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AJK Government Prioritizes Sports Training for Youth for a Healthy Society

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Bagh (Azadi Times News – AJK, November 14, 2023) — Sardar Zia-ul-Haq, the Minister of Information Technology for the Azad Government, emphasized the inclusion of sports training for youth and athletes in the government’s priorities.

He highlighted the necessity of sports flourishing in society for a healthy and prosperous community. Sardar Zia-ul-Haq stressed the importance of directing the youth towards sports for a positive and healthy society, assuring that the government will provide facilities according to the preferences of the youth.

The minister expressed these views during a special address as the chief guest at the final match ceremony of the Dr. Zafar Iqbal Memorial Tournament. The event was attended by Chairman District Council Sardar Muhammad Asif Khan, Sardar Tariq Masood Advocate, municipal representatives, athletes, and a large number of enthusiasts.

Dr. Zafar Iqbal Memorial Tournament, named after the renowned personality dedicated to serving humanity, witnessed the distribution of cash prizes and trophies to runner-up and winning teams. The minister commended Dr. Zafar Iqbal for continuing his incomplete mission, turning it into a slogan for humanitarian service.

On this occasion, Chairman District Council, Sardar Muhammad Asif Khan, presented trophies and medals to the runner-up and winning teams. He appreciated Dr. Zafar Iqbal’s efforts in using resources to serve the underprivileged in the district, considering his life as a guiding light for others.

The minister further added that despite numerous awards, Dr. Zafar Iqbal has devoted himself to the service of humanity in the district, making his life a beacon for us all.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to making every possible effort for the development of sports infrastructure and athlete training. This initiative aims to harness the immense talent within our youth so that they can illuminate the name of the country on the global stage.

In conclusion, Sardar Zia-ul-Haq highlighted the government’s determination to invest in the construction of sports facilities and the training of athletes. This investment is geared towards empowering the youth, filled with boundless talent, to contribute significantly to the nation’s success.

Azad Kashmir Polio Campaign Set to Commence in District Bagh from November 27

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Bagh (Azadi Times News – November 14, 2023) — District Health Officer Dr. Mohsin Ali Shah has announced the commencement of the Azad Kashmir Polio Campaign starting from November 27.

The anti-polio drive will continue until December 1, during which 67,540 children in the district will be administered polio vaccines. Dr. Shah urged the cooperation of the public and officials of the health department during the campaign, emphasizing the importance of vaccinating children to protect them from polio.

Dr. Mohsin Ali Shah expressed these views during a meeting held to discuss the National Polio Campaign. The meeting was attended by District Information Officer Sardar Muhammad Parvez Khan, Inspector Police Bagh Syed Abbasi, Finance Officer Qamar Abbas Kazmi, Dr. Talal, Nutrition Officer Sardar Rizwan, Sajida Khatoon, Rafat Aftab, Raja Haneef, and others.

Providing details, Dr. Mohsin Ali Shah stated that the total population of the Bagh district is 405,964, with 67,540 children under the age of five. To carry out the vaccination plan, 412 teams have been formed, each assigned to visit households and administer polio vaccines to children.

Additionally, 58 fixed centers have been established where children arriving from the field will receive the polio vaccine.

Dr. Shah further explained that 9 transit points have been set up at important locations such as Lari Adda, Entry Points, Police Check Post Rera, DHQ Hospital Gate Gyarri Chouk, Main Lari Ada, Dheerkot Adda, Police Check Post Numanpura, Arja Bazaar Cross, Main Ada Dheerkot, and Bazaar Chaman Kot.

He emphasized that 97 area in-charges in each union council of the district will oversee the campaign. Three tehsil supervisors will also be on duty, and 32 union council medical officers will supervise teams in their respective zones. Dr. Mohsin Ali Shah assured personal oversight of the polio campaign at the district level.

Furthermore, a Polio Eradication Committee has been formed at the union council level, comprising Lady Health Supervisors, health department officials, mosque imams, patwaris, and teachers. Dr. Shah highlighted the polio-free status of Azad Kashmir for the past 22 years, underscoring the special attention given to residents who have migrated and settled in District Bagh from various provinces of Pakistan.

Dr. Shah concluded by announcing the establishment of a Polio Control Cell for reporting and addressing complaints. He provided the contact number 05823920089 for filing complaints and reports related to the campaign.

Historic Collaboration Agreement Signed Between University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (UAJK) and Aga Khan University (AKU)

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November 13, 2023 – Azadi Times:In a landmark move towards advancing education and healthcare, the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (UAJK) in Muzaffarabad and Aga Khan University (AKU) Karachi have officially joined hands in a significant collaboration.

This strategic partnership encompasses various academic disciplines, with a special focus on Public Health and Medical Sciences, marking a new era of cooperation between these prestigious institutions.

As per the press release issued by the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir’s Public Relations Department, this pivotal decision emerged during a constructive meeting between a distinguished delegation from Aga Khan University Karachi, led by Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Muhammad Kaleem Abbasi, and representatives from the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

The AKU delegation, led by Professor Dr. Romaina Iqbal, Head of the Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health Section, included Assistant Professor Dr. Bilal Ahmed Usmani, Head of the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, as well as other esteemed instructors such as Sabaht Naz, Dr. Mahruk Zafar, Dr. Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq, and Assistant Manager of Continuing Education Programs, Shahzad Rajwani.

The meeting was also attended by Assistant Dean and Associate Dean Dr. Bashir-ur-Rehman Khan from the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences at the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

During the meeting, the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir articulated its commitment to facilitating teaching faculty, offering training opportunities at Aga Khan University for its students, and providing practical work environments.

In response, Aga Khan University commended the University of Kashmir’s initiatives and assured its support for teaching faculty provisions, student training programs at Aga Khan University, and the establishment of practical work facilities.

The visit further solidified the collaboration, with both institutions expressing eagerness to explore avenues for joint research initiatives, student exchange programs, and collaborative projects that would contribute significantly to the academic and healthcare landscape in the Azad Jammu Kashmir.

Safety Concerns Rise as Loose High Voltage Lines Pose Threat in Muzaffarabad – Urgent Action Demanded

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Muzaffarabad (Azadi Times): Blatant negligence by the officers of the Electricity Department has raised serious safety concerns in the Billa Noor Shah area.

Despite the passage of twelve days, the high voltage lines continue to remain improperly secured, posing a potential hazard of any untoward incident due to the sagging of these lines, particularly in proximity to roofs and trees.

Chief Engineer, Muzaffarabad Division, Billa Noor Shah, has taken notice of the laxity in securing the high voltage lines passing over the densely populated areas. Immediate action is required to rectify the slackening of the lines, removing them from roofs, and elevating the poles.

The sagging of the lines, coupled with the decayed wooden supports on the poles, increases the risk of the lines falling onto rooftops and streets at any moment.

Local, political, social, and business circles in Billa Noor Shah have urgently demanded that the responsible authorities in the Electricity Department address this pressing issue promptly and implement necessary measures to ensure the safety of the residents in the area.

The community is seeking immediate intervention to resolve this impending threat, highlighting the potential dangers posed by the loosely hanging high-voltage lines in the city.

Positive Transformation in Society Impossible Without Education, Says Azad Kashmir Higher Education Minister

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    Kotli (Azadi Times): Minister of Higher Education Zafar Iqbal Malik emphasized the indispensable role of education in societal positive transformation.

    Particularly, he addressed the Welfare Society under the auspices of the Raj Mahal Union Council in educational institutions from primary to matric levels, highlighting the distribution of warm shawls and sweaters to orphaned, underprivileged, and needy female students in view of the upcoming winter season.

    During the ceremony, Regional Director of Colleges Mirpur and Poonch, Dr. Nazar Hussain, District Education Officer for Women, Saeeda Andaleeb, District Counselor Shahid Rashid Malik, including Chairman, Vice Chairman, and numerous local councilors, along with a large number of the local community, participated.

    Minister Zafar Iqbal Malik stressed that envisioning positive societal change is impossible without prioritizing education, especially for the educational advancement of girls.

    The special initiative to distribute warm clothing aims to support the well-being of underprivileged female students during the winter season.

    Polio Eradication Committee Reviews Outstanding Performance in Kotli District – Upcoming Campaign Targets Over 120,000 Children

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      Kotli (Azadi Times News – Latest): A session of the District Polio Eradication Committee was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Chaudhry Haq Nawaz.

      The meeting revealed that in the Polio Vaccination Campaign, the district of Kotli has shown excellent performance, and the upcoming campaign will continue from November 27 to December 1, 2023.

      This time in Kotli district, over one hundred and twenty thousand children under the age of five will be administered drops, for which 556 teams have been formed.

      The meeting included officials such as SSP Mir Muhammad Abid, District Health Officer Syed Shafqat Hussain Shah, Medical Superintendent Dr. Sardar Muhammad Nasrullah Khan, Information Officer Shaukat Ali, District Mufti Abid Hussain, Focal Person Hamza Ali Syed, Deputy Director Aamir Zeb, District Coordinator Dr. Fida Hussain, WHO Dr. Arslan Raza, PSW Muhammad Aqib, DM Muhammad Rashed, HEO Mudassir Hussain, Superintendent DI O Fad Muhammad Zidi, among others.

      Addressing the session, Deputy Commissioner Kotli, Azad Kashmir stated that the government of Azad Kashmir is determined to keep Azad Kashmir polio-free. We are making every effort to enhance the immunity of children.

      Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a decline in children’s immunity against polio. I appeal to all parents to play their role in the polio eradication campaign and ensure that their children receive the polio drops. He further said that together, we will maintain the goal of a healthy and polio-free Azad Kashmir.

      Azad Kashmir: A Groundbreaking 12-Point Charter for Energy Transformation

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      Mirpur: In response to the persistent challenges in electricity management facing Azad Kashmir, a visionary 12-point charter has been proposed by Jammu Kashmir Awami Action Committee’s, aiming to redefine the region’s energy landscape.

      Advocating for fairness, accessibility, and local empowerment, this comprehensive plan outlines key initiatives poised to reshape how Azad Kashmir accesses and utilizes its abundant natural resources.

      Direct Supply from Mangla Dam:
      The charter emphasizes the urgency of directly providing 400 megawatts of electricity from Mangla Dam to Azad Kashmir.

      This move aims to secure affordable energy for residents, bypassing convoluted tariff discussions and ensuring a direct and cost-effective power supply.

      Constitutional Profits for Azad Kashmir:
      Aligning energy policies with constitutional frameworks, the charter underscores Articles 157 and 161, emphasizing that profits from electricity trading should rightfully benefit the Government of Azad Kashmir.

      This commitment seeks to instill transparency and fairness in the region’s energy sector.

      Local Benefits from Hydroelectric Power:
      Highlighting the importance of local empowerment, the charter proposes the separation of electricity generated by local projects from the national grid.

      This initiative aims to provide affordable electricity to northern districts, eliminating unjust charges commonly found in electricity bills.

      End Unfair Deductions and Adjustments:
      Addressing financial concerns, the charter calls for an end to the unjust practice of deducting electricity revenue estimates from the federal grant. Additionally, it advocates for adjusting funds collected under Neelum Jhelum Surchaj into bills, providing tax-free electricity to the people of Azad Kashmir.

      Compensation for Water Resources:
      Advocating for justice regarding water resources, the charter emphasizes the need for fair compensation.

      Historical irrigation benefits enjoyed by other provinces should be recognized, ensuring Azad Kashmir receives its rightful share of economic returns.

      Local Approval and Environmental Considerations:
      Navigating the unique constitutional status of Azad Kashmir, the charter advocates for local approval and ownership after 25 years for projects like Neelum Jhelum.

      This, coupled with comprehensive environmental assessments, aims to ensure responsible and sustainable development.

      Preventing Imperialist Exploitation:
      Taking a stand against foreign exploitation, the charter suggests implementing water usage charges on foreign hydel generation projects.

      This initiative aims to safeguard state sovereignty and prevent unwarranted exploitation by foreign entities.

      This initiative aims to safeguard state sovereignty and prevent unwarranted exploitation by foreign entities.

      Clarification on Water Use Charges:
      Challenging existing terminology used by WAPDA, the charter advocates for local laws and institutions for hydel projects. This ensures that Azad Kashmir’s unique constitutional status is recognized, promoting fairness in the energy sector.

      Azad Kashmir’s Share in the Federal Government’s NFC Award:
      Focusing on economic equity, the charter emphasizes Azad Kashmir’s rightful share in the federal NFC award. It addresses the adverse effects of the 2019 electricity tariff notification, advocating for fair compensation.

      Water for Mirpur City:
      Prioritizing essential needs, the charter calls for the provision of drinking water to Mirpur city and agricultural water to Mirpur/Bhambar. This underscores the importance of local communities and their access to vital resources.

      Cancel Federal Government Notification:
      Taking a proactive approach, the charter calls for the cancellation of the 2019 federal government notification. This ensures Azad Kashmir receives its allotted share and prevents financial losses to DISCOs.

      Policy for Resource Protection:
      The final point encapsulates the charter’s overarching vision by proposing a comprehensive policy to protect and responsibly utilize minerals, hydel generation, and other natural resources.

      This policy seeks to halt the looting of the state’s natural resources, placing them firmly in the service of the public and the state.

      In conclusion, the 12-point charter represents a roadmap for a revitalized energy landscape in Azad Kashmir.

      By addressing ownership, rights, and fair distribution of electricity, this vision strives to empower the people, uphold constitutional principles, and ensure that the region’s natural resources serve the collective well-being of its residents. Azadi Times eagerly anticipates the positive impact of these initiatives on the future of Azad Kashmir’s energy sector.

      Jhelum District Health Officer Raids Biggest Medical Store for Sale of Expired Medicines

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      Hattain Bala: In a recent crackdown, Dr. Tahir Raheem Mughal, the District Health Officer of Jhelum, acted upon the orders of Health Minister Dr. Ansar Abadali and Director General Health Dr. Aftab to confiscate, expire, and counterfeit drugs being sold openly.

      During the operation, Dr. Tahir Raheem Mughal stated, “There can be no compromise on the health facilities and the quality of medicines for the people of Jhelum district.

      Medicines purchased from the wholesale market of Rawalpindi will not be allowed to be sold within the district of Jhelum. Non-registered drugs, not registered with the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP), were found to contain toxic substances and were contributing to the rising mortality rates.

      The medical store involved has been penalized for supplying medicines without a bill and has been closed down as a consequence.”

      The move was applauded by the public, media, and authorities as it is a duty as well as an ongoing process to ensure the survival of future generations.

      Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Retreat from the Spotlight Amid Media Scrutiny

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      Following a highly active September that was marked by a flurry of public appearances and travel engagements, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have noticeably withdrawn from the public eye during the month of October.

      Royal expert Aricia Skidmore, known for her insights on the Even the Royals podcast, suggests that this sudden shift in visibility could be attributed to a combination of reasons. While the couple might be seeking some much-needed respite after their intense schedule, there seems to be a more profound motive behind their recent reclusiveness.

      “I believe their decision to maintain a low profile is more about avoiding the harsh glare of the media rather than a singular cause,” Skidmore shared with Daily Express US.

      In the wake of criticism surrounding their consecutive travels, which sparked allegations of environmental hypocrisy in relation to their advocacy, Harry and Meghan seem to have opted for a strategic retreat from public attention.

      The couple also faced a recent depiction in a less-than-favorable light on the scripted television show Family Guy. When asked about their potential reaction to the portrayal, Skidmore expressed her hope that the couple would not take it to heart.

      “I hope they wouldn’t dignify it with a response. They must be aware that the media often spins narratives, and it’s crucial for them not to let it affect their well-being,” she added.

      Ultimately, Skidmore wishes for Prince Harry and Meghan to maintain their resilience in the face of media pressures and to continue living their lives unencumbered by external opinions and portrayals.

      Princess Kate’s Impending Role as the Sixth Queen Catherine: A Curse or a Chance for Redemption?

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      Azadi Times: The royal whispers surrounding Princess Kate’s future as the sixth Queen Catherine in British history have sparked curiosity and concern alike. With the impending transition of Prince William to the throne, the shadows of the past seem to loom over the possibility of a foreboding curse.

      The much-anticipated release of the book ‘The Catherine Code’ by renowned author Bob Casey has shed light on the haunting destinies of the previous Queen Catherines. From ill-fated marriages to tragic ends, these historical figures endured a tumultuous journey, leaving a chilling legacy associated with their name.

      The saga begins with Catherine of Aragon, whose heartbreaking tale of failed pregnancies and banishment under Henry VIII’s reign resonates with a sense of injustice. Followed by the unfortunate fate of Catherine Howard, whose youthful innocence was shattered by the dark secrets of the court, culminating in a tragic execution at a tender age.

      Even those who outlived their spouses, like Catherine Parr, were not spared from the mysterious grip of misfortune. The agony of her untimely demise after childbirth continues to echo through the annals of history.

      In more recent times, Catherine of Braganza faced a different form of adversity, battling false accusations of treachery, which tainted her reputation despite her innocence.

      As the world awaits the momentous ascension of Prince William and the potential rise of Princess Kate as Queen Catherine, there is a collective prayer for her to break free from the shadows of the past. Hope lingers among her admirers, desiring a brighter and happier narrative to unfold, one that defies the ominous history associated with the name Catherine.

      In the midst of this intriguing revelation, the impending coronation holds the promise of a new chapter for the monarchy, one that Princess Kate’s supporters hope will paint a different, more optimistic picture for the future Queen Catherine, thus rewriting the narrative of this historical name for generations to come.