The Islamabad High Court will hear on May 19 a petition seeking the eradication of drug use in educational institutions in the federal capital. The court has also directed the HEC, police and ANF to assist in the matter.
CITYRawalpindi authorities have intensified Congo virus prevention measures ahead of Eidul Azha, including 12 cattle check posts and mandatory animal screening. Six official cattle markets will operate across the division from May 16 until Eid.
BusinessFPCCI has urged the government to introduce a single-window national sales tax compliance system and restore the Final Tax Regime. The chamber also called for ending super tax, promoting a cashless economy and reducing corporate tax for manufacturers.
BusinessPakistan’s exports to North America rose 1.72pc to $4.921bn in July-March FY26, while imports from the region jumped 33.44pc to $2.538bn. The US remained Pakistan’s dominant export market in North America.
BusinessPakistan’s tobacco exports fell to $114 million in July-March FY26 from $144 million a year earlier, according to sources in tobacco companies. They cited a global surplus, weaker Middle East demand and regional tensions as key factors behind the decline.
BusinessA new study says Pakistan can cut industrial energy costs by more than 36pc and reduce emissions by over half by 2050 through electrification. It identifies food, textiles, paper and fertilisers as the strongest near-term sectors for the shift.
NATIONALThe ISPR has criticised Indian Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi’s recent remarks about Pakistan, calling them provocative and warning New Delhi against pushing South Asia towards another conflict.
WorldChina’s commerce ministry says recent trade consultations with the United States produced positive outcomes, including tariff understandings, new trade and investment councils, and progress on agricultural and aviation issues.
EntertainmentHarry Styles launched his new world tour in Amsterdam, where fans from across Europe gathered for the opening show despite bad weather. The seven-city tour will run from May 16 to December 13 and includes 67 concerts.
WorldVienna hosted the Eurovision final amid protests over Israel’s participation and a boycott by five countries over the war in Gaza. Finland and Australia were seen as the leading contenders for the 70th edition of the contest.
NATIONALPeshawar Governor Faisal Karim Kundi says Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa is facing serious wheat supply issues and has offered talks with Sindh on shipments if Punjab allows transit. He also stressed that Pakistan’s stability depends on political and economic strength as well as military power.
BusinessThe government has shared with the IMF a plan to cut income taxes for salaried individuals and companies while proposing new revenue measures to offset losses. The proposals are part of ongoing budget discussions with the lender.
