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Abida Parveen alive: daughter denies death rumors

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Abida Parveen

LAHORE: Social media reports claiming the death of renowned Sufi singer Abida Parveen are completely false.

Abida Parveen’s daughter dismissed the rumors, clarifying that her mother is alive and in good health. She explained that the misinformation arose after the death of another woman named Abida Parveen in the Dilgaran Chowk area of Lahore, which led to confusion among the public.

“These reports about the legendary singer’s passing are entirely untrue,” her daughter stated, urging fans not to be misled by unverified news.

She further appealed to the public to rely only on credible and authenticated sources for information and not to believe in rumors.

The false news caused widespread concern among Abida Parveen’s fans both in Pakistan and abroad. The family requested that the media and the public refrain from spreading unverified information and respect the privacy of the singer and her family.

PM Shahbaz orders high-loss electricity feeders to shift to solar energy

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PM Shahbaz orders

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has directed that high-loss electricity feeders be transitioned to solar energy, aiming to reduce losses and ensure a reliable power supply.

During a review meeting on ongoing reforms in the energy sector, the Prime Minister emphasized that feeders with higher losses should be converted to solar power with the support of provincial governments. He noted that this initiative would decrease financial losses and provide continuous electricity to affected areas.

The Prime Minister also instructed that pilot projects be launched immediately in high-loss feeders under PESCO and K-Electric (KESCO).

In addition, Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has instructed all relevant authorities to prepare a more effective and beneficial Ramadan package, surpassing last year’s efforts.

During a review meeting on third-party validation of the proposed federal government Ramadan package and last year’s package, PM Shahbaz Sharif praised the report issued by an independent audit agency for confirming the transparency of last year’s initiative.

Speaking at the meeting, the Prime Minister said that the government had established a transparent system to provide essential food items at subsidized rates to low-income citizens through the Ramadan package.

He noted that the decades-old utility stores system, which had been prone to financial irregularities, mismanagement, and exploitation of the poor, had been replaced with a fully transparent mechanism under the federal government.

Iran will not tolerate mercenary forces: Ayatollah Khamenei

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Ayatollah Khamenei

Tehran: Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has stated that the country will not tolerate mercenary forces operating within its borders.

Addressing the public, Khamenei emphasized the importance of national unity and urged Iranians to remain steadfast amidst ongoing unrest.

He criticized elements causing damage to public property, accusing them of trying to please US President Donald Trump, and said Trump should focus on his own country’s issues.

“The Islamic Republic of Iran will not tolerate mercenary forces,” Khamenei asserted.

The remarks come amid nationwide protests against the country’s ongoing economic crisis, which began on December 28. Clashes during the demonstrations have so far left 45 people dead, including security personnel.

In response to the unrest, internet services across Iran have been largely shut down, severely limiting communication and access to information.

PM Shehbaz blames neighboring countries for threats to Pakistan’s security

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PM Shehbaz blames

Quetta: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said that the war against terrorism is still ongoing and will continue until its complete eradication, stressing that extremist elements are receiving support from neighboring countries.

Addressing a meeting in Quetta, the prime minister stated that the federal government remains fully committed to working with the Balochistan government to ensure the province’s development, stability, and public welfare.

Reiterating his resolve, PM Shehbaz said all available resources would be utilized to address Balochistan’s challenges, complete development projects, and provide relief to the people. He emphasized that peace and prosperity in Balochistan are vital for the overall progress of Pakistan.

The prime minister praised the Balochistan government for its efforts to promote development, improve law and order, strengthen political harmony, and effectively resolve public complaints registered through the Prime Minister’s Complaint Cell.

He noted that terrorism has created difficulties in Balochistan similar to those faced by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, adding that the government will not rest until terrorism is eliminated. Referring to recent security operations, he said the enemy had been taught a lesson in the “Battle for Truth” that would not be forgotten.

Earlier, Balochistan Chief Secretary Shakeel Qadir Khan briefed the prime minister on reforms undertaken across various sectors, progress on development projects, and key initiatives in education, healthcare, governance, and public service delivery.

It is noteworthy that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Quetta earlier today on a one-day official visit.

Bollywood actresses’ viral party images spark debate on social media

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Bollywood actresses’

When Bollywood is mentioned, images of megastars and leading actresses immediately come to mind. However, beyond its glamour and stardom, India’s film industry often makes headlines for controversies linked to celebrity lifestyles.

 In recent days, a new debate has emerged on social media following the circulation of viral images allegedly featuring prominent Bollywood actresses.

According to Indian media reports, images claimed to show Deepika Padukone, Alia Bhatt, and Shraddha Kapoor have been widely shared across various social media platforms. The photos depict the actresses in a party-like setting, with scenes suggesting alcohol consumption and smoking.

In one image, Deepika Padukone appears to be smoking and blowing smoke rings, while Shraddha Kapoor is seen posing with a glass of alcohol in hand. Alia Bhatt, seated alongside them, appears slightly hesitant yet smiling. These visuals quickly drew public attention, prompting mixed reactions from social media users.

The images have triggered an intense wave of commentary online. Some users argue that such gatherings and lifestyles are common among celebrities following fame and success, and therefore should not be viewed as unusual.

Others, however, have questioned the authenticity of the visuals, claiming the images may have been generated using artificial intelligence (AI).

Several users have also suggested that the images are not recent and may be old photographs resurfacing to create controversy.

 As a result, the issue has gone beyond the images themselves, fueling broader discussions about digital manipulation, public perception, and the powerful influence of social media in shaping narratives around celebrities.

Russian President Putin makes animated debut in Prostokvashin

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Russian President

Moscow:  Russian President Vladimir Putin has surprised audiences by stepping into the world of animation, appearing for the first time in a popular children’s cartoon instead of the usual political arena.

According to international media reports, President Putin featured in the well-known Russian animated series Prostokvashino, delighting viewers with an unexpected cameo. In the episode, he was seen interacting with the show’s famous talking cat and dog while extending New Year greetings to the nation.

Residents of the fictional village of Prostokvashino were shown reacting with astonishment as they watched the Russian president appear alongside their favorite animated characters on screen.

The appearance marked the first time a character based on President Putin has been introduced into a cartoon, drawing interest not only from children but also from adult viewers.

Parents visiting the Prostokvashino theme park in Moscow welcomed the move, calling it entertaining and creative. One visitor, Marina, remarked that “anything is possible in cartoons, so why not Putin?” Another parent said children are already familiar with the president, making his cartoon appearance engaging for young viewers and intriguing for international audiences as well.

The idea to portray President Putin as an animated character was conceived by Yuliana Slashcheva, chairwoman of the Soyuzmultfilm studio.

 She noted that Russian cartoons are widely exported to former communist states, the Middle East, and other regions, with plans to expand cultural reach in China.

Slashcheva emphasized that President Putin’s inclusion in Prostokvashino is being used as a form of “soft power,” aimed at promoting Russian culture, values, and national identity globally.

The president’s unexpected animated appearance has quickly gone viral on social media, where users are describing it as both amusing and surprising.

Trump announces US withdrawal from 66 international and UN organizations

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Trump announces

Washington:  US President Donald Trump has announced that the United States will withdraw from 66 international organizations, including multiple United Nations agencies, and will end its financial support for them.

Trump stated that the decision affects several UN bodies and international institutions, including a major environmental agreement and the UN entity dedicated to gender equality and women’s empowerment, citing that these organizations work against U.S. national interests.

Among the agencies affected, the U.S. will withdraw from UN Women, which focuses on gender equality, and the UN Population Fund (UNFPA), which supports family planning and maternal and child health in over 150 countries. The U.S. had already cut funding to UNFPA last year.

The White House released a list highlighting 35 organizations outside the UN system, including the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the National Democratic Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

Additionally, the US will step back from 31 UN agencies, including the central UN climate framework (UNFCCC), the UN Democracy Fund, and UNFPA, the key agency working on maternal and child health. Last year, the U.S. also skipped its first UN annual climate conference in three decades.

According to the British news agency, Trump’s move reflects his long-standing skepticism toward multilateral institutions, particularly the UN. He has frequently questioned their utility, cost, and accountability, arguing that many fail to serve American interests.

A formal response from the United Nations is expected following this announcement. Since the start of his second term last January, Trump has already pulled the U.S. out of the World Health Organization (WHO), the Paris Climate Agreement, and the UN Human Rights Council.

Gene therapy offers new hope for thalassemia patients in Pakistan

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Gene therapy offers

Pakistan is on the verge of a historic medical breakthrough in the treatment of the life-threatening disease thalassemia, as the country prepares to introduce its first-ever gene therapy. The revolutionary treatment is expected to offer new hope to thousands of patients who currently depend on lifelong blood transfusions for survival.

Renowned UK-based Pakistani gene therapist Dr. Sher Bahadur Anjum stated that gene therapy has the potential to eliminate the need for regular blood transfusions after treatment.

 He explained that this advanced medical approach enables thalassemia patients to lead healthy and normal lives, marking a major shift in the management of the disease.

According to Dr. Anjum, gene therapy is not merely a treatment but a long-term solution that addresses the root cause of thalassemia at the genetic level.

He described the development as a milestone for Pakistan’s healthcare system and a turning point for families affected by the condition.

In recognition of his outstanding services for humanity and his significant contributions toward improving the lives of thalassemia patients, a special award ceremony is being organized in London. The event is being jointly hosted by Professional Relief Organization (PRO) and Amina Bashir Memorial Thalassemia Trust (ABMT).

Organizers stated that Dr. Sher Bahadur Anjum will be honored for his dedication, innovation, and commitment to bringing advanced gene therapy solutions closer to Pakistani patients.

Health experts believe this initiative is not only a medical achievement but also a beacon of hope for a healthier and brighter future for children in Pakistan suffering from thalassemia.

Football icon Lionel Messi reveals post-retirement plans

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Football icon Lionel

Buenos Aires: Global football icon Lionel Messi, who enjoys immense popularity across the world, has shared his thoughts on life after retirement, offering fans a glimpse into his future ambitions beyond the pitch.

According to international media reports, Messi said that after retiring from professional football, he would prefer to become a football club owner rather than pursue a coaching career. He clarified that he does not see himself in the role of a coach, but is more interested in club management and contributing to the long-term development of a team.

In an interview, Messi stated that if given multiple options, he would choose to become a club owner. He expressed a desire to establish his own club, starting from the grassroots level, with a focus on nurturing young talent and gradually building a strong and competitive football institution.

It is worth noting that in October, Messi extended his contract with Major League Soccer side Inter Miami for three years, keeping him with the club until the 2028 season. The deal also includes an option for minority ownership in Inter Miami in the future.

Messi is already a co-owner of Uruguayan fourth-division club Deportivo LSM, which he founded in collaboration with his close friend and Inter Miami teammate Luis Suárez. Established in 2018, the club reportedly has more than 3,000 registered members.

On the field, Messi continues to deliver exceptional performances. In the current season, he won the MLS Golden Boot, scoring 29 goals and providing 19 assists. His total goal contributions stood at 48, just one short of the league record, further cementing his status as one of the greatest athletes of the century.

Emerging Star’s wedding festivities capture online attention

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Emerging Star’s

KARACHI: Emerging Pakistani actress Rehma Zaman has captured widespread attention on social media after sharing photos and videos from her haldi and dholki ceremonies, which quickly went viral among fans.

Rehma Zaman is counted among Pakistan’s promising young actresses and is well known for her impressive acting skills and graceful appearance. She has showcased her talent in several popular television dramas, including Mannat Murad, Mahshar, Mere Sapnay, Be-Rukhi, Mere Ban Jao, and Shatranj.

Currently, audiences are praising her performance in the drama serial Main Zameen Tu Aasman, where her role has been receiving positive feedback from viewers.

In December last year, Rehma Zaman tied the knot with a UK-based neurosurgeon in a private nikah ceremony. This year, the actress held her wedding celebrations, which were attended by close friends and family members.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Rehma Khalid (@rehmazamanofficial)

Rehma has now begun sharing glimpses from her wedding festivities on social media. On Thursday, she posted stunning high-definition images from her intimate haldi ceremony, which was attended only by immediate family members.

For the haldi event, Rehma opted for an elegant pink and turquoise embroidered long shirt, paired with simple footwear. She completed her look with a sleek ponytail and delicate jewelry, exuding understated elegance.

The actress appeared joyful and radiant as she posed for photographs with her parents and younger brother.

In addition, Rehma Zaman also shared pictures from her dholki ceremony, where she was seen wearing a striking green outfit adorned with intricate dabka embroidery, further winning hearts online with her traditional yet graceful bridal style.