40 YEARS OF ISLAMABAD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY. MAY 15, 2025 (2025-14)

 

Mission Statement:- As the premier Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the Northern Region, with national and international linkages, ICCI aims to enhance its leadership role by being proactive and delivering quality services to its members. The Chamber acts as a catalyst for rapid economic development through the promotion of trade, industry, service sectors, youth entrepreneurship, and women's economic empowerment.

Vision Statement:- To establish ICCI as a leading trade organization and a national role model by initiating growth-oriented projects and adopting international best practices for the promotion of trade, industry, and service sectors.

Profile the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI), established in 1984, operates under the Companies Act VII of 1913 as a Limited Company by Guarantee. Based in Islamabad, ICCI's jurisdiction covers the Federal Capital Area (urban and rural). It is affiliated with the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) and is a member of international Chambers of Commerce.

ICCI's governance is overseen by an elected Executive Committee led by the President, supported by two Vice Presidents, with administrative matters managed by the Secretary General. Various sub-committees focus on trade promotion, industrial and SME development, taxation, energy efficiency, tourism, and economic empowerment. The Chamber serves over 10,000 members from industry and trade sectors, contributing significantly to the region's GDP. An inclusive structure includes a President, Senior Vice President, Vice President, 32 Executive Committee members, and numerous standing committees.

Forum for Interaction:- ICCI provides a platform for collaboration and dialogue among industry representatives, trade officials, and service providers.Key activities include:

·         Regular interactions with foreign diplomats, senior government officials, and provincial representatives.

·         Recommendations to the government on trade and investment policies.

·         Highlighting business community issues through media and engaging government for policy reforms.

·         Organizing B2B meetings, international trade delegations, and participation in global exhibitions.

·         Consistent engagement with foreign missions to promote bilateral trade.

·         Hosting training programs, seminars, conferences, and workshops for skill development.

·         Promoting youth entrepreneurship and women's economic empowerment.

ICCI Achievements:- ICCI's accomplishments reflect its commitment to economic development:

·         Organized significant events such as the All Pakistan Chambers Presidents Conference.

·         Business Opportunities Conference in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

·         International Business Conference in Dubai.

·         Contributed to social responsibility initiatives, including water filtration plants and medical camps.

·         Recognized with awards, such as the National Youth Award 2009, for contributions to entrepreneurship and women's excellence.

·         Established strategic advisory councils integrating senior and junior members for effective policy-making.

·         Developed modern facilities, including two landmark buildings on Srinagar Highway, symbolizing ICCI's prominence.

·         Organizes two tourism conferences in Skrdu which were attended by a number of ambassadors and diplomats.

·         It has two big majestic buildings on the prime Mauve Area in G8/1.

·         It has state of the art auditorium with about 375 people capacity.

·         Introduced Enterprise Resource System (ERP). Free ambulance system.

·         FM radio of Islamabad Chamber

Representation and Services:- ICCI has representation on key government advisory boards, committees, and academic platforms, ensuring advocacy for trade, industry, and service sectors. Value-added service desks for members include:

1. RARE

2. Police Verification

3. Federal Ombudsman

4. IESCO

5. TDAP (Trade Development Authority of Pakistan)

6. Arbitration council

7. Upcoming desk for Pakistan Post Office

The Chamber also partners with restaurants, hospitals, and schools to provide affordable services to its members.

Future Aspirations ICCI aims to:

·         Enhance its leadership role as a proactive trade organization.

·         To make the Chamber the best support organization by introducing the modern governance.

·         Advocate for favorable business environments through strategic policy recommendations.

·         Foster economic growth by promoting trade, industry, and entrepreneurship.

·         Support local businesses and strengthen international trade relationships through innovation and collaboration.

·         To set up an Industrial Estate in Islamabad.

·         To set up a TV channel.

ICCI remains committed to being a beacon of economic development, empowering businesses, and inspiring confidence in Pakistan's future prosperity.

On the Occasion of 40th Anniversary of Islamabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Pakistan Post is issuing a Commemorative Postage Stamps, of Rs. 40/-denomination on 15th May, 2025.

INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF GLACIERS' PRESERVATION. MAY 9th, 2025 (2025-13)

 

The United Nations General Assembly in its resolution A/RES/77/158dated 14 December 2022 declared 2025 as the International Year of Glaciers' Preservation. Purpose of this initiative is to raise awareness on the vital role glaciers, snow, and ice play in the climate system and water cycle, as well as the far-reaching impacts of rapid glacial melt. Aim is to highlight the urgent need to protect glaciers from the rapid melting caused by climate change, which impacts freshwater access to over 2 billion people worldwide. This commemoration aims to mobilize international action to address the challenges posed by glacier loss and promote sustainable practices to preserve them.

Around 70% of the global freshwater is stored in glaciers and ice sheets, however these ice formations are rapidly retreating due to climate disruption. Preserving these crucial resources is essential for environmental sustainability, economic stability and safeguarding cultures and livelihoods. Glaciers supply freshwater to over half of humanity. As they retreat, they are altering water availability and quality downstream, with implications for aquatic ecosystems and sectors including agriculture and hydropower. This is accompanied by a short-term in landslides, avalanches, floods and droughts, as well as a long-term threat to the security of water supplies for billions of people.

Outside the polar region, Pakistan is the country with the highest number of glaciers in the world. However, climate change has significantly contributed to the rapid melting of these glaciers. The melting of glaciers in Pakistan has several adverse effects on the country's economy, including water scarcity, reduced agricultural productivity, and increased natural disasters. According to a report by the World Bank, Pakistan is one of the most water-stressed countries in the world, and the rapid melting of glaciers is exacerbating this issue. It is estimated that Pakistan's water supply will fall below the minimum threshold of 1,000 cubic meters per person per year by 2025, leading to increased water scarcity and reduced agricultural productivity.

The melting of glaciers is also causing an increase in natural disasters such as floods, landslides and glacial lake outburst floods. In recent years, Pakistan has experienced several devastating floods, which have caused significant damage to economy, infrastructure and livelihoods. Glacial Lake Outburst Flood is another danger which refers to a sudden and catastrophic release of water from a glacial lake, typically caused by the collapse of a natural dam formed by ice or debris, or by a sudden rise in water levels due to melting glaciers. These floods can result in severe downstream flooding, often causing significant damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and human lives. Glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) are a significant concern in Pakistan, particularly in its northern regions, where numerous glaciers exist in the mountain ranges of Hindu Kush, Karakoram, and Himalayas. Pakistan's vulnerability to glacial lake outburst floods is likely to increase as the effects of climate change worsen.

The reduced availability of freshwater due to glacier melting is also affecting Pakistan's hydropower generation, which accounts for approximately 29% of the country's electricity production. According to a report by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development, the melting of glaciers will lead to a significant reduction in hydropower generation in the country, which will have adverse effects on Pakistan's economy.

It is feared that two-thirds (68%) of World's Glaciers are set to disappear by 2100 under current global warming scenario. The melting of glaciers in Pakistan is not just a local problem but a global one that requires immediate action. Failure to address this issue will not only harm Pakistan's economy and water security but also have wider implications for the region and the world. There are over 7,000 glaciers in Pakistan and together these form the most amount of ice outside the polar regions. The glaciers shown on the stamps of this issue are as below:

1. Siachen Glacier. 76 km (47 mi) long, Siachen is the longest glacier in the Karakoram and second-longest in the world's non-polar areas at an altitude of 5,753 m (18,875 ft). "Sia" in the Balti language refers to the rose family plant widely dispersed in the region. "Chen" refers to any object found in abundance. Thus, the name Siachen refers to a land with an abundance of roses. The glacier's melting waters are the main source of the Shyok River. The Shyok in turn joins the 3000 kilometre-long Indus River which flows through the length of Pakistan. Thus, the glacier is a major source of the Indus and feeds the largest irrigation system in the world.

2. Biafo Glacier. Measuring 67 km (42 mi) in length, Biafo is the third-longest glacier in the world's non-polar areas at an altitude of 5,128 metres (16,824 ft). Snow Lake (shown on stamp), consisting of parts of the upper Biafo Glacier and its tributary glacier Sim Gang, is one of the world's largest basins of snow or ice in the world outside the polar regions, up to 1,600 m (0.99 mi) in depth. Evidence of wildlife can be seen on the glacier, including Ibex and Markhor. Although sightings are rare, the area is also known for Himalayan brown bears and snow leopards.

3. Baltoro Glacier. 63 km (39 mi) in length, Baltoro is the fifth-longest glacier in the world's non-polar areas. K2 (shown on stamp), the second-highest mountain in the world, stands at the southern end of the Baltoro Glacier, making the glacier an essential route for climbers attempting to summit K2. The confluence of the main Baltoro Glacier with the Godwin-Austen Glacier is known as Concordia; this location and K2 base camp are popular trekking. destinations.

Design Elements

Each stamp and souvenir sheet in the issue as well as the postmark showcases International Year of Glaciers' Preservation logo. The CMYK colour palette has also been illustrated using the logo.

Pakistan's first Tête-bêche pair: a stamp inverted in relation to the adjoining stamp in a pair.

To commemorate International Year of Glaciers' Preservation, Pakistan Post is issuing a set of six Commemorative Postage Stamps and three Souvenir Sheets of Rs 30/- denomination each on May 9th 2025.

50 Years of the Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry, April 4th, 2025. (2015-12)

The Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FCCI) is a prestigious and influential trade organization in Pakistan, dedicated to representing and promoting the interests of the business community in Faisalabad. Established in 1974, the FCCI has played a pivotal role in fostering economic development, supporting industrial growth, and facilitating trade in the region. Its commitment to enhancing business opportunities and advocating for the needs of its members has made it a cornerstone of Faisalabad's economic ecosystem. Historical Background and Establishment

Founded in 1974, the FCCI was created to serve as a unified voice for the business and industrial sectors of Faisalabad. At the time of its establishment, Faisalabad was emerging as a major industrial and textile hub in Pakistan. Recognizing the need for a platform that could address the challenges faced by local businesses and support their growth, the FCCI was formed to bridge the gap between the government and the private sector while fostering collaboration among stakeholders.

Mission and Objectives:- The primary mission of the FCCI is to support and promote economic development by creating an environment conducive to business growth. The chamber works towards fostering innovation, facilitating networking opportunities, and addressing the challenges faced by its members. Some of its key objectives include:

Advocating for pro-business policies and regulatory reforms.

Serving as a bridge between the government and the business community.

Providing a platform for collaboration and communication among local and international businesses.

Enhancing the global competitiveness of Faisalabad's industries, particularly textiles, agriculture, and manufacturing.

Membership and Representation

The FCCI boasts a diverse membership base, representing a wide range of sectors, including textiles, chemicals, agriculture. engineering, IT, and services. With members ranging from small enterprises to large industrial conglomerates, the FCCI ensures that the interests of all business sizes and types are addressed.

Services and Activities:- The FCCI offers a variety of services to its members, including:

Policy Advocacy: Engaging with government authorities to ensure business-friendly policies and regulations. Trade Facilitation: Supporting export activities, issuing certificates of origin, and organizing trade delegations.

Capacity Building: Hosting seminars, workshops, and training sessions to enhance the skills and knowledge of its members.

Networking Opportunities: Organizing exhibitions, trade fairs, and networking events to connect local businesses with global markets.

Dispute Resolution: Providing arbitration and mediation services to resolve commercial disputes amicably.

Role in Economic Development:- Faisalabad is the industrial hub of Pakistan, contributing significantly to the country's GDP and exports. The FCCI plays a crucial role in maintaining this status by promoting industrial diversification, technological advancement, and sustainable development. Its advocacy for infrastructure improvement, energy solutions, and investment opportunities has been instrumental in attracting local and foreign investors to the region.

Global Presence:- The FCCI actively collaborates with international chambers of commerce, trade bodies, and diplomatic missions to enhance Faisalabad's global trade footprint. It also facilitates participation in international trade fairs and bilateral business forums, enabling its members to explore new markets and establish global partnerships.

Vision for the Future:- The FCCI envisions a vibrant and progressive business environment where innovation and entrepreneurship thrive. By focusing on digital transformation, environmental sustainability, and industrial modernization, the chamber aims to position Faisalabad as a competitive player in the global economy.

In short, the Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry serves as a vital institution for the economic and industrial development of Faisalabad, providing leadership, advocacy, and support to its diverse membership base. Its efforts continue to shape Faisalabad into a dynamic business hub, contributing significantly to Pakistan's economic prosperity.

On the occasion of 50 Years of The Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs. 30/- denomination is being issued by Pakistan Post on 04th April 2025.

Celebrating 130 yeats since the discovery of X-rays. March 23rd, 2025. (2025-11)

 

Pioneers in X-ray Technology Since 1896 As a company, our history dates back to the discovery of X-rays by Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen 130 years ago in Würzburg. His discovery on No-vember 8th, 1895 heralded a new era in medi-cine that provided previously unknown insights into the human body. A short time later, Sie-mens & Halske and Reiniger, Gebbert & Schall (RGS) the two predecessor companies of Sie-mens Healthineers concentrated on the indus-trial production of X-ray tubes and apparatus, thus making a decisive contribution to the fur-ther development of the technology.

Today as a company, Siemens Healthineers is a leading medical technology company principally active in the areas of imaging, diagnostics, cancer care and minimally invasive therapies, augmented by digital technology and artificial intelligence, committed to improving access to healthcare for underserved communities world-wide and is striving to overcome the most threatening diseases.

 X-ray Imaging -The Foundation of Modern Med-Tech Just three days after the discovery of the X-rays, Reiniger, Gebbert & Schall set about de-veloping the first X-ray tube which was later pur-chased by Röntgen. X-ray technology continues to be widely used in Siemens Healthineers' port-folio today: from computed tomography and mammography to classical radiography. In addi-tion, Siemens Healthineers offers innovative, image-based therapy concepts and minimally in-vasive procedures with its angiography systems and mobile surgery systems.

As a leading medical technology company, Sie-mens Healthineers is continuously developing its product and service portfolio, with Al-sup-ported applications and digital offerings that play an increasingly important role in the next generation of medical technology.

Driving Innovation in Pakistan's Healthcare Landscape Siemens Healthineers has been a driving force in advancing Pakistan's medical technology landscape, equipping healthcare facilities with over 500 active equipment installed base, with state-of-the-art med-tech equipment. Our ad-vanced solutions enable clinicians to detect dis-eases earlier, facilitate precise treatments, and ultimately improve patient care across the coun-try.

Beyond major hospitals and diagnostic cen-tres, Siemens Healthineers is also transforming healthcare access in remote and underserved areas. Through digital connectivity and high-quality diagnostic services, we are reaching communities that previously had limited health-care options. By expanding access, we are ensur-ing that everyone, everywhere, benefits from quality healthcare.

Globally, Siemens Healthineers invests €1.5 billion annually in research and development, driving advancements in medical imaging, inter-ventional radiology, and digital health solutions. Our portfolio of about 24,000 technical intel-lectual property rights, including more than 15,000 granted patents, underscores our relentless drive to redefine the future of diagnostics.

A Symbol of Progress and Medical Excellence This commemorative postage stamp is more than just a tribute to 130 years of X-ray tech-nology-it is a celebration of medical progress, scientific excellence, and the profound impact of innovation on human health.

As we mark this milestone, we reaffirm our commitment to pioneering breakthroughs that are improving lives, empowering medical pro-fessionals, and shaping the future of healthcare. Our journey does not end here. With continued investment in research, technology, and sustain-able solutions, Siemens Healthineers will remain at the forefront of diagnostic imaging-for everyone, everywhere, sustainably.

On the occasion of Celebrating 130 years, since the discovery of X-rays, a commemorative postage stamp of Rs 30/- denomination and Miniature sheet of Rs/100- have been issued by Pakistan Post on 23rd March 2025.

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF NADRA. MARCH 10, 2025 (2025-10)

National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) was established as National Database Organization (NDO), an attached department under the Ministry of Interior, Government of Pakistan in 1998. NADRA Ordinance was promulgated in Pakistan on March 10, 2000. NDO & Directorate General of Registration (DGR) merged to form NADRA on 10 March, 2000; an independent corporate body with requisite autonomy to operate Independently and facilitate good governance. The primary purpose of the NADRA Ordinance was to establish a centralized and efficient system for the registration and management of citizens' data. This Initiative aimed to replace the outdated manual registration process with a computerized system, enhancing the accuracy and reliability of personal identification records.

NADRA was tasked with maintaining a comprehensive database of Pakistani citizens, issuing secure national identity cards, and ensuring the integrity of the electoral rolls, among other responsibilities. The ordinance played a crucial role in modernizing the country's civil registration and identification systems, contributing to improved governance and public service delivery.

NADRA set out on the journey of Civil Registration of all Pakistani's and in a short span of time indigenously created a state-of-the-art centralized Data Warehouse hosting multi biometric central database, Network Infrastructure and Interactive Data Acquisition Systems to issue secure National Identity Cards (NIC). With the introduction of this new fool proof, comprehensive and highly sophisticated computerized system; NADRA has been successful in mitigating risk of identity theft.

NADRA revolutionized Pakistan's registration system by embarking on a journey toward digital transformation. This transition began with the Introduction of biometric technology and the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) in 2008, significantly enhancing the accuracy and security of identity verification. In 2015, NADRA further modernized the process by incorporating online registration, making it more accessible and efficient for the public. This shift from manual to digital acquisition has streamlined registration processes across the country, bringing Pakistan's system in line with global standards.

NADRA has developed Into a leading Government Organization that enables manifestation of vision of Digital Pakistan and excels in biometric technology besides its expertise in software, web services and system development. Till date, NADRA has successfully registered 98% of the adult population of Pakistan.

NADRA undertakes numerous citizen-centric projects to assist the Government in various critical areas, including the facilitation of services for first Digital Census, Election Commission of Pakistan, e-governance: by utilizing digital technologies for improving delivery of public facilitation services and enhancing citizen engagement, Border management: while encapsulating a multifaceted approach, involving strategies, policies, and advanced technologies, all geared toward enabling safe interactions while safeguarding national security & social sector.

NADRA's Social Protection Programs play a pivotal role as architect of change. Each program it conceptualizes, designs and implements is a brush stroke on the canvas of progress. The dedication of NADRA Staff shapes policies that alleviate poverty, empower women, enhance healthcare access, promote legal migration, support fiscal and calamity shocks, and provide education to the under served with an emphasis on inclusive development and social cohesion. Every milestone achieved is a testament to the commitment to shaping a brighter future for the fellow citizens.

By integrating advanced technological solutions, NADRA supports the Government's efforts to create a more efficient and secure administrative framework. This collaboration not only improves service delivery but also strengthens the overall governance of the country. These projects are designed to streamline and enhance the delivery of public services.

NADRA has further gained International recognition for Its success in providing solutions for identification, e-governance and secure documents that deliver multi-pronged goals of mitigating identity theft; safe-guarding the Interests of its clients and facilitating the public. NADRA extended the strategic International outreach in the year 2006. The first international project was Bangladesh Driving License which concluded successfully, resulting in opening of multiple International opportunities for NADRA. During the course of time, NADRA has provided its expert services to different countries on diverse projects, including;

Civil Registration System, Sudan 2008.

National Identity Management Commission,

Nigeria 2009.

E-Passport System, Kenya 2015.

Election Management System, Fiji 2016.

Readmission Case Management System 2017.

Somalia National Identification System 2018.

United Kingdom Pakistan Readmission Agreement 2022.

Readmission Case Management System Turkey 2023.

On the occasion of Silver Jubilee of NADRA and in recognition of it's Excellence in Public service delivery, Pakistan Post is issuing a commemorative postage stamp of Rs. 25/-denomination on 10th March, 2025.