Media Tribe> News--PEW lauds Govt for thwarting oil mafia designs

 

PEW lauds Govt for thwarting oil mafia designs

 

Islamabad: [Nov 27]

The Pakistan Economy Watch (PEW) on Sunday lauded government for not bowing to the pressure of the influential Gilgit-Baltistan oil mafia.

 

The government known for bowing to pressure to different interest groups and market forces took a firm stand to confront the oil mafia which had planned to achieve goals by creating artificial shortage of oil in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB).

 

The powerful mafia that has embezzled billions by misusing petroleum freight subsidy since a decade was brought to lime light in January this year in a PEW report.

 

Some influential politicians, oil marketing companies (OMCs), officials of petroleum ministry, OGRA and carriage contractors were involved in the plunder, said Dr. Murtaza Mughal, President of the PEW.

 

After the publication of report, some steps by Ogra and other departments controlled the activities of oil mafia to some extent, however they were smart enough to find novel ways, he said.

 

Dr. Murtaza Mughal said that some private companies undeterred by the actions of government and notice by the GB courts have granted licences for some two dozen filling stations in last ten months.

 

The step was taken despite that fact that filling stations in GB are already in access of demand and their sole purpose was to earn profit by misusing freight subsidy, he said.

 

Few days back, GB oil mafia, uneasy over reduced profits, planned a strike by carriage contractors, believed to be backed by some marketing companies.

 

The strike left GB without supplies for five days but government refused to bow down; the petroleum ministry with the help of PSO made alternate supply arrangements.

 

Realising that alternative arrangements are working well, the strike was called off, said Dr. Murtaza Mughal.

 

He said that activities of the GB oil mafia, which is in habit of strikes in biting winter, should be brought to an end and uninterrupted supply of the petroleum products in the remote areas should be ensured.

--

Dr. Murtaza Mughal

Cell:  0321-5157671

President Pakistan Economy Watch

www.pakistaneconomywatch.com

--
Dear All,
It's a common platform for journalists and all others who are interested in knowing about the issues that are sometimes not reported. This group favours philosophy of progress, reform and the protection of civil liberties. Please share and educate others. The owners and managers of this site do not necessarily agree with any of the information. It is an open forum and anyone that register can post whatever they like. Mails sent by members and non-members are subject to approval. However, we are not responsible in any way for the contents of mails / opinion sent by members. We do not guarantee that the information will be completely accurate. If you find content on this site which you feel is inappropriate or inaccurate, incomplete, or useless you are most welcome to report it or contradict it.
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Media Tribe> PR--Measures suggested improving trade with Afghanistan, Central Asia

Measures suggested improving trade with Afghanistan, Central Asia

Capacity of Afghan officials hindering trade, making exports costly

Int'l assistance to trade facilitation efforts can ensure peace, stability

 

Islamabad:  Dated: Nov 27

Chairman Founder Group Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) Munawar Mughal has said that government needs to take more steps to improve trade with Afghanistan which will also boost Pakistan's share in Central Asia markets.

 

Government should launch a training programme to improve capacity of Afghan customs officials to ensure swift movement of goods to save time and costs, he said.

 

Law and order, illegal checkpoints, administrative delays, and informal payments account for almost half of transit costs, he said while speaking to exporters at ICCI.

 

Munawar Mughal said that the tyranny of weak institutions in Afghanistan is more punishing to trade than the tyranny of rocky terrain, he said. Additional investment in trade infrastructure, harmonizing customs procedures and regulatory framework can help all stakeholders, he opined.

 

Lauding the government's move to grant MFN status to India, he said that all political issues related to Afghanistan need to be resolved. He said that Afghanistan lost 6 points in Doing Business report in 2012 to bag 16oth position which is a matter of concern.  

 

Iranian transit trade has emerged as a challenge as the Afghanistan-Iran border areas are more stable than the Pak-Afghan border points, he said.

 

Munawar Mughal said that US can do more to encouraging trade and investment in Afghanistan, adding that an international resolve can result in a functional state and growing economy which will also help Pakistan, her major trading partner, he said.

 

At the occasion veteran trade leader Zafar Bakhtawari said that Afghan integration will gain from projects that link Herat to Iran, Balkh to Uzbekistan, and Kandahar to Pakistan ensuring additional revenue which currently stands at 31 per cent of the Afghan budget.

 

There is a need for frequent exhibitions in Kabul to showcase capacity of Pakistani industry related to construction, food processing, services, transport, and communication sectors, said Khalid Chaudhry.

 

Poorly designed and managed border points, long waiting times encouraging bribery, increased handling costs, risks of cargo loss and damage, restrictive practices, low vehicle standards, and lack of financial and insurance systems which are keeping Afghanistan underdeveloped should be considered seriously, exporters said.

 

--

Munawar Mughal

Chairman, Founder Group, ICCI,

Member Managing Committee, FPCCI,

Former President ICCI, Former Chairman FPCCI Capital Office,

Contacts - Off: 051-2253145 &  2250526. Mobile: 0300-5207448.

--
Dear All,
It's a common platform for journalists and all others who are interested in knowing about the issues that are sometimes not reported. This group favours philosophy of progress, reform and the protection of civil liberties. Please share and educate others. The owners and managers of this site do not necessarily agree with any of the information. It is an open forum and anyone that register can post whatever they like. Mails sent by members and non-members are subject to approval. However, we are not responsible in any way for the contents of mails / opinion sent by members. We do not guarantee that the information will be completely accurate. If you find content on this site which you feel is inappropriate or inaccurate, incomplete, or useless you are most welcome to report it or contradict it.
Regards,
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Media Tribe> Munawar Mughal's Interview on Current Situation in Pakistan Observer

Dear Journalist Friends,

My interview on current situation that has trigerred unrest among business community is published today in Pakistan Observer.
Insistance of authorities on IT issue may result in violance in some cities. Please feel free to reproduce it in English/Urdu or any regional lang.
Interview is pasted below my signature.
Regards

--

Munawar Mughal

Chairman, Founder Group, ICCI,

Member Managing Committee, FPCCI,

Former President ICCI,

Former Chairman FPCCI Capital Office,

Ph Off: 051-2253145 &  2250526.

Demand for restoration of previous tax system gains momentum

Business leader terms new income tax return system unsatisfactory

 

Staff Reporter

Islamabad: Munawar Mughal, Chairman of the Founder Group of Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry has put his weight behind majority of the traders of the country who are have shown serious concerns about new income tax return system.

Mr. Mughal who is also Member of the Managing Committee of the FPCCI and has remained president of ICCI and Chairman FPCCI Capital Office said that restoration of previous income tax return system is imperative.

Talking exclusively to Pakistan Observer, the veteran trade leader said that FBR has extended the date to file returns for four times but to no avail as only 17 per cent of the taxpayers have so far filed returns which proves that the strategy employed by the tax authorities has backfired.

Many trade associations and business chambers have expressed their concerns in their internal meetings and with the tax collectors, he informed.

Munawar Mughal said that traders have no faith in the moves directed by the foreign lenders and the only resolution of the issue lies in simplicity of the system.

Small traders and industrialists on Wednesday warned the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) of protests, if it failed to change the 'disputed' conditions in the income tax form for 2011-12 in line with the businessmen community's demands.

We have decided not to file tax returns if the disputed conditions are not omitted, he said adding that anti-business tax policy should be immediately reviewed.

"I foresee that the protest against the tax policy would continue till the FBR restored the previous mode of filing returns," he observed.

Munawar Mughal demanded of the government to introduce plans to help the financially weak traders with attractive tax policies so that the government's annual revenue could also increase. He also urged the FBR to avoid new experiments on the traders who were already in the tax net.

Such new and controversial initiatives would have negative impact on the existing tax collection system, he said.

FBR should not avoid imposing tax of favourite sectors; it should first widen the tax base then introduce changes that should be only aimed at betterment of the country, he demanded.

Munawar Mughal warned that some traders may not refrain from getting violent in order to stop the tax recovery teams in the markets as many associations across the country have decided to resist officials.

Trading community reeling under energy outages, inflation, law and order situation and unfair taxation system have formed committees to stop the tax recovery teams from entering markets which can result in law and order situation and further drop in collections, he said.

He said that the clause "D" from the income tax return form should be deleted and recently-increased rate of turnover tax should be revised.

FBR cannot reduce the fiscal deficit by squeezing the existing taxpayers while patronising landed elites and other non-tax paying affluent sections of society, he said.

The present system of agricultural taxation has created significant distortions and inefficiency in the economy. Loopholes in the system, especially the exemptions of income tax on agricultural income, have created opportunities for tax evasion on incomes earned from non-agricultural sources, he said.

Mr. Mughal said that current moves will not help FBR in any way to support tax culture in country and boost tax-to-GDP ratio which is keeping us dependent on foreign loans.

A dialogue is needed to resolve the issues as majority of business community see new income tax return form as unrealistic and against the interest of the trading community, said Munawar Mughal.

 

 

--
Dear All,
It's a common platform for journalists and all others who are interested in knowing about the issues that are sometimes not reported. This group favours philosophy of progress, reform and the protection of civil liberties. Please share and educate others. The owners and managers of this site do not necessarily agree with any of the information. It is an open forum and anyone that register can post whatever they like. Mails sent by members and non-members are subject to approval. However, we are not responsible in any way for the contents of mails / opinion sent by members. We do not guarantee that the information will be completely accurate. If you find content on this site which you feel is inappropriate or inaccurate, incomplete, or useless you are most welcome to report it or contradict it.
Regards,
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Media Tribe> SENIOR JOURNALIST M IQBAL ANJUM ARRESTED

By Ghulam Rasool Khan
03007806347

Bahawalpur( ) renowned journalist M. Iqbal Anjum arrested
DSP Aziz Ullah Khan hdayyt the Yazman The 3-day physical remand
achieved police and influential people, the news on human rights
violations on the application to perform the Punjab government State
police claim to the province of ths government has made the freedom of
oppression and extreme DSP yzman influential people about the
atrocities reported in newspapers and officials to help victims move
on to senior journalist Iqbal Anjum, D. S.P Yazman Aziz Ullah Khan,
the ruling DSP yazman Police arrested by police from his residence to
his wife and household goods and office equipment hrasan also taken
along with senior journalists to publish facts dawakhana owners
delight in yzman kalsh Hakeem's application filed by the police was
closed in 2 days hualat yzman the information you've entered the case
number 817/11 420/468/471 bjrm The renowned journalist Anjum, M.
Iqbal, secretary of the Japan Association for Human Rights Information
also tells PakistanKhan was angry and influential government
authorities and reported to be constantly threatened serious results
were finally published the facts to the police yzman false and
baseless case M. Anjum Iqbal is detained journalists in Bahawalpur
Police condemned terrorism and called for them to release Chief
Justice Iftikhar Mohammad Chaudhry and Chief Justice of Lahore High
Court, journalistic, political and human rights organizations have
demanded immediate intervention.

--
Dear All,
It's a common platform for journalists and all others who are interested in knowing about the issues that are sometimes not reported. This group favours philosophy of progress, reform and the protection of civil liberties. Please share and educate others. The owners and managers of this site do not necessarily agree with any of the information. It is an open forum and anyone that register can post whatever they like. Mails sent by members and non-members are subject to approval. However, we are not responsible in any way for the contents of mails / opinion sent by members. We do not guarantee that the information will be completely accurate. If you find content on this site which you feel is inappropriate or inaccurate, incomplete, or useless you are most welcome to report it or contradict it.
Regards,
Group Manager

Media Tribe> PR Nov 18--FPCCI host of the 16th Executive Committee and Specialized Committee Meetings

FPCCI/PRESS/2011

18^TH November, 2011

 

FPCCI host of the 16^th Executive Committee and specialized Committee Meetings of Economic Cooperation Organization ( ECO CCI

 

The forthcoming Economic cooperation organization Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ECO CCI) Executive Committee Meeting and other specialized Committee Meetings which are being held at Karachi from 19 – 21 November will go a long way in promotion of trade and economic relations in the ECO Region and open new era of cooperation amongst the members countries. This was stated by Senator Haji Ghulam Ali President FPCCI.  

 

Commenting on the forthcoming meeting of ECO he said that FPCCI has the privilege to be host of all ECO CCI's meeting. ECO CCI is the composition of the National Chambers of the 10 members' countries including Pakistan, Iran, Turkey, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan Afghanistan while the president-ship of ECO CCI presently rests with Iran. President FPCCI further informed that the ECO meetings are being organized after 3 years in Pakistan which is an encouraging sign which will give a good message to the trading community of ECO CCI and other international trading block including the block of which Pakistan is also a member like SAARC and OIC.

 

The delegations under the leadership of the Presidents of their National CCIs have started reaching Karachi. Some prominent big delegations are from Iran and Turkey being led by Dr. Nahavandian President of ECO CCI and Iran CCI and Mr. Rifat President of Union Chamber of Commerce & Industry (TOBB).

 

The Specialized Committees on Arbitration, Trade Facilitation, Tourism, Transportation, Women Entrepreneurs Council and Industry and Investment will be held on 19 – 20 November to discuss the future activities of ECO CCI and promotion of intra trade and economic relations in the ECO region.

 

The Executive Committee meeting to be held on 21^st November 2011 will review  the reports/recommendations  of the Specialized Committee meetings which will be submitted to the respective government of the ECO states.  The Executive Committee meeting also aims at discussing all bottlenecks hampering the trade in the region. The Meeting will also discuss the proposals and suggestion to utilize the geographical and natural advantages of the region.

 

Mr. Tariq Sayeed Chairman Pakistan Iran Business Council of FPCCI also optimized that in a dinner meeting with the Secretary General Mr. Reza Karbasi of ECO CCI that all resources should be exploited in exploring new avenues for promotion of trade and economic relations in the regions which is far behind the desired level.

 

FPCCI has a hectic program of activities including meetings and dinner and lunches in honour of ECO delegates. Dr. Ishrat Ul Ebad Khan, Governor Sindh is also hosting a dinner in honour of the ECO Delegates on November 21, 2011 at Governor House Karachi.

 

 

Malik Sohail Hussain

Chairman Media & Public Relations

Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce & Industry
malick.sohail@yahoo.com
malick.sohail@hotmail.com
Cell: 92-0333-5155300
92-0321-5155500PRESS RELEASE

--
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Media Tribe> After 3 months of torture during abduction, govt agencies release Imran Yusufzai & Ousama Haneef

After three months of torture during abduction, government agencies release Imran Yusufzai and Ousama Haneef

Hizb ut-Tahrir lawyers' assistant abducted as a reaction to the recording of testimony against the agencies

After three months of abduction and severe torture, ISI and Military Intelligence released Imran Yusufzai and Ousama Haneef in the dead of night, although Dr. Abdul-Qayyum is still in their punishment cell. Both these academically brilliant men, members of Hizb ut-Tahrir, suffered five escalating degrees of torture. They were beaten by sticks and whipped with thin metal wires until blood oozed out of their bodies. These oppressors cut open the scalp of Imran Yusufzai. Their hands were tied behind their back and they were hung from the ceiling, until their shoulders dislocated, with their arms coming out from their sockets! The agencies fierce hostility is not directed at Blackwater or the CIA but at Muslims whose only crime is to call for the Khilafah, to implement Islam as a rule, unify the entire Ummah as one state and eradicate the domination of the American and British colonialists in Muslim Lands. Their release after three months of investigations is itself a proof that they committed no crime. Yesterday, 27 October, despite many threats from the agencies, the daring member of Hizb ut-Tahrir, Ousama Haneef, recorded a testimony against the agencies with the of Advocate Umar Hayat Sindhu in front of the magistrate, which included the names of the military officers involved in his abduction and torture. Then late last night, agency thugs, like cheap thieves, abducted the lawyer's assistant, Falak Shehr, from outside his office, whose whereabouts remain unknown until now. And this is the reality of rule of law and justice under the traitor agent rulers! We assure the traitor rulers that such incidents only deepen the resolve and commitment of the shebaab and hence bring Khilafah closer inshaaAllah. The shebaab of Central Asia and Arab countries have borne far greater torture than this and it did not disrupt their work at all. We caution the agencies to stop acting as guards for American interests and work for the unification of the Ummah and implementation of Islam. The day is not far when inshaaAllah all those who worked with the colonialist kuffar to delay the return of the Khilafah will be held to account for their crimes. On that day their plea that, "I was just obeying orders" will have no weight, for Allah (SWT) was more deserving of obeying than the traitor rulers. We call upon the media, legal fraternity and human rights organizations to raise their voice against this oppression.

Naveed Butt

The Official Spokesman of Hizb ut-Tahrir in Pakistan

--
Dear All,
It's a common platform for journalists and all others who are interested in knowing about the issues that are sometimes not reported. This group favours philosophy of progress, reform and the protection of civil liberties. Please share and educate others. The owners and managers of this site do not necessarily agree with any of the information. It is an open forum and anyone that register can post whatever they like. Mails sent by members and non-members are subject to approval. However, we are not responsible in any way for the contents of mails / opinion sent by members. We do not guarantee that the information will be completely accurate. If you find content on this site which you feel is inappropriate or inaccurate, incomplete, or useless you are most welcome to report it or contradict it.
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Media Tribe> PR Nov 15--MFN: India shouldn’t remain highest uncertain destination for Pak businessmen

MFN: India shouldn't remain highest uncertain destination for Pak businessmen

Neighbours world's poorest performer in intra-regional trade

Trade only recipe for mutual growth, poverty reduction

 

Islamabad: [Nov 15]

 

The Pakistan Economy Watch (PEW) on Tuesday said after getting MFN status, India should no more remain highest uncertain destination for Pakistani businessmen.

 

New Delhi needs to alter perception and lift trade barriers otherwise all efforts to ensure peace and prosperity through enhanced trade will remain counterproductive, it said.

 

Trade below 3 billion US dollars have made both neighbours world's poorest performers in terms of intra-regional trade, said Dr. Murtaza Mughal, President PEW.

 

Pakistani exporters who are weary of the high cost of uncertainty, quantitatively ranked highest in the world, should plan to compete Indians in their home market, he said.

 

India should allow movement of goods beyond border while ensuring fast disposal of merchandise, he said.

 

Indian authorities are still rejecting majority of visa applications. Recently a group of businessmen women were denied entry; in 2010, 350 businessmen applied for visa through ICCI but only 32 visas were granted, he informed adding that experience of other business chambers is not different.

 

Businessmen say that period of visa validity, narrow scope of travel and reporting arrival are obstacles in realising true trade potential, said Dr. Murtaza Mughal. The two countries should explore possibility of moving from sticker scheme to an electronic business travel card, he added.

 

Customs organizations of both countries can exchange data so that export document of one country may serve as the import document of the other country, he suggested.

 

Dr. Murtaza Mughal said that India and Pakistan should take steps to ensure non-reversal of the liberalized bilateral trading environment while Islamabad should address the issues of keeping the existing infrastructure underutilized.

 

Hawks in New Delhi, who are against constructive engagement with Islamabad should realise that Indian share in Afghan market may not surpass 7 per cent without Pakistan's help, Dr. Mughal observed.

 

Similarly, Indian exports to Central Asian will remain costly unless moved through Pakistan, he said adding that gas and goods transit fees can help Pakistan generate 6-8 billion dollars.

 

India is already in process of negotiating trade deals with the US, EU, Israel, New Zealand, South Africa, and Japan while her exports will surpass $300 billion in the current fiscal. India's trade with Beijing stands at USD 60 billion per annum. Pakistan can help her achieve mark of 500 billion dollar of exports by 2015.

 

--

Dr. Murtaza Mughal

Cell:  0321-5157671

President Pakistan Economy Watch

www.pakistaneconomywatch.com

--
Dear All,
It's a common platform for journalists and all others who are interested in knowing about the issues that are sometimes not reported. This group favours philosophy of progress, reform and the protection of civil liberties. Please share and educate others. The owners and managers of this site do not necessarily agree with any of the information. It is an open forum and anyone that register can post whatever they like. Mails sent by members and non-members are subject to approval. However, we are not responsible in any way for the contents of mails / opinion sent by members. We do not guarantee that the information will be completely accurate. If you find content on this site which you feel is inappropriate or inaccurate, incomplete, or useless you are most welcome to report it or contradict it.
Regards,
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Media Tribe> PR--Agri uplift tied to availability of cheap credit

 

Agri uplift tied to availability of cheap credit

 

Islamabad: [Nov 13]

The Pakistan Economy Watch (PEW) on Sunday said availability of cheap credit can accelerate development of agricultural sector and ensure food security.

 

Getting finances through informal as well as formal sources is a worldwide phenomenon in the rural areas but many nations are trying to facilitate farmers through cheap credit to improve their standard of living, it said.

 

However, Pakistan lags behind as farming communities still prefer informal financial sources to formal financial markets to obtain loans that are costly but easily accessible, said Dr. Murtaza Mughal, President of the PEW.

 

Provision of affordable financial resources can facilitate agriculture growth by improving productivity which will promote the overall economic growth by supporting the other

critical sectors, he said.

 

Dr. Murtaza Mughal said that relationship between finances and development is evident thence farmers cannot be left of the mercy of informal lenders.

 

He said that government must pay attention to agri-reforms, encourage R&D, design new products for rural population and pay attention to rising input costs to stimulate agricultural growth.

.

Financial institutions should provide affordable loans to farmers that will automatically create demand for financial services in rural areas opening new window of opportunity, he said.

 

Government and State Bank should revisit the financial reforms to improve the efficiency of agriculture sector after studying the structure of the economy not forcefully implemented by international financial institutions.

 

Province of Punjab deserves attention which produces around 70 % of the wheat, 80 % of cotton, 50 % of sugarcane, 40 % of rice, over 70 % of the buffaloes and 50 % of the cattle.

 

Dr. Murtaza Mughal said that enormous growth opportunities exist in this sector; all that is required is a right approach.

 

Otherwise, he warned, people will remain insecure despite 25 %of cultivable land and one of the finest irrigation systems of the world.

 

--

Dr. Murtaza Mughal

Cell:  0321-5157671

President Pakistan Economy Watch

www.pakistaneconomywatch.com

--
Dear All,
It's a common platform for journalists and all others who are interested in knowing about the issues that are sometimes not reported. This group favours philosophy of progress, reform and the protection of civil liberties. Please share and educate others. The owners and managers of this site do not necessarily agree with any of the information. It is an open forum and anyone that register can post whatever they like. Mails sent by members and non-members are subject to approval. However, we are not responsible in any way for the contents of mails / opinion sent by members. We do not guarantee that the information will be completely accurate. If you find content on this site which you feel is inappropriate or inaccurate, incomplete, or useless you are most welcome to report it or contradict it.
Regards,
Group Manager

Media Tribe> PR Nov 13--MFN to improve Pakistan ranking in int’l trade

MFN to improve Pakistan ranking in int'l trade

Trade normalisation can unleash Pak true trade potential

 

 

Islamabad: (Nov 13) The Pakistan Society Watch (PSW) on Sunday said MFN with India may help improve ranking of some cities in terms of trading across borders.

 

Some industrial cities are ranked lower in the World Bank's Doing Business report due to distance from ports which may improve after enhance trade through land routes, said President of the PSW Syed Makhdoom Abbas in a statement.

 

Welcoming the expansion in positive list by Islamabad, he said that reduced import protections will help both nations.

 

He said that importing or exporting a container from Lahore or Peshawar through port required 9 documents and 20-22 days; the same processes need 7 documents and14 days in Malaysia and while in Singapore all it take is 4 documents and 5 days.

 

No wonder Pakistan ranked 73rd in the quality of port infrastructure while Sri Lanka ranked 43rd, Syed Makhdoom Abbas informed.

 

He said that automating clearance operations can check decline in exports facilitation and improve country's ranking in Global Competitiveness as well as Logistic Cost reports. It will save money and time for the businesspersons and hike tax collections, he added.

 

He underlined the importance of reduce delivery time of goods through infrastructure upgradation, improved transportation, additional border stations, testing and warehousing facilities, simple procedures and reduced paperwork.

 

Trade is the only way to reduce political tensions which will improve living standards of majority of world's poor living in the region, observed Abbas.

 

Some circles believe that a MFN status to India, if properly reciprocated, can reduce our dependence on the west and contribute towards strengthening democracy in Pakistan, he said.

 

--

President PSW

Syed Makhdoom Abbas

 

PRO Muhammad Imran

Mobile: 0300-9898552

http://www.pakistansocietywatch.com/  

--
Dear All,
It's a common platform for journalists and all others who are interested in knowing about the issues that are sometimes not reported. This group favours philosophy of progress, reform and the protection of civil liberties. Please share and educate others. The owners and managers of this site do not necessarily agree with any of the information. It is an open forum and anyone that register can post whatever they like. Mails sent by members and non-members are subject to approval. However, we are not responsible in any way for the contents of mails / opinion sent by members. We do not guarantee that the information will be completely accurate. If you find content on this site which you feel is inappropriate or inaccurate, incomplete, or useless you are most welcome to report it or contradict it.
Regards,
Group Manager

Media Tribe> PR Urdu/English--Farmers deserve help to take correct production decisions

Farmers deserve help to take correct production decisions
Mixed farming pay dividends, reduce income variation
Imperfect insurance system negatively impact farms

Islamabad: (Nov 09) Farmers deserve right production decisions to reduce
risks associated with their occupation, a business leader said Wednesday.

Production risk is inherent in agriculture due to multiple factors
including dependence on weather that can be minimised through proper
intervention, Mian Shahid said.

Workshops, seminars, advertisement, distant education, and road shows can
enhance awareness among the rural population majority of which is directly
or indirectly associated with the agriculture, he said in a statement
issued here today.

Mian Shahid said that livestock play an important role in risk control; it
improves household welfare through reduction in income variability.

Mixed farming enable rural families to decrease exposure to risk through
diversification, he added.

Grain prices are not advancing as fast as that of milk and meat which is
an added incentive, he said adding that sale of milk, yogurt, cheese,
butter oil and lassi promises daily flow of income.

Mian Shahid, who is CEO of Saudi Pak Insurance Company, said that
incomplete or imperfect insurance markets always have a negative impact on
the farm management.

He said that concept of incomplete insurance has been expanding while
optimal risk sharing is yet to make inroads in the Pakistani market which
is necessary to support farming community.

Agriculture accounts for about one-fourth of the gross domestic product,
earns about 60 per cent of export revenues in primary and processed forms,
and provides employment for half of the increasing labour force therefore
it merits proper attention, he said.

--
Ali Asad,
BDM,
0321-2047618

--
Dear All,
It's a common platform for journalists and all others who are interested in knowing about the issues that are sometimes not reported. This group favours philosophy of progress, reform and the protection of civil liberties. Please share and educate others. The owners and managers of this site do not necessarily agree with any of the information. It is an open forum and anyone that register can post whatever they like. Mails sent by members and non-members are subject to approval. However, we are not responsible in any way for the contents of mails / opinion sent by members. We do not guarantee that the information will be completely accurate. If you find content on this site which you feel is inappropriate or inaccurate, incomplete, or useless you are most welcome to report it or contradict it.
Regards,
Group Manager

Media Tribe> News Nov09--Web of links to help Pak integrate better with regional markets

Modernization of transport sector emphasized

Efficient transport system to enhance regional connectivity, revenues

Web of links to help Pak integrate better with regional markets

 

Islamabad: [Nov 09]

The Pakistan Economy Watch (PEW) on Wednesday said deterioration of railways is a threat to the trade which should be tackled immediately.

 

Weak, unreliable, and outdated railways can be privatised to improve its performance while the trucking sector, which is responsible for 96 per cent of the total trade goods transport should be modernised, it said.

 

Reduced allocations and internal inefficiencies has reduced the passenger share of railways from 41per cent to 8 per cent while freight share has dropped from 73 per cent to 4 per cent, said Dr. Murtaza Mughal, President of the PEW.

 

The productivity of Pakistan railways freight services is around 1/10^th of Chinese Railways, 1/4^th of Indian Railways, and 1/3^rd of Thai Railways, he said.

 

Underlining the need for efforts to improve road density, he said that it will boost our Logistic Performance Index as proper linkages and infrastructure can promote trade, reduce time and losses, and help country compete in regional and international markets.

 

The National Highway and Motorway network comprises of around 3.65 percent

of the total road network which carries 91 percent of national passenger traffic and 96 percent of freight, Dr. Murtaza Mughal informed.

 

He said that many exporters prefer truck-based transport despite cost disadvantages to avoid longer delivery time.

 

Current situation demands focus on trucking sector which is an important element of trade facilitation environment, he said.

 

He observed that the system should not be discouraging private investment in railways and road network.

 

Improved transportation services can help improve trade with the rest of the world including India, China, Afghanistan, Iran, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Turkey, he said.

 

--

Dr. Murtaza Mughal

Cell:  0321-5157671

President Pakistan Economy Watch

www.pakistaneconomywatch.com

--
Dear All,
It's a common platform for journalists and all others who are interested in knowing about the issues that are sometimes not reported. This group favours philosophy of progress, reform and the protection of civil liberties. Please share and educate others. The owners and managers of this site do not necessarily agree with any of the information. It is an open forum and anyone that register can post whatever they like. Mails sent by members and non-members are subject to approval. However, we are not responsible in any way for the contents of mails / opinion sent by members. We do not guarantee that the information will be completely accurate. If you find content on this site which you feel is inappropriate or inaccurate, incomplete, or useless you are most welcome to report it or contradict it.
Regards,
Group Manager

Media Tribe> 5 Things That Won’t Help You Live Longer Read more

Your parents' ages. Don't count on repeating long-lived ancestors if you yourself smoke, have high cholesterol, and lead a couch-potato life — all factors associated with shortening one's lifespan. Lifestyle factors can trump genetics. Enduring fewer stressful life events. It's how one deals with major stressful events, not just the presence or absence of them, that seems to be the bigger X factor. Nationality and geography. "Japanese longevity" or the "French paradox" seem to have more to do with lifestyle and diet than with the virtue of being born in a certain place. The good news: Anyone can adapt the diet of Mediterranean or Okinawan cultures, snack less, exercise more, and reduce stress. Social and economic status. A landmark Harvard study of 10 years ago pegged more education as a more reliable predictor of longevity than higher income or higher social rank. Herbs and supplements. Certain vitamins seem to shore up aspects of health, but no miracle supplement or nutrient cocktail has yet been found to turn back the clock.

--
Dear All,
It's a common platform for journalists and all others who are interested in knowing about the issues that are sometimes not reported. This group favours philosophy of progress, reform and the protection of civil liberties. Please share and educate others. The owners and managers of this site do not necessarily agree with any of the information. It is an open forum and anyone that register can post whatever they like. Mails sent by members and non-members are subject to approval. However, we are not responsible in any way for the contents of mails / opinion sent by members. We do not guarantee that the information will be completely accurate. If you find content on this site which you feel is inappropriate or inaccurate, incomplete, or useless you are most welcome to report it or contradict it.
Regards,
Group Manager

Media Tribe> News--Alternative medicines to benefit masses, reduce costs

Changed, Reduced and Repeated

 

Alternative medicines can benefit masses, reduce costs

 

 

Islamabad: [Nov 06]

The Pakistan Economy Watch (PEW) on Sunday said bringing alternative system of medicine into the mainstream can help reduce healthcare costs and promote understanding among various disciplines.

 

Despite tremendous advancements in modern medicine, around 75 per cent of the developing world and 50 per cent of the western population prefer alternative medicines.

 

Interest in alternative healthcare system is growing as worldwide while sales of herbal products have skyrocketed to $50 billion a year, said Dr. Murtaza Mughal, President of the PEW.

 

Underlining need for tough regulations for the production, sale, and use of alternatives to ensure quality, safety and efficacy, he said that integration of all medicine systems can serve the common goal of improving health of the people.

 

Dr. Murtaza Mughal who is also President of Council of Alternate Medical Practitioners (CAMP) said that alternative medicines including homeopathy are significantly contributing towards promoting health; it has helped produce marvellous results.

 

The proponents of the allopathy, which retains influence over the entire healthcare system, should stop looking down upon them for common good, said Dr. Mughal.

 

Inclusion of some introductory modules of other systems into the orthodox medical curriculum can help develop understanding and bridge the communication gap, he said.

 

--

Dr. Murtaza Mughal

Cell:  0321-5157671

President Pakistan Economy Watch

www.pakistaneconomywatch.com

--
Dear All,
It's a common platform for journalists and all others who are interested in knowing about the issues that are sometimes not reported. This group favours philosophy of progress, reform and the protection of civil liberties. Please share and educate others. The owners and managers of this site do not necessarily agree with any of the information. It is an open forum and anyone that register can post whatever they like. Mails sent by members and non-members are subject to approval. However, we are not responsible in any way for the contents of mails / opinion sent by members. We do not guarantee that the information will be completely accurate. If you find content on this site which you feel is inappropriate or inaccurate, incomplete, or useless you are most welcome to report it or contradict it.
Regards,
Group Manager

Media Tribe> PR Nov06--Women silent contributors to economic development

Women silent contributors to economic development: Mian Shahid

Assisting women to help overcome economic recession in Pakistan

Media can bridge info gap between women and opportunities

 

Dated: Nov 06

 

Islamabad: Mian Shahid on Sunday said women are silent contributors to the economic and social development but their substantial role is largely unnoticed or taken for granted.

 

There are many issues confronting development of women including the idea of female as being secondary to male and of women's businesses being of less significance, he said.

 

Society should facilitate women to start a business to achieve personal freedom, security, and satisfaction, he said while speaking to women entrepreneurs at Islamabad Women's Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IWCCI).

 

Samina Fazil, founder President, IWCCI, Alya Akram President IWCCI, other office bearers and members were also present on the occasion.

 

Mian Shahid said that there is a pressing need to empower women economically and create employment opportunities to enable them to survive, prosper, and support their families.

 

Helping women explore and enhance business potential, develop business, access credit, assistance with marketing skills and product design can help combat economic recession in Pakistan, he added.

 

Mian Shahid, who is CEO of an insurance company, said that business community should plan to strengthen the capacity of businesswomen.

 

He said that women hold only one per cent assets in the country, which result in their one per cent contribution in the total income tax collections which describes our attitude towards them.

 

At the occasion, Samina Fazil said that we have to strike a balance between domestic and business responsibilities while keeping cultural factors in the mind.

 

We do not enjoy the same opportunities as men due to discriminatory socio-cultural values, she complained.

 

The economic potential of female entrepreneurs is not being realised which is barring our integration into the mainstream economy.

 

Samina Fazil said that media can bridge the information gap between women entrepreneurs and the existing opportunities.

--
Samina Fazil,

Founder President,

Islamabad Women's Chamber of Commerce & Industry

Mobile: 0323-5343199

Land-line: 051-2252256

--
Samina Fazil,

Founder President,

Islamabad Women's Chamber of Commerce & Industry

Mobile: 0323-5343199

Land-line: 051-2252256

--
Dear All,
It's a common platform for journalists and all others who are interested in knowing about the issues that are sometimes not reported. This group favours philosophy of progress, reform and the protection of civil liberties. Please share and educate others. The owners and managers of this site do not necessarily agree with any of the information. It is an open forum and anyone that register can post whatever they like. Mails sent by members and non-members are subject to approval. However, we are not responsible in any way for the contents of mails / opinion sent by members. We do not guarantee that the information will be completely accurate. If you find content on this site which you feel is inappropriate or inaccurate, incomplete, or useless you are most welcome to report it or contradict it.
Regards,
Group Manager

Media Tribe> News--Rival medicine systems integration to cut healthcare costs

Bringing rival medicine systems closer to help masses

Bringing alternative medicine into mainstream to help majority

Traditional sector significantly contributing towards promoting health

Alternatives have medical, economic implications, global herbal sale exceeds $ 50b

 

 

Islamabad: [Nov 05]

The Pakistan Economy Watch (PEW) on Saturday said bringing alternative system of medicine into the mainstream can help reduce healthcare costs and make government's goal of health for all a reality.

 

Despite tremendous advancements in modern medicine, around 75 per cent of the developing world and 50 per cent of the western population prefer alternative medicines.

 

Interest in alternative healthcare system is growing as worldwide while sales of herbal products have skyrocketed to $50 billion a year with Pakistan enjoying eighth position, said Dr. Murtaza Mughal, President of the PEW.

 

Alternatives remains attractive due to proximity, economic considerations, beliefs, family pressure, past experience and community opinion, he said while speaking at inauguration ceremony of Health Studio at Gulistan Colony where masses would be provided free advice through internet and social media.

 

Underlining need for tough regulations for the production, sale, and use of alternatives to ensure quality, safety and efficacy, he said adding that that integration of all medicine systems can serve the common goal of improving health of the people.

 

Dr. Murtaza Mughal who is also President of Council of Alternate Medical Practitioners (CAMP) said that alternative medicines including homeopathy are significantly contributing towards promoting health; it has helped produce marvellous results.

 

Non-drug treatment is attracting many; there is a growing trend to utilise mainstream medicine for diagnosis before turning to alternatives, he informed.

 

He said that allopathic system is unable to serve rural majority therefore alternative medicines should be promoted after proper training and capacity-building programmes for practitioners to bring them into the mainstream.

 

The proponents of the allopathy, which retains influence over the entire healthcare system, should not take others as rivals and stop looking down upon them for common good, said Dr. Mughal.

 

Inclusion of some introductory modules of other systems into the orthodox medical curriculum can help develop understanding and bridge the communication gap, he said.

 

--

Dr. Murtaza Mughal

Cell:  0321-5157671

President Pakistan Economy Watch

www.pakistaneconomywatch.com

--
Dear All,
It's a common platform for journalists and all others who are interested in knowing about the issues that are sometimes not reported. This group favours philosophy of progress, reform and the protection of civil liberties. Please share and educate others. The owners and managers of this site do not necessarily agree with any of the information. It is an open forum and anyone that register can post whatever they like. Mails sent by members and non-members are subject to approval. However, we are not responsible in any way for the contents of mails / opinion sent by members. We do not guarantee that the information will be completely accurate. If you find content on this site which you feel is inappropriate or inaccurate, incomplete, or useless you are most welcome to report it or contradict it.
Regards,
Group Manager

Media Tribe> News Nov 03--FBR asked to win confidence of taxpayers

FBR asked to win confidence of taxpayers

Squeezing poor, ignoring wealthy is inhuman

Authorities taxing patience of masses

 

Islamabad: [Nov 03]

The Pakistan Economy Watch (PEW) on Thursday said FBR need to win confidence of taxpayers to overcome image problem and tackle menace of low revenue collection.

 

Majority of taxpayers see moves of FBR with suspicion which is an obstacle in national development, it said.

 

Failed revenue collection targets contribute to underdevelopment and dependence on foreign donors, said Fahim Talib Butt, Vice President Legal Affairs of the PEW.

 

Allegations of lack of integrity, wastage of funds, misrepresentation, inefficiency, indiscipline and arrogance has created a gulf between tax collectors and taxpayers that need to be bridged through serious efforts, he said.

 

He said that industrialists feel that they pay too much of taxes while majority believe that the amount they give to the government as tax is not properly utilised.

 

Taxpayers do not want to pay for the princely living of the people who earn billions but enjoy tax relaxations, said Fahim Talib Butt. This has contributed to general discontent that has resulted in falling tax-to-GDP ratio.

 

These are some of the reasons behind disappointing performance of FBR as far as achieving targets, widening of tax base, checking evasion, recovering arrears, or initiating meaningful reforms are concerned, he added.

 

At the occasion, Dr. Murtaza Mughal, President of the PEW said that frequent false claims of achieving or exceeding revenue collection targets has added to the unpopularity of the institution.

 

He said that over-reporting of figures and exaggeration in number of people who file returns has never helped FBR authorities.

 

Shifting tax burden from the rich to the poor is cruelty, said Dr. Murtaza Mughal adding that hurting fragile industrial and business environment and serving rich has made FBR a tool of oppression, he said.

 

Squeezing those who earn income below taxable limit while ignoring millionaires is inhuman, he added.

 

The intelligence and audit system of the tax body has become highly inefficient contributing only 8 per cent of the total collections. Over and under invoicing, penalising existing taxpayers while cooperating with tax evaders has become a standard practice, he alleged.

 

Dr. Murtaza Mughal said situation will not improve unless FBR decides put its house in order. It should reveal names of parliamentarians, businessmen, and bureaucrats, enjoying luxuries and paying mobile phone and utility bills in millions but not paying taxes.

 

It should take to task professionals making millions but hiding their real income, he demanded.

 

--

Dr. Murtaza Mughal

Cell:  0321-5157671

President Pakistan Economy Watch

www.pakistaneconomywatch.com

--
Dear All,
It's a common platform for journalists and all others who are interested in knowing about the issues that are sometimes not reported. This group favours philosophy of progress, reform and the protection of civil liberties. Please share and educate others. The owners and managers of this site do not necessarily agree with any of the information. It is an open forum and anyone that register can post whatever they like. Mails sent by members and non-members are subject to approval. However, we are not responsible in any way for the contents of mails / opinion sent by members. We do not guarantee that the information will be completely accurate. If you find content on this site which you feel is inappropriate or inaccurate, incomplete, or useless you are most welcome to report it or contradict it.
Regards,
Group Manager

Media Tribe> Career Advice from Successful Dad to Son

Mistakes teach you important lessons.  The biggest mistake you can make is doing nothing because you're too scared to make a mistake.  So don't hesitate – don't doubt yourself.  In life, it's rarely about getting a chance; it's about taking a chance.  You'll never be 100% sure it will work, but you can always be 100% sure doing nothing won't work.  Most of the time you just have to go for it!  And no matter how it turns out, it always ends up just the way it should be.  Either you succeed or you learn something.  Win-Win.  Remember, if you never act, you will never know for sure, and you will be left standing in the same spot forever.

 

Read full Article @ http://www.directutor.com/content/career-advice-successful-dad-son

 

Regards,

Directutor

--
Dear All,
It's a common platform for journalists and all others who are interested in knowing about the issues that are sometimes not reported. This group favours philosophy of progress, reform and the protection of civil liberties. Please share and educate others. The owners and managers of this site do not necessarily agree with any of the information. It is an open forum and anyone that register can post whatever they like. Mails sent by members and non-members are subject to approval. However, we are not responsible in any way for the contents of mails / opinion sent by members. We do not guarantee that the information will be completely accurate. If you find content on this site which you feel is inappropriate or inaccurate, incomplete, or useless you are most welcome to report it or contradict it.
Regards,
Group Manager

Media Tribe> Informations on Plastic Bottles

Did you ever drink from a plastic bottle and see a triangle symbol on the bottom with a number inside?     Do you know what the number stands for?  Did you guess that it's just for recycling?      Then you are WRONG !!!!!!  THE NUMBER TELLS YOU  THE CHEMICAL MAKE UP OF THE PLASTIC.....  1)    Polyethylene terephalate (PET)  2)    High density polyethylene (HDPE)  3)    Unplasticised polyvinyl chloride (UPVC) or Plasticised polyvinyl chloride (PPVC)  4)    Low density polyethylene LDPE  5)    Polypropylene (PP)  6)    Polystyrene (PS) or Expandable polystyrene (EPS)  7)    Other, including nylon and acrylic  What you aren't told is that many of the plastics used are toxic and the chemicals used to create a plastic can leach out of the plastic and into the food / drink.  Think about it, how many times have you or a friend said "I don't like this, it taste like the plastic bottle ..... "  THAT'S BECAUSE YOU ARE TASTING THE PLASTIC  The WORST ONES are Nos: 3, 6, and 7 !!!  DO NOT USE THESE NUMBERS if stated at the bottom of the bottle) !!!     Check out this chart that breaks down the plastic, its uses and chemical makeup  (I find #7 a little scary)  http://www.epd. gov.hk/epd/ english/environm entinhk/waste/ guide_ref/ guide_plascod3. html        SEE SOME WEBSITE FOR BELOW....... .. Reusing plastic bottles by refilling them is NOT a good idea.WATCH THIS VIDEO:  http://video. wnbc.com/ player/?id= 238518  Microwaving plastic containers affects the chemical make up of the plastic, allowing the chemical substances to destabilize and leach out more quickly into the food you are reheating. You can check out this article that ran in the Wall Street Journal:  http://www.mindfull y.org/Plastic/ Microwave- Health-Problems. htm     EVEN one of my favorite "RUMOR DEBUNKING" websites,URBANLEGENDS. ABOUT.COM     Lists the information as: overblown with a grain of TRUTH  READ the FULL 3 pages of the article!  http://urbanlegends .about.com/ library/bl- microwave- dioxin.htm     AVOID re-using plastic bottles RIGHT AWAY !!!

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Dear All,
It's a common platform for journalists and all others who are interested in knowing about the issues that are sometimes not reported. This group favours philosophy of progress, reform and the protection of civil liberties. Please share and educate others. The owners and managers of this site do not necessarily agree with any of the information. It is an open forum and anyone that register can post whatever they like. Mails sent by members and non-members are subject to approval. However, we are not responsible in any way for the contents of mails / opinion sent by members. We do not guarantee that the information will be completely accurate. If you find content on this site which you feel is inappropriate or inaccurate, incomplete, or useless you are most welcome to report it or contradict it.
Regards,
Group Manager