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Honda Pakistan to Launch Electric Scooter Soon

Honda Pakistan is getting ready to bring electric mobility to local roads by launching its first electric scooter during the 2025–26 financial year. The company revealed its upcoming plans through a notice to the Pakistan Stock Exchange, signaling its intent to align with the country’s growing focus on green transportation. While details like price and technical specifications of the scooter are still under wraps, Honda has confirmed it is actively working with government authorities to complete regulatory procedures before rollout. This move comes at a time when Pakistan is accelerating its electric vehicle shift. The government’s latest National Electric Vehicle (NEV) Policy aims to make 30% of all new vehicle sales electric by 2030. The plan is expected to slash carbon emissions by 4.5 million tons and reduce fuel imports by saving around 2 billion liters of oil annually. To support this shift, the government has announced generous incentives: buyers of two-wheelers can get a subsidy of Rs65,000, with more support available for three- and four-wheelers. EVs approved under the new policy will also enjoy free registration. The strategy doesn’t stop at subsidies. Authorities plan to install 3,000 EV charging stations nationwide, with 40 high-speed chargers to be deployed along highways within six months.

Business

Iqra University: Expanding Pakistan’s Edu-Verse

In a defining moment for Pakistan’s higher education landscape, Iqra University (IU) has earned a coveted spot among the Top 800 universities worldwide in the Times Higher Education Rankings 2025, ranked 284th in Asia, 18th in Pakistan, and 3rd in Sindh. Beyond Boundaries: A University That’s Always Moving Forward Founded in 1998 by the family of Mr. Hussain Lakhani, Iqra University has grown into one of Pakistan’s most future-focused private institutions. With over 15,000 students and more than 30,000 successful alumni, IU is built on six defining pillars: Academics, Industry Linkages, Research & Innovation, Internationalization, Employability, and Civic Responsibility – all working in unison to shape globally competent, socially conscious, and professionally agile graduates. Building Global Bridges: Strategic International Collaborations In the 2024–2025 academic year alone, IU signed over 35 international MoUs with prestigious universities across the USA, UK, South Korea, France, Turkey, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Institutions like Texas A&M University–Central Texas, Robert Gordon University (UK), Yasar University (Turkey), Kyongdong University (South Korea), College De Paris, SEGi University (Malaysia), and many others have joined hands with IU to open real, life-changing opportunities for students. These collaborations provide student exchange programs, global faculty engagements, direct admission pathways, and research alliances—all designed to equip IU students with a truly international edge. Innovation in Action: Faculty Industry Placement Program (FIPP) Under the inspiring leadership of Vice Chancellor, Dr. Nassar Ikram, IU made national headlines with the Faculty Industry Placement Program (FIPP)—the first-ever initiative by a private university in Pakistan to embed its faculty directly into leading industries. By bridging academia with the industry, FIPP enhances the relevance of academic research, boosts innovation, and makes sure IU faculty remains in touch with real-world trends and technologies. This is not just a program—it’s a paradigm shift in how university knowledge can fuel national progress. Campus Expansion: Growing Footprint, Growing Impact IU’s globalisation isn’t limited to MoUs. This year, students participated in a Russian language program with Ural State Pedagogical University, joined an AI-powered digital marketing workshop led by international expert Josh Birchman, and engaged in guest lectures by foreign professors from partner universities. It’s this blend of global exposure and practical skills that makes Iqra University stand out. To further empower aspiring international students, IU launched the LRN Foundation Pre-University Program, a UK-recognised qualification preparing students for higher education abroad. With core subjects like English, Business, ICT, and Mathematics, and recognition by leading global universities like SOAS and Heriot-Watt, this program builds a solid foundation for international success. Diverse Scholarship Opportunities: Making Excellence Accessible IU offers over 80+ academic programs across Associate, Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and PhD levels in diverse disciplines including Business, Computer Science, Media, Health Sciences, Pharmacy, and Education. The university also provides generous scholarships, including need-based, merit-based, talent-based, alumni, and scholarships for differently-abled students. Industrial Partnerships: The Foundation of Sustainable Excellence Backed by over 700 industrial partnerships, IU is one of Pakistan’s top 10 sustainable universities, recognised for its leadership in research and innovation. Vision 2025: The Road Ahead Looking ahead to Vision 2025, Iqra University aims to: Speaking of today’s times, a degree alone isn’t enough – you need credentials that resonate globally. Iqra University doesn’t just promise this recognition; it delivers it through top international rankings, strategic global partnerships, and a track record of alumni success across 30+ countries. Whether you dream of continuing your education at prestigious foreign universities or joining multinational corporations, IU provides the foundation, connections, and opportunities to make it happen. The question isn’t whether you can afford to study at IU; it’s whether you can afford not to.

Pakistan

Feels-Like Temperature Hits 60°C as Pakistan Sizzles Under Intense Heat

Many cities in Pakistan are currently facing intense heat, with temperatures soaring above 50°C. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued health alerts as the heat index, or “feels-like” temperature, has reached dangerous levels in several areas. Jacobabad recorded the highest feels-like temperature at a scorching 60°C, followed closely by Dadu at 59.7°C and Sibbi at 56.6°C. These places fall under the “Extreme Danger” category, where the risk of heat stroke is very high due to the combination of temperature and humidity. Other cities such as Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, Bahawalpur, and Dera Ismail Khan are also experiencing similar harsh weather. The extreme heat not only makes daily life difficult but also poses serious health risks, especially for children, the elderly, and people with medical conditions. In response, the PMD has urged people to take precautions. Citizens are advised to stay indoors during peak sunlight hours, drink plenty of water, wear loose and light-colored clothing, and avoid unnecessary travel. Those working outdoors are encouraged to take frequent breaks and find shade whenever possible. Hospitals and clinics in heat-affected areas have also been asked to stay alert and ready to treat heat-related illnesses. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and may issue further updates if the heatwave continues. This severe heatwave highlights the need for better public awareness, access to cooling shelters, and long-term planning to deal with extreme weather, which is becoming more frequent due to climate change.

Tech

Huawei Shocks EV World With New Battery Patent Offering 2,000-Mile Range and 5-Minute Charging

Huawei has filed a new patent for an electric vehicle (EV) battery that could change the future of clean transportation. The company claims the solid-state battery can offer up to 2,000 miles of driving range and can be fully charged in just five minutes. This battery uses a special sulfide-based material, which is said to provide two to three times more energy than traditional lithium-ion batteries. If these claims prove true, it could mean fewer charging stops and much faster charging times for EV owners. While the idea of a five-minute full charge is still theoretical mainly due to current limitations in charging infrastructure the news has already caught global attention. Battery experts and automakers around the world are now watching closely to see how this technology develops. Solid-state batteries are considered the next big step in electric mobility. They are safer, last longer, and offer better performance compared to current batteries. Huawei’s move shows that China is pushing ahead in this field. In fact, Chinese companies like BYD and Xiaomi are also working hard on similar battery technology. China already holds more than 7,600 patents related to solid-state batteries, leading the global race in EV innovation. If successful, Huawei’s battery could set new standards for electric vehicles offering longer driving ranges, shorter charging times, and better efficiency. It could also boost the shift from fuel-powered cars to electric ones, making eco-friendly transport more practical and popular around the world.

Globel

Indonesian Woman Gives Birth in Grand Mosque Courtyard After Hajj

An Indonesian pilgrim gave birth near the Grand Mosque in Mecca on Friday morning, with the help of Saudi Arabia’s emergency medical team. The Saudi Red Crescent Authority reported that an ambulance crew responded quickly after receiving an emergency call at 9:21 a.m. The woman was suffering from strong stomach pain when the medical team arrived. After a quick assessment, the team realized she was in labor. Following proper medical procedures, the team successfully delivered the baby right there in the mosque’s outer courtyard. Soon after the delivery, both the mother and her newborn baby were taken to a nearby hospital. Doctors later confirmed that both were in stable condition and receiving the necessary care. This incident highlights the quick action and professionalism of Saudi Arabia’s emergency services, especially during the busy Hajj season when millions of pilgrims visit Mecca. It also shows how prepared the Red Crescent teams are to handle unexpected medical emergencies, even in crowded and challenging areas. The Saudi Red Crescent Authority has reminded the public to call emergency number 997 during any health emergency. They also recommended using the “Tawakkalna” mobile app to help medical teams quickly find the caller’s exact location. Events like this remind everyone of the importance of having trained emergency teams and systems in place to respond to urgent medical situations. Thanks to the swift response of the Red Crescent, a potentially risky situation turned into a safe and successful delivery for a new mother during her holy pilgrimage.

Sports

Sindh Govt to Sponsor Pakistan’s First Female Boxer Aaliya Soomro for Dubai Tournament

The Sindh government has stepped forward to fully support Pakistan’s first female boxer, Alia Soomro, as she prepares to represent the country in an international boxing event this August in Dubai. In this highly anticipated match, she will face an opponent from India. To help her prepare and participate in the tournament, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has approved financial support of Rs. 4.7 million. This amount will cover all her training, travel, and competition expenses, ensuring she can focus fully on her performance. At the cheque handover ceremony, CM Murad Ali Shah praised Alia’s hard work, courage, and determination. He called her a role model for young women across Pakistan and highlighted how important it is to encourage women in every field — especially in sports, where they often lack proper support. He added that the Sindh government is committed to promoting gender equality and providing opportunities for women to excel. Supporting athletes like Alia, he said, is part of a broader vision to uplift female talent and show that women can succeed in all areas of life, including those that are typically male-dominated. Alia Soomro’s upcoming fight in Dubai is not just a sports event; it is also a moment of pride for Pakistan and a major step forward for women in sports. The government’s support shows that with the right help and encouragement, Pakistani women can compete and shine on the global stage.

Holdings

Government Impose 27.5% Tax on Monthly Income of Rs 333,000 in 2025-2026 Budget

The Government of Pakistan has proposed a 27.5 percent income tax on individuals earning a monthly salary of Rs. 333,000 or more in the Federal Budget 2025–26. This move is part of efforts to boost revenue collection and fulfill commitments made to IMF. According to officials, the new tax rate targets high-income earners in the salaried class. The aim is to make the tax system more balanced by collecting more from those who have a greater ability to pay, while trying to protect lower and middle-income groups from additional financial pressure. Previously, an annual income of up to Rs1.2 million was exempt from tax. However, under the new proposals, this threshold might be reduced, although official confirmation is still awaited. The announcement has raised concerns among professionals who feel that the salaried class is already under pressure due to inflation and rising living costs. Many are urging the government to introduce relief measures alongside the new tax to avoid overburdening honest taxpayers. The proposal is part of the Finance Bill 2025–26 and will come into effect after approval from Parliament. More details are expected to be released in the coming days.

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