Friends of Margalla Hills National Park (MHNP) has voiced concern over recent legal proceedings that appear to revisit the landmark court decisions that resulted in the removal of Monal Restaurant and other commercial establishments from within the protected boundaries of Margalla Hills National Park. The environmental group stated that the judgments delivered by the Islamabad…
The federal government has announced the abolition of the Capital Value Tax (CVT) on financial assets as part of its broader strategy to simplify the tax system, encourage documentation, and provide relief to investors and taxpayers. The decision was unveiled during the FY2026-27 budget presentation, with officials stating that the removal of the tax is…
Pakistan’s livestock sector has once again proven to be the backbone of the country’s agricultural economy, accounting for the majority of agriculture’s growth during FY2025-26. According to the Pakistan Economic Survey 2025-26, livestock remained the largest contributor to agricultural value addition, highlighting its growing importance in supporting economic activity and rural livelihoods. The survey revealed…
The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) is considering the introduction of a new entertainment tax targeting a wide range of hospitality and event-related businesses, including Airbnb properties, hotels, restaurants, guest houses, marriage halls, marquees, wedding lawns, and banquet facilities. According to officials, the proposed tax would be levied at a rate of one percent of the…
A groundbreaking study has revealed that a simple blood test may help identify individuals at risk of developing lung cancer up to five years before the disease is diagnosed. The discovery could significantly improve early detection efforts and transform how healthcare professionals assess cancer risk. Published in the prestigious journal Cell, the research highlights the…
As Pakistan prepares for the upcoming federal budget, policymakers are exploring new strategies to bridge revenue gaps without placing additional pressure on the country’s already burdened formal sector. Among the proposals gaining attention is a phased reduction in the Federal Excise Duty (FED) on the beverage industry, a move experts believe could stimulate growth, attract…
A Hardee’s outlet located at the Bhera Service Area has come under public scrutiny after social media users shared images and videos allegedly showing burgers and buns contaminated with visible mold and fungus. The incident has sparked widespread concern among consumers and renewed discussions about food safety standards at popular restaurant chains. The allegations gained…
A groundbreaking portable diagnostic device is set to transform tuberculosis (TB) testing in Pakistan by offering a faster, more affordable, and accessible solution for early disease detection. Researchers have developed a compact testing device capable of detecting tuberculosis from a simple tongue swab within 30 minutes. The test costs approximately $4, which is around Rs.…
Imported branded fruit juices and non-alcoholic beverages in Pakistan may soon see price increases following a major revision in customs valuation rules by Pakistan Customs. The update comes after more than a decade of unchanged valuation benchmarks. The Pakistan Customs has revised customs values for imported branded fruit juices and non-alcoholic drinks for the first…
The government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir has approved the creation of 477 new posts at District Headquarters Hospital Chak Rawalakot in a major step aimed at improving healthcare facilities in the region. The decision was taken under the leadership of AJK Prime Minister Faisal Mumtaz Rathore during a high-level meeting focused on the hospital’s…