The concerned Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani has called on the international community to exert pressure on Israel for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, respecting the United Nations’ agreements. In a tweet on a social media platform, the concerned Foreign Minister stated that Israel has continued its bombing in Gaza, cutting off electricity and all communication links. He emphasized that in this darkness, we should not overlook the plight of innocent Palestinians.
In a Kazakh mine, a severe explosion resulted in the death of at least 32 people, with 14 individuals reported missing. According to Iranian media, a major coal mine owned by the national company “ArcelorMittal” in the Karaganda region of Kazakhstan suffered a massive fire. As a result of this explosion, a minimum of 32 people lost their lives, while 14 others are reported missing. Local media reported that 23 miners are still trapped in the Kuyolkan mine, and efforts are underway to rescue them.
Information indicates that 18 individuals were also injured in the incident. In response to this tragedy, Kazakh President Qasym-Jomart Toqayev expressed condolences and solidarity with the affected individuals and declared a day of mourning on October 29.
Furthermore, the Kazakh President instructed his cabinet to suspend cooperation with the “ArcelorMittal Temirtau” company. According to media reports, there were 252 individuals inside the mine at the time of the incident, with 208 miners successfully evacuated., a major coal mine owned by the national company “ArcelorMittal” in the Karaganda region of Kazakhstan suffered a massive fire. As a result of this explosion, a minimum of 32 people lost their lives, while 14 others are reported missing. Local media reported that 23 miners are still trapped in the Kuyolkan mine, and efforts are underway to rescue them.
Information indicates that 18 individuals were also injured in the incident. In response to this tragedy, Kazakh President Qasym-Jomart Toqayev expressed condolences and solidarity with the affected individuals and declared a day of mourning on October 29.
Furthermore, the Kazakh President instructed his cabinet to suspend cooperation with the “ArcelorMittal Temirtau” company. According to media reports, there were 252 individuals inside the mine at the time of the incident, with 208 miners successfully evacuated.
The Turkish Foreign Ministry has reacted to the statement made by the Israeli Foreign Minister by expelling Israeli diplomats. The Turkish Foreign Ministry stated that Israel is conducting ethnic cleansing in Gaza but does not accept criticism and condemnation. They consider the Israeli government’s baseless accusation of anti-Semitism against the Turkish President to be unfounded. The Turkish Foreign Ministry emphasizes that Turkey is a safe haven for Jews and rejects baseless allegations and insults against President Erdogan. It should be noted that following Turkey’s strong stance against Israel’s ongoing operations in Gaza, Israel had previously recalled some of its embassy staff from Turkey. According to a foreign news agency’s report, Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid had stated that he had called back some of his diplomatic staff due to the strong statements coming from Turkey.”
Iran’s President, Ibrahim Raisi, has issued a warning regarding Israel’s actions in Gaza, stating that Israel has now crossed a line that could force anyone to take action against it. In a statement on the social media platform, Telegram, President Raisi further said that Washington tells us not to take any steps, but at the same time, they continue their extensive support for Israel.
According to President Raisi, the U.S. has sent messages to the Resistance Alliance, but their response has been on the battlefield. The resistance alliance refers to the network of supported forces by Iran in the entire Middle East, of which Hamas is a part.
It is clear that U.S. authorities are warning Iran to stay away from the conflict between Israel and Hamas because they aim to prevent a broader regional conflict. In Lebanon, the Iran-backed Hezbollah group has been involved in exchanges of fire with Israel in recent weeks.
Final Stages of Repatriation: Deadline Looms for Illegal Foreign Residents
Illegal residents of foreign nationals have one day left in the given deadline. According to sources, the screening and mapping of illegal residents in various populations for the repatriation of illegal immigrants has entered its final stages. The verification of the documents available to foreign individuals is ongoing. In the initial phase, action will be taken against those who do not possess documents. Holding areas and temporary camps have been established for the apprehension of illegal foreign nationals, with FIA personnel busy at the registration desk in each camp. The registration desk is linked to a rare software border management system.
The mobile registration service for the Unique Income Support Program is expected to be activated by November, according to the Secretary of the Unique Income Support Program, Aamer Ali Ahmed.
Secretary Aamer Ali Ahmed stated that to facilitate the registration process for eligible beneficiaries of the Unique Income Support Program, who are located in remote and far-flung areas of the country, the mobile registration service will possibly be operational until November. This will make it easier to streamline the registration process for residents of remote areas.
According to the Secretary, the mobile registration centers will provide facilities for the registration of eligible women residing in distant areas through mobile vehicles. A total of 25 mobile vans are being included in the National Social Economic Registry for mobile registration centers, which will serve people who have limited access to registration facilities.
In his statement, he mentioned that 19 mobile registration centers are being set up in Balochistan, five in Sindh, and one in Islamabad. Secretary BISP (Benazir Income Support Program) also stated that the process of activating the mobile vans, which started in August, has reached its final stages. For the first time in Pakistan’s history, individuals with special abilities and transgender individuals have been included in this program, and they are eligible to register.
In a video message on Sunday, he said, “I extend heartfelt congratulations to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on the auspicious occasion of the 100th anniversary of the Republic of Turkey, which was founded under the visionary leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk on October 29, 1923.”
President Alvi emphasized that the relationship between Pakistan and Turkey goes way back, and even before the establishment of both countries, the people of this region and the Turkish people had a strong bond. He shed light on the fact that both countries’ strong relationship is evident not only from their historical ties but also from the assistance sent to the region with military aid during the Russo-Turkish War, to which Turkey responded positively.
President Alvi acknowledged the tremendous progress made under the leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and the current Turkish leadership’s excellent handling of issues in the Muslim world.
He stressed that the excellent friendship between Pakistan and Turkey is based on mutual understanding and cooperation on global issues, including the Kashmir issue. He praised President Erdogan for taking a courageous stance on recent violent events in Gaza and expressed hope that the Muslim world will also show strong support on the Gaza issue and the Kashmir issue.
President Alvi also reminded the world that Muslims have historically welcomed people of all religions in places like Andalusia and Anatolia. He expressed his belief that Turkey has made significant progress under the leadership of President Erdogan, and this is a proud moment for both nations.
He concluded by emphasizing the need to express the deep brotherly bond between the two nations, which is eternal and will continue to thrive.
Astrology has fascinated humans for centuries, offering insights into our personalities, relationships, and life events. One of the fundamental tools in astrology is the birth chart, also known as the natal chart. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of birth charts, how they are constructed, and how they can be used to make predictions about our lives. We will also explore the significance of birth stars in Vedic astrology and their relation to gemstones.
What is a Birth Chart?
A birth chart is a snapshot of the celestial positions at the exact moment of an individual’s birth. It represents a unique cosmic blueprint that outlines the planetary placements in the zodiac signs and houses. These elements interact to shape an individual’s personality traits, strengths, weaknesses, and life experiences.
Constructing a Birth Chart
To construct a birth chart, an astrologer needs the date, time, and location of an individual’s birth. Using this information, the astrologer calculates the positions of the planets at that specific moment and creates a personalized birth chart. The chart consists of twelve houses representing different areas of life and twelve zodiac signs representing distinct personality traits.
Elements of a Birth Chart
Planets: Each planet represents different aspects of our being. For example, Mercury governs communication and intellect, while Venus symbolizes love and relationships.
Zodiac Signs: The zodiac signs provide further insight into an individual’s personality traits and characteristics. For instance, Aries signifies courage and assertiveness, while Cancer represents sensitivity and nurturing.
Houses: The twelve houses in a birth chart correspond to various aspects of life, such as career, relationships, and spirituality. Each house holds unique significance in determining specific life areas.
Birth Chart Interpretation
Astrologers interpret birth charts by analyzing the relationships between planets, signs, and houses. This analysis helps uncover patterns, strengths, challenges, and potential life events. By understanding these dynamics, individuals can gain self-awareness and make informed decisions.
Predictions and Forecasting
Birth charts can also be used for predictions and forecasting. Astrologers analyze planetary transits and progressions to anticipate upcoming opportunities or challenges in an individual’s life. These insights can assist in making informed choices and preparing for potential outcomes.
Birth Stars
In Vedic astrology, birth stars, also known as nakshatras, play a significant role in determining an individual’s personality and life events. There are 27 nakshatras, each with its unique set of characteristics and ruling planets. The nakshatra in which an individual is born is determined by the position of the moon at the time of their birth.
Significance of Birth Stars
The nakshatras hold immense significance in Vedic astrology, as they are believed to influence an individual’s mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Each nakshatra has its ruling deity, symbol, and qualities that shape an individual’s personality traits and life path. Astrologers use the position of the moon and the Nakshatra to determine an individual’s strengths, weaknesses, and potential life events.
Birth Stars and Gemstones
Gemstones are often associated with birth stars in Vedic astrology. Each nakshatra has a corresponding gemstone that is believed to enhance its positive qualities and mitigate negative influences. For example, the Hasta nakshatra is associated with the planet Moon and is believed to enhance creativity and intuition. The corresponding gemstone for Hasta is Pearl, which is believed to strengthen these qualities.
How Gemstones are Chosen
Astrologers choose gemstones based on an individual’s birth chart and the position of their ruling planet. The gemstone is believed to enhance the positive influences of the ruling planet and mitigate its negative effects. For example, if an individual’s ruling planet is Mercury, they may be advised to wear an emerald to enhance their communication skills and intellect.
Benefits of Wearing Gemstones
Wearing gemstones is believed to have numerous benefits, including enhancing mental clarity, improving physical health, and promoting spiritual growth. Gemstones are also believed to enhance specific qualities associated with the corresponding nakshatra and ruling planet.
Conclusion
Birth stars play a significant role in Vedic astrology, offering insights into an individual’s personality traits and life path. The corresponding gemstones for each nakshatra are believed to enhance positive qualities and mitigate negative influences. While astrology and gemstones may not be scientifically proven, many people find value in their use as tools for self-awareness and personal growth.
Renowned poet, playwright, and novelist Alexander Pushkin holds a place in Russian literature similar to Geoffrey Chaucer in English literature and Walt Whitman in American literature. These three writers introduced modern themes and techniques into their respective literatures, bestowing their unique national identity on their works. Alexander Pushkin lived only 38 years, but in the following centuries, luminaries like Gogol, Lermontov, Turgenev, Dostoevsky, Tolstoy, and Chekhov shone brightly under his influence.
Alexander Pushkin created a drama titled “Queen of Command.” It is a story of a greedy military officer in the Tsarist Russia, on a quest to uncover the secret of a wealthy old lady’s fortune. Rumor has it that the old widow had concealed her wealth within a deck of playing cards in a unique order. The military officer, holding a pistol, intrudes into the old lady’s house one night. He manages to extract the secret of the cards, but kills the lady in the process. The officer, wanting to enjoy the fortune, decides to play cards but is baffled by the shuffled order, ultimately losing everything.
This allegorical story can be applied to any era, demonstrating the consequences of greed and the helplessness of the common people. Our country’s history is still being played in shadows, where the common man is not destined to share the rewards.
The role of a journalist is to illuminate the difference between shadows and light, but some media outlets are continuing to operate underhand, while certain pens have been deprived of their radiance. As Shakespeare once said, “What’s in a name?” We would answer, “A lot.” The power of the spoken word, derived from the sweet lips of the Queen of Command, has sculpted the social consciousness with thoughtful words.
In the 1946 elections, Bengal was a united province, where the Muslim League secured a decisive majority. The leader of Bengal’s Muslim League, Huseyn Shaheed Suhrawardy, was not only deprived of becoming a member of the constituent assembly but also subjected to a citizenship investigation. Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan called him a traitor. The sin was not only in becoming a constituent Assembly member but also in his citizenship. Fazlul Haq, the one who presented Pakistan’s resolution, made a government in 1954 with a two-thirds majority, but he was labeled a traitor. His party was cursed by Bhutto for decades. In the freedom movement, Abdul Ghafoor Khan remained steadfast against foreign rulers for thirty years. We kept him under house arrest for seventeen years.
Ask the students of literature in our country if they know about Sheikh Ayaz, Gul Khan Nasir, Ghani Khan, Major Ishaq, the writings of Subho Gian Chandani, or Qalandar Khan Mumtaz. Do they know that Rais Mir Bakhsh was a prominent Sindhi fiction writer? Will they recognize the contribution of the former Chief Minister of Balochistan, Dr. Malik as an important Balochi fiction writer?
In General Zia’s dark years, Bhutto’s name was banned from newspapers and publications. According to Etimad-ud-Din, the mention of monsoons and swarms of locusts was restricted. Radio broadcasts hinted at the arrival of rain, but farmers faced locust swarms.
This happened until Mr. Lateef’s song “Lahore Lahore Aye” became a hit. In those days, news channels and print media circulated the saying “Mister Ten Percent” to avoid naming the then Prime Minister. On November 22, 2012, four senior military leaders’ names came forward for the post of Army Chief. According to the procedure, one of them was appointed. The honorable title bestowed upon them was “Hafiz Sahab.” These are the people who declared Yahya Khan as the creator of the Islamic Constitution. These are the individuals who addressed General Zia-ul-Haq as the “Man of Faith and Truth.”
The difference between a journalist’s conscience and the Queen of Command’s bewitching words is remarkable
Unconvincing chants for the privatization of struggling state-owned Enterprises (SOEs) are echoing in Islamabad. With approximately 215 SOEs, of which 170 are commercial entities employing 475,000 individuals, the majority have struggled to achieve even a five percent return on their assets for three consecutive years.
Between FY2013-14 and 2018-19, the top 10 loss-making SOEs amassed losses exceeding Rs2.1 trillion, with the government injecting Rs2.5 trillion between 2018 and 2021, including a substantial subsidy of Rs1 trillion.
Privatization is considered an instrument for a more deregulated, market-based economy, but a significant portion of these SOEs may need to be liquidated rather than privatized in their current state.
An example is Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), which is poised as the first candidate for privatization, having accumulated an astounding loss of Rs713 billion and losing $7.1 billion since 2012.
PIA owns only 19 operational aircraft (compared to Air Blue’s 12), with 15 of them leased, incurring a monthly cost of $5 million. Moreover, its asset value falls short of covering its liabilities.
To proceed with PIA’s privatization, the government acknowledges the need to segregate non-core functions and assets, address its debt liabilities of nearly Rs300 billion, mostly backed by government guarantees, and transfer them to another corporate entity. The core assets marked for sale include routes, landing rights, core engineering services, and air service agreements.
However, there is a need for greater clarity on what is being sold as assets, their expected versus actual market value, and the perceived liabilities for the buyer.
Highly valued assets include routes, landing rights at major international airports, and time slots owned by PIA. The potential value of PIA’s slots today remains uncertain.
Determining the value of PIA’s 19 aircraft and the feasibility of taking over leased aircraft with outstanding liabilities is a complex matter. The government may need to reach settlements with lessors rather than resort to costly arbitration.
Properties owned or rented by PIA may not all be retained by the buyer for operational efficiency, potentially leading to numerous property sales and office closures.
An important question arises regarding the future of flights to destinations not served by private airlines. Would the private sector take over these routes, or would a transitional subsidy be necessary?
The buyer would also scrutinize the workforce, focusing on the excess number of employees, their skill set, and pension liabilities. Expecting the government to shoulder pension liabilities for retired employees, the buyer’s decision to retain or lay off workers would significantly affect the offer price.
Foreign investors’ interest in the transaction may be influenced by Pakistan’s image in terms of security, politics, economics, and regulations compared to global alternatives. Negotiating taxes and other concessions would also be a consideration.
The divestment of PIA can align with the principles of privatization if carried out openly and transparently, with preparation to secure the best price and considering efficiency, market competitiveness, and the public interest.
The funds generated from this transaction should not be diverted to unproductive government activities or poorly designed mega-infrastructure projects. Instead, they should contribute to retiring debt and promoting fiscal reforms in accordance with the law.