President Asif Ali Zardari has urged the nation to follow Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s principles of “unity, faith and discipline” emphasising their significance as a beacon for the country’s development. “I am sure that by acting upon his (Quaid-e-Azam) teachings and advice, we can make Pakistan strong and prosperous,” the president said in his message to the nation on the occasion of the 76th death anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah annually observed on September 11. Paying tribute to Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the president said that the Pakistani nation was indebted to him for his efforts and contribution to the creation of a separate homeland for the Muslims of the sub-continent where they could live with dignity and exercise their political, cultural, and religious rights. Calling him a visionary leader, who united the Muslims of India under one banner, the president said the whole nation was proud of Quaid-e-Azam’s untiring struggle and unwavering commitment to the right to self-determination that shaped the destiny of millions of Muslims. “Quaid-e-Azam’s vision for Pakistan was fundamentally democratic as he firmly believed in a state where all citizens, irrespective of religion, would be equal before the law. Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s struggle not only laid the foundation of Pakistan’s democratic system but continues to influence our aspirations for parliamentary democracy and communal harmony,” he remarked. President Zardari said that Quaid-e-Azam successfully steered Indian Muslims through the complex political landscape of India while maintaining an unyielding stance on the rights of Muslims. He said that Jinnah had envisioned a Pakistan based on Islamic principles of democracy and socio-economic justice. “It was due to his sheer will, hard work and successful advocacy of the cause of Muslims that the partition of India became a reality. On this day, we not only honour his efforts but also recommit ourselves to the values and ideals that he championed,” the president added.

President Asif Ali Zardari on Monday strongly condemned the incident of firing targeting a police mobile van in Panjgur, which led to the killing of Sub-inspector Shakeel Ahmed. The president paid tribute to the martyred sub-inspector, praying for peace for the departed soul and strength for the bereaved family to bear the loss, according to a President House press release. He also paid homage to Sub-inspector Shakeel for his sacrifice and commitment to duty.

Senator Rubina Khalid, Chairperson of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), conducted a live E-Katcheri session today at BISP Headquarters. During the session, Senator Rubina Khalid directly interacted with beneficiaries via BISP’s official Facebook account, listening to their concerns and issuing immediate directives for the resolution of their complaints.

Over the course of the one-hour live session, 34 people from across the country called in. The callers asked questions related to their enrollment in the Benazir Income Support Programme, eligibility criteria, and stipend information for the Benazir Kafaalat, Taleemi Wazaif, and Nashonuma programmes. Senator Rubina Khalid addressed their queries in real time and instructed officers to resolve the issues on an urgent basis.

The Chairperson informed the callers that if, for any reason, a deserving woman is unable to withdraw her stipend on time, the amount is added to her next installment, which she can receive as a lump sum. Senator Rubina Khalid further explained that payments are currently being made under a new banking model to ensure the distribution of funds to deserving women in a dignified and transparent manner.

We celebrate the transformative power of education and literacy, the pillars of our nation’s future, on this International Literacy Day. This year’s theme, “Promoting Multilingual Education: Literacy for Mutual Understanding and Peace,” underscores the critical role of literacy in fostering unity, cultural appreciation, and peaceful coexistence. As per Article 25A of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, education is a fundamental human right and “the State shall provide free and compulsory education to all children of the age of five to sixteen years”. Today, we renew our commitment to making education accessible to all, regardless of circumstances.

Recognizing the urgent challenge of illiteracy, Pakistan has declared a National Educational Emergency, aiming to enrol out-of-school children and educate 70 million adults. Under the Prime Minister’s Roshan Pakistan Literacy Drive, the National Commission for Human Development (NCHD) launched the “Each One Teach One” (EOTO) Program, which calls on every literate citizen to teach at least one illiterate person. 

In order to enhance literacy, the government is providing Conditional Cash Transfers up to the higher secondary level through Benazir Taleemi Wazaif for educating underprivileged children. Stipends up to Rs 4000 for boys and Rs 4500 for girls per quarter are being offered in all districts of Pakistan. Currently, 9.7 million children are enrolled under the programme. Furthermore, 102,000 scholarships have been given to students from low-income families to ensure that all qualified students have access to undergraduate education.

On this International Literacy Day, we need to recommit ourselves to the national cause of promoting the universal right to education. Together, we can ensure that every Pakistani has the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to a more educated, inclusive, and prosperous nation. Each of us has a vital role in shaping the future of our beloved country. May our collective efforts bring about lasting peace, mutual understanding, and a brighter future for all.

President Asif Ali Zardari on Saturday paid tribute to the security forces for a successful operation against Khawarij and foiled a terrorist attack on FC Headquarters in Mohmand. “Our security forces successfully eliminated all the four Khawarij involved in the attack,” the president said in a statement issued by the President’s House. He commended the security forces for eliminating all four terrorists involved in the attack. President Zardari praised the security forces’ effective and courageous action against the terrorists, saying that the entire nation was proud of its brave soldiers who were always ready to defend the motherland. He reiterated that terrorists will not be allowed to succeed in their nefarious designs.

The leaders of Pakistan Peoples Party called on Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Thursday at Zardari House, Islamabad. 

Sindh minister for Planning, Development and Energy, Syed Nasir Hussain Shah met Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and apprised him of the measures taken by his ministry for the promotion of solar energy in Sindh. 

The Member of the National Assembly, Mir Ghulam Ali Talpur also had a meeting with Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. They discussed the situation in Badin after the floods. Mr. Talpur informed the Chairman about the difficulties faced by the people due to torrential rain and the government’s efforts for the relief to the people. They also discussed the prevailing political situation in the country.

Former federal minister Naveed Qamar MNA called on Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and discussed political situation in the country. 

PPP leader Arbab Alamgir and the member of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly, Arbab Zarak Khan Khalil also met Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. They discussed the political situation of Peshawar and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Chairperson of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), Senator Rubina Khalid, has stated that BISP is Pakistan’s largest social safety net. Founded by Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and launched by President Asif Ali Zardari in 2008, the programme has played a vital role in giving recognition to the poor women of Pakistan. She emphasized that BISP is the key for economic empowerment of deserving women across the country. Senator Khalid shared these views during a media briefing held at the BISP headquarters.

Addressing misconceptions, Senator Khalid pointed out that there is a negative perception that BISP turns the poor into beggars, whereas similar social security programmes exist worldwide. She stressed that it is the state’s responsibility to support the poor. BISP provides essential financial assistance to deserving individuals to help them meet their basic needs.

Senator Khalid also announced the launch of the Benazir Skill Training Programme, aimed at providing skill development opportunities to deserving women and their family members. Consultations are underway with the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) and the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis to ensure training programs align with international standards and meet the demands of both local and global markets. This initiative is expected to improve the socio-economic conditions of beneficiaries, allowing more families to benefit from BISP.

Furthermore, she highlighted that, on the special directives of the President, Prime Minister, and Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, BISP is prioritizing support for the people of Balochistan. The poverty score threshold for inclusion in education and nutrition programs in the province has been raised from 32 to 60, allowing more families to benefit. A new banking model has also been introduced to address complaints regarding women not receiving the full amount under the Kafaalat programme. Under this model, the country has been divided into 15 clusters, with 6 banks assigned to ensure transparency. Senator Khalid warned that strict action would be taken against anyone found guilty of deducting money or mistreating beneficiaries during fund distribution.

Earlier, Secretary BISP, Amer Ali Ahmad, briefed media representatives about the programme’s initiatives, stating that BISP is currently providing financial support to over 9.3 million families in a dignified manner. Under the Kafaalat programme, Rs. 10,500 is distributed to needy women quarterly. He added that 9.7 million children have been enrolled in schools through the Taleemi Wazaif initiative, and over 2 million mothers and children are benefiting from the Benazir Nashonuma programme.

The BISP Savings Scheme has also been launched, with 150,000 people currently participating in the pilot phase. Under this scheme, BISP will contribute an additional 40% of the savings accumulated by participants on a quarterly basis. To date, more than 7,000 women have been trained under BISP’s Digital and Financial Literacy programme. Additionally, 25 Mobile Registration Vans are currently operating in remote areas of Sindh and Balochistan, with plans to increase their number.

In collaboration with National Telecommunication, BISP has also launched an Integrated Call Center to provide accurate information and quickly address complaints from beneficiaries and the general public. Senator Khalid urged people to only trust messages or phone calls from BISP’s official number, 8171.

Secretary BISP concluded by announcing a comprehensive awareness campaign, supported by the media, to provide authentic information to the public and BISP beneficiaries. Following the briefing, both the Chairperson and Secretary responded to media questions and appreciated suggestions for improving the programme.

Her Excellency Ms. Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, First Lady of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, has reaffirmed her commitment to combating Tuberculosis (TB) in Pakistan and on the global stage. In a high-level meeting with the leadership of the Dopasi Foundation and a delegation of esteemed parliamentarians, led by Dr. Shazia Sobia Aslam Soomro, the discussion centered on addressing Pakistan’s TB burden and identifying solutions for closing persistent gaps in TB care, especially for underprivileged communities.

The delegation from the Dopasi Foundation, led by CEO Ms. Kinz-ul-Eman, included key figures such as Dr. Usman Rasool Lodhi, Program Manager; Dr. Tilal Asif, Director of Programs; Ms. Mishaal Javed, Manager of Communications; along with Dr. Syed Karam Shah, Senior Technical Advisor and head of the Stop TB Partnership Pakistan. Parliamentarians in attendance included Dr. Mehreen Bhutto, Ms. Sehar Kamran, Mr. Khursheed Junejo, and Ms. Musarat Rafique—prominent voices in the fight against TB.

The meeting provided an opportunity to reflect on Pakistan’s progress since the United Nations High-Level Meeting on TB in 2023, while exploring new strategies to tackle ongoing challenges in TB notification and treatment.

In a landmark commitment, Ms. Bhutto Zardari announced her role as a champion for TB advocacy, pledging to lead national and international efforts.

“I am proud to lend my voice to the fight against TB. The fight against Tuberculosis is not just a health issue, but a matter of dignity and justice for the millions affected by this preventable disease. Together, we can create a future where no one is left behind, and every individual has access to the care and support they deserve,” said Ms. Bhutto Zardari.

During the meeting, she was briefed on the upcoming Regional Leaders’ Summit 2024 on TB and Climate Change and the TB Survivors Event, where she graciously accepted the role of chair for the Survivors Event. She vowed to advocate for the rights of TB survivors and push for equitable access to quality healthcare across all provinces.

Ms. Bhutto Zardari also praised the work of the End TB Parliamentary Caucus, led by Dr. Shazia Sobia Aslam Soomro, which is hosted by Dopasi Foundation in partnership with the Stop TB Partnership. The initiative promotes cross-provincial collaboration to strengthen TB advocacy. The First Lady urged broader participation from parliamentarians across the country to create a unified and strong response to TB.

Dopasi Foundation, a leading non-profit organization in Pakistan, continues to be at the forefront of TB control and related health interventions. Through its partnerships with the Ministry of Health and global stakeholders, the Foundation is making significant strides toward achieving Pakistan’s TB-related health targets, especially among marginalized populations.

Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari spent a busy day at Zardari House Islamabad on Monday, holding separate meetings with party leaders.

Chief Minister Balochistan, Sarfraz Bugti called on the Chairman PPP and briefed him about the performance of the provincial government and the measures taken to control the terror incidents in Balochisatan. He also informed the Chairman regarding the actions taken to give brief to the victims of torrential rain in the province.

The Secretary General Pakistan Peoples Party Parliamentarians, Syed Nayyar Hussain Bukhari and the incharge Human Rights Committee of the party, Farhatullah Babar also called on the Chairman and discussed political and organizational issues.

The President Pakistan Peoples Party Central Punjab Raja Pervez Ashraf also called on Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and discussed the political situation of Punjab and organizational matters. 

Today, we are observing the third death anniversary of the iconic Kashmiri leader, Syed Ali Shah Geelani. We pay tribute to his heroic struggle for the rights of the oppressed people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). For decades, he was a beacon of hope and resistance, inspiring countless Kashmiris to stand firm in their quest for self-determination. His tireless efforts and sacrifices for the just cause of the Kashmiri people will forever be etched in our hearts and minds.

Syed Ali Shah Geelani was a great leader and his commitment to the right to self-determination for the people of Jammu and Kashmir was unyielding. Despite being subjected to house arrests and incarcerations by the Indian Occupation Forces, he continued to raise his voice for the people of IIOJK. His personal hardships, including years of confinement, could not break his spirit or deter him from his mission.

Geelani Sahib remained focused on the ultimate goal, and never allowed the attention of the Kashmiri people to be diverted from the pursuit of their fundamental right to self-determination. The legacy of Syed Ali Shah Geelani is a powerful driving force that continues to inspire the people of IIOJK. His leadership and unwavering stance against oppression have left a lasting impression on the people of IIOJK.

Today, we reaffirm the resolve to not let the sacrifices of Syed Ali Shah Geelani and countless others go in vain. We will continue to advocate for the realization of the people of IIOJK’s right to self-determination as enshrined in the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions. I assure my Kashmiri brothers and sisters that Pakistan will continue to provide moral, diplomatic, and political support for their just cause.

As we remember Syed Ali Shah Geelani, we must learn from his exemplary courage and unwavering commitment to freedom and justice. May Allah Almighty shower His blessings on Syed Ali Shah Geelani. Ameen!