PoliticsFifty-eight candidates have filed nomination papers for three AJK refugee constituencies linked to Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Election officials say scrutiny has begun, with four women also entering the contest.
CITYA woman was found dead in a suspected overdose case near Circular Road in Rawalpindi, while her two daughters were rescued in critical condition. Police are investigating the circumstances, including the possibility of suicide.
BusinessThe federal government has reconstituted PARCO’s board, retaining most existing Pakistani directors and replacing only one member. The finance ministry’s latest report also shows a sharp drop in the company’s sales and profit in FY2025.
BusinessSME financing in Pakistan rose 46% to Rs853.94 billion by March 31, 2026, according to SBP data shared on World MSME Day. Officials and business representatives said the sector still needs stronger institutional support and easier access to finance.
Arts & CultureEU Ambassador to Pakistan Raimundas Karoblis visited Taxila Museum and reviewed its Gandhara-era collections. He praised efforts to preserve Pakistan’s cultural heritage and called for stronger international cooperation.
BusinessThe Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry has demanded the immediate reopening of the Cotton Exchange building, saying its sealing has disrupted 209 offices and harmed the cotton trade. KCCI also cited a Sindh High Court order allowing business activity to continue from the site.
CITYTomato and potato prices have climbed sharply in Peshawar, with tomatoes reaching Rs300 per kg and potatoes Rs120 per kg. Market sources say supply pressures and a delayed local crop are contributing to the increase.
CITYA man died after being shot during an alleged robbery in Rawalpindi’s RA Bazaar area, police said. Investigators said the victim was attacked after resisting armed suspects on a motorcycle.
CITYCourt proceedings in Rawalpindi and Islamabad remained suspended from Muharram 7 to 11 after undertrial prisoners were not shifted from Adiala Jail due to security measures. The disruption affected district and special courts in both cities.
WorldThe death toll from Venezuela’s twin earthquakes has climbed above 1,400 as foreign rescue teams joined operations in devastated coastal areas. UN agencies warned millions could need urgent humanitarian assistance.
CITYA Karachi mobile phone dealer was killed and a woman seriously injured after gunmen opened fire on a family vehicle in Mastung’s Dasht area. A traders’ association said the family had been travelling from Karachi to Quetta when they went off route.
SportsRachin Ravindra hit an unbeaten 60 to lift New Zealand from 12-2 to 120-3 in their second innings against England at Trent Bridge. The visitors ended the third day 204 runs ahead in the series decider.
