Miss Universe Pakistan Miss Pakistan Erica Robin has emerged as a prominent figure, representing beauty and substance on the global stage. Erica Robin is a beacon of inspiration and empowerment in a world where pageantry often meets purpose. Born and raised in Karachi, Erica’s journey began as a fashion model. Robin is a member of the minority Christian community in Pakistan. Her formative years laid the foundation for the resilient and ambitious woman she would become. Despite the allure of the pageant world, education remained a priority for Erica. She completed her education in business and commerce and demonstrated that intelligence and beauty are not mutually exclusive. Erica’s foray into the world of pageantry was marked by Miss Universe Pakistan 2023. It was evident from the start that she possessed the physical grace required for such competitions and a profound sense of purpose. Her journey through various pageants, culminating in the title of Miss Pakistan, showcases a series of accomplishments that extend beyond the runway. Erica’s impact goes beyond the sash and crown. One of the defining aspects of Erica’s reign as Miss Pakistan is her commitment to her work and her pride and representation of her country. Whether it’s promoting education, women’s rights, or community development, she uses her platform to amplify voices that need to be heard.
Behind the glamour and poise lies a story of challenges conquered. Erica’s journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and rising above adversity. Ms. Robin has faced backlash from conservative segments of Pakistani society, where her pageant run is being portrayed as incompatible with the majority Muslim country’s values. Sen. Mushtaq Ahmed of the right-wing Jamat-e-Islami political party described Ms. Robin’s participation as “shameful.”
As Miss Pakistan, Erica has become an ambassador not just for her nation but for a broader message of unity and diversity. Her participation in international pageants and events further solidified her global influencer role. Looking ahead, Erica Robin’s story is far from reaching its conclusion. With a solid foundation in education, a string of achievements, and a commitment to making a positive impact, her future endeavors are likely to inspire others. Miss Pakistan Erica Robin epitomizes the modern beauty queen—a woman of substance, intelligence, and compassion. Her journey is a source of inspiration for aspiring individuals who seek to make a meaningful impact on the world. As she continues to break barriers and defy stereotypes, Erica Robin stands as a symbol of empowerment and grace, leaving an indelible mark on the global stage.
Former fast bowler Wahab Riaz has been appointed as the Chief Selector by the National Selection Committee. His first assignment will be to select the Pakistani team for the Test series in Australia from December 14 to January 7 and the T20 series in New Zealand from January 12 to 21.
Wahab Riaz, who began his international career in 2008, secured a total of 237 wickets in 27 Tests, 91 ODIs, and 36 T20 internationals, scoring 1200 runs. He remained Pakistan’s second-highest wicket-taker with 35 wickets in three ICC World Cups.
Expressing his honor at becoming the head of the National Selection Committee, Wahab Riaz thanked Zaka Ashraf, the Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board’s Management Committee, for placing trust in him for this responsibility. He acknowledged that the decision to include former cricketers in cricket matters is commendable and expressed his commitment to working for the improvement of Pakistan cricket. The upcoming tour of Australia holds great importance as Pakistan is set to play Test matches in the ICC World Test Championship. Similarly, the tour of New Zealand will contribute to building a balanced team for the T20 World Cup scheduled in the USA and the West Indies in June next year.
Wahab Riaz emphasized the significance of recognizing players who perform well in domestic cricket, and he pledged to announce well-rounded squads, giving importance to those who excel in all formats. He mentioned that he is always available to know the opinions of players and is committed to working with Team Director Mohammad Hafeez for the success of Pakistan cricket.
Health Advocates Urge Immediate Implementation of Cigarette Tax Hike for Pakistan’s Youth
Health Advocates Urge Immediate Implementation of Cigarette Tax Hike for Pakistan’s Youth In a recent call to action, health-focused advocates have urged for the swift implementation of an increased Federal Excise Duty (FED) on cigarettes in Pakistan. This appeal, aligning with the World Bank’s recommendations, aims to ensure a healthier and brighter future for the nation’s youth.
Social workers and health experts highlighted the urgent need for this move, emphasizing that an elevated FED on cigarettes not only acts as a deterrent to tobacco consumption but also serves as a crucial revenue source for essential public services. The Society for the Protection of the Rights of the Child (SPARC) echoed these sentiments during a press release, with key figures like Imran Ahmed, the Country Director for the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, and Khalil Ahmed Dogar, SPARC’s Program Manager, emphasizing the significant impact this implementation could have on Pakistan’s youth.
Imran Ahmed referred to the latest World Bank report, “Pakistan Development Update,” revealing the potential for a 0.4% increase in GDP revenue through taxation by aligning premium cigarette rates with standard categories. The report underscored the economic and health-related benefits that could stem from this initiative.
However, it was noted that Pakistan’s current collection of Federal Excise Duty on cigarettes falls below expected levels, with only 0.5% of GDP derived from this source during fiscal year 21, reflecting a stagnant tax rate of 0.19% of GDP in recent months.
Health Advocates Urge Immediate Implementation of Cigarette Tax Hike for Pakistan’s Youth Advocates stressed that implementing the World Bank’s recommended tax adjustment would not only discourage tobacco use but also bolster essential public services. Khalil Ahmed Dogar emphasized the necessity for the government’s full endorsement of this action, citing its potential to significantly increase financial resources and improve public health outcomes, thereby securing a safer and happier future for Pakistan’s children.
This move aligns with SPARC’s viewpoint on the dual tax system currently in place for cigarettes in Pakistan. Advocates highlighted that adopting the World Bank’s suggestions could notably enhance revenue, providing impetus for immediate action to address this critical issue.
1. Die Hard (1988)
2. Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)
3. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)
4. The Dark Knight (2008)
5. Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)
6. The Matrix (1999)
7. Gladiator (2000)
8. Inception (2010)
9. Lethal Weapon (1987)
10. Die Hard with a Vengeance (1995)
11. The Bourne Identity (2002)
12. The Avengers (2012)
13. John Wick (2014)
14. The Rock (1996)
15. Speed (1994)
16. Kill Bill: Vol. 1 (2003)
17. Kill Bill: Vol. 2 (2004)
18. The Dark Knight Rises (2012)
19. The Incredibles (2004)
20. The Terminator (1984)
21. Iron Man (2008)
22. The Fifth Element (1997)
23. Gladiator (2000)
24. Braveheart (1995)
25. The Raid: Redemption (2011)
26. The Revenant (2015)
27. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000)
28. 300 (2006)
29. The Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
30. Casino Royale (2006)
31. Predator (1987)
32. Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior (1981)
33. The Equalizer (2014)
34. The Transporter (2002)
35. The Bourne Supremacy (2004)
36. Taken (2008)
37. Edge of Tomorrow (2014)
38. Rambo: First Blood (1982)
39. Aliens (1986)
40. John Wick: Chapter 2 (2017)
41. Gladiator (2000)
42. The Dark Knight Rises (2012)
43. The Hurt Locker (2008)
44. Speed (1994)
45. Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)
46. Casino Royale (2006)
47. Kill Bill: Vol. 1 (2003)
48. Kill Bill: Vol. 2 (2004)
49. The Revenant (2015)
50. The Fugitive (1993)
51. 300 (2006)
52. The Matrix Reloaded (2003)
53. The Matrix Revolutions (2003)
54. Avatar (2009)
55. The Wolverine (2013)
56. Casino (1995)
57. RoboCop (1987)
58. The Last of the Mohicans (1992)
59. The Dark Knight (2008)
60. Minority Report (2002)
61. Kingsman: The Secret Service (2014)
62. District 9 (2009)
63. The Rock (1996)
64. X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014)
65. The French Connection (1971)
66. Taken (2008)
67. The Equalizer 2 (2018)
68. Blade Runner (1982)
69. The Patriot (2000)
70. The Hunt for Red October (1990)
71. Casino Royale (2006)
72. Equilibrium (2002)
73. The Book of Eli (2010)
74. Sicario (2015)
75. The Road (2009)
76. Wanted (2008)
77. Leon: The Professional (1994)
78. Face/Off (1997)
79. Mission: Impossible – Fallout (2018)
80. Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome (1985)
81. The Karate Kid (1984)
82. 28 Days Later (2002)
83. The Italian Job (2003)
84. The Magnificent Seven (1960)
85. Air Force One (1997)
86. Kill Zone (2005)
87. The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014)
88. Total Recall (1990)
89. Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989)
90. Die Hard 2 (1990)
91. Speed (1994)
92. Face/Off (1997)
93. Con Air (1997)
94. 28 Weeks Later (2007)
95. 16 Blocks (2006)
96. Kill Zone 2 (2015)
97. Die Hard: With a Vengeance (1995)
98. Minority Report (2002)
99. The Mechanic (2011)
100. Olympus Has Fallen (2013)
Globalization: Handling the Intricate Network of Interdependencies
Globalization is a complex phenomenon that has brought about significant changes to the planet. It describes how the movement of people, ideas, technology, products, and services across national borders has made the globe more integrated, interdependent, and linked. Globalization has changed economies, civilizations, and cultures over the last few decades, and it still has a beneficial and difficult impact on our lives today. Let’s examine the idea of globalization, its causes, its consequences, and the current discussion around it.
The notion of globalization is complex and multidimensional, with numerous aspects. This component relates to the heightened transnational flow of capital, products, and services. Through trade and financial activities, it has resulted in the growth of international markets and the integration of economies. Transcending national boundaries, a global cultural landscape has been developed via the flow of ideas, values, and cultural aspects, including language, art, music, and entertainment. People are now connected globally thanks to developments in information technology, communication, and transportation, which facilitate the quick interchange of ideas and information. Examples of the growing global collaboration and governance are regional blocs like the European Union and international organizations like the United Nations.
Globalization is driven by a number of important variables, including Technology has made it simpler for people and organizations to interact across borders by lowering communication obstacles, particularly in the area of information and communication technology (ICT). Global markets have been fostered by the elimination of trade restrictions like tariffs and quotas, which have made it easier for commodities and services to move across nations. Big businesses have increased their worldwide reach by making investments in other nations and building a network of interconnected supply chains. Travel, the internet, and mass media have all made it easier for ideas and cultural goods to be shared globally. International organizations and agreements have boosted national collaboration on matters including public health, human rights, and climate change.
Globalization has many different effects, some of which are positive. Through the opening of new markets and the improvement of trade and production efficiency, globalization has aided in economic growth. Many people’s quality of life has improved as a result of having access to a greater range of goods and services. Globalization of technology has produced discoveries and advancements that have enhanced many facets of life. Societies have benefited from cultural globalization by being exposed to a variety of customs, artwork, and viewpoints from throughout the globe.
Negative consequences include there have been instances where globalization has made economic disparity both inside and between nations worse, leaving certain people and areas behind. There are worries that when Western culture permeates other cultures, globalization may cause different cultural identities to disappear. Resource depletion and climate change are two environmental issues brought on by increased commerce and consumption. Worker exploitation and job instability have become problems due to capital mobility and labor outsourcing.
The Ongoing Discussion that there is a vibrant and continuing discussion about the effects of globalization. While some believe that globalization intensifies inequality, destroys cultural variety, and takes advantage of the less fortunate, others counter that it advances economic progress, democracy, and peace.
To put it simply, the concept of globalization is intricate and multidimensional, bringing about numerous changes to our environment. Technology advancement, cultural interchange, and economic expansion have all benefited from it, but it has also brought up significant issues including environmental degradation, cultural uniformity, and inequality. In order to ensure a sustainable and fair future for all, it is crucial to strike a balance between the advantages and disadvantages of globalization, foster international collaboration, and address its negative effects as it continues to influence our linked globe
In a hospital in Gaza, an innocent Palestinian girl with severe wounds on her head from Israeli bombing lay with blood-stained bandages wrapped around her body. In a semi-conscious state, she is taking her last breaths. Her younger brother, with dried blood on his hair, stands by the stretcher, supporting his sister, and urges her to have courage. “Read! ‘Ashhadu an la ilaha…’ Are you hearing my voice?” the brother calls out. The sister opens her eyes with a slight movement, looks towards her brother, and repeats, “Ashhadu an la ilaha illallah, wahdahu la sharika lahu, wa ashhadu anna Muhammadan ‘abduhu…” and falls silent. The brother calls out again, “Are you hearing me? Reread it.” The sister, with determination, recites the testimony of faith and, repeating it, prepares herself to present it before her Allah. The brother repeats, and the sister, saying, “I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, alone without any partners, and I bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and messenger,” leaves this world.
In the hospital, the voices of loved ones reading the testimony of faith to severely wounded Palestinians are heard. This is not just the story of a Palestinian daughter or son, but a passion for martyrdom that stands firm in the hearts of every newborn child born in the sacred land of Palestine, from the youngest to the oldest, facing the brutal world as a mountain. In hospitals, Palestinian children with injuries do not scream, nor do they cry. Tears are not visible in their eyes. This scene is witnessed everywhere in hospitals.
A small nine-month-old fairy has a wound on her arm. With silent eyes, the little fairy searches for her parents and siblings with her left and right silent glances. It feels like she is now alone in this cruel world. But she can’t complain to anyone or show the wounds in her heart. She looks towards the sky, where her only refuge lies.
Perhaps, for the first time in human history, this painful scene is being witnessed, where Palestinian children and youth, from writing their names and birthplace on their hands to older people, are preparing to face the oppressor world with the strength of martyrdom, creating mountains before the world. In hospitals, children injured by bombings in Palestine don’t scream or cry. There are no tears in their eyes. This scene is being witnessed everywhere in hospitals.
On the arm of a small nine-month-old fairy is a wound. With silent eyes, the little fairy searches for her parents and siblings with her left and right silent glances. It feels like she is now alone in this cruel world. But she can’t complain to anyone or show the wounds in her heart. She looks towards the sky, where her only refuge lies.
The current human history may be witnessing for the first time the rapid but astonishing changes related to the strengthening of diplomatic relations between Israel and the Arab world, the thaw in relations and immediate diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran, the future strong trade agreements in the China-Saudi Arabia relationship under the Belt and Road Initiative, and just a few days ago, the release of six Americans in Qatar after the end of the war, resulting in the unfreezing of $6 billion in Iranian funds in American banks. Suddenly, we see scattered bodies of Palestinians everywhere in Gaza.
On the morning of October 7, under the title ‘Relations with Israel?’ published in the column, breaking news started appearing on the global media that Hamas motorcycle riders and paratroopers had attacked Israeli cities, killing Jewish and non-Israeli civilians, including Israeli soldiers, and capturing a large number of military and police officers by turning them into hostages. Information about taking control of some Israeli regions was also provided, and some friends asked, “What was the background of this column that started spreading breaking news just a few hours later and the war ended?” The world’s peace issue is linked to Kashmir and Palestine.
When you are forced to become an instrument of colonial powers to make decisions for the specific interests of both sides by exerting pressure or making decisions out of fear, and the original parties, i.e., Kashmiris and Palestinians, are not given the right to an independent Palestinian state and self-determination, and they witness genocide and martyrdom in front of their eyes, then the results will be the same. Israel-Hamas war, in this context, seems unique and highly mysterious, and the world has not yet found out what the real motives behind it are.
Seeing the brutality and increasing atrocities against Palestinians by the Israeli army, the mysterious war might become.
Parenting is one of the most rewarding and challenging journeys in life. Every parent has their unique approach to raising their children, commonly called their parenting style. These styles encompass various beliefs, values, and behaviors that shape a child’s upbringing. This article will explore four prevalent parenting styles: authoritative, permissive, authoritarian, and uninvolved.
Understanding these styles will help parents reflect on their approach and make informed decisions to promote their child’s healthy development. The authoritative parenting style is characterized by a combination of warmth, responsiveness, and setting clear boundaries. Authoritarian parents provide children with emotional support, guidance, and love while establishing reasonable rules and expectations.
They encourage independence and critical thinking while maintaining an open line of communication. This approach fosters a positive parent-child relationship where children feel secure and valued. Research suggests that children raised by authoritative parents tend to have higher self-esteem, social competence, and academic success.
Permissive parenting is characterized by a lack of discipline and low demands on children. Permissive parents often avoid setting clear boundaries or enforcing consistent rules. They tend to be indulgent and overly lenient, aiming to be their child’s friend rather than an authority figure.
While this parenting style may create a relaxed environment, it can have adverse consequences. Children raised in permissive households may struggle with self-control, have difficulty following rules, and exhibit impulsive behavior. They may also experience challenges in academic performance and forming healthy relationships.
Strict rules, high expectations, and little room for negotiation mark authoritarian parenting. Overbearing parents prioritize obedience and discipline above all else. They tend to be controlling and employ punishment to maintain order. While this style may promote professionalism, it can hinder a child’s autonomy and decision-making skills.
Children raised in authoritarian households may develop low self-esteem, have difficulty expressing themselves, and exhibit fear of making mistakes. They may struggle with self-regulation and experience challenges in building positive social relationships. Uninvolved parenting, also known as neglectful parenting, is characterized by a lack of emotional involvement and attention from parents.
Innocent parents may provide for their child’s basic needs but fail to offer emotional support, guidance, or participation in their child’s life. This parenting style can have severe adverse effects on a child’s development. Children raised in uninvolved households may experience emotional and behavioral issues, academic difficulties, and a lack of self-confidence.
They may also struggle with forming healthy attachments and maintaining relationships later in life. Parenting styles play a crucial role in shaping a child’s overall development. While no parenting style is perfect, understanding each style’s characteristics and potential impacts can guide parents toward more effective and nurturing approaches. The authoritative parenting style, with its balance of warmth and discipline, tends to yield the most favorable outcomes for children.
However, it is essential to consider individual differences and adapt parenting strategies to meet each child’s specific needs. Parents can foster their child’s growth, independence, and overall well-being by cultivating a supportive and loving environment.
‘The International Cricket Council (ICC) Board has suspended Sri Lanka Cricket’s membership of the ICC with immediate effect.’
‘The ICC Board met today and determined that Sri Lanka Cricket is in serious breach of its obligations as a Member, in particular, the requirement to manage its affairs autonomously and ensure that there is no government interference in the governance, regulation and/or administration of cricket in Sri Lanka.
The conditions of the suspension will be decided by the ICC Board in due course.’
Let’s sincerely hope, Pakistan isn’t next? We need to get PCB systems in place, to have a BOG & the Chairman PCB elections.
It has to be about a product, a game that binds us as a nation.
The students of LUMS have caught my attention for two reasons. Firstly, they boldly confronted the truth. Not necessarily through Jabber, but Sultan, facing the word of truth, was bombarded with rapid and pointed questions. Fearlessly, the students questioned the authority of the current ruler, asking why they arrived late to the event, who gave them the right to waste our time, and whether these discussions about prosperity are relevant in the present circumstances. Moreover, they challenged the patience of the ruling authorities for not announcing the election date, questioning if this was not a violation of the constitution. constitution .They asked if they had yet to take the oath under the body and if they were not accountable. One student even went further, asking about the origin of the suit worn by Zeb, pointing out its improper fitting, the trousers dragging below the ankles, and the coat sleeves being so short that half the shirt is visible. On another note, when there is neither an American war nor any wealth coming into our region, where did you get the fabric for your three-piece suit?
Secondly, the enthusiasm of the students at LUMS was of such a nature that if any courageous person had asked such questions, it would undoubtedly have made an impact. Another perspective is that the students of LUMS asked questions merely to undermine the ruling authorities. They neither cared about the alphabet of the constitution nor intended to criticize government policies by asking scholarly questions. They aimed to record the questioning with their mobile phones and upload it on social media to make it go viral. This is why they asked questions designed to embarrass the event’s guests. No one would dare to ask such questions if a trustworthy and powerful ruler were in place instead of the present ruler. Why go far; when the absolute ruler came to LUMS two years ago, friends had already taken out their mobile phones, recording the event. At that time, no one dared to ask Uncle, “Why are you doing this? This is not democracy. If you continue like this, how will there be a revolution in the country?”
No need to explain my opinion on this matter. Hopefully, I am not disrespecting these young people, nor do I wish that they refrain from asking sharp questions in the future. Instead, do it; before that, take a moment to reflect on your actions. These LUMS students are the same youth who, when they come out of their homes in their cars, do not care about any signals, and if a poor traffic warden tries to issue a ticket, they abuse him, threaten him with their father’s influence, and sometimes don’t even stop for a visa. Their sense of superiority is such that now they are becoming the talk of social media.
Regarding their boldness and disregard, the poll was opened that day when the absolute Tevda ruler came. That day, all these good children continued to listen to Uncle’s words, and no one’s conscience awakened. No one dared to ask what Uncle came to take from LUMS, his business here, and whether he was so important. It’s unnecessary to search for the meaning of these idioms in the dictionary; the children of LUMS fit them perfectly.
Similarly, Molana Hazrat also continued to come to deliver sermons in LUMS. At that time, no video went viral in which a child asked, “Why have you turned religion into a business? Is your lifestyle according to Islam, which you come to teach us?” Let me clarify that questioning the absolute Tevda ruler is not like entering the lion’s den; the good children’s sweat disappears there, and their efforts diminish. They can be given marks for at least questioning the ruling authorities according to their understanding. Let this tradition continue. Next time, they will also probably ask something from the absolute Tevda ruler.
But what to do? I am exaggerating. On the one hand, we keep complaining to young people that they need more political awareness, are engrossed in their own world, and have no interest in national affairs. On the other hand, if they sit down to ask some sharp questions, we are quick to criticize them. Yes, they can be given credit for at least asking questions according to their understanding. This social order has become so morally bankrupt that asking questions here is not to gain knowledge about something but to showcase one’s ability and superiority. Usually, Banu Qudsia said that the truth is not always bitter; it is the way of speaking the fact that is bitter. Along with telling the truth, we often humiliate others, expecting that only the truth is understood in our act of humiliation.
LUMS students have done just that!
•CRICKETER OF THE YEAR 2022
• ODI Cricketer of the Year 2021
•ODI Cricketer of the Year 2022
• Captain of ICC ODI Team of the Year 2021
•Captain of ICC ODI Team of the Year 2022
• Only player to win Player of the Month award thrice
Babar in T20ls:
• The fastest to 2,000 runs
•Joint-fastest to 3,000 runs
•The then Fastest to 1,000 runs
•Most Days Spent as No.1 batter
• Joint most T201 wins as a captian
• 4th highest run scorer in the history
• 2nd Most T201 hundreds in the history
• 2nd most player-of-the-series awards in the history
Babar in ODIS:
• Fastest to 5,000 runs
• 2nd fastest to 4,000 runs
• 2nd joint-fastest to 2,000 runs
• The then joint-fastest to 1,000 runs
• The then 2nd fastest to 3,000 runs
• No.1 ODI batsman since 07 Apr, 2021
• Fastest to 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 & 19
hundreds
• Only player in the history to score 3 consecutive hundreds twice
Babar in Tests:
• Most runs for 🇵🇰 in WTC21
• Most runs for in 🇵🇰 WTC23
• 3rd highest rating points ever for 🇵🇰
• 4th most hundreds in WTC history
•5th highest career batting average for 🇵🇰
Babar as Captain:
•ODI Series win vs 🇳🇿after 12 yrs
• Test Series win vs 🇿🇦 after 18 yrs
• ODI Series win vs 🇦🇺 after 19 yrs
• First Captain to led 🇵🇰 to No.1 in ODIs
• Only Captian to beat 🇮🇳 in WC events
• 2nd Most away Test wins as 🇵🇰 captain
• Only Captian to whitewash in Test in 🇱🇰
Babar Azam