50 YEARS OF CRESCENT MODEL HIGHER SECONDARY SCHOOL, LAHORE (1968-2018) December 26, 2018 (2018-13)

 

The founders of the Crescent Group established a Not for Profit Trust named the Crescent Educational Trust in the early 1960's to deliver high quality education to Pakistani youth. They were of the firm belief that good quality education is crucial for Pakistan's development into a first world country.

Four brothers, the founders of the Crescent Group, Mian Fazal Karim, Mian Muhammad Amin, Haji Muhammad Shafi, and Mian Muhammad Bashir donated funds to the Crescent Educational Trust, helping establish the Crescent Model Higher Secondary School (CMS). One of the brothers, Mian Muhammad Amin, was asked to lead this noble venture on behalf of the family.

Other leading personalities of Pakistani society, such as Chief Justice Muhammad Munir, Chief Justice Yaqoob Ali, Dr. Ameer ud Din, Finance Minister Dr. Mubashar Hassan, Chief Minister Sheikh Manzoor Elahi, and renowned journalists Mr. Hameed Nizami and Mr. Majeed Nizami joined hands with the founders to help in this noble cause.

They made valuable contributions with their experience and wisdom, which were instrumental in the success of the newly born Crescent Model Higher Secondary School which in a short span of time became a premier educational institution. A modern, high quality campus was designed by the renowned architect Arif Hasan, and was built under the expert supervision of Dr. Mubashar Hassan, former Finance Minister of Pakistan.

While the campus was still under construction, the first batch of students was accommodated in a two room facility in Gaddafi Stadium in 1968. The school shifted to its permanent campus in Shadman Colony in 1970.

The highest standards of education, a low fee structure, a well trained and dedicated faculty, and merit based, need blind admission policy have always been the hallmark of the Crescent Model Higher Secondary School. This policy opened the doors of this high quality school to brilliant Pakistani youngsters, enabling them to compete on equal footings with students belonging to more affluent families.

The school was fortunate to have Sheikh Muin ud Din and Ms. Jahan Ara Khan as principal and headmistress of the school in its early days. The institution benefited enormously from their dedication, sagacity and wisdom. They established an institutional ethos that helped in developing "Crescentarians" to become "Game Changers" for Pakistan in general, and their own families in particular. Over the last fifty years, our students have built careers in the fields of education, academia, architecture, business, finance, defence, engineering, public service, sports and many more.

With a rich history exceeding fifty years, the Crescent Model Higher Secondary School is the largest not for profit school in Pakistan. Our student body consists of 7,600 boys and girls pursuing education following either the Matriculation or the Senior Cambridge curriculum. We have a modern campus with three auditoriums, well designed classrooms, science and information technology laboratories, well maintained playgrounds, a modern swimming pool, and four gymnasiums. We have a finishing school for girls with foreign certified faculty, a teacher training center, a school of arts, and a school of music. We have exclusive arrangements for teaching of Qirat and Naat.

All these facilities enable us to provide education that helps individuals develop an economically stable life, a passion for gratitude, compassion, integrity and responsibility. An extensive range of opportunities and broad spectrum of curriculum provides the large student population at CMS with a broad knowledge sharing platform, enabling them to become well rounded responsible citizens.

As a whole, the school has been providing quality, affordable and accessible education to the community for over fifty years, preparing both men and women alike to experience economic growth and a purposeful life. With the "no child left behind" policy, the Crescent Model Higher Secondary School has graduated agents of positive change who have helped reduce inequities within our society. Our resolve is stronger than ever before to meet the challenges of these turbulent times, with confidence.

On 50 Years of Crescent Model Higher Secondary School, Lahore, a Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs. 8/- denomination is being issued by Pakistan Post on December 26, 2018.

SILVER JUBILEE GHULAM ISHAQ KHAN INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING SCIENCES AND TECHNOLOGY (1993-2018) December 24, 2018 (2018-12)

 

Genesis

1. The Genesis of Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology goes back to the early 50's when Mr. Ghulam Ishaq Khan, during his close association with the Water and Power Development Authority and the Pakistan Industrial Development Corporation, became acutely aware of Pakistan's dependence on foreign expertise and imported technology. His frequent interaction with foreign and local experts led to the idea of a centre of excellence in engineering sciences and production technology whose standards of education would be comparable to those of its counterparts in the advanced countries. The transformation of this idea into a practical proposition took place in December 1985 when the Benevolent Community Care and Infaq Foundation donated Rs. 50 million for setting up an Institute, and the Khyber Pakhtun Khwa Government donated 218 acres of land for its campus.

2. A milestone in the evolution of the Institute was the registration, in June 1988, of its parent body, namely the Society for the Promotion of Engineering Sciences and Technology in Pakistan (SOPREST). Mr. Ghulam Ishaq Khan, the then President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, was elected President of the Society for life and Mr. H. U.Baig appointed its honorary Executive Director.

3.The task of conceiving and formulating the basic form and features of the Institute was entrusted to a group of eminent scientists and engineers. Civil works at the campus site started in early 1990. An interim office of the Institute was set up in August 1992 where experienced professionals worked on the educational aims and philosophy of the Institute, its curricula and details of equipment for its laboratories and workshops. The ordinance for the establishment of the Institute was promulgated by the then North Western Frontier Province (Now Khyber Pakhtunkhwa) in March 1993 and the first batch of students entered its portals in October 1993. It is the first not-for-profit, non-governmental Institute of its kind in the country and is dedicated to bringing our engineering education at par with that of advanced countries.

Aims and Objectives

4.The aim of the Institute is to pursue excellence in education and research by developing appropriate curricula and teaching practices, acquiring talented faculty and providing an environment conducive to teaching and learning. Its graduates are expected to possess high professional competence combined with the humanistic and moral values envisaged in its Profile of the Graduates. The educational philosophy of the Institute lays emphasis on training of the mind rather than stuffing it with an inert body of facts; on expanding the scientific imagination of the students rather than making them tread well-worn and outmoded grooves of thought. Guided by such convictions, the Institute educates its students by confronting them with real-life problems, and inculcating in them a problem-solving approach. They are encouraged to explore and solve problems, to break new grounds and to cultivate leadership qualities. Pakistan is on the threshold of a major breakthrough in the techno industrial fields and needs professionals with ability and vision to lead the way. The Institute aims at producing such professionals with a strong base of engineering education and research. It strives to produce graduates who can upgrade existing technological activities in the country and in whom professional excellence is inseparable from a commitment to the national ideals.

5. The Institute has a Board of Govemors which sits at the apex of the statutory pyramid of the Institute and its composition is the same as that of the General Council of SOPREST. It has overall control of the Institute, the powers to create new components of the Institute such as a school, faculty or any other teaching or research unit, and to change the constitution of its Executive Committee and Governing Council. Engr, Shams ul Mulk, HI, Ph.D (hon), D.Sc (Hon), Former Chairman, Water and Power Development Authority and Former, Chief Minister of NWFP (Now Khyber Pakhtunkhwa) is the President of the Board. The members consist of eminent scientists, scholars, engineers and industrialists as founding members. Chairman, Higher Education Commission, Chairman, Water and Power Development Authority, Executive Director SOPREST, Secretary Finance Division, Govt. of Pakistan, Chief Secretary Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Secretary Law, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are Ex-officio Members of the Board.

On Silver Jubilee of Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology, (1993-2018) a Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs. 8/- denomination is being issued by Pakistan Post on December 24, 2018.

INTERNATIONAL ANTICORRUPTION DAY. December 09, 2018 (2018-11)

 

1. International Anti-Corruption day is commemorated on 9th December every year all over the world. It signifies the day when United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) was first opened for signing at Merida, Mexico in 2003. It is a major milestone in the global efforts to combat corruption and provides a unique opportunity to create public awareness against corruption. The day is observed to highlight the adverse impacts of corruption on humanity.

2. International Anti-Corruption Day i.e 9th December is gaining more impetus with each passing year as our society is becoming more aware to the plethora of problems our nation is facing due to rampant corruption. The recent crusade of the apex court against corruption and widespread debates and coverage from the media has sensitized the whole society to the disastrous impacts it has on the development of our country. The present government is taking bold steps to serve as an example by practicing good governance, transparency, accountability on economic and development issues so that we, as Pakistanis start believing in the government. The improvements in governance will not occur automatically as the development process unfolds; no virtuous circle will suddenly begin to operate.

3. NAB has intensified its efforts for raising awareness in the masses in fighting against corruption. The Bureau is the forerunner in the drive for a corruption free society through adoption of a holistic three pronged strategy of Awareness, Prevention & Enforcement. NAB has recovered over Rs. 297 billion since inception and its efforts have helped Pakistan in moving up the ladder in the (Transparency International) Corruption Perception Index (CPI) from 126th to 117th (latest index as of year 2017) position in the community of nations during the last four years.

4. Pakistan is a developing country, and it is quintessential that all resources including national kitty are utilized strictly in accordance with rules and regulations in fair and transparent manner. NAB is following and advocating policy of zero tolerance and practicing self-accountability in eradicating Corruption in the country.

5. NAB under section 33C (a) of NAO 1999 is mandated to educate and advise public authorities, holders of public office and the community at large on measures to combat corruption and corrupt practices The Bureau is actively engaging with other public sector departments and intelligentsia for reforming their systems and regulations in order to curb the menace of corruption and corrupt practices through the mode of Prevention Committees. Awareness is aimed at correcting ill habits of Society through Education and Character Building so as to build public opinion and will to eradicate Corruption and Corrupt Practices. The major object of awareness is to transform the social attitude from indifference to abhorrence against corruption; building anti-corruption coalition; and putting to lime light various aspects and dimensions of the menace of corruption by raising awareness and building requisite character traits.

6. NAB as an institution has played a central role in galvanizing anti-corruption efforts all over the country, it has become a focal point for people frustrated with our public sector institutions. The Bureau has developed and introduced an on line complaint registration system along with dedicated telephone lines for assistance of general public and complainants, where the grievances of the citizens are listened very carefully. The Chairman NAB holds public hearings on the last Thursday of every month wherein he personally hears the complaints of the public and issues necessary directions for the redressal of their grivances as law. The Regional Bureaus also hold public hearings for the convenience of the public on the same pattern as per the advice of the Chairman NAB for reaching out to the public.

7. The issuance of this Commemorative Stamp with the support of Pakistan Post on the eve of International Anticorruption day i.e. December 09, 2018 carrying the message "United against Corruption for a Prosperous Pakistan" is a step forward to renew the pledge and commitment of the government against corruption and for raising awareness of general public about its ill effects and will also help in the prevention of corruption.

8. Silence perpetuates corruption; when we have information that can help prevent loss of resources through corruption or that can assist to bring perpetrators to book. We must collectively fight, to destroy this cancer that eats deeper into the moral fabric of our society.

9. Let’s join together, as a nation, on the eve of International Anti-Corruption day i.e. 9th December, 2018 for renewal of our vows and dedication to the cause of eradication of corruption from our beloved country so that we leave for our future generations a better and prosperous Pakistan.

On International Anti-Corruption Day with the message "United Against Corruption for a Prosperous Pakistan", a Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs.8/-denomination is being issued by Pakistan Post on December 09, 2018.

ON THE 10 EDITION OF INTERNATIONAL DEFENCE EXHIBITION AND SEMINAR-IDEAS 2018. NOVEMBER 27, 2018 (2018-10)

 

International Defence Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS) is one of the mega regional events, biennially organized by Defence Export Promotion Organization (DEPO) under the auspicious of Ministry of Defence Production of Pakistan. A continuous success story since year 2000, IDEAS is now an established rendezvous of international defence exhibitors, high level delegations, security analysts and top ranking policy planners. Besides exhibiting latest innovations in defence technologies; it is also an international forum for analytical evaluation of defence and security outlook of the future through a series of conferences and a capstone seminar.

The history of international defence exhibitions in Pakistan dates back to 1999 when Pakistan Navy organized an International Naval Defence Show from 22-25 February 1999 at Karachi. The event received an overwhelming response and was largely participated by national and international defence manufacturers and exhibitors. The event provided an impetus and government of Pakistan decided to organize International Defence Exhibition and Seminar as "IDEAS" biennially and the first edition of IDEAS was held in year 2000 at Karachi Expo Centre. Through exponential year on year growth, both in terms of number of exhibitors and participating countries, today IDEAS has iconic standing on the canvas of global defence exhibitions.

While serving as an international platform for showcasing latest innovations in defense and technologies of the future, IDEAS is a regional gateway for international manufacturers and suppliers to explore new avenues of defence cooperation through joint ventures, outsourcing and collaboration. On the other hand while reinforcing our diplomatic efforts in the realm of defence diplomacy; it manifests Pakistan's deeply embedded and mutually beneficial relations with the international fraternity. In fact, the IDEAS is a shared vision for global peace, stability and harmony. The IDEAS slogan, "Arms for Peace" truly reflects Pakistan's principled stance on peace within and peace without.

Today marks the 10th successful conduct of IDEAS in Pakistan. On the 10th edition of IDEAS, a commemorative postage stamp of Rs. 10/- denomination is being issued by Pakistan Post on November 27, 2018, showcasing the IDEAS logo which is well renowned in the defence exhibitions worldwide

JAMSHEED MARKER EX-AMBASSADOR, November 24, 2018 (2018-9)

 

Educated at the Doon School, Dehra Dun, and Forman Christian College, Lahore, Graduated as a Gold Medalist with an Honors Degree in Economics from the University of the Punjab.

DIPLOMATIC CAREER

Appointed as Ambassador of Pakistan in 1965, and since served continuously abroad in that capacity in eleven different capitals, with concurrent accreditation to a further nine countries.

September 2004 to December 2007

Ambassador at Large, Government of Pakistan

July 2000 to December 2004

Special adviser to the Secretary General, United Nations, for East Timor, with the rank of Under Secretary General.

February 1997 to Jun 2000

Personal Representative of the Secretary General, United Nations, for East Timor, with the rank of Under Secretary General. Conducted negotiations, as representative of the United Nations, with the governments of Indonesia and Portugal, with East Timorese leaders, which led to the successful referendum in August 1999, enabling the eventual independence of East Timor.

May 1995 to December 1996

Member, Efficiency Board, the United Nations, New York.

September 1995 to June 2004

Diplomat in residence, Eckerd College, St. Petersburg Florida. Director in various corporations in Pakistan.

September 1990 to March 1995.

Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the United Nations, New York. Chairman of the Group of 77 for 1992. Led negotiations on behalf of the Group of 77 (consisting of 128 developing countries) the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), in Rio de Janeiro, June 1992. Permanent Representative of Pakistan, Member of the Security Council, January 1993 to December 1994. President of the UN Security Council, April 1993. President of the UN Security Council, July 1994.

July 1989 to August 1990.

Distinguished Fellow, the United States institute of Peace, Washington D.C. Diplomat in Residence, Eckerd College, St. Petersburg, Florida. Director of business corporations in Pakistan.

September 1986 to June 1989.

Ambassador of Pakistan to the United State of America, with concurrent accreditation to Jamaica. Maintained close co-ordination with the U.S. Administration and Congress on a number of important issues Including negotiations over the Soviet military withdrawal from Afghanistan. (Please see article in the New York Times, 1 September 1988, attached).

1982 to1986.

Ambassador of Pakistan to France, with concurrent accreditation to Ireland Permanent Representative to UNESCO, Paris.

Negotiated credit agreements in defense purchases, training and technology. transfer. Close political contacts on the Afghan issue. Travelled extensively in the country on speaking engagements. Maintained personal ties with important personalities at the Elysee, the Matignon, Quald'Orsay and the National Assembly.

1980 to 1982.

Ambassador of Pakistan to the Federal Republic of Germany. Negotiated credit agreements. Maintained close contacts on the Afghanistan issue, including the organization of refugee aid and assistance. Travelled extensively in the country.

1979 to 1980.

Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the European Office of the United Nations in Geneva.

Represented Pakistan on the Committee on Disarmament, the Council for the General Agreement on Trade and Tariffs (GATT), the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), as well as the UN Specialized Agencies based in Geneva, ILO, WHO, WMO, WIPO, UNHCR, Chaired a number of committees, particularly in the Disarmament Committee, specializing in nuclear issues, and in UNCTAD, specializing in financial issues and the problems of international debt.

1976 to 1978.

Ambassador of Pakistan to Japan. Negotiated two annual yen credits, and numerous joint ventures in the private sector.

1973 to 1976.

Ambassador of Pakistan to the German Democratic Republic, with concurrent accreditation to Iceland. Opened the Pakistan Embassy in East Berlin, negotiated trade and aviation agreements with the G.D.R.

1972 to 1973.

Ambassador of Pakistan to Canada, with concurrent accreditation to Guyana, Trindad & Tobago.

1969 to 1972.

Ambassador of Pakistan to the U.S.S.R., with concurrent accreditation to Finland. Negotiated the agreement for the establishment of the only steel mill in Pakistan. Travelled extensively in the Soviet Union, organized the state visits of President Yahya Khan to the Soviet Union in 1970, and of President Bhutto in 1972, Participated in frequent and extensive diplomatic negotiations in the Kremlin, particularly with Prime Minister Alexel Kosygin, during the crisis leading to the emergence of Bangladesh.

Negotiated with the East German diplomats in Moscow for the establishment of diplomatic relations with the German Democratic Republic.

1967 to 1969.

Ambassador of Pakistan to Romania, with concurrent accreditation to Bulgaria. Organized the state visit of President Ayub Khan to Romania in 1967.

1965 to 1967.

High Commissioner of Pakistan to Ghana, with concurrent accreditation as Ambassador to Guinea and Mali. Travelled extensively throughout West Africa, and expanded relations between Pakistan and the newly independent Anglophone and Francophone West African nations, from the diplomatic field to cooperation in commercial, economic, cultural and military affairs.

MULTILATERAL NEGOTIATIONS.

Apart from duties as Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the United Nations in New York and Geneva, was also a member of the Pakistan delegation to the General Assembly of the United Nations on a number of occasions, was also a member of the Pakistan delegation to the Non Aligned Movement Conference in Havana in 1979, and to the organization of the Islamic Conference in Islamabad in 1980.

While based in Geneva, Paris and Washington, was closely involved with the negotiations which led to the Genva Accord 1988, and the subsequent withdrawal of Soviet forces from Afghanistan.

Member of an unofficial group of experts assembled by the Arms Control Association and the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace at Divonne, France, in September 1974, which produced a report entitled "N.P.T. Paradoxes and Problems".

Appointed by the Secretary General, United Nations, to a group of experts on a Comprehensive Study on Nulear Weapons, vide General Assembly Resolution 33/91 D of 16 December 1978. Co-author of the Report dated 12 July 1980 Entitled * Nuclear Weapons: Report to the Secretary General".

BUSINESS CAREER

1946 to 1965

Joined the family business in 1946 in Quetta, Balouchistan and Karachi, Sindh, and became a director of a number of corporations which included shipping, pharmaceuticals, banking and insurance. Took an active interest in industrial labour relations, and was a member of the Pakistan delegation to several conferences of the International Labour Organization, Geneva. Was also a well known radio cricket commentator in Pakistan.

1942 to 1945.

Served in the Royal India Navy in World War II in convoy escort duties, commanded a magnetic minesweeper, and look part in combined operations in Burma. Served as a Group Testing Officer on the Naval Selection Board.

AWARDS.

Service Awards:

1939/45 Star, Burma Star, War Service Medal.

Civil Awards:

Sitara-e-Quaid-e-Azam by the Government of Pakistan, 1971.

Madarski Konnik by the Government of Bulgaria, 1986.

Grand Officer dei Order de Merit, by the Government of France, 1986.

Order of San Carios in the Degree of the Great Cross, by the Government of Columbia, 1993.

Hilal-e-Imtiaz by the Government of Pakistan, 2004.

Married to Diana Dinshaw (expired 1979), and Amaz Minwalla. Two daughters, Niloufer Marker Reifler and Feroza Marker (expired 2001).

Interests and occupations include music and opera, literature, sports and art, especially contemporary Pakistani paintings. One of the early circket commantators for Radio Pakistan.

Languages: Urdu, Gujarati, English, French, German and Russian.

PUBLICATIONS

East Timor. A Memoir of the Negotations for Independance. Mc Farland & Co. Jefferson. North Carolina.

Quiet Diplomacy. Memoirs of an Ambassador of Pakistan. Oxford University Press, Karachi.

The American Papers. Co-authored with Roedad Khan. Oxford University Press Karachi. Coverpoint. Impressions of Leadership in Pakistan.

On Jamsheed Markar, Ex Ambassador of Pakistan (1922-2018), a Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs.8/- denomination is being issued by Pakistan Post on November 24, 2018.

100 YEARS OF MAMA PARSI GIRLS' SECONDARY SCHOOL KARACHI (1918-2018) July 24, 2018. (2018-8)

 

April 2018 marks the centenary of The Mama Parsi Girls' Secondary School. The school's history and development reflects the contribution of the Parsi community to the city's civil life, offering a paradigm of the community spirit.

In 1917, there were few schools, particularly for girls, and very few girls went to school. As early as 1903, Seth Eduljee Dinshaw proposed the establishment of a High School for Parsi Girls. However, the funds raised then, were insufficient. The school was finally established in 1918 due to the foresight and acumen of Jamshed Nusserwanji Mehta, who brought together the community minded sprit and philantrophy of Khan bahadur Ardeshir Hormusjee Mama, Khan Bahadur Nusserwanji Mehta and Nadirshaw Eduljee Dinshaw. Shehryarji Contractor, Director of Public Education, Bombay Presidency, provided expert guidance. Since Khan Bahadur Ardeshir Hormusjee Mama was the largest donor, the school was named The Mama School in memory of his parents.

The school started in the BVS School premises, then moved to the Mama Mansions and finally settled down in its present location in 1920, with the capacity to accomodate 250 Parsi girls. In 1947, after partition, at the personal request of the Quaid-e-Azam, admission was opened to girls of all communities.

Starting with about 50 Parsi girls, we now have 2130 girls! The Founder's motto was to provide the best possible education to every child entering the portals of this school. Moving with the times, many things have changed but our motto has remained unchanged. We have surged ahead with the growth in numbers - our beautiful old buildings still stands, with several new structures added on new programmes and curriculum have been introduced. We now work in two shifts morning and afternoon. Computer Studies was introduced in 1985. The Matriculation System of the Sindh Board was changed to the SSC Examinations of the Aga Khan University Education Board. Co curricular activities have increase, with Urdu & English Literary & Dramatic societies, Red Crescent, Mama Cadets & Girl Guides also being added on and of course we are very proud of our girls' School Band.

Remaining true to our motto, our aim is not only to impact knowledge but to develop informed, ethical and reasonable individuals who are prepared for life-long learning, to lead and to serve.

We now have many Mamaians in different parts of the world, who are living, working and positively contributing to their cities and communities. We are indeed proud of them!

We thank God Almighty for the school's successful century and pray for His Blessings for many many more years to come.

On 100 Years of Mama Parsi Girls' Secondary School Karachi (1918-2018), Pakistan Post is issuing a Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs 8/- denomination on July 24, 2018.

60th ANNIVERSARY OF URDU DICTIONARY BOARD, June 14, 2018 (2018-5)

 

Urdu Dictionary Board (Formerly Urdu Development Board) was established in 1958. It was created through a Resolution of the Ministry of Education, Government of Pakistan, dated 14th of June, 1958, which stated that Urdu Development Board would compile and publish a comprehensive dictionary of Urdu on historical principles, on the pattern of Greater Oxford Dictionary. The Board was also asked to undertake a number of other tasks for the development of Urdu.

Founded by Baba-e-Urdu Maulvi Abdul Haq who was the first Chief Editor of the organization, it was honored over the years by close and active association of great scholars and litterateurs of their times such as Josh Malihabadi, Begum Shaista Ikramullah, Dr. Abdul Lais Siddiqui, Mr. Mumtaz Hasan (Governor State Bank of Pakistan); Shaukat Subzwari, Dr. G. Allana and many others. One of the oldest scholarly institutions of Pakistan, it has a prestige that has no rival.

UDB has a library comprising of rare books and manuscripts, a large number of which was rescued and brought to Karachi in trunks by Maulvi Abdul Haq from the office of Anjuman-e-Taraqui-e-Urdu in Delhi after it was ransacked in communal riots in 1947.

Through a Resolution of Ministry of Education dated 27th of March, 1982 the Board was re-named as Urdu Dictionary Board and was assigned the task of compiling and publishing a comprehensive dictionary of Urdu keeping in view the standard of Greater Oxford Dictionary. It was also given the task of preparing an abridged /concise Edition as well as other dictionaries of technical & scientific terms. The Board was asked to perform such other functions too, as assigned to it by the Government from time to time.

In 1986 another Resolution dated 31st March 1986, was passed by the Ministry of Education but the main function of the Board remained almost unchanged and it continued preparing and publishing the Lughat as its main task.

Federal Education Minister governs the affairs of the Board while the Chief Editor supervises working of the Board. The Chief Editor who has all the administrative and financial powers.

Urdu Dictionary Board was declared Sub-Ordinate office of the Ministry of Education, Government of Pakistan in November 2007. After the devolution of Ministry of Education, Urdu Dictionary Board was placed under control of the Cabinet Division, Government of Pakistan after that it became the sub-ordinate office of Ministry of Information, Broadcasting and National Heritage, and w.e.f. 5th January 2016 it is working under National History and Literary Heritage Division, Ministry of IB & NH, Government of Pakistan.

The basic objective of the organization has been to prepare dictionaries. This entity has prepared Greater Urdu Lughat (from volume 1 to 22) comprising 22000 pages and 264000 entries at the pattern of Greater Oxford Dictionary. This greater Lughat was completed in 2010 after the great efforts of 52 years.

Because of this greater Lughat, Urdu has been accepted the third language of the world who has made dictionary at philological principle. Before this, same nature of work has been done by United Kingdom and Germany.

Recently Urdu Dictionary Board has completed a project regarding "Computerization of Urdu Dictionary, Software Development for Mobile Phone, Web Hosting and establishment of Server Room" in this project Urdu Dictionary Board has computerized (volume No.1 to 22) that are available at website www.udb.gov.pk moreover mobile apps are also available to get utility from this greater dictionary.

After completion of greater Lughat, Urdu Dictionary Board Karachi has been preparing concise and children's dictionaries, these dictionaries are going to be completed soon and it will be ready for publication.

On 60th Anniversary of Urdu Dictionary Board, the commemorative postage stamp of Rs.8/- denomination is being issued by Pakistan Post on June 14, 2018.

70 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE STATE BANK OF PAKISTAN (1948-2018) (2018-6)

At the time of partition of the sub-continent in 1947, it was agreed that the Reserve Bank of India would continue to function as the currency and banking authority in Pakistan till 30th September, 1948. This arrangement, embodied in the Pakistan Monetary System and Reserve Bank Order, 1947, was considered necessary. However, soon after the establishment of Pakistan it become evident that in the best interests of the country, it should have a central banking, institution of its own.

It was considered expedient to model the proposed institution on the line of the Reserve Bank of India and draft legislation for the purpose was issued in the form of the State Bank of Pakistan Order, 1948 on 12th May 1948 The functions, duties and powers of the State Bank were to be broadly similar to those of the Reserve Bank of India. The State Bank was charged with the responsibility of "regulating the issue of barnk notes and keeping of reserves with a view to securing monetary stability in Pakistan and generally to operate the currency and credit system of the country to its advantage", the 1956 Act which with subsequent amendments constitutes the current charter of the Bank requires it "to regulate the monetary and credit system of Pakistan and foster its growth in the best hational interests with a view to securing monetary stability and fuller utillization of the country's productive resources".

Simultaneously with the task of withdrawing the India notes and replacing them with Pakistan currency, the state bank had to revive and rehabilitate the banking system in the country which had virtually collapsed in the wake of partition of the Sub continent. Prior to independence (August, 1947) there were 46 scheduled bank offices in Pakistan dwindled from 631 to 195.

ใช้ 1949, the State bank initiated scheme for setting up a commercial bank which-would have a broader outlook and would be in a position to launch a bold branch expansion programe in the country.

One of the primary responsibilities assigned to the State Bank under its Charter is to regulate the monetary and credit system of Pakistan with a view to securing monetary stability in the country. Monetary stability signifies the avoidance of inflationary or deflationary pressures and maintenance of equilibrium in the balances of payments.

State Bank of Pakistan Role & Functions

Role:

State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), from the time of its establishment on 1st July 1948, in addition to the traditional Central Banking functions has also been entrusted with the additional task of instituting a sound Banking System in the newly established country.

Objectives

The princple objective of SBP as envisaged in the SBP Act 1956 is to promote monetary and financial stability and foster a sound and dynamic financialsystem so as to achieve sustained and equitable economic growth and prosperity in Pakistan.

Primary Functions

·         Sole Authority to Issue Notes

·         Monetary Management

·         Exchange Rate Management

·         Regulationton Supervision of the Financial System

·         Efficient Payment Systems

·         Lender of the Last Resort

Secondary Functions:

·         Public Debt Management

·         Advisor to Government

·         Liasioning with International Financial Institutions

·         Bankers. Bank

·         Banker to Government

Developmental Functions:

·         Development of financial framework

·         Providing credit to priority sectors/ specialized financial institutions ect'

·         Development of Islamic Banking System

·         Providing training to banking sector

On occasion of 70 years of excellence State Bank of Pakistan, a commemorative postage stamp of Rs. 8/- denomination is being issue by Pakistan Post on July 01, 2018.

18th MEETING OF THE COUNCIL OF HEADS OF STATE OF SHANGHAI COOPERATION ORGANIZATION QINGDAO SUMMIT, 2018 (2018-4)

On the eve of Qingdao Summit SCO Member States are issuing a commemorating stamp marking the occasion of the 18th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State of Shanghai Cooperation Organization which will be held in Qingdao China on 09-10 June, 2018.

The summit marks a year since Pakistan joined SCO as full Member This is the first Heads of State Summit being attended by Pakistan as a Full Member. SCO currently has 8 member States which are India, Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, "Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. Heads of State of Member States who will attend the summit ficlude:

·         Prime Minister of the Republic of India H.E. Mr. Narendra Modi,

·         President of the Republic of Kazakhstan H.E. Mr. N. A. Nazarbayev,

·         Chairman of the People's Republic of China H.E. Mr. XI Jinping, President of the Kyrgyz Republic H.E. Mr. S. Sh. Zheenbekov,

·         President of the Russian Federation H.E. Mr. V. V. Putin,

·         President of the Republic of Tajikistan H.E. Mr. E.Rahmon

·         President of the Republic of Uzbekistan H.E. Mr. Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

A númber of documents/MOUs and Agreements will be signed during the conference which reflects high level of mutual trust and cooperation amongst the Member States.

H.EMr Xi Jinping, President of the People's Republic of China will Chair the meeting being the host of the CHS. The Council of Heads of State is the supreme decision-making body in the SCO. It meets once a year and adopts decisions and guidelines on all important matters of the organization.

The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is a permanent intergovernmental organization which is successor to the Shanghai Five, a security mechanism initially established to deal with the border problems between China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.

SCO has evolved into a multi-faceted regional organization working for regional economic cooperation. It is based on "Shanghai Spirit" which is defined as mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for cultural diversity and pursuit of common development. SCO also adheres to the principles of non-alignment, non-targeting any third country, and openness.

Pakistan became an Observer State of SCO in 2005 and following due process Pakistan became a member of SCO in 2017 at Astana Summit. Our membership fulfills a key foreign policy goal, inspired by a vision of a peaceful neighborhood and connectivity. Pakistan shares with SCO and its Members, deep rooted historical and cultural links and strong economic and strategic complementarities. Our interests and objectives intersect across a wide range of areas and issues.

Pakistan sees SCO as an important forum for regional cooperation. It includes our major development and strategic partners. We believe that it has a vital role in safeguarding peace and security in the region and its socio economic development. It promotes multifaceted cooperation in the region in a wide array of fields. It allows us to share perspectives, coordinate positions and develop practical and concrete cooperation with these important countries.

Pakistan is committed to enhancing our relations with all SCO members on the basis of its core values an enunciated in the Charter and the Shanghai Spirit.

Pakistan also sees SCO-RATS as an important and useful forum for cooperation against the common enemy of terrorism. Pakistan has been able to successfully combat terrorism on our soil and are ready to share our experiences in tackling the menace of terrorism through the SCO-RATS.

The initiatives of SCO on investment promotion, trade facilitation, customs cooperation, E-commerce, small and medium enterprises, rail and road connectivity and tourism cooperation will improve the living standards of our people and enhance peace and prosperity in the region.

SCO can be a major vehicle for cooperation under the belt & road initiative. All SCO countries are connected through the ancient Silk Route.

On 18^th meeting of the council of head of state of Shabghai Cooperation Organization Qingdao Summit, 2018, the commemorative postage stamp of Rs. 10/- denominations being issued by Pakistan Post on June 09, 2018.

PAKISTAN & AZERBAIJAN JOINT ISSUE (2018-3)

 

Since the independence of Azerbaijan in 1991, Pakistan and Azerbaijan have enjoyed close and cooperative relations. Pakistan was among the first country to recognize Azerbaijan's independence from the former Soviet Union in October 1991. Diplomatic relations were established in June 1992 and Embassy of Pakistan was opened in Baku in March 1993. The Embassy of Azerbaijan in Islamabad was opened in 1997.

Pakistan greatly values its friendly and cooperative ties with Azerbaijan, which have deep roots in common faith, cultural affinities, and shared traditions. We are committed to comprehensively upgrading bilateral cooperation across all areas of common interest. The frequent high-level exchanges between our two countries are a reflection of special brotherly ties between the two countries and the mutual respect we have for each other. We are confident that through our joint efforts our fraternal ties and cooperative relations will continue to grow further in the years to come.

Pakistan greatly appreciates the unequivocal support extended by Azerbaijan to Pakistan on the Kashmir dispute both at bilateral as well as multilateral fora. Pakistan has been extending unqualified support to Azerbaijan in its dispute with Armenia over Nagorno Karabakh.

Pakistan also value the support provided by Azerbaijan to Pakistan at times. of natural disasters. The Heydear Aliyev Foundation, under the patronage of First Lady of Azerbaijan Madam Mahriban Aliyeva, has undertaken humanitarian work in Pakistan, especially during the 2005 earthquake, and 2010 floods, which is highly appreciated by the government and people of Pakistan.

We look forward to strengthening our brotherly relations with Azerbaijan the further in all areas of mutual interest for the progress and prosperity of the people of both countries.

During the 6th session of Pakistan Azerbaijan Joint Commission (JC) eld on 25-27 April, 2016 at Islamabad, the following decision for enhancing cooperation between the two countries in the postal sector was taken,

"For promotion of Philately both sides agreed for issuance of joint- Commemorative Postage Stamps".

Subsequently it was mutually decided to dedicate the Stamps to commemorate the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. It was mutually agreed to show the Architectural monuments and hence to depict Mosques of both the countries on the Joint Stamps, Heydar Mosque of Azerbaijan and Wazir Khan Mosque of Pakistan.

Heydar Mosque

The opening of the Heydar Mosque took place on December 26, 2014. The building, which covers a total area of 12,000 square meters was constructed under the instructions of the head of state, Mister llham Aliyev. The fa9ade of the Mosque was covered with special stones architectural style of Shirvan-Absheron. It has four 95m- height minarets.

President llham Aliyev showed great interest in construction and was tightly following the whole process. Having total area of 4200 square meters, special decoration elements were used inside the mosque. The Koranic verses are written on the edges of the dome. 55m- height main and 35m- height second domes give special beauty to the inside of the mosque.

Wazir Khan Mosque

Lahore has been a hub of art and culture since centuries and we find innumerable art pieces scattered all around the city in the form of sculptures, paintings, monuments etc. One specimen of art is Wazir Khan Mosque. Built in 1634-35 A.O. during the reign of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, the mosque is named after its builder, Nawab Wazir Khan, a native of Chiniot whose family migrated to Lahore and rose to be one of the court physicians to the Mughal Emperor. His real name was Hakim Shaikh llam-ud-din Ansari. In due course, over a long lifetime of service, llam-ud-din Ansari, was made a Mughal noble, and was given the title of Wazir Khan. Later he became the Governor of Lahore. He was also Chief Qazi of Lahore for some time. As a great philanthropist, he contributed a lot to the city. Mosque Wazir Khan is perhaps the most precious addition to Lahore by him.

It took seven years to construct Wazir Khan Mosque. Mainly it was built from brick and tile because these were the popular constructional materials in those days. The mosque has five compartments and each of them is crowned with a dome. In the centre is the main prayer hall that has a dome larger than the rest that features a high framed portal protruding from the faade, with walls covered by intricate frescos that portray flowers, plants, fruits and trees. The display of so many kinds of fruits on silver platters, pitchers of wines and trees of different styles are a strong reference of gifts mentioned in Quran that will be postulated to the righteous believers when they will reach heaven.

The Wazir Khan Mosque contains some of the finest examples of mosaic tile work from the Mughal period. Masterful calligraphy verses from the Holy Quran adorn the walls alongside Persian poetry in its elegant forms. Floral designs and patterns emerge in symmetrical, harmonious waves, bringing a sense of tranquility to the mosque's echoing halls. Its impressive blend of calligraphy, geometrical forms and floral decoration lends a unique dimension to the building's structure that makes the Wazir Khan Mosque stand out as a paragon of beauty, balance and grandiosity.

The Commemorative Postage Stamps and Souvenir Sheet on Pakistan & Azerbaijan Joint Issue, Pakistan Post are issuing the Commemorative Postage Stamps of Rs.8/- denomination (Set of 2) and Souvenir Sheet of Rs. 50/- denomination on June 9, 2018.

75 YEARS OF ARMY BURN HALL COLLEGE ABBOTTABAD (1943-2018) (2018-2)

 

Army Burn Hall College, Abbottabad, is a unique institution of its kind with proud legacy and rich traditions. Its curriculum and environment distinguishes it from other academic institutions, which our alumni carry and exhibit throughout in their life style. Over the years, Burn Hall has produced generations of Hallians who are serving humanity across the globe with inspiration and follow up beyond geographical and political boundaries. Spirit behind our academic excellence and personality development pursuits are enshrined in the motto; Quo Non Ascendam i.e. To where Can I Not ascend.

Burn Hall traces its history back to 1943, when a team of missionaries from Mill Hill, London, k.nown as the Mill Hill Fathers, established the School in Srinagar. It was named after an English Manor House, which had a Hall with a small stream (burn) running through it. The school was administered by the Fathers in English Public school tradition.

After partition, in 1948, the Fathers, with a handful of students shifted the school to Abbottabad and set it up in a small hotel building, the Abbott Hotel. The school was among the best in the count<y and soon more buildings were added to accommodate the increasing number of students. The school was under the control of the Diocesan Board of Education, Rawalpindi.

In 1956, a new school was constructed a few miles outside the town to provide more room for seniors and came to be known as 'Senior Burn Hall'. The new school was designed to allow for adequate sports facilities and included playgrounds for all games, including a swimming pool.

Ideally located at 4300 feet above sea level in natural surroundings, coupled with the zeal and fervour with which the Fathers and school staff administered the school, it became one of the leading schools of the country. It excelled in academic and literary activities and encouraged competition in sports, by having House Games and inter school/ college sports fixtures. The high standards achieved were in sync with the School motto 'Quo Non Ascendam'.

In 1976 the Fathers faced insurmountable problems in running the school satisfactorily and handed over the management of the School to the Pakistan Army. Since then it has been renamed as Army Burn Hall College for Boys, whereas, the old campus was converted into Army Burn Hall College for Girls. Since then both the Colleges have been functioning separately, under Commander 10 Corps, as Chairman Board of Governors. The new management has not only maintained the traditions set by the Fathers, but also has added new buildings and facilities necessitated over the years.

Equipped with magnificent infrastructure and supplemented by professionally competent faculty, the college is inspired by its noble mission and functions through a carefully crafted comprehensive education philosophy to produce personalities of eminence and leaders of stature. Besides formal education, moral, physical and social grooming of students is enacted through a host of co curricular and extracurricular activities. Charged with the spirits of imparting quality education, the faculty encourages active and creative minds, attempts to infuse sense of understanding and compassion for others with the conviction and trust on their beliefs and potentials.

The College routine capitalizes on every single moment toward-s inculcating values of integrity, self-discipline, sense of responsibility, self-confidence and healthy competitive spirit among its students. Efforts are still in hand to further it by ensuring quality intake with progressive career development and challenging yet achievable standards, professional grooming of faculty, and by creating an atmosphere for wholesome personality. The enterprise is off course two folds, whereby, parents and the college together should devise to craft the future of their future generation.

On the occasion of 75 Years of Army Burn Hall College, Abbottabad (1943-2018), Pakistan Post is issuing a Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs 8/- denomination on March 5, 2018.

GREEN PAKISTAN PROGRAMME (2018-1)

Introduction:

The diversity of landscapes and climates in Pakistan allow a wide variety of trees and plants to flourish. Similarly, the fauna of Pakistan also reflects its varied geography and climates. Around 668 bird species occur, including many migratory species coming from Europe, Central Asia and Russia. The flora and fauna of Pakistan suffer from a number of problems - many linked to habitat change and land degradation. Only 5.2% (4.2 m ha) of Pakistan's total area is under forests. The rate of deforestation does not commensurate with the rehabilitation efforts.The illegal hunting of animals is resulting in decreasing wildlife population in the country.The share of public investment including federal PSDP and provincial ADPs, is disappointedly very low. Resultantly, growth and yields of forests declined sharply and revenues from this sector shrunk.

Programme Objective:

The Prime Minister of Pakistan while considering a summary submitted by the Ministry of Climate Change decided to revive forestry and wildlife resources in Pakistan under the "Green Pakistan Programme". The main objective of the programme is to facilitate transition towards environmentally resilient Pakistan by main streaming notions of adaptation and mitigation through ecologically targeted initiatives covering afforestation, biodiversity conservation and enabling policy environment.

Thematic Objective:

The thematic objectives of the programme towards reviving forestry and wildlife resources in the country are given as under:

Forestry Sector:

A)           One hundred million new indigenous plants, including 20% fruit plants, over next five years will provide platform to make the country green and •serene as under:

a.            One thousand Avenue Miles of Canal Side/Roadside Plantations in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Sindh

b.            Historic Irrigated Plantations of Changa Manga, Daphar, Bahawalpur and Chichawatni

c.             Olive and KikarPhulai forests in Kala Chitta, PabbiRasul and Fort Monroe scrub forests of Punjab

d.            Mangrove forests in Karachi and Badin alongwith Scrub hill forests of Khirthar range in Sindh       Juniper forests of Ziarat and Chilghoza forest in Suleiman Ranges of Balochistan

f.             Watershed and Soil Conservation Plantations and Operations in Gilgit-Baltistan and AJK moist tropical forest areas (Reserved as well as Community Forests)

g.            Guzara forests in Murree/ KotliSattian and Hazara and Protected forests of Malakand region in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

h.                            Dry temperate forests in FATA (Orakzai, North Wazirastan Agencies etc.)

B)            Strengthening policy milieu for conservation of biodiversity.

a.            Approval and launching of National Forest Policy.

b.            Approval and implementation of National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan.

c.             Establish strategic support units at national and provincial level to ensure smooth implementation of ongoing green initiatives and plan future activities on sustainable basis.

C)            Supporting communication measures and demand mobilization for an environmentally resilient Pakistan.

a.                            Projection of best practices of Gr en Pakistan Programme through media and at international forums.

b.            Capacity Building of provincial forestry and wild life departments to support afforestation, awareness campaigns and human resource development for sound natural resource management and bio­diversity promotion.

Wildlife Sector:

The aim of the project is to revive and functionally reorganize ,wildlife departments at provincial/AJK & GB level through development of time bound plans including capacity building and incentive driven performance regime. The implementation of these plans shall be ensured through technical assistance of Ministry of Climate Change to revive wildlife sector in the country.

A)           Reorganization of wildlife departments through time bound plans

B)            Capacity building of provincial wildlife departments.

C)            Improve performance regime through incentivized mechanism. Protected Areas (PAs) management and wildlife conservation in Pakistan is a provincial subject. The Provincial/territorial Governments have set up their wildlife departments, which conserve, protect and manage wildlife and PAs under their respective wildlife legislations. However, policy formulation, liaison with international agencies, conventions and coordination with provincial/territorial authorities is carried out at federal level by Forestry Wing, Ministry of Climate Change.

On Green Pakistan Programme, the commemorative postage stamps of Rs.8/-of each denomination (03 Stamps) are being issued by Pakistan Post on February 09, 2018.