Fatima Fertilizer adds health pillar to Sarsabz Tabeer, uplifting female farmers’ well-being
As part of its ongoing commitment to empower rural women and female farmers, Fatima Fertilizer, under its flagship Sarsabz Tabeer initiative, has launched a new health-focused intervention in collaboration with Mukhtar A. Sheikh Memorial Welfare Hospital (MASH) and the Government of Punjab.
The first Free Medical Camp under this new health initiative was successfully held on June 26th at THQ Hospital Kehrorpaka, Lodhran, targeting underserved communities where access to quality healthcare remains a challenge. The camp provided free medical consultations and medicines to a total of 400 participants including female farmers, children and their families, with a panel of specialists from various fields, including Gynecology, Pediatrics, Nephrology, Family Medicine, Neurology, and Ophthalmology.
The event was attended by Multan Division Commissioner Amir Kareem Khan, Assistant Commissioner Ashraf Saleh Khan, and Babar Khan Marketing Head, who led the camp on behalf of MASH, along with Noor Malik, Brand Manager at Fatima Fertilizer. The event saw participation from 100 female farmers, reflecting the strong community engagement and institutional support behind the initiative.
“Sarsabz Tabeer is more than a program, it is a movement to uplift and enable the women who form the backbone of our agricultural economy, where female participation stands at a significant 67.9%,” said Rabel Sadozai, Director Marketing and Sales at Fatima Fertilizer. “By adding healthcare to our scope, we’re responding to a critical need because true empowerment is not possible without access to basic health services. This collaboration with MASH and the Government of Punjab marks an important milestone in delivering dignity, care, and opportunity to the women who grow Pakistan.”
Building on the program’s three existing pillars, Education, Skill Development, and Financial Empowerment, Fatima Fertilizer has now introduced Health as a fourth pillar to support the holistic well-being of female farmers across Pakistan.
Fatima Fertilizer launched the Sarsabz Tabeer program to empower female farmers and rural women through vocational training in food processing. Aimed at promoting financial independence, reducing post-harvest losses, and advancing sustainable agriculture, the initiative has trained over 2,000 female farmers and rural women across 15+ cities nationwide, helping them add value to their farm produce and establish home-based agribusinesses. To further amplify its impact, Fatima Fertilizer signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Akhuwat Foundation, providing female farmers with access to financial resources, mentorship, and entrepreneurial support.
The newly launched healthcare pillar further strengthens Sarsabz Tabeer’s vision of enabling long-term socio-economic transformation for rural women. With more camps planned in the coming months, the program continues to play a pivotal role in building healthier, more resilient farming communities.
UK Parliament honours Sir Anwar Pervez’s 90th birthday and his lifelong contributions
On the 19th of June 2025 both current and former members of Parliament came together to celebrate the life of Sir Anwar Pervez, OBE H Pk as part of his 90th Birthday celebrations.
Former ministers Rt Hon Tom Tugendhat MP MBE VR and Rt Hon the Lord Maude thanked Sir Anwar for his considerable contribution to British Society and how he is a living embodiment of everything that is good in British Society.
Rt Hon Sir Brandon Lewis former Lord Chancellor shared with the audience how Sir Anwar and Bestway helped his family’s small business grow and thrive throughout the 1980s – as an example of entrepreneur’s support for independent businesses throughout his career.
Both Lord Maude and Sir Brandon shared their experiences of visits to Pakistan that Sir Anwar had organised for them as Chairs of the Conversative Party.
The High Commissioner for Pakistan to the UK Dr Mohammad Faisal and The Lord Khan of Burnley Minister for Faith, highlighted Sir Anwar’s significant contribution in enhancing bilateral relations between UK and Pakistan.
Lord Choudrey CBE SI Pk who hosted the event touched upon Sir Anwar’s remarkable life story from humble beginnings from a remote village in rural Pakistan to immigrating to the UK aged 21 in 1956.
Sir Anwar worked in various jobs in Bradford, before moving to London and setting up his first retail store in 1963, founding Bestway in 1976.
Under Sir Anwar’s visionary leadership Bestway has grown into a diversified Group, which employs over 47,000 people globally, with leadership positions across the food, pharmaceutical, cement and banking sectors.
Acutely aware of his social responsibilities Sir Anwar set up the Bestway Foundation, which has donated over £44.0 million to charitable causes focused on social mobility as a theme that is very personal to him.
2025 is an extra special year it marks Bestway Group’s golden jubilee as well as Sir Anwar’s 90th birthday. It is with this in mind the family had commissioned a commemorative book which covers Sir Anwar’s life story for posterity, this was shared with the audience at this exclusive event.
The cross-party event organised at the historic Churchill Room of the House of Commons was also attended by Nigel Huddleston MP Co-Chair of the Conservative Party; Labour Member of Parliament Afzal Khan CBE; Liberal Democrat Peer Lord Qurban Hussain; former Foreign Office Minister Lord Tariq Ahmed; Lord Dolar Popat & Lord Philip Smith amongst others.
Sindh Outdoor Advertisers Association’s newly-elected managing committee takes oath
- Saeed Ghani administers the oath and emphasis the office bearers must uphold outdoor advertising in urban development
The Sindh Outdoor Advertisers Association (SOAA) hosted a grand oath-taking ceremony for the inauguration of its newly elected Managing Committee (2025-2027) at the Marina Banquet, Marina Club Karachi on Friday, July 11, 2024.
The newly-elected managing committee of Sindh Outdoor Advertisers Association of the year 2025-2027 who recently won election includes Shahid Zeb Chairman; Aamir Siddiqui, President; Hafeez ur Rehman, Senior Vice President; Syed Sabir Ali, General Secretary; Syed Faisal Hussain, Vice President; Masood Ali Khan, Joint Secretary: Najeeb Farooqui, Information Secretary; Muhammad Usman, Finance Secretary; Muhammad Zafar, Executive Member; Syed Ammar ul Hassan, Executive Member; Muhammad Jawed, Executive Member.
The Chief Guest, Honorable Saeed Ghani, Provincial Minister of Sindh for Local Government, administered the oath of the elected members and extended his warmest congratulations to the newly-elected office bearers and underscored the pivotal role of outdoor advertising in urban development. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering a fair and progressive regulatory environment.
The newly-inducted committee members took their oath, pledging to uphold the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and collaborative governance. The newly-elected President of SOAA, Mr Aamir Siddiqui, outlined the association’s future priorities and strategic objectives, emphasising innovation, policy advocacy, and effective engagement with civic institutions. He expressed gratitude to the distinguished guests for their presence and ongoing support.
The ceremony was attended by prominent dignitaries from the government, business community, and civil society, including members of the Sindh Assembly and representatives from various government departments.
The event was attended by key figures from government, business, and civil society, including: MPA & Government Spokesperson Ms. Sumeta Afzal Syed, Officials from KW&SC, Police, PDMA, ABAD, KCCI along Chairmen of different TMCs, Ahmed Hussain, CEO of DO Advertising while Khurram Jaffrani, CEO of AdPulse IMC Pvt Limited also attended the ceremony.
The ceremony culminated in a grand dinner, providing a valuable opportunity for industry stakeholders and government representatives to engage in meaningful dialogue and networking. The evening concluded with a dinner reception. SOAA extends its gratitude to all guests, partners, and media representatives for their support.
Artificial Intelligence Seminar sparks dialogue on innovation and ethics at SSGC Hyderabad
Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) Hyderabad organized an inspiring seminar on “Artificial Intelligence in the Corporate Sector and Industries,” highlighting the transformative power of AI in redefining business operations, decision-making and leadership across diverse fields. The thought-provoking event was hosted at SSGC’s Learning and Development Centre (LDC) Hyderabad and was made possible through the collaborative efforts of LDC, Corporate Communication Department (CCD), and other supporting teams, reflecting SSGC’s commitment to foster innovation and knowledge-sharing within organization.
The event began with a warm and thoughtful welcoming note delivered by Mr. Akram Qureshi (Regional Head, Hyderabad), who emphasized the significance of exploring Artificial Intelligence in the corporate sector and highlighted SSGC Hyderabad’s dedication to embracing technological change. His words encouraged participants to actively learn, question and collaborate in understanding AI’s transformative potential for the future of industry and society. Ms. Nida Bhurgri (AE – Services Telecom / Scada), acting as event moderator, opened the seminar with an enthusiastic greeting: “Welcome to the AI Seminar.” She spoke passionately about why AI is more than just a buzzword, it’s a transformative force reshaping industries, careers, and everyday life. Urging attendees to view AI as a tool for innovation and problem-solving, she set the stage for a day of insightful dialogue and learning.
The seminar featured a diverse range of speakers who brought unique perspectives on AI’s role in corporate growth and responsibility. Ms. Mehwish (PhD Scholar, MUET) delivered an insightful talk on “AI for Operational Excellence,” sharing case studies and data directly linked to Real time examples of Corrosion control, maintenance of pipeline and Energy sector tools and demonstrated AI’s role in predictive maintenance, safety monitoring, and demand forecasting in the energy sector. Ms. Rabeea (Assistant Professor, MUET) shared her perspective on “Beyond Boundaries: Exploring AI’s Role in Interdisciplinary Science,” highlighting AI’s power to drive breakthroughs across healthcare, environmental science, and engineering through collaborative data-driven research.
Mr. Umair Jamil (Sr. Lecturer, BSSE&AI, SZABIST Hyderabad) discussed “AI for Workforce Training and Development,” showcasing AI-driven tools that support continuous learning, adaptability, and employee growth in modern workplaces. Dr. Shehram Shah (Associate Professor, MUET) provided a forward-looking perspective in “Future of Work, Automation, Big Data and AI for Worker Management,” exploring the ethical and operational impacts of emerging technologies on workforce dynamics.
Dr. Farman Ali Shah (Ex, Pro VC, MUET) presented “AI in Industries,” illustrating real-world applications of AI in manufacturing, logistics, and energy that drive efficiency and smarter decision-making. He also added that this AI seminar is one of the kinds which connects academia-industry for the future learning of the students to explore the industry’s environment, to work on research projects and to bridge the gap between industry and academia and explore future collaborations.
Mr. Naushad Siddiqui (DGM, IT Audit, SSGC) addressed the crucial topic of “AI Risks and Ethics: Balancing Innovation and Responsibility,” underlining the importance of data privacy, algorithmic fairness, and accountability in AI development. Mr. Jamil-ur-Rehman (Group GM IT, SSGC) opened the technical discussions with “Intro to AI and Corporate Alignment,” exploring the fundamentals of AI and its integration into corporate strategies to foster data-driven decision-making and sustainable growth. Mr. Shahbaz Islam (Group GM, HSEQA/QC and GM&CF) delivered an inspiring session titled “AI as Your Co-Pilot: Navigating the New Frontier of Leadership,” explaining how AI supports leaders through real-time insights and predictive analytics, enabling more agile and informed decision-making.
As the seminar drew to a close, Mr. Asif Ansari (GM, LDC) extended heartfelt appreciation to the entire LDC Hyderabad team for their outstanding dedication and seamless coordination in ensuring the event’s success. He praised their meticulous planning and hard work, which ensured the seminar was not only informative but also professionally organized and engaging for all attendees.
Members of senior management and audience lauded the noteworthy efforts of Mr. Danish Ahmad (Manager LDC Hyderabad for an outstanding job by organizing back-to-back learning events contributing in company’s development and also appreciated him for initiating substantial steps for academic-industry collaboration as his efforts have contributed in providing Hyderabad based employees with essential skills, fostered innovation, and improved overall performance.
The seminar was jointly moderated by Ms. Nida Bhurgri and Mr. Syed Feroz, who exhibited professional conduct and kept the audience engaged through light and jovial commentary, setting an inclusive and energetic tone for the day. Mementoes were presented to the learned speakers for enlightening SSGC employees. The event served as a vibrant platform for exploring the opportunities and ethical responsibilities that come with rapid technological advancement. It reflected SSGC’s continued commitment to employee engagement, organizational excellence, and the thoughtful integration of AI into the corporate sector for smarter and more sustainable future.
Public awareness’s role in tobacco harm reduction
In Pakistan, public discussions around smoking tend to focus solely on quitting. However, millions of adult smokers continue to rely on combustible tobacco, even when they are aware of its health risks.
For those unable or unwilling to quit, smoke-free alternatives offer a science-backed, less-harmful option. Wasil Sami, a public health expert notes, “Smoke-free products have scientifically proven to cause less damage to smokers, along with providing a better alternative that has the potential to reduce burden on public healthcare systems and overall population health.”
However, a significant gap in the public’s understanding is hindering the potential of these products to contribute meaningfully to the country’s harm reduction efforts.
Misinformation and limited access to credible information have left many adult smokers unaware of potentially better alternatives. At the same time, unregulated products already available in the market raise the risk of misuse, particularly among youth. In this context, an outright ban on all tobacco-related products may fail to address the root causes and could unintentionally worsen the situation.
Instead, the solution lies in developing a balanced regulatory approach that both protects public health and empowers adult smokers with these choices. Educational and awareness campaigns led by health authorities, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, can demystify smoke-free products and clarify their role in reducing harm.
By prioritising evidence-based awareness campaigns and thoughtful regulations, Pakistan can move toward a more effective tobacco control strategy, one that addresses the reality of long-term smoking while introducing pathways to better alternatives for adult consumers.
Informed choice, backed by smart policy, can help bridge the gap between public health goals and the needs of adult smokers.
Cement exports soar as domestic demand slumps in fy25
Domestic cement demand remained sluggish during the fiscal year 2024~25. According to the data released by All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association (APCMA), local sales dropped from 38.181 million tons during the fiscal year ended on 30th June, 2024 to 37.017 million tons during the fiscal year ended on 30th June, 2025 showing a decline by 3.05%. On the export side, the industry was able to achieve a healthy growth by 29.46% as the volumes increased to 9.204 million tons during the fiscal year ended 30th June, 2025 compared to 7.110 million tons exports done during the last fiscal year. Overall the industry was able to achieve a marginal growth by 2.05% during the fiscal year ended on 30th June, 2025 with volumes of 46.221 million tons compared to 45.291 million tons during last fiscal year.
During the month of June 2025, local cement despatches by the industry were 2.597 million tons compared to 3.079 million tons in June 2024, showing a decline of 15.65%. Exports despatches on the other hand jumped by massive 81.70% as the volumes increased from 472,865 tons in June 2024 to 859,204 tons in June 2025. Total Cement despatches during June 2025 were 3.457 million tons against 3.552 Million Tons despatched during the same month of last fiscal year showing a decline by 2.69%.
In June 2025, North based cement mills despatched 2.445 million tons cement showing a decline of 10.21% against 2.723 million tons despatches in June 2024. South based mills despatched 1.01 million tons cement during June 2025 that was 21.99% more compared to the despatches of 0.830 million tons during June 2024.
North based cement mills despatched 2.237 million tons cement in domestic markets in June 2025 showing a decline of 14.43% against 2.614 million tons despatches in June 2024. South based mills despatched 360,814 tons cement in local markets during June 2025 that was 22.50% less compared to the despatches of 465,578 during June 2024.
Exports from North based mills increased by 91.05% as the quantities increased from 108,861 tons in June 2024 to 207,975 tons in June 2025. Exports from South also increased by 78.91% to 651,229 tons in June 2025 from 364,004 tons during the same month last year.
During the fiscal year ended 30th June, 2025, north based Mills despatched 30.726 million tons cement domestically showing a reduction of 2.60% over cement despatches of 31.545 million tons during July 2023-June 2024. Exports from North increased by 15.56% to 1.684 million tons during July 2024-June 2025 compared with 1.457 million tons exported during the last fiscal year. Total despatches by North based Mills reduced by 1.79% to 32.410 million tons during fiscal year ended 30th June, 2025 from 33.002 million tons during the last fiscal year.
Domestic despatches by South based Mills during July 2024-June 2025 were 6.291 million tons showing reduction of 5.21% over 6.636 million tons cement despatched during the last fiscal year. Exports from South showed healthy increase by 33.04% to 7.519 million tons during July 2024-June 2025 compared with 5.652 million tons exported during the last fiscal year. Total despatches by South based Mills increased by 12.38% to 13.811 million tons during fiscal year ended 30th June, 2025 from 12.289 million tons during last fiscal year.
A spokesman of All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association said that decreasing domestic demand is a major hindrance to growth of the cement industry. He appealed the government to cut duties and taxes as cement is not a luxury item but is a basic necessity. We must find ways to increase the domestic off-take in order to utilize the idle capacity that will attract economic growth as well as employment opportunities and increased revenue for allied industries, he added.
Thar Coal, Renewables Make Sindh the Energy Basket of Pakistan: CM Murad
With one of the largest indigenous coal reserves in Thar and significant renewable energy potential, Sindh is the energy basket of Pakistan and can lead national progress through its diverse energy sources.
Speaking at the Sindh Energy Diversity Conference organized by Energy Update in collaboration with the Government of Sindh, Syed Murad Ali Shah, Chief Minister Sindh, highlighted that Thar’s coal deposits are equivalent to the energy reserves of Saudi Arabia, Iran and Kuwait.
Chief Minister Shah shared that the Thar coal project was initially conceived in the 1990s under the leadership of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and was eventually realized through one of the most successful public-private partnerships of Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company (SECMC) in Thar Block II. This pioneering initiative disproved the myth that Thar coal, being lower-grade lignite, cannot be used to produce electricity.
He added that Thar coal is now generating 1320 MW of low-cost electricity in Block II, powering households and industries across Pakistan. Moreover, an inclusive development approach has been followed, where almost every household in Thar Block II is now solarized in line with PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s vision that the people of Thar must benefit first from this progress.
Nasir Hussain Shah, Sindh Minister for Energy and Planning & Development, pointed out that coal gasification plans are underway to expand Thar coal utilization to other key sectors, such as fertilizer and cement, which will reduce pressure on foreign exchange reserves. Higher domestic production of fertilizers will help ensure an abundant and affordable supply of urea for farmers, ensuring greater food security for Pakistan.
The Sindh government remains focused on supporting industries and delivering solar home systems to underserved communities, Minister Nasir said.
Commending the Government of Sindh for its continued support, Amir Iqbal, CEO of SECMC, said that the Thar Block II development served as a proof of concept and successfully marked six years of commercial operations on July 10 this year. He noted that “SECMC supplies coal to three Independent Power Producers (IPPs), energizing over 3 million households and contributing to foreign exchange savings of around USD 1.6 billion since inception. These plants consistently rank among the highest on the merit order, reaffirming Thar coal as the most cost-effective baseload fuel.”
Amir added that Phase III mine expansion is underway to make coal even cheaper and add another 660 MW power plant based on Thar coal. He also highlighted SECMC’s community investments of providing quality education to over 5000 students with 35% female enrolment, free healthcare access to more than 350,000 patients since inception, and support for the Government of Sindh’s solarization efforts covering 3,150 households in Thar Block II.
Private firm develops digital framework to regulate barter trade in Pakistan
Amid persistent challenges in operationalizing barter agreements with countries such as Russia, Iran, and Afghanistan, a Karachi-based technology company has introduced a digital framework aimed at overhauling Pakistan’s barter trade mechanism.
Galaxefi Solutions, a private tech firm specializing in digital freight workflows, has developed a national-level system called BARTMAS, Barter Trade Management System. The initiative seeks to bring transparency, efficiency, and coordination to barter-based transactions, a necessity for Pakistan given its limited banking relations with several trading partners due to sanctions and geopolitical constraints.
Founder and CEO of Galaxefi, Asif Pervez, said the system is designed to move the country away from outdated manual processes that have made barter trade vulnerable to inefficiencies, mismanagement, and policy blind spots. “Barter trade doesn’t have to be broken,” he remarked. “We just have to stop guessing and start measuring, digitally, transparently, and in real time.”
BARTMAS aims to integrate all key national institutions through digital APIs, including the Pakistan Single Window (PSW), Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), Ministry of Commerce (MoC), National Logistics Cell (NLC), State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), and other authorities. The proposed digital infrastructure will enable end-to-end visibility of the barter journey from the initiation of a barter request and customs clearance to escrow fund management and bonded warehousing, ensuring that each step is auditable and centrally traceable.
According to Galaxefi, the process begins with barter requests initiated through a secure online dashboard, followed by real-time inventory checks to prevent domestic shortages. Contracts would be verified in coordination with regional chambers of commerce, such as the Quetta and Zahidan Chambers. Goods declarations would be filed digitally through PSW using a dedicated barter trade route. Licensed banks would manage escrow services under the supervision of the SBP, while cargo movement would be handled by the NLC under TIR protocols, with the entire logistics chain sealed and monitored for security. A blockchain-powered audit trail would underpin the system, ensuring transparency at every step.
The digital framework has already been presented to relevant trade and institutional bodies, with discussions underway regarding potential adoption. Galaxefi is also working in coordination with PSW and the Pakistan International Freight Forwarders Association (PIFFA) to align its technology with national logistics and customs frameworks.
The need for such a system is underscored by the alarming failures of recent barter arrangements, most notably the 2023–24 wheat trade debacle. In that case, barter-related mismanagement resulted in estimated losses of Rs 484 billion to farmers and the federal government within a single year. During the same period, food poverty increased from 34 percent to 39.4 percent, pushing over 12 million people into hardship. Despite a domestic wheat surplus, the government imported the commodity at a cost exceeding $1 billion, further fuelling inflation, which peaked at 38 percent.
Experts say these failures are symptomatic of a broader structural issue, barter trade in Pakistan continues to rely on manual approvals, fragmented record-keeping, and outdated verification mechanisms. Multiple Standard Regulatory Orders (SROs) by the Ministry of Commerce have failed to establish cohesion among key stakeholders, including customs, the FBR, SBP, and border security agencies. This has led to overlapping shipments, oversupply of certain commodities, and national shortages of others.
In such a context, Galaxefi’s BARTMAS framework offers more than just a technological solution, it presents a comprehensive policy model that could fundamentally reshape how Pakistan engages in barter trade. As Pervez puts it, “A system that can break millions must be rebuilt with millions in mind.”
With inflation high, food insecurity deepening, and international scrutiny increasing, the case for digital reform in trade management is no longer optional. The real question now is whether the government is ready to implement the tools already available and take the bold steps needed to protect the country’s economic and food security.
Fuel hike acts as a mini-budget, hurting the masses: Mian Zahid Hussain
He stated that the new taxes introduced in the budget, along with the energy price hikes, could prove detrimental to Pakistan’s economy and its people.
Mian Zahid Hussain noted that despite relative stability in global crude markets following the recent conflict between Iran and Israel, the substantial increase in domestic fuel prices raises serious concerns.
Speaking to the business community, the veteran business leader said that the government has chosen energy prices as a soft target to raise revenue and has increased the petroleum levy. This, he argued, is unjustified when international crude prices have fallen from $85 per barrel last month to around $65 now.
Providing expensive fuel to the public is a flawed decision, he added, as it will simultaneously fuel inflation, raise production costs, and damage industry and household budgets alike.
Mian Zahid Hussain emphasised that the petroleum levy hike was done under the IMF directives. Instead of curbing gas theft and line losses, the government has shifted the burden onto industrial, commercial, and residential users.
He warned that while this policy might generate immediate revenue, it will slow down long-term economic growth. Across the world, governments are either subsidising energy or maintaining price stability to curb inflation and revive industries. In contrast, Pakistan is witnessing simultaneous increases in the cost of essential goods, production, and transportation, which is worsening economic pressures.
He pointed out that India has not raised oil prices in over a year, and Bangladesh has reduced the prices of petrol, diesel, high-octane, and kerosene multiple times. Mian Zahid Hussain stressed that instead of raising energy prices, urgent and immediate reforms are needed. Circular debt has surpassed Rs 2.7 trillion, electricity theft exceeds 17 per cent, and line losses are far above regional averages.
Without addressing these systemic issues, any increase in prices will offer only temporary relief while also encouraging more theft and non-payment. The government, he urged, must base its decisions on global trends, consumer affordability, and industrial challenges. If energy prices are hiked solely to reduce the fiscal deficit, it will lead to rising poverty, unemployment, and business closures.
He called on the government to adopt transparency, consultation, and realism in policymaking. This, he emphasised, is crucial to build trust and enable real improvements in the energy sector. Without this transparency, expensive energy will continue to be a permanent obstacle to Pakistan’s economic recovery.
NBP applauds Pakistan’s hockey heroes as green shirts storm into FIH nations cup final
National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) proudly congratulates Pakistan’s national hockey team on their outstanding achievement of reaching the final of the FIH Nations Cup, marking a significant milestone in the country’s hockey resurgence.
The national team delivered a thrilling performance against France, securing a dramatic 3-2 victory in the penalty shootout to earn their place in the championship final of this prestigious tournament on the FIH calendar.
Since forming its hockey team in 1966 and establishing a dedicated Sports Department in 1974, NBP has played a pioneering role in promoting Pakistan’s national sport. NBP’s players have contributed to major national victories, including medals at the Olympics, the World Cup, Champions Trophy, and Sultan Azlan Shah Cup.
NBP, therefore, takes particular pride in recognizing the exceptional contributions of its own players and officials who have been instrumental in the national team’s success throughout this tournament. Ammad Shakeel Butt, recipient of the President award, Tamgha-e-Imtiaz and current captain of the Pakistan National Hockey Team, and player Junaid Manzoor have demonstrated outstanding skill and commitment on the field, while the coaching staff led by Head Coach Tahir Zaman, supported by Assistant Coaches Asif Ahmed Khan and Zeeshan Ashraf, and Goalkeeping Coach Mazhar Abbas – all valued members of NBP’s hockey program – have provided exemplary leadership and expertise that has been crucial to Pakistan’s impressive run. An event was held at the NBP Head Office to honour the teams’ success, where President & CEO NBP Mr. Rehmat Ali Hasnie graced the occasion,
appreciated the players’ outstanding efforts and presented shields in recognition. Senior management representatives also attended the event to celebrate this proud moment for the nation and the bank. NBP Hockey players appreciated the recognition, viewing it as a motivating factor for their growth and development and thanked CEO NBP and management enabling them to excel and proudly represent the country on international platforms.
Mr. Rehmat Ali Hasnie, President & Chief Executive Officer, National Bank of Pakistan, expressed great pride at the national triumph: “The electrifying performance by the Green Shirts represents more than just a victory—it signals the dawn of a new golden era for Pakistani hockey. Proving their mettle on the international stage, our players and coaching staff, have reignited the passion and pride in the game. NBP remains resolutely committed to national athletic development, consistently nurturing emerging talent across the country through our comprehensive support infrastructure. Our departmental platforms serve as vital catalysts for professional growth and international exposure. As embodied in our vision ‘National Bank Aur Pakistan,’ we reaffirm our steadfast dedication to talent development, aimed at reviving our illustrious hockey legacy and ensuring Pakistan continues to excel at the pinnacle of international competition.”
As the national team prepares for even greater achievements on the horizon, NBP extends its most sincere wishes for continued success and remains committed to supporting Pakistan’s journey toward reclaiming its rightful place among the world’s hockey elite.
Descon Oxychem names Yasir Siddique Sheikh as CEO
Descon Oxychem Limited, a leading producer of hydrogen peroxide, is pleased to announce the appointment of Yasir Siddique Sheikh as its new Chief Executive Officer.
With over two decades of multifaceted experience, Yasir brings a deep understanding of finance, operations, and strategic leadership to his new role. He most recently served as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at Descon Engineering Limited, where, over a five-year period, he was instrumental in driving capital optimization, performance improvement, and long-term sustainability.
Yasir has also held the position of CFO at Descon’s Chemicals business, where he led key initiatives in financial planning and business strategy across the company’s chemical manufacturing operations. His appointment as CEO marks a significant milestone in Descon Oxychem’s journey towards operational excellence, sustainable growth, and innovation. The company looks forward to his leadership in advancing its strategic priorities and strengthening its position in the chemical industry.
Speaking on his new role, Yasir Siddique Sheikh Stated, “It is a privilege to lead Descon Oxychem at such a dynamic time for the chemicals industry. I look forward to working with our talented team to enhance value for our stakeholders through innovation, sustainability, and disciplined execution.”
With his appointment, Descon Oxychem reaffirms its commitment to operational excellence, responsible growth, and value-driven leadership.
Energy policies pushing economy towards collapse: Mian Zahid
The Chairman of National Business Group Pakistan, the President of the Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum, the President of All Karachi Industrial Alliance, the Chairman of the FPCCI Advisory Board, and the President and former provincial minister, Mian Zahid Hussain, warned on Wednesday that the government’s current energy policies and taxation measures have made survival difficult for the country’s industries.
The textile industry, a major contributor to Pakistan’s economy, is struggling to compete in the global market due to high energy costs. Instead of driving growth, these policies are proving poisonous to the economy, pushing many industries, including textiles, to the brink of collapse.
Mian Zahid Hussain highlighted the significant impact of the petroleum and climate support levies imposed on furnace oil. These measures have now raised the total tax share to around 60% of its price, a staggering burden that is weighing heavily on businesses.
Speaking to the business community, the veteran business leader recalled that during past energy crises and extreme load-shedding, industries turned to captive generation, a term used to describe the process of producing electricity for one’s own use, using either gas or furnace oil to stay operational. However, the government installed IPP projects and forced industries to buy expensive electricity instead.
Now, as gas prices have soared, industries have returned to using furnace oil — which has been so costly that operating production units have become nearly impossible.
He added that industries dependent on continuous electricity or cooling systems are in deep trouble. Not only is electricity becoming more expensive, but even the shift to alternative sources has been made difficult, leading to high additional costs — a situation akin to industrial destruction.
Mian Zahid Hussain also highlighted the crisis facing local refineries, which are now struggling due to a sharp decline in demand for furnace oil. This decline in demand has led to a surplus of furnace oil, which is expensive and complicated to export. If local refineries reduce production, it could impact the domestic supply of petrol and diesel, leading to potential shortages and price hikes for consumers.
The business leader also warned that gas companies are in crisis. Many industries have already stopped using gas, yet the government continues to insist on purchasing costly imported LNG. Meanwhile, domestic gas production is being deliberately restricted to make space for imported gas.
He stated that the growing circular debt is crippling the energy sector and dragging down industrial productivity, while unstable policies have shaken investor confidence. Aggressive tax enforcement is fueling business unrest, and the government’s failure to adopt energy reforms or engage stakeholders is hindering the development of sustainable solutions. Without a coherent strategy, ad hoc decisions can impair growth and lead to repeated bailouts.
He emphasized that not all policy decisions can be blamed on the IMF. The government itself has initiated many harmful policies without the involvement of the IMF.
He concluded by suggesting that if the government charts a serious growth path, aiming to expand the economy from $412 billion to $600 billion within a year, it could be a beacon of hope.
This growth trajectory would create jobs, increase tax revenues, and support industrial revival — all without harassing the business community. He questioned whether chasing $51 billion in tax revenue is worth compromising the nation’s long-term economic future.