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Pakistan Hajj Policy 2025 Affordable Payment Plans & Key Details

Pakistan Hajj Policy 2025 Affordable Payment Plans & Key Details
Pakistan Hajj Policy 2025 Affordable Payment Plans & Key Details 1600 900 D. I. Khan New City

The Government of Pakistan has created a new Hajj Policy for 2025, which is designed to make it easier for people to afford the trip by allowing them to pay in installments. This plan shows the government’s dedication to helping people make this important journey, while also considering the financial difficulties that many potential pilgrims face.

Key Features of the Hajj Policy 2025

  1. Phased Payment Plan:

    To make the pilgrimage easier to afford, the updated policy allows for the Hajj fees to be paid in three parts.

    • First Payment: Rs. 200,000 when you apply.
    • Second Payment: Rs. 400,000 within ten days after being chosen in a lottery.
    • Final Payment: The rest of the money by February 10, 2025.

This phased approach minimizes the need for upfront payments, making the Hajj journey more affordable for citizens.

  1. Cost and Packages:

    The cost of the Hajj trip varies between Rs. 1,075,000 and Rs. 1,175,000, depending on the package chosen. An extra Rs. 55,000 is needed for the required sacrificial rituals. The government offers two choices:

    • A 38–42 day stay for those who want a longer pilgrimage experience.
    • A 20–25 day stay for those with limited time or budget.

  1. Quota and Prioritization:

In 2025, a total of 179,210 pilgrims will go on this holy trip, with some going through the government and others through private travel companies. During the selection process, first-time pilgrims will be given preference, giving more people a chance to complete this religious duty.

  1. New Travel Guidelines:

    Kids younger than 12 can’t join, which helps make travel easier and ensuring a smoother pilgrimage experience.

Financial Security and Withdrawal Policy

The government has made sure that payments are clear and safe:

    • If someone leaves after the first payment, Rs. 50,000 will be taken away.
    • If the third payment isn’t made on time, Rs. 200,000 will be taken away.

Broader Implications of the Policy

This policy is an important move toward making the Hajj more welcoming and easier to join. By allowing people to pay in instalments and giving priority to first-time pilgrims, the government has addressed long-time worries about the cost of the pilgrimage. The option to choose different package lengths shows a considerate way to meet various needs.

Conclusion

Pakistan’s Hajj Policy for 2025 highlights a strong commitment to making one of the most important religious journeys for Muslims easier. The government plans to lower costs and implement helpful measures to assist more people in achieving their dream of performing this holy pilgrimage. This new policy offers hope and chances for those who wish to go, combining religious beliefs with practical solutions.

43 NUST Researchers Among World’s Top 2% Scientists - Stanford 2024

43 NUST Researchers Among World’s Top 2% Scientists
43 NUST Researchers Among World’s Top 2% Scientists 1600 650 D. I. Khan New City

A big success for Pakistan’s schools and colleges has happened! 43 smart people from the National University of Sciences & Technology (NUST) are now in the top 2% of all scientists around the world, according to a special list made by Stanford University in 2024. This list, made with help from Elsevier, shows which scientists are doing very important work in areas like making computers think like people, building things, and keeping information safe.
NUST’s steady climb on this list in recent years shows its dedication to conducting significant research that not only helps Pakistan but also greatly contributes to the worldwide scientific community.

Rising from Nine to Forty-Three: NUST’s Academic Growth

NUST’s path to this achievement has been truly inspiring. The university started on the list with just nine scientists in 2021, and this number grew to 43 this year. This significant increase shows NUST’s strong commitment to building a place that encourages top-quality research and helps researchers explore new areas in science and technology.
Additionally, NUST’s success is seen in its QS University Rankings, where it ranks 353rd globally and 64th in Asia. This accomplishment confirms NUST’s status as one of Pakistan’s top research institutions, known for both academic excellence and making important contributions worldwide.

The Impact of NUST’s Research on Pakistan and Beyond

Researchers from NUST who are listed in Stanford’s top 2% have made significant contributions across various scientific fields, pushing forward advancements that could greatly benefit Pakistan’s technology and research sectors. Their success reflects not only their personal commitment and skills but also NUST’s focus on creating a supportive environment that promotes innovation, thorough research, and critical thinking.
These accomplishments have a broader impact, helping to raise Pakistan’s reputation in the international scientific community. Honors like these motivate young scientists in Pakistan to strive for excellence and show that, with dedication and the right support, Pakistani researchers can compete with the best in the world.

NUST’s Role in Shaping the Future of Research

This recent achievement highlights NUST’s position as a top institution for higher education and research in Pakistan. With a focus on forward-thinking studies, NUST is setting a standard for other universities in the area. The university’s dedication to advancing scientific knowledge has placed it among the world’s best universities, and its researchers are making significant contributions to the fields of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and engineering.
NUST’s progress underscores the value of academic persistence and creative thinking. By supporting researchers and developing new talents, the university is crucial in inspiring the next generation of scientists in Pakistan and motivating them to explore new frontiers in research and technology.

Empowering Youth Through NUST and DIKNC’s Strategic Partnership

The collaboration between NUST and D.I. Khan New City (DIKNC) marks a significant step toward fostering innovation, modern education, and youth empowerment. Through this partnership, NUST is offering multiple courses that integrate academic knowledge with practical skills essential for the future. These courses, tailored to the needs of a dynamic tech-driven economy, prepare young professionals in areas like AI, data science, and sustainable engineering. By aligning with industry standards, this initiative empowers students to excel in emerging fields and contributes to the development of a skilled workforce, reinforcing Pakistan’s potential on the global stage.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Pakistani Science

As NUST researchers keep making progress on the world stage, their accomplishments bring pride not just to the university but also to Pakistan’s scientific and academic communities. With honors like the 2024 Stanford ranking, NUST strengthens its status as a leading center for innovative research and academic excellence. This achievement is a big step forward, showing the growing potential of Pakistan’s academic sector and emphasizing NUST’s role in advancing scientific knowledge and inspiring future generations.

Google Offers Free AI Courses with Certificates.

Google Offers Free AI Courses with Certificates
Google Offers Free AI Courses with Certificates 1200 800 D. I. Khan New City

Google is offering free courses in Artificial Intelligence (AI) in 2024, making AI education available to everyone. These courses, hosted on Google Cloud, cover both basic and advanced AI topics and are part of Google’s effort to provide high-quality AI learning worldwide.

Key Course Offerings from Google

If you’re just starting with AI or want to learn more, Google has free AI courses for everyone. Here’s what they offer:

1.      Introduction to Generative AI

    • Duration: 45 minutes
    • Content: Basics of Generative AI, applications, and distinctions from traditional AI methods.

2.      Introduction to Large Language Models (LLMs)

    • Duration: 45 minutes
    • Content: Essentials of LLMs and their applications.

3.      Introduction to Responsible AI

    • Duration: 9 minutes
    • Content: A summary of responsible AI, covering Google’s seven guidelines for AI and important ethical concerns.

4.      Prompt Design in Vertex AI

    • Duration: Approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes
    • Content: Skills such as creating clear instructions for AI and analyzing images using AI.

5.      Responsible AI: Applying AI Principles with Google Cloud

    • Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes
    • Content: Creating ethical AI using Google Cloud tools.

Each course provides video lessons, hands-on activities, and a certificate when you finish, making it a great resource for students, professionals, and anyone looking to develop AI skills.

Who Can Enroll?

Google’s courses are available to anyone, regardless of age, background, or prior experience. There are no time or location constraints, so anyone interested in AI can take advantage of these opportunities. After successfully finishing a course, participants get certificates, which can be a valuable addition to their resumes.

Why Take Google’s Free AI Courses?

The courses are made to give learners skills in one of the world’s fastest-growing areas. AI is quickly changing many industries, from healthcare to finance, and having a basic knowledge of AI can lead to new and exciting job opportunities. Google’s courses not only improve your understanding of AI but also offer practical experience in using AI responsibly, working with generative AI, and handling large language models—which are key parts of today’s AI world.

Registration and Enrollment Details

To get started, just go to Google Cloud Skills Boost, where signing up is easy for everyone. By joining, you’ll learn advanced AI skills and earn a certificate from Google, which will help you stand out in a world where AI is important.

Sohan Halwa: The Sweet Essence of D. I. Khan

Sohan Halwa: The Sweet Essence of D. I. Khan
Sohan Halwa: The Sweet Essence of D. I. Khan 2560 1707 D. I. Khan New City

Dera Ismail Khan, commonly known as D. I. Khan, is famous for several reasons—its history, culture, and flavors. One special treat that stands out is Sohan Halwa, a rich and delicious dessert loved not only in Pakistan but also by sweet-lovers around the world. This blog looks into the background of Sohan Halwa, its special taste, the ingredients used, and why it remains a beloved treat in D. I. Khan.

The History of Sohan Halwa: A Heritage Dessert

Sohan Halwa has a long history and is one of Pakistan’s most well-known traditional sweets. It comes from the Indian subcontinent, but the best version is made in D. I. Khan. For many years, families in D.I. Khan have been passing down the recipe, making sure it stays true to its original form. This careful tradition is why every bite of Sohan Halwa feels like tasting a piece of history.

What Makes D. I. Khan’s Sohan Halwa Unique?

D. I. Khan’s Sohan Halwa is special because of its texture and taste. The key to its distinctiveness is in the ingredients and the traditional way it’s made. Sohan Halwa is made with wheat, milk, sugar, and pure ghee. The secret is the slow cooking, which caramelizes the sugar and gives it a rich, nutty taste. Lastly, the dessert is topped with crunchy almonds and pistachios, making it even more delicious.

Savoring the Taste: Why Sohan Halwa is Irresistible

Sohan Halwa has a perfect mix of sweetness and nuttiness. The pure ghee gives it a rich, smooth texture that feels luxurious. It’s sweet but not too much, and the nuts add a nice crunch. This special flavor makes Sohan Halwa a favorite gift in Pakistan during celebrations and weddings, representing warmth, joy, and tradition.

A Cultural Symbol and a Culinary Gift

In Dera Ismail Khan, Sohan Halwa is more than just a sweet treat—it’s a sign of warm welcome and local pride. People often give this special dessert to guests as a way to show respect. Some even visit D. I. Khan just to taste the real Sohan Halwa, making their trip even more enjoyable.

The Art of Making Sohan Halwa: A Labor of Love

Making the perfect Sohan Halwa demands patience and careful attention. The ingredients are cooked in big copper pots on a gentle heat, with continuous stirring to achieve the ideal texture. This time-consuming process may take several hours, but the outcome is worth every moment. Adding dried fruits not only improves the flavor but also makes it visually appealing, creating a delightful experience for both taste and sight.

Where to Find Authentic Sohan Halwa in D. I. Khan

When you visit D. I. Khan, you’ll find many sellers who are famous for making the best Sohan Halwa. Each seller has their own special way of making it. Some well-known places are the traditional sweet shops in the main city. There, you can get freshly made halwa using traditional methods and good ingredients. The people who live there really trust these shops, where every piece of halwa shows the hard work and talent passed down through many years.

Health Benefits of Sohan Halwa

Even though Sohan Halwa is a sweet treat, it also has some good things for your body. It’s made from wheat and milk, which give you calcium, important fats, and energy. The nuts in it are full of protein and healthy fats. So, if you eat it in small amounts, it can be a tasty and healthy part of your meals.

Conclusion: Savor the Sweet Tradition of D. I. Khan

Sohan Halwa continues to be a cherished treat, uniting families and creating lasting memories. Its special recipe and the dedication in its making make it a lasting symbol of D. I. Khan. So, whether you’re from the area or just visiting, be sure to enjoy this delightful traditional dessert, savoring every bite as a taste of D. I. Khan’s culinary heritage.

Pakistan Achieves Record-Breaking $4 Billion in Rice Exports in 2024

Pakistan Achieves Record-Breaking $4 Billion in Rice Exports in 2024
Pakistan Achieves Record-Breaking $4 Billion in Rice Exports in 2024 1360 930 D. I. Khan New City

For the first time ever, Pakistan reached an important goal by exporting $4 billion worth of rice in 2024. This big accomplishment shows how strong Pakistan’s farming industry is becoming, with rice—especially the famous basmati kind—leading the way. The Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) was very important in making this happen, by encouraging new farming methods and more investments in agriculture.

The Role of Pakistan’s Basmati Rice in the Global Market

Pakistan’s basmati rice has always been famous for its high quality, which makes it very popular in other countries. This rice is known for its special smell and long grains, and it’s used in many kitchens around the world. Because of this growing demand, Pakistan’s rice industry has grown a lot, helping the country become a big player in international trade.
In 2024, the increase in rice exports was mostly because more people wanted Pakistan’s basmati rice. By working on better seeds, farming methods, and new research, the country was able to produce more rice.

SIFC’s Role in Agricultural Growth

The Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) has played a key role in Pakistan’s successful agriculture sector. By helping with investments and creating opportunities for farmers, the SIFC has increased crop production and improved the quality of the crops. This has allowed Pakistan to meet growing international demand while also making its own agriculture sector stronger.
Shahjahan Malik, who used to lead the Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan, is very positive about this success. He thinks that reaching $4 billion in exports is just the start, and there’s potential for even more success in the future. Malik has set a big goal of $5 billion in rice exports for next year. He believes this can be achieved by researching better seeds and encouraging better farming methods.

The Road Ahead: $5 Billion in Rice Exports

To reach the goal of exporting $5 billion worth of rice, Pakistan needs to keep working on new and better ways to farm that also help the environment. This includes supporting research for better seed types, improving farming equipment, and teaching farmers how to grow rice more effectively. With the world wanting more of Pakistan’s rice, the country is in a good place to meet this need and sell even more of its farm products.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Pakistan’s Rice Industry

Pakistan’s success in exporting rice shows how important innovation, investment, and smart planning can be. Thanks to the work of the SIFC and the constant demand for high-quality basmati rice, Pakistan is moving towards even bigger achievements. With a goal of reaching $5 billion in rice exports, the future of Pakistan’s farming industry looks very promising.

Chinese Firm to Build Textile Parks in Pakistan, Targeting $5 Billion in Exports

Chinese Firm to Build Textile Parks in Pakistan, Targeting $5 Billion in Exports
Chinese Firm to Build Textile Parks in Pakistan, Targeting $5 Billion in Exports 820 615 D. I. Khan New City

In a major move to boost Pakistan’s textile exports, the Board of Investment (BOI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China’s RUYI Shandong. This collaboration aims to establish cutting-edge textile parks in Sindh and Punjab, with the goal of increasing Pakistan’s textile exports by $5 billion and creating around 500,000 new jobs.

The MoU was signed during a meeting between RUYI Group’s Chairman, Qiu Yafu, and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, following the Prime Minister’s recent visit to China. The parks are part of a larger effort to strengthen the economic ties between the two countries.

What makes these parks unique is their focus on sustainability. Powered by solar energy, they will feature zero-carbon, automated facilities, setting new standards for environmental responsibility in the textile industry. By utilizing solar energy, the parks will help lower carbon emissions and contribute to Pakistan’s renewable energy goals.

Around 100 Chinese textile companies are expected to be housed in these parks, which will modernize Pakistan’s textile industry while reducing its environmental footprint. Construction is set to begin by the end of this year, with the project slated for completion in three years.

This initiative positions Pakistan as a rising player in the global textile market and showcases the strengthening partnership between Pakistan and China, particularly in industrial and technological sectors.

Pakistan and China Strengthen Agricultural Cooperation with $382 Million Agreement

Pakistan and China Strengthen Agricultural Cooperation with $382 Million Agreement
Pakistan and China Strengthen Agricultural Cooperation with $382 Million Agreement 625 409 D. I. Khan New City

At the China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) in Beijing, a significant $382 million agricultural cooperation agreement was signed between International Innovation Park Limited EPZ and China National Cereals, Oils and Foodstuffs (COFCO). This landmark deal is set to enhance agricultural trade and collaboration between Pakistan and China, offering new growth opportunities for both nations.

Boosting Pakistan’s Agricultural Exports

Pakistan’s Ambassador to China, Khalil Hashmi, expressed his enthusiasm for the agreement, emphasizing Pakistan’s growing trade relations with global economies, especially under the China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement (CPFTA). He highlighted that this partnership has the potential to expand Pakistan’s agricultural exports, contributing significantly to the country’s economic growth.

Advancements in Digital Transformation for Textiles

In addition to the agricultural agreement, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Liu Zhai and Naveed Asghar to promote digital transformation in Pakistan’s textile industry. This collaboration aims to introduce advanced technologies, boosting efficiency and productivity within the sector, which is a cornerstone of Pakistan’s economy.

Financial Collaboration Through CIFTIS

Shaikh Muhammad Shariq from the National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) also spoke on the significance of CIFTIS as a platform for international financial cooperation. He highlighted how the event brings together global financial leaders, fostering economic collaboration and opening doors to new opportunities.

Strategic Partnership Between Pakistan and China

Federal Minister Jam Kamal Khan reiterated the importance of Pakistan’s strategic partnership with China. He noted that both countries continue to work closely on various joint ventures, driving mutual economic development across key sectors like agriculture, textiles, and finance. Events like CIFTIS further solidify these ties, playing a pivotal role in promoting shared progress.

This partnership between Pakistan and China marks another milestone in their ongoing collaboration, reinforcing their commitment to innovation, economic growth, and long-term cooperation.

Harnessing Solar Energy: Transforming D.I. Khan's Path to Sustainable Development

Harnessing Solar Energy: Transforming D.I. Khan’s Path to Sustainable Development
Harnessing Solar Energy: Transforming D.I. Khan’s Path to Sustainable Development 2000 1332 D. I. Khan New City

In an era where sustainability is more crucial than ever, solar energy presents a promising and hopeful solution to meet energy demands while safeguarding our environment. For Dera Ismail Khan (D.I. Khan), a region fortunate with abundant sunshine, utilizing solar energy could be a game-changer in its quest for sustainable development. In this blog, we explore how D.I.  Khan can influence its solar potential to drive economic growth and environmental sustainability.

The Solar Advantage: D.I. Khan’s Geographic Edge

D.I.  Khan is positioned in a region with high solar radiation, making it an ideal location for solar energy projects. With an average of 300 sunny days per year, the potential for solar power generation is significant. Unlike many regions that struggle with inconsistent sunlight, D.I. Khan’s consistent solar exposure provides a reliable and renewable energy source.

The Benefits of Solar Energy for D.I. Khan

  1. Environmental Impact

Solar energy is a clean, renewable resource that can drastically reduce carbon emissions. By shifting from fossil fuels to solar power, D.I. Khan can contribute to global efforts to combat climate change. This transition not only helps in reducing air pollution but also assures a healthier environment for future generations.

  1. Economic Opportunities

Investing in solar energy presents numerous economic benefits for D.I. Khan:

  • Job Creation: The solar industry can create a wide-reaching of jobs, from manufacturing and installation to upkeep and research. This can motivate local employment and boost the regional economy.
  • Energy Independence: Solar energy can reduce D.I. Khan’s dependence on external energy sources, providing a more steady and secure energy supply.

Exploring Investment Opportunities

  1. Large-Scale Solar Farms

Given D.I. Khan’s solar potential, large-scale solar farms offer a profitable investment opportunity. These farms can produce significant amounts of electricity, participating to the region’s energy needs and creating new business prospects.

  1. Residential and Commercial Solar Solutions

The market for residential and commercial solar installations is also increasing. By investing in solar panels for homes and businesses, D.I. Khan can benefit from reduced energy bills and enhanced energy security. Moreover, local companies centering in solar technology can thrive as demand increases.

Success Stories and Case Studies

  1. Global Examples

Countries like Germany and India have successfully integrated solar energy into their energy mix, showcasing how solar power can change national energy landscapes. Germany’s energy transition initiative and India’s solar parks serve as excellent models for D.I. Khan.

  1. Local Initiatives

While D.I. Khan is just beginning to explore solar energy, early adopters and pilot projects can offer valuable insights and inspire further investment. Local success stories, though currently limited, can provide a groundwork for broader adoption.

Addressing Challenges

Despite its benefits, solar energy adoption in D.I. Khan faces challenges:

  • High Initial Costs: The upfront investment required for solar panels and substructure can be a barrier. However, government incentives and decreasing technology costs are making solar energy more accessible.
  • Technical Barriers: Implementing and sustaining solar technology requires technical expertise. Investing in training and education can help overcome this hurdle.

Proposed Solutions:

  • Financial Support: Utilizing subsidies and grants can help reduce initial costs.
  • Skill Development: Investing in local training programs can build a skilled workforce to assist solar energy projects.

Looking Ahead: Future Prospects

As D.I. Khan embarks on its voyage towards sustainable development, solar energy can play a key role by integrating solar power into its energy strategy, D.I. Khan can achieve long-term environmental and economic benefits.

  1. Long-Term Vision

A thorough solar strategy can help D.I. Khan reduce its carbon footprint and enhance energy security. This vision includes scaling up solar projects, expanding incentives, and cultivating public-private partnerships.

  1. Potential Partnerships

joint efforts with international solar companies, NGOs, and research institutions can bring additional Proficiency and resources to D.I. Khan’s solar initiatives. Such partnerships can accelerate progress and optimize the impact of solar energy investments.

Conclusion

Harnessing solar energy offers D.I. Khan a path to sustainable development, blending environmental caretaking with economic opportunity. As the region capitalizes on its solar potential, it can pave the way for a greener, more prosperous future. By hugging solar power, DI Khan not only addresses its current energy needs but also sets an example for sustainable growth and innovation.

KP Govt to Install Chairlift from Naran to Saiful Muluk Lake

KP Government Plans Chairlift from Naran to Saiful Muluk Lake to Boost Tourism
KP Government Plans Chairlift from Naran to Saiful Muluk Lake to Boost Tourism 1024 614 D. I. Khan New City

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government is set to enhance tourism in Kaghan Valley by introducing a new chairlift connecting Naran to Saiful Muluk Lake. This project, developed through a public-private partnership, aims to provide a safer and more convenient option for visitors who find the traditional jeep ride challenging or uncomfortable.

The chairlift will offer a scenic and enjoyable way to reach Saiful Muluk Lake, making the breathtaking views more accessible to all. The feasibility report is nearing completion, and once finalized, the project will move forward.

The government is also focused on exploring and improving other tourist spots in the region, with the ultimate goal of boosting the local economy and attracting both domestic and international tourists.

This chairlift will have stations at both Naran and Saiful Muluk Lake, enhancing the overall experience for visitors to Kaghan Valley.

KP Governor to Establish First AI Center in the Province

KP Governor to Establish First AI Center in the Province
KP Governor to Establish First AI Center in the Province 1400 812 D. I. Khan New City

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has announced the establishment of the province’s inaugural Artificial Intelligence (AI) center at the Governor House in Peshawar. This initiative aims to foster digital innovation, with a special emphasis on empowering women and engaging the youth in cutting-edge technological projects.

The AI center will collaborate with universities to extend its influence and offer resources and opportunities to students and professionals in the region. This development is part of a broader effort to enhance digital literacy and technological skills, contributing to the economic and social progress of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

In a similar vein, Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori has launched a scholarship program designed to support talented students aspiring to study abroad. This program will include a dedicated cell at the Governor’s House to assist students throughout the application process, furthering their academic and professional goals. These initiatives highlight a nationwide push to improve educational and technological infrastructure, setting the stage for future growth and development in Pakistan.

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