pakistan – Usman Holdings

Sports

“What Are We Supposed to Do with Such a Huge Amount?” Players Disappointed as Sports Board Gives Rs. 6,000 Cheque to National Hockey Team

Despite facing unpaid daily allowances and delays in their camp payments, Pakistan’s national hockey team pulled off an incredible achievement by defeating world No. 10 France to reach the final of the FIH Nations Cup. The team’s young goalkeeper, Muneeb, was outstanding during the shootout, while Rana Waheed Ashraf also played brilliantly. Head Coach Tahir Zaman’s smart planning and leadership were key to the team’s success. However, instead of being properly rewarded, the players were given only Rs. 6,000 each by the Sports Board. This small amount caused anger and disappointment among fans and sports lovers across the country. The team’s strong performance is even more impressive considering the ongoing issues within the Pakistan Hockey Federation and the lack of support from the system. Internal conflicts, poor management, and financial neglect have made it difficult for players to focus on their game. Still, they performed with great heart and determination. But it is unfair to expect such great results from athletes who are not given the respect and resources they deserve. Playing for the country should come with pride, not frustration. Pakistan’s hockey players have shown that they still have the talent and spirit to compete at the international level. But to move forward, they need proper backing, timely payments, and professional treatment. Token rewards like Rs. 6,000 are not enough. Our athletes deserve dignity, motivation, and real support only then can we hope to revive the glory of Pakistan hockey.

Tech

Solar Power Becomes Pakistan’s Largest Source of Electricity

Solar energy has become the largest source of electricity in Pakistan, contributing 25.3 percent of the country’s utility-supplied power during the first four months of 2025. This update was shared by Ember and reported through Reuters. In 2023, solar energy ranked as the fifth-largest source of electricity in the country. But in just two years, it has moved to the top spot, showing a major shift in Pakistan’s energy priorities. With this achievement, Pakistan is now one of fewer than 20 countries worldwide where solar makes up more than 25 percent of monthly electricity production. A key reason for this shift is the sharp increase in solar imports from China. Between 2022 and 2024, solar equipment imports grew five times, reaching a total capacity of 16,600 megawatts. This made solar panels more available and affordable for both homes and businesses across the country. The rapid growth of solar power reflects Pakistan’s move toward cleaner and more sustainable energy. Due to high fuel prices and electricity shortages, many consumers are now choosing solar as a reliable and cost-saving solution. The government has also played a helpful role by supporting solar initiatives and creating policies that encourage solar adoption. These changes have eased pressure on the national grid and helped reduce the country’s dependence on expensive imported fuels. Pakistan’s strong shift toward solar power marks an important step in its energy future one that offers long-term savings, environmental benefits, and improved energy security.

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.

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.