Thar Foundation transforming lives of millions in Thar
- The docu-series ‘Portraits of Thar’ delves into the uplifting narratives of the heroes of Tharparkar
Thar Foundation, in collaboration with Thar Block II entities, unveiled the ‘Portraits of Thar 2.0’ campaign at a compelling screening hosted at the Karachi Press Club amongst media delegates. This heartfelt project by Thar Foundation aims to vividly showcase the inspiring narratives of the Thari people, highlighting their unwavering resilience and championing change within the region.
Thar Foundation, the CSR wing of Thar Block II entities, maintains a dedicated commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) framework. Its focus spans across interventions on priority areas of SDGs, including the alleviation of poverty, establishment of sustainable livelihoods, improvement of healthcare and education accessibility, and the promotion of gender equality.
Under SDG 4 for quality education, Thar Foundation has established a network of 23 school units within Thar. Over 5,000 students are currently enrolled in these school units, out of which approximately 56% are female teachers, empowering the educational journey within areas of Mithi, Islamkot and adjoining villages.
“In the vibrant heart of Thar, an unspoken revolution is unfolding. The Thar Foundation is enabling to uplift the landscape and foster widespread community enhancement. It’s the unwavering spirit of our community that is truly transforming Thar, where the youth have access to equitable socio-economic opportunities through education, vocational training, and employment — these individuals are the unsung heroes shaping the present and future of the community and the country,” said Amir Iqbal, CEO of SECMC and TF.
The ‘Portraits of Thar 2.0’ campaign illuminates the extraordinary stories of four exceptional leaders — Hothi Ram, Guddi, Nehal Chand, and Jahawar Lal. These individuals stand as beacons of leadership amidst millions in Thar, each crafting their indigenous tales of resilience and perseverance. Their journeys are not just personal triumphs; they symbolise the indomitable human spirit.
Hothi Ram’s evolution from a laborer to Warehouse Supervisor in Village New Senhri Dars signifies unwavering determination. Nehal Chand’s tireless efforts as a community mobilizer have sparked positive change, empowering his village. Guddi’s unwavering resilience following a severe spinal injury epitomizes unparalleled strength, and Jahawar Lal’s dedication as a teacher-turned-principal in village Kharo Jani is a testament to transformative education. These heroes, alongside countless others, exemplify the essence of leadership and serve as inspiring role models, illuminating the path for progress in Thar.
PTCL group renews partnership with TPL trakker
Pakistan’s largest telecommunications and integrated ICT services provider, PTCL Group (PTCL & Ufone 4G), and leading GPS tracking and IoT services provider, TPL Trakker have renewed their partnership for the continued provision of the state-of-the-art machine to machine (M2M) and ICT services to TPL Trakker under PTCL Group Business Solutions.
Group Chief Business Solutions Officer (GCBSO), PTCL & Ufone 4G, Zarrar Hasham Khan, and CEO, TPL Trakker, Rao Salman signed the agreement at TPL Trakker headquarters in Karachi, in the presence of senior officials from both organizations. Under this agreement, PTCL Group will provide wireless connectivity and a host of bundled services to TPL Trakker, to enable the company’s premium and efficiency-boosting vehicle tracking, performance management, and other IoT services.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Group Chief Business Solutions Officer, PTCL & Ufone 4G, Zarrar Hasham Khan said, “PTCL Group being the National company is proud to be major proponent of technological enablement and transformation in Pakistan. Our connectivity and ICT services provide great deal of ease and enablement to our enterprise customers, like TPL Trakker, who in turn extend game-changing products and services to the people of Pakistan. We are steadfast in our commitment to further enhancing conduciveness for tech-based innovation and transformation in Pakistan.”
CEO, TPL Trakker, Rao Salman said, “We are proud to announce a historic expansion of our collaboration with PTCL Group, propelling us towards undoubted leadership in the Pakistani IoT landscape. This renewed partnership reaffirms our joint commitment to our unwavering focus on connectivity and positions us as pioneers in developing and delivering cutting-edge IoT solutions. Capitalizing on our local insights and harnessing PTCL’s specialised knowledge, we aspire to deliver state-of-the-art solutions that is customised to meet the distinctive requirements of our diverse clientele. This strategic alliance paves the way for innovation, efficiency, and seamless nationwide connectivity. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our stakeholders for their continued support as we embark on this transformative journey together.”
PTCL Group and TPL Trakker excel in leveraging digital technology to enable and empower their respective customers, besides contributing immensely to the growth and development of ICT technologies in Pakistan. The mutual collaboration enhances their impact on a larger scale to help enrich and strengthen Pakistan’s digital landscape.
Pakistan Cables lifts 11th FPCCI Awards 2023
Pakistan Cables Loyalty Club mobile app won the 11th FPCCI Award in the category of Digital Transformation and Technology ceremony held in Islamabad. The award was presented by the Governor of KPK, Mr. Haji Ghulam Ali to Mohammad Ahad, Assistant Manager Marketing & Brands, Pakistan Cables Ltd.
The Pakistan Cables Loyalty Club App is the first of its kind mobile app which allows the Loyalty Club members a convenient way to submit and redeem points. Pakistan Cables always thrive to upgrade its services for its stakeholder making the process easier and accessible by introducing technological solutions.
This is Company’s third win in technological innovation and overall fourth win. Previously, Pakistan Cables won the awards for first e-commerce website and launching ACCC Conductors in Pakistan.
NBP empowers future with ‘million smiles’
Inspiring the future of Pakistan at TREK Venture 5.0, Pakistan’s largest youth leadership boot camp powered by NBP and organized by Million Smiles. Real stories of leadership and success at the highest level with a message of diversity and inclusion, powered by the National Bank of Pakistan. NBP commits to investing in the future of Pakistan with a Million Smiles for all.
SIEHS, Childlife sign mou to enhance pediatric emergency, health services across Sindh
The Sindh Integrated Emergency & Health Services (SIEHS 1122) and the ChildLife Foundation have entered a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for enhancing emergency and health services across Sindh.
The partnership will enhance the capacity of the ambulance team to handle children’s emergency during transportation. It will evolve into live-teleconsultations and addition of bubble CPAP machines in the ambulances. Brig. (R) Tarique Quadir Lakhiar, CEO SIEHS and Dr. Ahson Rabbani, CEO of ChildLife Foundation, signed the MOU on behalf of their organizations while provincial health minister Dr. Saad Khalid Niaz was also present.
“SIEHS plays a pivotal role in providing free ambulance services to patients across Sindh and the partnership with ChildLife will further help in saving lives of millions of children through teleconsultations of pediatric patients who require emergency care,” said Health Minister Dr. Saad Khalid Niaz. Under this strategic alliance, ChildLife will support SIEHS 1122 by providing live teleconsultations for pediatric patients within SIEHS 1122 ambulances while the ChildLife will seek assistance from SIEHS 1122 in efficiently transferring patients entering the ChildLife’s network. They will mutually assist in enhancing the capacity of their respective staff through collaborative efforts in capacity building.
“This collaboration marks a crucial milestone in our mission to provide top-notch emergency and health services to the people of Sindh,” said Brig. Tarique Quadir, Chief Executive Officer SIEHS. Dr. Ahson Rabbani, CEO-ChildLife Foundation, said that “This collaboration is a testimony of the innovative services ChildLife team has developed and scaled. We are honored to partner with SIEHS to share our practices and experience saving lives with this virtual emergency care model throughout the province. The partnership closes the loop as it saves cost and time for poor patients who will now be transported through SIEHS ambulance services free of cost. This will allow us to save more lives across Sindh”.
Inflation, deficit and interest rates likely to decrease in 2024: Mian Zahid
Chairman of National Business Group Pakistan, President Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum, and All Karachi Industrial Alliance, and former provincial minister Mian Zahid Hussain said January 3 that inflation, current account deficit and interest rate will decrease in the new year.
There is a possibility of an increase in business activities, employment and GDP which will have a positive impact, he said.
Mian Zahid Hussain said that the political temperature would decrease if elections were transparent; if it is not, political instability will continue, and the new government will be unable to implement reforms.
Talking to the business community, the veteran business leader said that regional tensions, climate change, and food and oil prices can rise during this year, which could undermine efforts to stabilize the economy.
He said that the policymakers need to speed up the economic recovery efforts so that the problems of the people and the business community can be reduced.
Mian Zahid Hussain added that last year, Pakistan had to go through the most difficult situation in its history and there was an endless series of problems to deal with, including loans from IMF and friendly countries.
However, it has become difficult to continue this trend as Pakistan’s industrialists have lost their competitiveness in the global market due to the huge increase in the cost of doing business, he observed.
Mian Zahid Hussain further said that the future of the country will be decided by whether the rulers have tried to learn from past experiences or not because if they continue with their previous style, then economic stability will become a dream.
During this year, apart from the elections, taking new loans from the IMF will also be a big challenge, requiring strong efforts and implementation of visible reforms.
Without these loans, repayment of past debts would be impossible and imports would become very difficult. If the politicians show prudence, financial institutions, tax and other reforms will be possible and governance will be improved, which will improve the country’s condition.
But if politicians decide to follow the same old path, the country will be bankrupt. This time the new government will have to take decisions on merit and keep the economy separate from politics.
NBP Digital launches new mobile app donation feature
The National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) has embarked on a new initiative with the NBP Digital App to streamline and improve the digital customer experience for account holders, including both conventional and Aitemaad Islamic banking. This innovative feature in NBP Digital app allows users to make donations effortlessly with just a single tap, anytime and anywhere.
NBP customers can now donate to leading NGOs including Edhi Foundation, Saylani Welfare Trust, Chippa Welfare Association, Indus Hospital, and others. This innovation reflects NBP’s commitment to providing a simplified customer experience with the help of digital technology, enabling the Nation’s bank to further accelerate its technological innovation.
Punjab university leads in intervarsity boxing championship
Benazir Bhutto Shaheed University Lyari and Jinnah Sindh Medical University hosted the 25th HEC All Pakistan Intervarsity Boxing Championship (Men) on December 27 2023 in Benazir Bhutto Shaheed University Lyari Karachi.
Prof. Dr. Amjad Siraj Memon with the Registrar Dr. Mazhar Dotio, management of the university and Asian Gold Medalist Ustad Ali Bux, inaugurated the event and welcomed all university officials and boxers in Lyari and appreciated the Higher Education Commission’s initiative to involve the Pakistan universities in sport activities.
Total 37 bouts were played between different universities of Pakistan, and boxers played with enthusiasm to qualify for the next round. The crowd including university players and from local community enjoyed the game.
More than 19 universities and 160 boxers from all over the Pakistan participated in this four-day HEC All Pakistan Intervarsity Boxing Championship (Men).
The final day of yhe 25th HEC All Pakistan Intervarsity Boxing Championship (Men) began on December 30, 2023, at the Benazir Bhutto Shaheed University (BBSU) Lyari.
M. Irshad of Punjab University won against Nida Muhammad in 48 KG, Muhammad Zaffar of Punjab University won on point against Ahsan Ullah of Islamia University of Bahawalpur in 51 KG, Bashir Ahmed of University of Management and Technology won against Rafiullah of Islamia University of Bahawalpur in 54 Kg, Muhammad Ahmed of University of Lahore won against Ashraf Khan of University of Management and Technology in 57 Kg, Muhammad Hasnain of University of Management and Technology won against Hashim of University of Central Punjab, Zahoor Abbas of University of Central Punjab won against Jalbaaz Khan of University of Management and Technology in 63.5 Kg, Zia Ur Rehman of Punjab University won against M. Abdullah of University of Central Punjab in 67 Kg, Israr Ahmed of University of Management and Technology won Gold against Wasahat Ullah of University of Central Punjab in 71 Kg, Jawad Ahmed of University of Management and Technology won Gold against Jahangir Khan of Punjab University in 75 Kg, Naseeb Ullah of University of Management and Technology won Gold medal against Kamran Khan of Punjab university in 80 Kg, Ahsan Ullah won against Zain ul Abadeen of Superior University in 86 Kg, Muhammad Shabbir of University of Central Punjab won Gold medal against Aimal Khan of Islamia University of Bahawalpur in 92 Kg, and in Super heavy +92 weight category Sohail Ahmed of Punjab University won Gold medal against Muhammad Bilal of University of Lahore.
The University of Punjab got first position on 116 points and has take 5 gold, 2 silver and 4 bronze medals.
The University of Management and Technology got second position on 109 points by 5 gold, 2 silver and 2 bronze, and the University of Central Punjab got third position on 95 points by 2 gold, 4 silver and 5 bronze medals.
The chief guest of the closing ceremony Mr. Nasir Kareem Baloch, Chairman of Lyari town, the Guest of Honour Mr. Javed Ali Memon, Director Sports of Higher Education Commission, Asian Gold Medalist, Mr. Ali Bux Baloch, Ex-International Referee Judge, Mr. Ali Akber Shah, the Registrar of Bbsul, Dr. Mazhar Ali Dotio, other honorable guests distributed the medals, certificates, cash prizes and trophies to the players and team.
2,000 orphaned children from deprived families have lesiure day at Karachi’s elite recreational resort
Around 2,000 orphaned students belonging to underserved families spent a fun-filled day at a renowned amusement park in Karachi along with the concerned donors who are firm supporters of the drive to enrol out-of-school children in Sindh.
The orphaned students are enrolled in the charitable schools of the non-profit Green Crescent Trust (GCT) built in the disadvantaged parts of Sindh. GCT organizes the day-long Fun Gala under its Orphan Support Programme annually. Several patrons and donors of the GCT attended the event along with their families.
Speaking as the chief guest, noted industrialist and GCT Patron-in-Chief, Mr. Sardar Yasin Malik, urged the parentless children to stay fully focused on their studies and work diligently to excel in their future practical life.
Mr. Malik said that he belonged to a very humble background as during childhood he used to study beneath the glow of a streetlight.
Mr. Malik told the audience that owing to his sheer dedication and commitment to studies, he excelled in his later life and attained the coveted status of being the highest taxpaying businessman in Pakistan.
He reiterated his resolve to fully support the charitable campaigns to educate children from impoverished families to help them come out of the vicious circle of poverty and financial crunch.
He urged the concerned philanthropists and donors to step up their support to the committed charities and NGOs like the GCT, which had been working hard to build quality schooling facilities in the marginalized regions of Sindh.
Also addressing the gathering, GCT CEO, Mr. Zahid Saeed, said the Fun Gala was a regular feature of the special assistance drive of the non-profit that is conducted throughout the year to benefit orphans and their families.
He expressed sincere gratitude to the donors and well-wishers of the GCT enabling it to build 166 charitable schools in deprived and remote parts of Sindh having an enrollment of 32,000 students.
Mr. Saeed urged other bonafide non-profit organizations in the education sector to pool their resources and collaborate to overcome the challenge of out-of-school children in Sindh.
He extended thanks to the federal government for the recent conferment of Tamgha-e-Imtiaz upon him to recognise and honour his services to build schools in the underserved parts of Sindh.
Mr. Saeed also thanked celebrities including Shahid Afridi and Anwar Maqsood for endorsing GCT’s campaign to build educational facilities for children in need.
He announced upcoming fundraisers in major cities to garner philanthropic support from business communities for enrolling out-of-school children.
GCT’s Trustees and management committee members Mr. Saad Zia, Mr. Faizan Jawed, Mr. Jawed Iqbal, Mr. Shabbir Latif and Mr. Habib Navaid were among the honoured guests in the occasion.
Special commendation certificates were presented to the teachers of the GCT’s schools who work as volunteers in the Orphan Support Programme throughout the year. GCT plans to replicate similar Fun Gala events in Hyderabad and Sukkur to bring joy to more orphaned students in its schools.
Elections, journalism, and transparency: CEJ-IBA launches fact-checking initiative ahead of General Elections 2024
The Center of Excellence in Journalism at the Institute of Business Administration (CEJ-IBA) has launched a non-partisan fact-checking initiative, iVerify, to advance the scope of independent and unbiased reporting in the country’s journalistic landscape.
Addressing the iVerify launch ceremony at Serena Hotel, Islamabad, Amber Rahim Shamsi, Director CEJ-IBA, said that the tool would prove to be an important step in ensuring transparent and verifiable news reporting and investigation methodologies. She further added that “seeing the rise of misinformation in both digital and conventional media spaces, the fact-checking mechanism established by iVerify shall become a cornerstone of reliable, non-partisan journalism in Pakistan.”
iVerify currently offers one of the few robust verification approaches for journalists in the country with an emphasis on eliminating bias, authenticating facts, and processing news articles through manual examination. It is internationally accredited by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and has been successfully implemented in a number of countries around the world.
The tool allows journalists and media professionals to submit their stories via iVerify’s portal on the CEJ-IBA website, where their story is gauged through a multi-pronged approach comprising of data-driven and language-based evaluation before being verified for accuracy in terms of factual representation and contextualization.
The launch was followed by a panel discussion by senior media professionals, including Mansoor Ali Khan, Zahrah Mazhar, Farhad Jarral, Absa Komal, Umer Cheema, and Nizam Salarzai, who dissected the utility of a fact-checking tool in a high-stakes journalism environment. Given the potentially volatile nature of newsrooms during election transmissions anticipated during the incoming general elections, the panel agreed that the tool shall prove to play a critical role in curbing the spread of misinformed news stories and making space for responsible, careful journalism.
Shrinking global GDP will compound Pakistan’s problems: Mian Zahid Hussain
Chairman of National Business Group Pakistan, President Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum, and All Karachi Industrial Alliance, and former provincial minister Mian Zahid Hussain said on Monday that some economic sectors will be hit as the world GDP declines.
Policymakers should take action to tackle the situation, with a special focus on rising debt, inflation, and the value of the rupee, he said.
The economy should be headed in the right direction, and development barriers should be taken down to improve the situation, he added.
Talking to the business community, the veteran business leader said that the global GDP will shrink this year, while there will be a slight improvement in Pakistan’s GDP.
Inflation, the rupee, and rising debt need to be given special attention this year, while the growth rate is likely to improve further if energy prices and political tensions ease.
Mian Zahid Hussain said that many international organisations believe that Pakistan’s growth rate will be 2 percent this year, while India’s GDP is likely to be 6.2 percent. Pakistan’s GDP may increase from 2% to 2.4% in 2025.
In the opinion of international organisations, the food security situation in Pakistan may be more disturbed this year, which should be taken seriously, he underlined.
The business leader said that global GDP will fall to 2.4 percent this year from last year’s 2.7 percent. Reasons for a decline in global GDP include high interest rates, political conflicts, reduced trade, and the possibility of natural disasters.
A decrease in global GDP will also create problems for Pakistan as it will reduce the demand for our products, he said, adding that the economic crisis has caused a lot of pain to the people, so policymakers should correct the direction of the economy during the current crisis like other countries and solve all the problems that are damaging the economy.
Mian Zahid Hussain added that in 1960, the per capita income of West Pakistan was 32 percent higher than the per capita income of East Pakistan. This gap had increased to 81 percent by 1970.
When Bangladesh was formed, Pakistan was performing better than neighbouring countries in every field, but now its condition has become worse.
Now we can’t even imagine development like Bangladesh, which started its journey with a negative 13% growth rate. Currently, the size of our economy is 340 billion dollars, and the size of Bangladesh’s economy is 454 billion dollars.
The economy of Bangladesh and other regional countries is expanding rapidly, but our economy is shrinking. Mian Zahid Hussain further said that the condition of Afghanistan’s currency, which has been devastated by continuous war for decades, is much better than Pakistan’s currency.
If our rulers, political leaders, and people do not change their attitude, the time is not far when Afghanistan will also leave Pakistan far behind in economic and social matters.
Govt to ensure uninterrupted power supply to Karachi: PM
Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar on Monday said that the government, in collaboration with the K-Electric, would ensure an uninterrupted power supply to Karachi to meet its needs.
The prime minister, in a meeting with a K-Electric delegation headed by Chief Executive Officer Moonis Abdullah Alvi, instructed the Ministry of Energy to address the issues confronting the company through mutual consultation.
He said policies should be formulated considering the purchasing power of the electricity consumers as well as their welfare.
The delegation members thanked the prime minister for resolving the longstanding issues faced by the K-Electric and for the approval of Rs 390 billion investment plan for the company, tariff for renewable energy projects of 640 megawatts, and the provision of an additional 1000 MW of electricity.
They viewed that such initiatives by the government had given a positive message to the investors.
In the meeting, the prime minister was briefed about different matters of the K-Electric.
The delegation also included K-Electric Chief Finance Officer Muhammad Aamir Ghaziani and Regulatory Officer Imran Qureshi.
The meeting was attended by Caretaker Energy Minister Muhammad Ali, Chairman of National Electric Power Regulatory Authority Wasim Mukhtar, Chief Executive Officer of Central Power Purchasing Agency Rehan Akhtar, and other senior officers.
GTR celebrates 60 years of driving Pakistan forward with leadership and reliability
Ghandhara Tyre (GTR) recently celebrated its 60th anniversary, marking six decades of leadership and reliability with German-Engineered Technology, perfectly tailored for the roads of Pakistan.
A grand event was organized in Lahore to commemorate this milestone, attended by more than 160 esteemed dealers of the company. The celebration was not just an acknowledgment of GTR’s journey but also a tribute to the partnerships that have fueled its success. During the event, top dealers were honored.
The event spotlighted GTR’s remarkable achievements over the past 60 years, which have firmly established the company as the top tyre manufacturer in the country. GTR’s commitment to using German technology, in collaboration with Continental Germany ensures adherence to international standards. All tyres undergo rigorous testing procedures abroad, exemplifying the brand’s dedication to quality and reliability.
Hussain Kuli Khan, CEO of GTR, reflected on the company’s journey: “Today, GTR stands as the number one tyre manufacturer in Pakistan, serving all OEMs with our advanced technology, reliability, and commitment to safe and empowered driving in Pakistan. Our 60-year journey in Pakistan is a story of progress, vision, and unwavering commitment.”
He reminisced about the company’s beginnings in 1963 and its rapid growth: “Driven by a vision of excellence, we doubled our capacity within just nine years, laying the foundation of a legacy built on quality, trust, and the pursuit of perfection.”
Highlighting the significance of the inauguration of the new plant in 1985 by the President of Pakistan, Hussain Kuli Khan described it as a testament to the company’s growing impact and ambition.
With six decades of expertise in the Pakistani market and road infrastructure, GTR continues to set international standards in quality, reliability, and durability. Our latest range, meticulously crafted for Pakistani roads, embodies the precision of German engineering, ensuring safety and performance in every journey,” added Hussain.
GTR is also the pioneer in producing first radial passenger car, tractor and motorcycle tubeless tyres in Pakistan.
As GTR celebrates this significant milestone, it renews its pledge to continue driving Pakistan forward, mile by mile, with a commitment that extends beyond tyres – empowering every journey across the nation.
Ali Ahmed Khan Appointed as President Middle East, Pakistan, and Africa (MEPA), Joins Executive Board of FrieslandCampina Global
FrieslandCampina Engro Pakistan announces the promotion of Ali Ahmed Khan to the position of President of the Middle East, Pakistan, and Africa (MEPA) region at FrieslandCampina.
Ali’s exceptional leadership and visionary approach have been pivotal in his transformative tenure as Managing Director of FrieslandCampina Engro Pakistan (FCEPL). Under his guidance, FCEPL has experienced significant growth and profitability, and continues to increase its market share across all categories.
Ali Ahmed Khan’s exemplary performance has also led to his appointment to the executive board of FrieslandCampina Global.
The Company is confident that Ali’s strategic vision and leadership will continue to drive growth and success in the MEPA region for FrieslandCampina.
He will be succeeded by Syed Kashan Hasan as Managing Director of FCEPL, effective February 1st, 2024. Bringing 22 years of rich experience across commercial functions, Kashan Hasan is a seasoned professional with a history of driving performance and innovation. His career spans various regional and global roles across Pakistan, South Africa, the UK, the Middle East, and North Africa. Prior to joining FCEPL, Kashan served as General Manager at Reckitt for the Pakistan business and most recently he served as the CEO of Shan Foods. A graduate of IBA, Kashan is known for his ability to develop insights, devise innovative solutions, and challenge norms.
Descon Oxychem achieves ZDHC certification
Descon Oxychem Limited proudly announces its recent accomplishment of securing the “Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals” (ZDHC) certification. This international recognition underscores Descon Oxychem’s commitment to environmental standards and signifies a significant milestone in the company’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainability and responsible business practices.
The ZDHC certification is a testament to Descon Oxychem Limited’s dedication to reducing the environmental impact of its operations and ensuring the responsible management of hazardous chemicals. This certification is particularly crucial in the context of supply chain management, as it empowers companies associated with Descon Oxychem Limited to enhance their environmental performance and contribute to the global effort to minimise the discharge of harmful substances into water waste.
CEO Mohsin Zia said “Descon Oxychem Limited recognises the importance of sustainable and eco-friendly business practices, and the ZDHC certification aligns seamlessly with the company’s overarching environmental objectives”. He further added “By adhering to these stringent standards, the company aims to set a benchmark for excellence in the industry and inspire others to prioritize environmental stewardship”.
The ZDHC certification also positions the company as a leader in the industry, both domestically and internationally. As a ZDHC-certified entity, Descon Oxychem Limited will continue to focus on innovation and sustainable practices, contributing to a cleaner and safer environment for present and future generations.
Current cost of electricity and gas barrier to investment: Mian Zahid Hussain
Chairman of National Business Group Pakistan, President Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum, and All Karachi Industrial Alliance, and former provincial minister Mian Zahid Hussain, said on Friday that the expense of gas and electricity is preventing local and foreign investment.
He said that without inexpensive energy, exports and production cannot increase, hence taxes will remain unsatisfactory and unemployment will increase.
Mian Zahid Hussain said that SIFC ought to make an effort to lower gas and energy rates to attract investment.
Speaking to the business community, the veteran business leader said that people and investors are worried due to the ever-increasing prices of electricity, gas, and oil.
Energy prices in Pakistan are the highest compared to other countries in the region, which is hampering exports, he said.
The business leader observed that a reduction in electricity and gas prices is possible provided line losses, theft, and defaults are eliminated. Instead of capacity payments, full utilization of electricity production should be ensured.
He demanded that SIFC take note of this situation and take steps so that investment could be lured, which would also increase employment, income, and revenue.
Pakistan’s hands are tied due to the IMF’s deal, and apparently it is difficult to give relief to the people and the business community, but some way should be found for it; otherwise, investors will prefer neighboring countries instead of Pakistan.
Why would investors prefer Pakistan over neighboring countries where energy is cheaper and overall conditions are much better? he questioned.
Mian Zahid Hussain further said that electricity rates in India, Bangladesh, and Vietnam are almost half of those in Pakistan, due to which it has become difficult for our exporters to compete with these countries in the global market.
He further said that the industrial sector is already drowning in the mire of problems, but it is forced to pay Rs 300 billion extra in power bills so that the masses can be subsidized.
Mian Zahid Hussain further said that due to the high cost of electricity, its usage is decreasing, which is a bad omen for the economy, while the theft of electricity is increasing, which has to be borne by honest consumers.
By making electricity cheaper for the industrial sector, production, exports, and employment will increase, while increasing its use will also reduce the circular credit, but the current policy is the opposite, he observed.
The textile industry can export two billion dollars per month, but the energy sector is blocking its way and is constantly weakening it, which should be taken into immediate notice and necessary steps should be taken, he demanded.