THE 70TH ANNIVERSARY OF DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS BETWEEN PAKISTAN AND THAILAND, December 31, 2021 (2021-13)

 

Pakistan and Thailand enjoy close and cordial ties and established diplomatic relationship on 10 October 1951. Bilateral relations between Pakistan and Thailand based on shared principles and mutual interests, have consistently grown over the years. Pakistan and Thailand are both hubs and enjoy strategic location in their respective regions.

Both countries have age-old histories of ancient civilization and have been connected by a common cultural linkage through Buddhism and the Gandhara civilization that flourished in the city of Taxila. Taxila meaning 'City of Cut Stone, is one of most significant archaeological sites in Asia. It was historically known as "TAKSHAHILA". The recorded history of Taxila starts from 6th century BC when Gandharan kingdom became part of the Achaemenid Empire of Persia. It is very  well known for being center of Buddhism in the country. Many statutes of Lord Buddha depicting the various stages of his life have been excavated and are currently present in Taxila Museum.

Taxila was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980 in particular for the ruins of the four settlement sites which "reveal the pattern of urban evolution on the Indian subcontinent through more than five centuries" Taxila is a vast serial site that includes a Mesolithic cave and the archaeological remains of four early settlement sites i.e. Buddhist monasteries, Muslim Mosque and Madrassa. The ruins of the four settlement sites reveal the pattern of urban evolution on the Indo-Pak subcontinent through more than five centuries.

The archaeological sites of Saraikala, Bhir, Sirkap, and Sirsukh are of unique importance in illustrating the evolution of urban settlement on the Indo-Pak subcontinent. The prehistoric mound of Saraikala represents the earliest settlement of Taxila, with evidence of Neolithic, Bronze Age, and Iron Age occupation. The Bhir mound is the earliest historic city of Taxila, and was probably founded in the 6th century BC.Its stone walls, house foundations, and winning streets represent the earliest forms of urbanization on the subcontinent.

The Taxila serial sites also includes Khanpur cave, which has produced stratified micro lithic tools of the Mesolithic period, and a number of Buddhist monasteries and stupas of various periods. Buddhist monuments erected throughout the Taxila valley have transformed it into a religious heartland and a destination for pilgrims from as far a field as Central Asia, Thailand and China. The Buddhist archaeological sites at Taxila include the Dharmarajika complex and stupa, the Khader Mohra grouping, the Kalawan grouping, the Giri monasteries, the Kunala stupa and monastery, the Jandial complex, the Lalchack and the Badalpur stupa remains and monasteries, the Mohra Moradu monastic remains, the Pipplian and the Jaulian remains, and the Bahalar stupa and remains. The Giri complex also includes the remains of a three-doomed Muslim mosque, ziarat (tomb), and madrassa (school) of the medieval period. This Commemorative Postage Stamp is issued by Pakistan Post on 31-12-2021.

On 70th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between Pakistan and Thailand. The Commemorative Postage Stamps are issued by Pakistan Post of Rs 20/- each denomination on December 31, 2021.

GOLDEN JUBILEE OF HANGOR DAY December 9, 2021 (2021-12)

 

Pakistan Navy Submarine (PNS/M) HANGOR during 1971 war destroyed/ sank Indian Navy Ship (INS) KHUKRI and severely damaged INS KIRPAN on 09 Dec 1971. Every year Pakistan Navy celebrates the occasion on 09 Dec as HANGOR Day to pay ribute to the Submarine crew for their heroic action. In order to celebrate 50th/Golden Jubilee of HANGOR Day, 09 Dec 21 is being celebrated with full enthusiasm in line with the finest traditions of Pakistan Navy.

Pakistan Navy Submarine HANGOR was the first of 4 x Daphne type submarines acquired by Pakistan Navy from France. The submarine was commissioned on 01 December 1969 and arrived in Pakistan on December 1970. Since its induction in Pakistan Navy. submarine HANGOR remained an efficient unit of submarine squadron and Navy. Submarine HANGOR remained pride for Pakistan Navy in 1971 Indo-Pak war and its gallant action was a spectacular tactical battle resulting in sinking of Indian Navy Frigate KHUKRI and crippling of INS KIRPAN. It was a strategic overture of Pakistan Navy which effectively thwarted and marginalized the Indian aggression.

Sinking of KHUKRI crippled Indian Navy's morale and it nefarious designs of subsequent attacks on Karachi. This outstanding action took place 30 miles south east of 'Diu Head' on west coast of India. The event is distinguished in Naval history for being the first successful kill by a conventional submarine after World War-II. Due to the professional competence and outstanding leadership of Commanding Officer, enemy was not able to detect the submarine HANGOR. Submarine remained underwater for a long time and successfully returned Karachi harbor on 13 December 1971 after mortifying Indian pride. Despite potential hazards, the morale onboard HANGOR never wilted,

In recognition of courage & valour displayed by the valiant crew of HANGOR, four Sitara-e-Jurrat, six Tamgha-e-Jurrat and fourteen Imtiazi Asnaad were conferred upon hem.

This is the highest number of operational gallantry awards given to a single unit of Pakistan Navy. In order to pay tribute to professional crew of HANGOR and their victorios & daring action, 9th December is celebrated as HANGOR Day each year in Pakistan Navy with zeal. and fervor. On 02 Jan 2006, PNS/M HANGOR was converted to serve as a museum ship at Pakistan Maritime as a symbol of courage and victory.

On Golden Jubilee of HANGOR Day, Pakistan Post is issuing the Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs 20/- denomination on December 9, 2021.

70 YEARS OF DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS BETWEEN PAKISTAN AND GERMANY (1951-2021) November 9, 2021 (2021-11)

 

The University of Heidelberg gained an international reputation in the course of the 19th century and thus succeeded in increasingly attracting non- European students, such as the poet, philosopher and later Pakistan national poet Muhammad Iqbal.

Allama Muhammad Iqbal (1877-1938) is considered the spiritual father of Pakistan and began around year 1900, to write national poems. Today, he is considered one of he most influential Islamic thinkers of the 20th century. In 1905, Allama Iqbal moved from British India to Cambridge, where he began to deal with Hegel.

The interest in Hegel finally brought him to the German city of Heidelberg. Here, he was introduced to German literature and philosophy, especially Goethe, Heine and ietzsche.

After completing his doctorate on the "Development of Metaphysics in Persia" in Munich, he returned to Lahore in 1908.

For Allama Iqbal, his time at Heidelberg was considered as beautiful, as he himself put it, in letters to his German teacher Emma Wegenast. Looking back on his sojourn in Heidelberg, he wrote: "My stay in Heidelberg was like a beautiful dream" The introduction of the Professorial Fellowship named after Muhammad Iqbal at the South Asia Institute of Heidelberg University is not only testimony to Iqbal's enthusiasm for Heidelberg but also continues his efforts to foster exchange between the East and the West.

The Government of Pakistan supports the Allama Iqbal Professorial Fellowship at the South Asia Institute. Its tenure is set at three years with the possibility of extension. Similar fellowships are in place at the Universities of Oxford, Cambridge, Berkeley and Columbia.

The Iqbal Fellowship was established in order to deepen the co-operation between Pakistan and Germany. It contributes to the extension of research in Pakistan in the areas of modern literature, political science, history, geography and the natural sciences.

To commemorate his stay in Heidelberg, one of the street on the banks of the river Neckar, in the Heidelberg district of Bergheim, was named after him "Iqbal-Ufer" on February 14, 1969, in the presence of then Pakistani Ambassador to Germany. Moreover, there is a small stone monument on which his poem "Ek Sham Nekar ke kinare" (An evening spent on the bank of the Neckar) is engraved.

On 70 Years of Diplomatic Relations Between Pakistan and Germany (1951-2021), Pakistan Post is issuing the Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs 20/- denomination on November 9, 2021.

COMPLETION OF 100 YEARS ESTABLISHMENT OF UNIVERSITY OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY LAHORE (1921-2021) November 1, 2021 (2021-10)

 

The University of Engineering and Technology Lahore (Main Campus) is located in the northern part of Lahore on the historical "Grand Trunk Road (GT. Road)", near the magnificent Shalimar Gardens built during the great Mughal Empire. The institution started its career on 9th November 1921 as the 'Mughalpura Technical College'. Later it became the 'Maclagan Engineering College, a name given to it in 1923 when Sir Edwards Maclagan, the then Governor of the Punjab, laid the foundation stone of the main building, now called the Main Block. Main Block still retains its majesty despite the wear and tear of ten decades. At that stage the institution offered courses of study in only two disciplines: Electrical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering.

In the year 1932, the institution was affiliated with the University of the Punjab for award of a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering. In 1947, at the time of independence, the institution was offering well-established B.Sc. Degree Courses in Civil, Electrical and Mechanical Engineering.

In 1954, it started a Bachelor's Degree course in Mining Engineering, the first-ever of its kind in the country. However, the real expansion and development of the institution commenced in 1962 on its transformation into the West Pakistan University of Engineering & Technology', and within a few years Bachelor's Degree Courses were started in Chemical Engineering. Petroleum & Gas Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Architecture, and City & Regional Planning.

Later, the University started to develop its postgraduate programs, and by 1970's it was offering Master's Degree Courses in various specializations of engineering. architecture, planning and allied disciplines. Later, Ph.D. Degree Program was also instituted in a number of disciplines.

The University of Engineering and Technology Lahore Act 1974 was passed by the Punjab Provincial Assembly to re-constitute and reorganize the University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore, for the purpose of improving teaching, research, publication and administration. With phenomenal increase in student enrollment in the 1970s, the University established an Engineering College at Taxila in 1975, which later became an independent University in 1998 as the University of Engineering and Technology, Taxila.

Keeping in view the upcoming power crises situation in the country, in 2004 the University established its own Power Generation Unit with capacity of 2 Mega Watts later enhanced to 3 Mega Watts and became first and only countrywide educational institution who has its own Power Generation Unit as one of its labs.

To meet the growing demands for the Engineering graduates and allied disciplines in the country, the University started an expansion program in the new millennium. Consequently, the teaching and research capacity of the UET-Main was enhanced, and the establishment of the satellite campuses was taken up. The University started its satellite campus, now called as "New Campus", at Kala Shah Kaku,

District Sheikhupura, in 2004. Another satellite campus was started in Faisalabad in 2004. The Rachna College of Engineering and Technology Gujranwala was made constituent college of the UET Lahore in 2006. The Narowal sub-campus was established in 2012.

The University has 795 faculty members, including 360 PhDs, in 47 departments under 7 faculties of Engineering, Architecture and Natural Sciences. Current male- to-female faculty ratio is 73:27 whereas student-to-teacher ratio is 17:1. In addition to teaching responsibilities, the faculty has a focus on research having impact on society. In the last three years, the faculty members have won different competitive research projects of worth Rs.240.72 million.

The QS World and Asian rankings of the university have moved up to 5-year high with five disciplines in the university ranked in top 500 in world rankings. In Petroleum Engineering, the university ranks among the top 51-100 in the world. In Engineering and Technology, it ranks at 376.

The University has more than 50000 proud alumni who have served / are serving in various national and international organizations. There is a long list of notable alumni ofthe university. Some of notable alumni include Dr. Muhammad Akram Sheikh (Former Deputy Chairman Planning Commission of Pakistan). Dr. Adil Najam (Dean of the Pardee School of Global Studies at Boston University, and former Vice-Chancellor of the LUMS), Dr. Mubashar Hassan (Professor, politician, humanist, and an engineer who served as Finance Minister of Pakistan), Prof. Dr. Syed Mansoor Sarwar (Vice-Chancellor, UET Lahore), Prof. Dr.Fazal Ahmad Khalid (Chairman, Punjab Higher Education Commission), Qasim Ali Shah (Trainer, Author, and public speaker), Dr. Tahir Masood (Current MD Nespak). Dr. Amjad Pervaiz (former MD Nespak and famous singer), Engr. Tariq Hameed (Former MD Packages, Former Chairman WAPDA), Mr. Ahsan Iqbal (Former Minister, Government of Pakistan), Dr. Tahir Ghani (Intel USA), Prof. Dr. M. Shamim Sheikh (Toronto University), Prof. Dr. Arif Ghafoor (Purdue University), Prof. Dr. Ashfaq Khokhar (lowa State University), Dr. Aamir Mehmood (EVP Google), Javed Saleem Qureshi (Chairman, Pakistan Engineering Council), Juniad Jamshaid (Singer and Naat Khawan) and Jawad Ahmad (Singer).

The current student enrollment in all five campuses of the university is around 14000 in undergraduate, masters and PhD programs. The student body mainly consists of students from Punjab. However, more than 550 students from Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), Balochistan, and Gilgit Baltistan as well as Azad Jammu & Kashmir are studying at various campuses of the university. Whereas 194 seats are allocated each year in various disciplines for foreigner students. Currently, the foreigner male and female students from China, Afghanistan, Yemen, Palestine, SriLanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sudan, Somalia, and Indian Occupied Kashmir are pursuing their degrees in various engineering disciplines. Male-to-female ratio among students is 76:24.

The University's "National Library of Engineering Sciences" has significantly improved its book holdings and now it is biggest engineering library in the country. The total collection of the library is 1,40,000 which includes more than 1,00,000 books, 25,000 joumals, and 5000 theses. The facility of HEC's Digital Library is also available for students and faculty members.

The University has ample provisions for hostel accommodation. It has sixteen halls of residence, including four for female students, with accommodation for about 3000 students. A new hall of residence having the accommodation for 350 female students is under construction.

The halls reflect history of the institution through variations in the architectural styles over the last half a century. Some of them are of the pre-independence period, nherited from the former Maclagan College of Engineering and the Sikh National College whereas others were built over a period of quarter of a century since the inception of the University. The residence halls are provided with common rooms, mess rooms, prayer rooms, internet facility and other common utilities. The University also provides ample facilities to the students for participation in extra and cocurricular activities including debates, poetry, dramas, and sports, both outdoors and indoors, through over 50 student societies. Facilities are provided for all major sports including cricket, hockey..football, tennis, badminton, basketball, squash, table tennis, body building, and athletics. A series of inter-faculty and inter-hostel toumaments are held to facilitate participation to the maximum number of students. Outstanding sportspersons are encouraged to take part in the inter-university tournaments under Higher Education Commission. The sports complex is a commanding feature of the campus landscape and has, amongst other things, an Olympic-size swimming pool, tennis and squash courts, a gymnasium and an impressive stadium. Similarly, tudents

who outshine in debating, poetry, drarta/acting etc. are also facilitated to participate in local and national competitions.

A well-established health clinic with qualified and experienced medical doctors and having the facility of outdoor treatment, ambulance, medicines for selected diseases. and basic laboratory tests is available for the student, faculty and staff.

On Completion of 100 Years Establishment of University of Engineering and Technology Lahore (1921-2021), Pakistan Post is issuing the Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs 20/- denomination on November 1, 2021.

ON PAKISTAN TELECOMMUNICATION AUTHORITY September 30, 2021 (2021-9)

 

The Telecommunication (Reorganization) Act 1996, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) was established to regulate the establishment, operation and maintenance of telecommunication systems, and the provision of telecom services. PTA's main functions are to promote the availability of a wide range of high quality, efficient, cost effective and competitive telecommunication services throughout Pakistan, and to protect the interests of users of telecommunication services in Pakistan. Accordingly, PTA's vision is "to create a fair regulatory regime to promote investment, encourage competition, protect consumer interest and ensure high quality ICT services".

Digitalization - a revolution in itself, is redefining the way people live, interact, transact and develop as one world. The impact of digital change is rapid and far reaching. Never have individuals, businesses and nations been so dependent on technology, as they are today. PTA is fully cognizant of the growing requirements of digital services in the society, therefore, the regulator has been successfully managing the telecom sector for the widespread availability of latest ICT technologies across the country at affordable rates. Telecom sector has shown tremendous growth over the last few years and also achieved some exceptional milestones.

Since the introduction of 3G/4G services in Pakistan in 2014, the mobile broadband subscription has shown an exceptional growth pattern. It is an ample justification of the fact that cellular revolution has taken over the whole country by storm, connecting millions of people, creating thousands of job opportunities and source of revenue to the government. Owing to prudent policies, effective competition among telecom operators and PTA's commitment to introduce innovative technologies, 87% of the total population is covered with mobile signals, 75% are covered with 3G/4G signals, and Broadband (3G/4G) have reached a historic 100 million mark compared to only 2 million broadband subscribers in 2014. Today, broadband penetration reached 44.6%.

Widespread telecom infrastructure is available in the country with over 47,000 telecom towers / sites and distribution network across Pakistan with over 150,404 retailers and franchises.

Increased adoption of technology specifically in e-education and e-health has witnessed. Operators & businesses have scaled up their operations to facilitate the consumers and given rise to a local start-up boom in Fintech, food services and ride-hailing initiatives. PTA through USF and government policies is shifting the focus of the telecom operators from urban to words rural population to provide broadband, optic fiber and e-services, and bridge the digital divide. To increase the pace of telecom services proliferation, PTA has also enhanced the coverage and QoS obligations in the NGMS licenses.

Due to conducive policies/regulatory environment, Pakistan has significant presence of Intl' Telecom & Digital companies, such as China Mobile, Telenor Globle, Etisalat, etc. There is no barrier for new entrants. During all the NGMS license awards, new entrants were allowed to participate. Since 2003, investment by telecom companies of Pakistan have crossed USD 22.7 billion.

The sector has received over USD 11.6 billion FDI inflow since 2005. Starting the broadband journey in 2014, and now we are a family of 100 million people using broadband for numerous activities. People now do not have to stand in long queues and many daily life activities are now performed on a signal click-reducing cost of doing business, saving time, bringing efficiency, sparing more and more time for further innovation and reaching new heights using technology. All our commitments and achievements are geared to words accelerating Pakistan's journey to words a 'Digital Pakistan'.

Telecom sector being at the frontrunner in Pakistan economy for last couple of years has played a pivotal role in digitalization of the counter. PTA has always been encouraging fair competition keeping pace with rapid modernization of telecom systems, contributing to informed policymaking, and creating synergies. The commendable growth in the telecom sector is a result of prudent and supportive government policies, effective competition, presence of innovative international telecom operators, and the continuous resolve of the regulator to harness advanced technologies.

PTA for seeing the immense dependence of digitization broadband has been working diligently to enhance broadband penetration in the country. It has successfully conducted spectrum auctions and mobile licence renewals with conditions for enhanced network roll-out and improved quality of service which will pave way for further proliferation of broadband connectivity in the country. PTA is also looking into ways to free more spectrum to satisfy Pakistan's vast appetite for mobile broadband and VoLTE, and planning the auction of 5G spectrum in the near future. The aim of Government of Pakistan's "Digital Pakistan vision is to accelerate economic development, transparency, social progress and acquaint the youth with emerging digital technology skills.

It shows massive potential for further growth. Pakistan has a huge youth population, with 64 percent of the total population being below the age of 30. The youth has a huge appetite for new technology and new ideas which creates a lot of business potential in Pakistan for investors. PTA's regulatory approach reflects the vision of the Government to provide good investment opportunities, provide ease of doing business and to provide a level playing field for all investors. With the right approach, active participation and collaboration, PTA aims to fulfil the vision and dream of Digital Pakistan and keep up with the rapid pace of technological advancements.

Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, Pakistan Post is issuing the Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs 20/- denomination on September 30, 2021.

ON THE EVE OF KARACHI NUCLEAR POWER PLANT INAUGURATION UNIT-2 (K-2) September 30, 2021 (2021-8)

 

Karachi Nuclear Power Plant Unit-2 commonly referred to as K-2, formally inaugurated on 21st May, 2021, by honorable Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mr. Imran Khan, is one of the two mega nuclear power plant (NPP) having generation capacity of 1100 MWe each, built at Paradise point near Karachi. K-2 has been built with the help of Pakistan's all-weather friend, China and is a third generation state-of-the-art power plant with improved safety system.

With the inauguration of K-2 PAEC is now running six NPPs in the country. To of them a located in Karachi and are named Karachi Nuclear Power Plant (KANUPP) and K-2, while four sited at Chashma, in District Mianwali are named Chashma Nuclear Power Plant Unit 1 4 (C-1-C-4). Earlier,collective generation capacity of all PAEC-operated NPPs was around 1,400MWe. The inauguration of K-2 as nearly doubled the generation capacity of nuclear power plants in the country, substantially improving the overall share of nuclear power in the energy mix. Karachi Nuclear Power Plant Unit-3 (K-3), is also in completion phase and is expected to be operational in the first quarter of 2022. The K-2 nuclear plant has internal and external accident prevention ability and enhanced emergency response capability. It as a 60-year life expectancy, extendable to the further 20 years. The power plant is designed with higher plant availability and capacity factors and an extended refueling cycle.

The construction of K-2 plant had started in November 2013, whereas its fuel loading initiated on December 01, 2021, after approval from the Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority (PNRA). A series of cold and hot functional commissioning tests related to plant operation and safety were conducted, before achieving criticality at the end of February this year. After further reactor physics tests, the plant was connected to the national grid on March 18, 2021 for trial operation and power escalation tests. Addressing as chief guest of the virtual inauguration ceremony of K-2 held simultaneously at Prime Minister Office in Islamabad, K-2 NPP site in Karachi and Beijing China, Prime Minister expressed pleasure over addition of 1100 Megawatts of affordable, reliable and environment-friendly electricity in the national grid and hoped it world help mitigate the impact of globle warming. He said projects based on clean sources of electricity generation like hydel power and nuclear are need of the hour. "Clean energy is very important for us," he said, adding that transfer of technology will be beneficial for the country. He felicitated management of PAEC and Chinese contractor for making K-2 a reality.

The inauguration coincided with landmark event of 70 years of diplomatic relations between China and Pakistan and 30 years of cooperation between the two countries in the field of using nuclear technology for peaceful purposes.

On the occasion of inauguration of K-2, recorded video message from Director General (DG) International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Mr. Rafael Mariano Grossi was played in which he congratulated Pakistan for embarking on the journey of using nuclear power as a clean source of energy.

On this occasion Chairman Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC). Mr. Muhammad Naeem (HI, SI), in his welcome address thanked Prime Minister, Federal Ministers and Director General Strategic Plans Division (SPD) for their unwavering support for nuclear power in the country.

The ceremony was also attended by Mr. Hammad Azhar, Minister for Energy; Mr. Fawad Chaudhry, Minister for Information and Broadcasting: Mr. Omar Ayub Khan, Minister for Economic Affairs; Mr. Shibli Fraz, Minister for Science and Technology; Lt. Gen Nadeem Zaki Manj, DG SPD; Mr. Zhang Kejian Chairman (CAEA); Mr. Nong Rong, Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan; Mr. Moin-ul-Haque, Ambassador of Pakistan to China and Mr. Yu Jianfeng, Chairman (CNNC).

Nuclear power is the future of Pakistan for being cheapest baseload energy source. It is environmentally less harmful for nearly zero emission levels and most importantly, the nuclear fuel is strategically viable for long-term storage as fuel for over one-year operation of nuclear power plants can be stored at the site, unlike furnace oil. The addition of clean reliable and cost-effective nuclear power in the energy mix of Pakistan will greatly benefit the society and country at large. It is high time for Pakistan to embrace nuclear power with open arms as it deserves a far better and prominent place than it currently occupies.

On the eve of Karachi Nuclear Power Plant Inauguration Unit-2 (K-2). Pakistan Post is issuing the Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs 20/- denomination on September 30, 2021.

NATIONAL NEWSPAPERS READERSHIP DAY, September 25, 2021(2021-7)

 

The All-Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS) in 2019, declared 25th September as National Newspaper Readership Day to promote newspaper reading habit in Pakistan. The selection of 25th September is related to the publication of the first multi-page newspaper "Public Occurrences" from America in 1690. The day is being celebrated every year to encourage and inculcate awareness among the youth of the country. Different activities and competitions are arranged in universities and educational institutions to promote reading habits. The newspaper across the country, publish special issues on this day to educate the masses on the benefits of newspaper reading.

The President of Pakistan Dr. Arif Alvi in his message last year, stated, "I really appreciate the initiative of APNS in promoting the habit of reading among the people which would significantly help in educating them about modern day's problems and issues. I would also like to extend my heartfelt felicitations to the entire nation, APNS and newspapers on National Newspaper Reading Day." The President of Pakistan, Dr. Arif Alvi, in his message for National Newspaper Readership Day highlighted it's importance by saying, "Despite the growth of electronic and digital media, newspapers still play a significant role in creating awareness and educating the people about various economic and social issues. Currently, the world is facing the challenge of fake news and newspapers need to discourage this trend by promoting responsible, impartial, truthful and authentic journalism. Furthermore, newspapers are required to play its role in countering fake news and inculcating moral values in society."

The President also urged all citizens of the country, particularly the youth, to develop the habit of reading to keep themselves abreast of the latest developments in the arena of international politics, economy, science and technology, particularly in the fields of artificial intelligence, cloud computing and big data.

Similarly, the Prime Minister of Pakistan also expressed his support towards the day and congratulated APNS for such a step. "Newspaper is an important source of information for all. Despite variety of challenges faced by newspaper industry in the present age of modern media, importance of print media remains intact especially in combating the challenge of fake news and false information," said Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mr. Imran Khan on National Newspaper Readership Day.

Furthering to the cause associated with the day, the Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Chief Minister Punjab and Chief Minister Sindh also shared their messages highlighting the importance of National Newspaper Readership Day and congratulating APNS for their efforts.

The Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, aptly said, "Despite aggressive inroads of digital broadcast, online and social media, relevance of print media, newspapers, can hardly be underestimated. It becomes even more credible because the menace of fake news has wracked havoc on the authenticity of information available for the public consumption; especially after the sensationalism of photo shopped videos and infographics in the social media." "Reliance on well-researched facts for filing a news story so that it could pass the rigorous editorial check, before finding a place in print edition of a newspaper lends credibility to a print media story vis-à-vis hastily drafted and sometimes unscrupulous content of readily available means of dissemination of information". Newspapers have always been the source of authentic information with sources.

Nothing goes into print without verification and absolute check and balance of truthfulness in content. This makes our traditional media first choice for accurate information. To promote newspaper reading habit for a balanced and well aware society, APNS introduced National Newspaper Readership Day with a message to fight fake news, adopt newspaper reading habit and also teach children to read newspapers for balanced news and happenings.

The Chief Minister of Punjab, Sardar Usman Buzdar also highlighted the importance of print media by sharing. "Newspaper reading is the need of the hour. The electronic media, in their fight for breaking the news, is damaging its own roots while social media, without any check and balance, is out of control and often false. Hence, in this time and age, newspaper reading becomes all the more important. I believe the habit of newspaper reading should be instilled in our people once again. Regular newspaper reading provides information and news to people as per their needs, interests and requirements, and keeps them updated." The Chief Minister Sindh, Murad Ali Shah, appreciated the APNS and urged all citizens to stand together with the cause. "Let's all join hands and vow to develop a habit of reading newspapers and checking facts before falling prey to fake news and rumours. We should also instill the habit of reading newspaper in our children as well so that they grow up to become responsible and socially aware citizens of Pakistan," shared Murad Ali Shah, CM Sindh.

Last year, APNS launched the National Newspaper Readership Day with a number of messages from "Don't spread rumours. spread verifiable news" to "We don't cover up the fact. We uncover them" and from "Fight fake news, Pick a copy of a newspaper today and every day" to "Encourage your child to read. Start with a newspaper." All these messages hold immense importance keeping in mind the time we live in and our social structure. With the advent of social media, it was considered that newspapers will be dead in no time. However, with the influx of fake news and incorrect information, it made the existence of newspaper more important and relevant than ever. Print is completely based on facts and information with sources, which other media may not pay much importance to. Also, the stories in print are investigative and detailed, which the limited word count stories cannot compete with.

On National Newspapers Readership Day, Pakistan Post is issuing the Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs 20/- denomination each on September 25, 2021.

NED UNIVERSITY OF ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY, KARACHI (1921-2021) 100 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE. August 1, 2021(2021-6)

 

NED University of Engineering and Technology is one of the oldest institutions for teaching and producing engineering graduates in this country. It was founded as Prince of Wales Engineering College in 1921. The present name was given to it a few years later in recognition of generous donation by the family members of the well-known philanthropist, Mr. Nadirshaw Edulji Dinshaw. Historical records indicate that the need for qualified civil engineers for mega projects such as Sukkur Barrage led to development of this institution. After Pakistan came into being in 1947. NED continued to serve the nation. In 1977, it was upgraded as NED University of Engineering and Technology and relocated to its present main campus at University Road. More laurels were earned by the institution thereon. The prime pride of NED has been its graduates most of whom have done very well in their respective professional careers. NED alumnui have also played a pioneering role in various fields of engineering works after Pakistan came into being. Some domains of professional contribution include consultancy, professional advice, setting up laboratories, research, industrial development, technical training and education, collaborative assignments, entrepreneurship and expansion, quality assurance mechanisms, management of units, design innovations and several others. The work of this invaluable human resource has had far reaching impact over the period of time. Development of indigenous capabilities in design, management and operation of vital industries and enterprises, evolution and expansion of new forms of industrial arrangements in production and support for state policies of industrialization during various regimes are

some salient mentions that have been vital for the progress and prosperity of the nation. In other words, this university has played a pivotal role in augmenting technological and industrial development by providing dependable cadres of engineering graduates. A sizable number of these graduates constitute the invaluable human capital in the form of overseas Pakistanis. They are gainfully employed or running their own enterprises in the Middle East, United Kingdom. United States, Malaysia, China, Europe and many other parts of the globe.

Many years ago, the university took the revolutionary step of obtaining ISO 9000 certification to structure a quality management system whichcould transparently ensure prescription and practice of quality oriented approaches throughout the campus. All attempts that tend to threaten academic discipline are nipped in the bud in the larger interest of students and their future. It may also be noted that about 40 percent students are girls. The numbers of the fairer sex is also increasing in ranks of the faculty. Gender sensitivity in terms of safety, security and facilities is a foremost objective the university administration. Providing a wholesome atmosphere to students, a large number of co- curricular and sports activities are regularly perfomed. Debates, exhibitions, seminars, conferences and other such events are a regular feature of the academic calendar. In addition, the students are also exposed to the needs of actual working environment through internships in the various industries. Industrial liaison directorate keeps close coordination and follow-up with industrial and public sector concerns of various ranks and profiles. The students in third year and other classes benefit from this vital exposure. In many cases, the employment of interns after graduation becomes guaranteed when the prospective employers view the potential and capacities of the students. As the country has launched China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) initiative, Chinese language (Level 1 & 2) is taught to all undergraduate students since the past two years. Besides, a community service programme for all the undergraduate students is a compulsory course where the students receive theoretical and practical association with a worthwhile community initiative in various sectors.

Institutions take ages to evolve. They take even greater time spans to depict their outputs and potential. But it is an even uphill task to maintain the high standards set during the process of evolution. The NED University has experienced a phase of rapid growth, expansion and development in its recent past. It now comprises three campuses via main campus on University Road, Latif Ebrahim Jamal Campus on Stadium Road and the City Campus on Maulana Din Mohammad Wafai Road. In 2019, the university also opened Thar Institute of Engineering, Sciences and Technology (TIEST) at Islamkot (Thar) to enable the bright young people of Sindh to benefit from quality higher education at their door steps. The classes already began in 2019.

For the future, the university is focusing on developing a broad based research culture amongst its faculty and scholars for accelerating generation of worthwhile contributions to knowledge in all the concerned domains. Here are some of the notable glittering stars of NED, Our Alumnui's, our pride:

Mr. Elahi Bux Soomro

Mr. Justice Zulfiqar Ahmed Khan

Syed Murad Ali Shah Syed Asaad Ayub Ahmad

Engineer Asfia Aleem

Mr. Sohail P. Ahmed

Senator Rukhsana Zubairi

Mr Najeeb Haroon.

Mr. Aftab Hussain Siddiqui

Mr. Firdous Shamim Naqvi

#Mr Ashraf Habibullah

#Mr. Naveed Sherwani Mr. Raghib Hussain

Mr. Asim Murtaza Khan

Mr. Saeed Anwar

Major General Khurram Anwar Qadri

Retd. Maj. General Raza Hussain (SUPARCO)

Ms. Farhat Ishtiaq

Mr. Mohammed Ali Shehki

Mr Ali Haider

On 100 Years of Excellence NED University of Engineering & Technology,

Karachi (1921-2021), Pakistan Post is issuing the Commemorative Postage

Stamp of Rs 20/- denomination on August 1, 2021.

State Bank of Pakistan Museum A Decade of Serving Heritage (2011-2021) (2021-5)

 

Mission Statement

To create standards of service for society for educating youth, and increase awareness of the common man through regular displays and special exhibitions/events

Vision Statement

To make the SBP Museum a Living, Interactive State of Art and Knowledge Institution for the benefit of the public and to preserve the History of Coinage and State Bank of Pakistan

Background

Pakistan is one of the very few places in the world where the currency developed from its very rudimentary from to the advanced level of coinage. Panini, Sanskrit grammarian, mentions that the concept of coinage in this area existed even much earlier than 500 BC. The first coins of this region were minted before the 5th century BC in ancient Gandhara, present day area of Taxila, Pakistan. These are known as Punch Marked Coins.

Monetary and Archives Museums are necessary adjuncts of Central Banks. The idea of Central Bank Museums was not new, and the most of the Central Banks around the globe have their own Museums. To document this interesting history, the idea of establishment of Money Museum developed, where educational activities and outreach program for the public especially for the students and children may be executed..

Knowing the importance and for materialization of this plan the former Governor of State Bank of Pakistan,Shujat Ali Hasnie (July 20, 1960 to July 19. 1967) in early 1960 assigned this task to the Director, Public Relations to visit to Bank of England to learn as well as to study about the Museum of Bank of England. Resultantly, a small scale Museum was established with exhibits of archival documents and coins; at 5th floor of the main building of SBP. This museum was working under the Public Relation Department (PRD), headed by Ms. Sabiha Hasan the then Director. On account of renovation and reconstruction of the Building this Museum was dismantled in September 2002.Ms. Hasan, former Director, External Relation Department, brought this to Dr. Ishrat Husain's notice the then Governor of State Bank of Pakistan, who was an Art Lover and an enthusiast of culture.

Later on it was decided by SBP in 2004 to establish a new and large scale Museum with extensive displays of History of State Bank, coins, stamps, currency, artwork and other objects of public and Bank interest. Hence, an expanded and large Museum was proposed in the old heritage building, adjacent to SBP Main Building, the Imperial Bank of India. Later, it housed the State Bank's Library before its conversion into Present State Bank Museum.

Establishment of SBP Museum and its Inauguration

The actual practical work started when SBP hired the subject specialist, famous archaeologist and museologist of Pakistan Dr. Asma Ibrahim as founding Director of the Museum, an energetic and talented lady, having a great experience and knowledge of Museums. She jointed in the second half of the September 2006. She did the conservation of the Building, acquired the collection, trained manpower etc. It took five years to bring this dream into a reality. This was indeed a hectic and pains taking work, performing and supervising dozen of tasks simultaneously. The Museum was inaugurated on 1st July 2011, the date was selected because of the relevance of the date of inauguration of State Bank of Pakistan by Quaid-i-Azam on 1st July 1948.During the tenure of Mr.Shahid Kardar, Governor of State Bank at the time, keeping in view that the project was envisaged during his time. The establishment of Money Museum is not only appreciated at national level, but also got high remarks from international scholars and visitors.

Museum Aims, Objectives and Activities

1. Preserve the cultural heritage that exists in the form of the old SBP building and the acquisitions SBP had made overtime.

2. To provide an opportunity to general public, especially the younger generation, to learn about SBP's history, money and coins, monetary policy and its evolving role over time.

3. To display therein material drawn from SBP's own collection of artefacts, historic documents, prints, banknotes, coins and photographs. The material is used to illustrate the history of the institution (SBP) and its role in Pakistan's economy. Technological audio visual displays are used to illustrate the institution's past and present day responsibilities and how it fulfils them for the interest of public and students.

4. The Murals and collages of Sadequain displayed in the Sadequain Art Gallery.

5. To regularly exhibit, contemporary paintings and objects of arts in the Contemporary art Gallery.

6. Special exhibitions and events, student competitions are arranged in the Museum throughout the year as well as guided tours for the students from all over Pakistan.

7. A variety of talks and presentations are arranged, in the Museum for groups of visitors of all ages, interests.

8. Museum also acquire or purchase any works of art and artefacts, necessary for the educational interests of students and general public or ancillary and incidental to the main objectives of the Museum as given above. 

9. For the first time in Pakistan Artist in Residence program is initiated for young and upcoming artists.

10. The Museum is the only Museum of Pakistan which is fully accessible for any kind of special need. 

Overview of Museum

The SBP Money Museum is the only specialist Economic & Central Banking Museum in Pakistan designed to educate & inform, highlighting & celebrating Pakistan's wider economic & banking history, as well as the origin and roles of the State Bank of Pakistan. This building was constructed for Imperial Bank of India in 1920s. It is a Greeco-Roman style building in Jodhpuri Red Sandstone. The unique feature of the building is the glass ceiling made in brass, fish scale pattern, joined by screws instead of welding. Original Burma teak doors & wall skirting was also treated, and preserved from deterioration.

Museum is Comprised of Pre Islamic & Islamic Coin Galleries, Stamp Gallery, Currency Gallery, History of State Bank, Governors' Gallery, and Art Gallery. The coin galleries depicting coinage from its evolution till contemporary period, Stamps which were used as Currency in the interim period between Coinage to Currency, and the Currency Gallery from very early time period to present Polymer Notes.

Museum also holds Exhibition on the occasions of 14th August, 25thDecember, and 23rd March and on the other important days. So far, museum has held dozens of Exhibitions in the Museum.

History of SBP and Governors' Gallery are depicting the History of SBP from its establishment since 1948, and the Governors' Gallery is comprised of brief profiles of the Ex-Governors with their photographs.

The Art Gallery is one of the most attractive part of the Museum, displaying Sadequain's four huge murals and collages of metal and wood. One mural of Zahoor-ul-Akhlaq, displayed in Contemporary Art Gallery, where temporary exhibitions of young artists held on quarterly basis.

Newly established Division of Archives & Record Management is dealing with the management of records of State Bank & State Bank BSC. The Division also have an advanced paper conservation lab and record room with preservation of records digitally as well as physically.

Technical Section consists of Metal Conservation Lab, Modeling (Replica) Section, which is responsible for conservation of coins for their preservation and consolidation.

Replica Section is unique and one of its own kind, it is responsible for preparing replicas/models as souvenirs for the visitors. The Souvenir shop is the main attraction of the Museums and is a reason to revisit. The Souvenir Shop has been established in the SBP Museum to promote cultural heritage, historical educational material, chronological sequences of artwork and coins etc. The Shop includes replicas of the materials and some size specific products, publications and interactive videos and demos. The literature available also serves its educational purpose.

Research Section is dealing with publications and souvenirs research. The Publication Section is publishing the catalogues comprised of collections documentation digitally & physically, monographs, brochures, captions and labels prepared from the research work carried out by the officers of SBP Museum. The main objective of this section is to digitize the collection, preserve it, and make it available for publication. The souvenirs for souvenir shop are selected for preparation purpose after a thorough research with a brief description of the object tagged with the souvenir for creating awareness about our history and culture.

Donations

A unique collection of World Stamps placed, and preserved immaculately in 210 albums, from 106 countries, Handmade Bank Note designs and proofs of his own 25 sheets, and Bank note proposed designs40 sheets, stamp designing process 35 sheets, collected over the time of 50 years. Mr. Adil Salahuddin former General Manager, Chief Designer and Chief Archivist, Pakistan Security Printing Corporation (PSPC) donated his life time collection to SBP Museum in 2015.

The other donations include sculpture by Amin Gulgee, son of world famous Ismail Gulgee. Amin Gulgee is also a famous artist like his father. He donated a 3D calligraphy art piece to SBP Museum and Art Gallery, in loving memory of his beloved mother. The other donations include paintings and documents related to history of Pakistan.

On State Bank of Pakistan Museum "A Decade o Serving Heritage" (2011-2021), Pakistan Post is issuing the Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs 20/- denomination each on July 01, 2021.