming entire communities for the actions of extremist groups.

A successful global strategy will require security measures, international cooperation, education, economic opportunities, and efforts to reduce the conditions that allow extremist networks to grow.

As terrorist threats continue to evolve, Pakistan’s message is clear: the international community must act together, close existing gaps, and prepare for new forms of terrorism before they become even more difficult to control.

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Salaried Class Pays 225% More Tax Than Property Sector in First Two Months of FY27

Usman Yaqoob
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0
Salaried Class Pays 225% More Tax Than Property Sector in First Two Months of FY27

Pakistan’s salaried workers have once again emerged as one of the biggest contributors to the country’s income tax collection. During the first two months of the ongoing fiscal year 2026-27, salaried individuals paid Rs. 91 billion in income tax.

This amount was 225 percent higher than the Rs. 28 billion collected from the real estate sector during the same period, according to tax officials and data from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).

The figures cover July and August 2026 and highlight a major difference in tax contributions between people earning regular salaries and the property sector. While salaried taxpayers continued to provide a large share of tax revenue, collections from real estate dropped sharply compared with the same period last year.

The difference has become even more noticeable after the government reduced advance taxes on property transactions in the latest federal budget. At the same time, salaried taxpayers also received some tax relief, but their overall contribution remained far higher.

Salaried Tax Collection Rises 7.5 Percent

According to the available FBR data, income tax collected from salaried individuals increased by Rs. 6.3 billion during July and August 2026.

The collection reached Rs. 91 billion compared with Rs. 84.7 billion recorded during the same two months of the previous fiscal year. This represents an increase of around 7.5 percent.

The increase shows that salaried workers are still making a strong contribution to government revenues despite changes in tax rates. Their taxes are generally deducted directly from salaries, making collection more regular and easier for the authorities to track.

For many employees, this means tax is taken from their income before they receive their monthly salary. As a result, the government can collect a large portion of this tax without relying on individuals to make separate payments.

Property Sector Tax Collection Falls Sharply

The situation was quite different in the property sector.

Income tax collection from real estate fell to Rs. 28 billion during the first two months of FY27. In the same period last year, the sector had contributed Rs. 39.4 billion.

This means the government collected around Rs. 11.2 billion less from the property sector, representing a decline of about 28 percent.

The fall in property-related tax collection came after major changes were introduced in the tax rates on property transactions.

The government lowered advance tax rates on property sales and purchases by around half. The rate on property sales was reduced from 5.5 percent to 2.75 percent, while the rate on property purchases was brought down from 2.5 percent to 1.25 percent.

These changes were introduced to encourage activity in the real estate and construction markets. However, one immediate result has been a lower amount of tax collected from property transactions.

Property Sales Generate Less Tax

The impact of the lower tax rates can be seen clearly in the figures for property sales.

Advance income tax collected from property sales fell to Rs. 18.4 billion in July and August 2026. During the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year, the collection stood at Rs. 27 billion.

This represents a decline of Rs. 8.6 billion, or around 32 percent.

The reduction shows how changes in tax rates can quickly affect government revenue. Even when property transactions continue to take place, a lower tax rate means the government receives less money from each transaction.

The government introduced these changes as part of wider efforts to support construction and property-related activity. The real estate sector has repeatedly called for lower taxes, arguing that high transaction costs can discourage buyers and investors.

Tax on Property Purchases Also Drops

Tax collection from property purchases also recorded a noticeable decline.

The government collected Rs. 9.7 billion in advance tax from property purchases during the first two months of FY27. This was down from Rs. 12.4 billion collected during the same period last year.

The decrease was Rs. 2.7 billion, equal to roughly 22 percent.

Together, the lower collections from property purchases and sales explain a large part of the fall in overall real estate tax revenue.

As a result, the difference between the taxes paid by salaried workers and the property sector became much wider.

Salaried People Still Paid More Despite Tax Relief

Another important point is that salaried taxpayers also received relief under the FY27 budget.

The government provided around Rs. 52 billion in tax relief to salaried individuals. Income tax rates were reduced by up to 3 percentage points for different income groups.

The government also removed the 9 percent surcharge linked to the highest tax rate. In addition, the annual income level at which the 35 percent tax rate applies was increased from Rs. 4.1 million to Rs. 7 million.

These changes were aimed at reducing the tax burden on employees, especially middle- and higher-income salaried people.

Even after these measures, however, salaried individuals continued to pay much more than the property sector.

This is an important feature of Pakistan’s tax system because salaried employees are among the easiest taxpayers for the government to identify and collect taxes from.

The Difference Is Also Large With Retailers and Wholesalers

The gap is not limited to the property sector.

Retailers and wholesalers together paid around Rs. 12 billion in withholding taxes during the first two months of FY27. Their combined contribution declined by Rs. 440 million, or around 3.5 percent, compared with the same period last year.

By comparison, salaried individuals paid Rs. 91 billion.

This means the salaried class contributed Rs. 79 billion more than retailers and wholesalers during the period. The difference was around 658 percent.

The figures once again raise questions about how evenly the tax burden is spread across different parts of the economy.

Employees with documented incomes are often easier to tax because their salaries are recorded and taxes can be deducted at source. Other sectors, especially those where transactions are less documented, can be harder to bring fully into the tax net.

A Bigger Tax Collection Challenge for FBR

The latest figures come at a time when the FBR itself is facing challenges in meeting its collection targets.

The tax authority reportedly missed its August revenue target by Rs. 27 billion. Tax collection during the month showed almost no growth, adding to concerns about the government’s ability to achieve its overall revenue goals.

A strong tax collection system is important for Pakistan because the government needs revenue to meet spending requirements, repay debt, support public services and manage its wider economic needs.

When collection from major sectors falls below expectations, the pressure can increase on those parts of the economy where taxes are already being collected effectively.

This is one reason the growing gap between salaried taxpayers and other sectors has attracted attention.

Pakistan Wants to Improve Tax Enforcement

The government has been taking several steps to improve tax collection. These include greater use of digital systems, stronger monitoring of businesses, faceless tax processes and more enforcement measures.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently told industrialists that the government had recovered Rs. 800 billion through enforcement during the previous fiscal year without introducing new taxes. The reported claim has not been independently verified.

The FBR collected Rs. 13.01 trillion during FY26, which was Rs. 1.26 trillion, or around 11 percent, higher than the previous year.

The increase was broadly in line with nominal GDP growth of 10.8 percent. However, the tax-to-GDP ratio remained unchanged at around 10.3 percent.

These numbers suggest that although tax collection has increased in rupee terms, the country still has room to bring more economic activity into the formal tax system.

What the Figures Mean for Salaried Workers

For salaried employees, the latest figures may once again raise concerns about fairness.

Many workers already feel that a large share of their income goes toward taxes and other deductions. Since income tax is normally collected directly through payroll, employees have limited ability to delay or avoid payment.

The latest data does not mean that salaried taxpayers are being taxed more heavily than every other group on an individual basis. Instead, it shows that the overall amount collected from salaried income was much higher than the amount collected from the property sector during the first two months of FY27.

It is also important to remember that the property sector received a significant reduction in transaction tax rates, which directly affected the amount collected.

Therefore, the 225 percent gap should be viewed in the context of tax policy changes rather than as proof that all property owners or investors pay less tax than every salaried person.

Government Faces Pressure to Balance Growth and Revenue

The government now faces the difficult task of balancing tax collection with economic growth.

Lower property taxes may help attract buyers, sellers and investors back into the market. They could also support construction activity, which is connected to many other industries, including cement, steel, paint, furniture and financial services.

At the same time, reducing tax rates naturally creates a risk of lower short-term government revenue.

For salaried taxpayers, further relief could help increase disposable income and support household spending. However, the government also needs enough revenue to meet its financial obligations.

The challenge is therefore to expand the tax base instead of depending too heavily on a limited group of taxpayers.

Need for a Wider and Fairer Tax Base

The latest numbers once again highlight the need for Pakistan to expand its tax net.

A tax system that depends heavily on documented salaried income can create a sense of unfairness among employees, especially when other large sectors contribute much less.

The long-term solution is not simply to increase taxes on salaried workers. Instead, more businesses, professionals, traders, property transactions and other income sources need to be properly documented and brought into the formal tax system.

Better documentation can help the government collect revenue from a wider group without placing excessive pressure on people who are already paying taxes regularly.

At the same time, consistent tax rules and reasonable rates can encourage more people and businesses to operate legally rather than remain outside the formal system.

What Comes Next

The first two months of FY27 have provided an early picture of Pakistan’s tax situation for the new fiscal year.

Salaried individuals contributed Rs. 91 billion, up 7.5 percent from the previous year. Meanwhile, the property sector contributed Rs. 28 billion, down around 28 percent.

The result is a striking difference: the salaried class paid 225 percent more income tax than the real estate sector during July and August 2026.

With the government working to improve collection through digital reforms and stronger enforcement, the coming months will show whether other sectors begin contributing more.

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High-Sugar and High-Caffeine Drinks Face New Restrictions in Islamabad

Usman Yaqoob
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High-Sugar and High-Caffeine Drinks Face New Restrictions in Islamabad

The authorities in Islamabad are moving towards tighter controls on drinks that contain high amounts of sugar and caffeine. The new restrictions are aimed at protecting public health, especially children and young people who are increasingly consuming energy drinks, soft drinks, and other products with high sugar or caffeine levels.

The move comes as concerns grow over the health effects linked with the regular consumption of such beverages. Health experts have repeatedly warned that drinking large amounts of sugary and highly caffeinated products can lead to several health problems, particularly when they become part of a person’s daily routine.

The latest steps in Islamabad are expected to bring greater attention to what is being sold, how these products are promoted, and who is being targeted by their advertising.

Why Are Authorities Concerned?

Sugary drinks have become common in Pakistan. They are easily available at shops, restaurants, schools, offices, shopping centres, and other public places. Many people consume them regularly without paying much attention to the amount of sugar they contain.

Soft drinks, energy drinks, flavoured beverages, and some packaged drinks can contain large quantities of added sugar. Regular consumption can increase a person’s overall sugar intake and may contribute to weight gain and other health concerns.

The issue is even more important when it comes to children and teenagers. Young consumers can be attracted to colourful packaging, advertisements, sports sponsorships, and social media campaigns promoting energy drinks and other sweet beverages.

At the same time, drinks with high levels of caffeine can create separate health concerns. Caffeine is a stimulant that can make people feel more active and alert for a short period. However, consuming too much caffeine can affect sleep, increase restlessness, and cause other unwanted effects.

For young people, excessive caffeine intake can be particularly concerning because their bodies may respond differently to high amounts of the stimulant.

Focus on Children’s Health

One of the main reasons behind the restrictions is the need to protect children from products that may have negative effects on their health.

Children often do not fully understand how much sugar or caffeine they are consuming. A drink may look like an ordinary soft drink or a refreshing beverage, but its ingredients can make a significant difference.

Health officials and experts believe that children should not be encouraged to consume products that contain very high levels of sugar or caffeine. Schools and other places where children spend a large part of their day are therefore expected to receive special attention under efforts to improve public health.

Parents are also being encouraged to check labels before purchasing packaged drinks for their children. Looking at the amount of sugar and caffeine can help families make better choices.

High Sugar Intake Can Create Problems

Sugar itself is not always harmful when consumed in reasonable amounts. The concern arises when people regularly consume more added sugar than their bodies need.

Sugary drinks can make it easy to consume a large amount of sugar without feeling full. Unlike a complete meal, a sweet drink may provide little nutritional value while adding a significant number of calories to a person’s daily intake.

Over time, excessive consumption can contribute to weight gain. It can also increase the risk of dental problems and other health issues.

For this reason, health campaigns around the world often encourage people to reduce their intake of sugary beverages and replace them with healthier options such as water or drinks with little or no added sugar.

The authorities’ latest action in Islamabad reflects growing awareness that reducing unnecessary sugar consumption is an important part of improving public health.

Concerns Over Caffeine

Caffeine is another major part of the discussion.

Energy drinks and some other beverages can contain significant amounts of caffeine. These products are often promoted as a way to increase energy, improve focus, or help people stay active.

However, consuming too much caffeine can have unwanted effects. Some people may experience difficulty sleeping, nervousness, restlessness, or a fast heartbeat after taking large amounts.

The problem can become more serious when people consume several caffeinated drinks during the same day or combine energy drinks with other sources of caffeine.

Young people may also consume these products without understanding their caffeine content. This has increased calls for stronger controls over the marketing and sale of high-caffeine beverages.

Advertising Could Face Greater Attention

Restrictions on high-sugar and high-caffeine drinks are not only about the products themselves. The way these drinks are promoted can also influence consumer behaviour.

Companies spend large amounts of money on advertising to make their products attractive to consumers. Energy drinks, in particular, are sometimes connected with sports, entertainment, adventure, gaming, and an active lifestyle.

Such marketing can make the products look harmless or even beneficial. Young consumers may be especially influenced by these messages.

Authorities are therefore looking at ways to limit the promotion of products that could pose health risks when consumed excessively.

The purpose is not necessarily to stop people from consuming every type of soft drink or caffeinated beverage. Instead, the focus is on reducing excessive consumption and preventing vulnerable groups, especially children, from being strongly targeted.

Islamabad as a Focus Area

Islamabad is one of the country’s major urban centres and has a large population of students, office workers, families, and young people.

The city also has a wide range of schools, colleges, universities, restaurants, shopping centres, and retail outlets. This makes it an important place for implementing public health measures.

Any restrictions introduced in the capital could also provide a model for similar steps in other parts of Pakistan.

If the measures prove effective, authorities in other cities may consider adopting comparable rules to control the sale and promotion of high-sugar and high-caffeine beverages.

Schools May Play an Important Role

Schools can play a major part in reducing children’s exposure to unhealthy drinks.

Students spend many hours in educational institutions, and drinks sold inside or around school premises can influence their daily habits.

Health experts generally believe that schools should encourage healthy eating and drinking habits. Easy access to water and healthier beverages can help children make better choices.

If sugary or highly caffeinated drinks are easily available at school canteens, students may consume them regularly. Limiting their availability could therefore help reduce consumption.

Schools can also educate students about nutrition. Simple lessons about sugar, caffeine, hydration, and healthy food choices can help children understand why moderation is important.

Parents Also Have a Key Role

Government restrictions alone cannot solve the problem. Parents and families also have an important role in shaping children’s eating and drinking habits.

Parents can check the labels of packaged drinks and compare the amount of sugar and caffeine in different products. They can also encourage children to drink more water and reduce their dependence on sweet beverages.

It is also useful for parents to talk to children about advertising. Young people should understand that advertisements are designed to sell products and may not always present the full picture about their health effects.

Simple changes at home can make a difference. If healthier drinks are easily available, children may be less likely to choose sugary alternatives.

Need for Public Awareness

Restrictions are more likely to succeed when people understand why they are being introduced.

If consumers only see new rules without receiving proper information, they may not understand the health reasons behind them. Public awareness campaigns can therefore play an important role.

Authorities can use television, newspapers, social media, schools, hospitals, and other platforms to explain the risks linked with excessive sugar and caffeine consumption.

The message should be simple: people should know what they are consuming and avoid making high-sugar or high-caffeine drinks a regular part of their diet.

Awareness is particularly important in a country where many consumers may not carefully read nutritional information on product labels.

Food Labels Can Help Consumers

Clear product labels are another important part of the issue.

Consumers need to know how much sugar and caffeine a drink contains before deciding whether to purchase it. If information is difficult to understand or is not clearly displayed, people may find it difficult to make informed choices.

Better labelling can help consumers compare products. It can also encourage manufacturers to reduce the amount of sugar or caffeine in their beverages.

When customers begin choosing products with lower sugar and caffeine levels, companies may have a greater reason to offer healthier options.

Impact on Beverage Companies

The new restrictions could also affect beverage manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and businesses that sell these products.

Companies may need to review their marketing strategies and product ranges if new rules place limits on the sale or promotion of certain drinks.

Manufacturers could also face greater pressure to reduce sugar and caffeine levels in their products.

For the industry, this could mean increased focus on low-sugar, sugar-free, or lower-caffeine alternatives. Such products are already becoming more common in international markets as consumers become more health conscious.

At the same time, businesses are likely to seek clarity from authorities about the exact requirements they must follow.

A Wider Public Health Issue

The debate over sugary and caffeinated drinks is part of a larger discussion about lifestyle and public health.

Modern urban life has changed eating and drinking habits. People often have access to processed foods and packaged beverages throughout the day.

Busy lifestyles can also encourage people to choose convenient drinks instead of healthier options. Young people may turn to energy drinks to stay awake while studying, working, gaming, or using digital devices late at night.

Reducing the consumption of unhealthy drinks is therefore only one part of a larger effort to promote healthier lifestyles.

Regular physical activity, balanced meals, proper sleep, and adequate water intake are also important for good health.

What Consumers Should Do

Consumers do not have to wait for new rules to make healthier choices.

People can start by reducing the number of sugary drinks they consume each week. Drinking water more often is one of the simplest steps.

Consumers should also check product labels and avoid drinks with very high levels of added sugar. Those who are sensitive to caffeine should pay attention to the caffeine content of energy drinks, soft drinks, coffee-based beverages, and other products.

For children, parents should be especially careful about energy drinks and other beverages containing high levels of caffeine.

Moderation is important. A healthier diet does not necessarily mean completely removing every enjoyable drink from one’s life. The main goal is to prevent excessive consumption from becoming a daily habit.

What Could Happen Next?

The latest restrictions in Islamabad could lead to further discussions about how sugary and highly caffeinated drinks are sold and promoted across the country.

Authorities may review existing rules and consider additional measures if health concerns continue to grow.

The effectiveness of the restrictions will depend on proper enforcement. Clear rules, regular monitoring, cooperation from businesses, and public awareness will all be necessary.

If the measures are properly implemented, they could help reduce children’s exposure to high-sugar and high-caffeine products and encourage healthier choices among the wider population.

The move also sends a wider message that public health needs to be considered when regulating food and beverages.

Conclusion

The decision to introduce tighter restrictions on high-sugar and high-caffeine drinks in Islamabad highlights growing concerns about the impact of these products on public health.

The main focus is on reducing excessive consumption and protecting children and young people from products that may be harmful when consumed regularly or in large amounts.

Sugary drinks can add a large amount of sugar to a person’s daily diet, while high-caffeine beverages can affect sleep and cause other problems when consumed in excess. For young consumers, these concerns deserve particular attention.

Government action can help, but lasting change will require support from parents, schools, businesses, and consumers.

Better awareness, clearer labels, healthier choices, and responsible marketing can all contribute to the same goal: helping people make better decisions about what they drink.

The new measures in Islamabad could become an important step in that direction. If successfully enforced, they may not only change the way high-sugar and high-caffeine beverages are marketed and sold in the capital but could also encourage similar public health efforts across Pakistan.

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A Nation Cannot Move Forward While Looking Backward

Usman Yaqoob
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A Nation Cannot Move Forward While Looking Backward

A country cannot build a better future if it remains trapped in the problems, failures, and disputes of the past. History is important because it teaches nations valuable lessons, but constantly looking backward can stop progress. A nation that wants to move ahead must learn from its past, correct its mistakes, and then focus its energy on the future.

Pakistan, like many other countries, has a long and complex history. The country has faced political changes, economic difficulties, security challenges, social problems, and periods of instability. These experiences have shaped the nation and continue to influence public thinking. However, remembering history should not mean remaining stuck in it.

The real challenge is to understand the past without allowing it to control the future.

Learning From History Without Living in It

There is nothing wrong with remembering the past. In fact, nations need history. It helps people understand how their country was created, what challenges it faced, and what mistakes were made along the way. History can also remind citizens of the sacrifices made by earlier generations.

The problem begins when history becomes a reason to avoid dealing with today’s problems.

A country cannot solve unemployment by repeatedly discussing old political conflicts. It cannot improve education by spending all its energy on past arguments. It cannot strengthen its economy by blaming previous governments forever. At some point, leaders and citizens have to stop looking for excuses and start looking for solutions.

Learning from history means asking simple questions: What went wrong? Why did it happen? What can we do differently now?

These questions are much more useful than simply repeating old debates.

The Cost of Staying Stuck in the Past

When a society remains focused on old disputes, it loses valuable time. Political parties may continue fighting over events that happened years or even decades ago. Institutions may remain busy defending past decisions instead of preparing for future challenges. Ordinary people can also become divided because of historical disagreements.

This kind of environment makes it difficult to create a shared national direction.

Every country has disagreements. Every society has difficult periods in its history. Successful nations do not ignore these problems, but they find ways to move beyond them. They understand that the future cannot be sacrificed because of endless arguments about the past.

Pakistan needs the same approach.

The country faces major challenges today. These include inflation, unemployment, population growth, energy problems, weak public services, climate change, education gaps, and pressure on the economy. These issues require attention, planning, investment, and cooperation.

They cannot be solved by repeatedly reopening old battles.

Pakistan Needs a Future-Focused Approach

Pakistan has a young population, and this can become one of its biggest strengths. Millions of young people enter the job market every year. They need quality education, technical skills, modern training, and decent employment opportunities.

Young Pakistanis are not only interested in the political debates of the past. They want to know what their future will look like.

They want better jobs. They want reliable internet. They want good schools and universities. They want safe cities, affordable housing, better healthcare, and a stable economy. Many also want opportunities to work online, start businesses, learn new skills, and compete in international markets.

A future-focused Pakistan must respond to these needs.

Instead of asking only who was responsible for yesterday’s problems, the country must also ask who will create tomorrow’s opportunities.

Economic Progress Must Be a Priority

No nation can move forward without a strong economy. Economic stability affects almost every part of daily life. When the economy is weak, businesses struggle, jobs become harder to find, prices rise, and families face greater financial pressure.

Pakistan has enormous economic potential, but that potential needs the right direction.

The country has a large consumer market, a young workforce, agricultural resources, a growing technology sector, and an important geographical location. Pakistani workers and businesses also have opportunities in global markets.

However, potential alone is not enough.

The country needs long-term economic policies that do not change with every political shift. Investors need confidence. Businesses need clear rules. Exporters need support. Small businesses need easier access to finance. Young people need skills that match the requirements of the modern economy.

Economic planning should not be limited to one government or one election cycle. It should be treated as a national goal.

Education Can Change the Future

One of the strongest ways to move forward is through education.

A nation that invests in its children and young people invests in its future. Schools should not only teach students how to pass exams. They should prepare them for real life.

Students need strong skills in science, technology, mathematics, communication, and problem-solving. They should also learn about business, digital tools, financial management, and modern careers.

Pakistan also needs to improve technical and vocational education. Not every student needs to follow the same academic path. Some may become engineers, doctors, teachers, or researchers, while others may become electricians, technicians, designers, developers, mechanics, or entrepreneurs.

All useful skills deserve respect.

A modern education system can help Pakistan reduce unemployment and create a workforce that can compete with people from other countries.

Technology Is Changing the World

The world is moving rapidly toward a digital economy. Artificial intelligence, cloud computing, digital payments, online education, e-commerce, robotics, and other technologies are changing the way people work and do business.

Pakistan cannot afford to stand outside this change.

The country has already produced talented software developers, freelancers, entrepreneurs, engineers, and technology professionals. Pakistani young people are using digital platforms to earn money and connect with customers around the world.

This opportunity needs greater support.

Better internet access, digital education, technology parks, startup support, and modern training can help create thousands of new opportunities. Instead of seeing technology only as entertainment, Pakistan should treat it as an important part of its economic future.

The countries that understand this change early will have an advantage.

Political Stability Matters

Political disagreement is a normal part of democracy. Different parties can have different ideas about how a country should be governed. Healthy debate can actually improve decision-making.

However, constant political conflict can damage national progress.

When governments and opposition parties spend most of their time fighting, important national issues can be ignored. Policies may change too quickly, development projects can slow down, and investors may become uncertain.

Pakistan needs political competition, but it also needs political maturity.

Political leaders should be able to disagree without making every issue a personal fight. They should also be willing to cooperate when the national interest requires it.

The country needs institutions that continue working regardless of which party is in power.

Young People Must Be Part of the Future

Pakistan’s young population is one of its greatest opportunities. But a large young population can become a challenge if young people do not have education, employment, and hope.

Young people need to feel that they have a future in their own country.

If talented people believe that their only chance for success is to leave Pakistan, the country loses valuable human resources. Providing better opportunities at home can encourage skilled people to stay, build businesses, create jobs, and contribute to national development.

The government, private sector, educational institutions, and society all have a role to play.

Young people should also be encouraged to take responsibility. They should not wait for governments to solve every problem. Starting small businesses, learning useful skills, volunteering, supporting communities, and using technology positively can all make a difference.

National Unity Is More Important Than Division

A country cannot make progress when its people are constantly divided.

Political, regional, ethnic, social, and economic differences can create distance between citizens. These differences should not become reasons for hatred or permanent conflict.

Pakistan needs a stronger sense of shared national purpose.

People may have different political opinions, languages, traditions, and lifestyles, but they can still work toward common goals. Better education, stronger institutions, economic growth, peace, and improved public services benefit everyone.

National unity does not mean that everyone must think alike. It means that people can disagree while still accepting that they belong to the same country and share responsibility for its future.

Stop Passing Problems From One Generation to Another

One of the biggest dangers of constantly looking backward is that problems are passed from one generation to the next.

A generation inherits economic problems, weak systems, poor infrastructure, political disputes, and social challenges. Instead of solving them, it sometimes passes them to the next generation.

This cycle needs to end.

Today’s leaders must make decisions that improve the lives of people who will live in Pakistan 10, 20, or 30 years from now. Decisions about water, energy, education, cities, technology, environment, and the economy should be made with the future in mind.

Short-term political gains should not always come before long-term national interests.

The World Is Moving Fast

Pakistan is not competing only with itself. The world is changing quickly.

Countries are investing heavily in technology, education, infrastructure, clean energy, artificial intelligence, manufacturing, and digital services. Global competition is becoming stronger every year.

If Pakistan spends too much time fighting old battles, other countries will move ahead.

This does not mean the country should forget its history or ignore past mistakes. Instead, history should become a guide.

The past should be a teacher, not a prison.

A New Mindset Is Needed

Moving forward requires a change in mindset.

People need to believe that problems can be solved. Leaders need to think beyond the next election. Institutions need to focus on performance. Businesses need to invest in innovation. Educational institutions need to prepare students for future careers.

Citizens also need to understand that national progress is not the responsibility of the government alone.

Keeping streets clean, following laws, paying taxes honestly, respecting others, protecting public property, supporting education, and rejecting violence are also forms of national service.

Small actions can create large changes when millions of people take them seriously.

The Future Is Still in Our Hands

Pakistan’s past cannot be changed. Mistakes that have already happened cannot be undone. But the future has not yet been written.

That is why the country must focus on what can still be changed.

The nation can improve its education system. It can create better jobs. It can support businesses. It can invest in technology. It can strengthen institutions. It can improve public services. It can build stronger cities and protect the environment.

None of these goals will be achieved overnight. Progress takes time, patience, consistency, and serious effort.

But progress is possible when a country has a clear direction.

A nation does not become successful by pretending that its past never happened. It becomes successful by understanding its history, learning from its mistakes, and refusing to repeat them.

Pakistan has faced many difficult periods, but its story does not have to end with those difficulties.

The country has people with talent, energy, ideas, and ambition. It has young people who are ready to learn and work. It has businesses that want to grow and compete. It has professionals working in different parts of the world who can contribute to national development.

What is needed is a shared focus on the future.

Looking backward can tell us where we came from. It can explain why some problems exist and remind us of lessons that should never be forgotten. But it cannot tell us everything about where we should go next.

For that, we need vision, courage, planning, and action.

A nation cannot move forward while constantly looking backward. The past deserves respect, but the future deserves our attention.

Pakistan’s next chapter should not be written only by the events of yesterday. It should be shaped by the choices made today.

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