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  • Details emerge on price, diamond of Taylor Swift’s engagement ring

    Details emerge on price, diamond of Taylor Swift’s engagement ring

    Reports about Taylor Swift’s engagement ring began making rounds on social media soon after the singer announced that she was engaged to Travis Kelce on Tuesday.

    The couple took fans by surprise after confirming their engagement in a joint Instagram post.

    They shared a carousel of photos, showing the moment Travis Kelce proposed to the singer-songwriter in a rose garden.

    “Your English teacher and your gym teacher are getting married,” the caption of the Instagram post read.

    One of the photos included a close up shot of a diamond wedding ring on Taylor Swift’s finger.

    Jewelry experts have now suggested that the ring would cost the NFL star around $550,000.

    According to experts, the engagement ring weighs around eight karats, while the stone is set in Victorian-style gold mounting.

    Read more: Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce announce engagement

    As per the experts, the Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift went for antique and vintage styles, which have seen a surge in their popularity in recent years.

    Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift made their first public outing in October 2023.

    The singer-songwriter recently announced her new album, ‘The Life of a Showgirl,’ on Kelce and his brother Jason’s ‘New Heights’ podcast earlier this month.

    In an interview earlier this month, the NFL star opened up about the events leading to their meeting and how they fell in love.

    “We are two fun-loving people who have the morals to appreciate everyone for who they are. We share all those values. It kind of just took the f— off,” he said.

  • Impressive measures against counterfeit medicines are inevitable: Mustafa Kamal

    Impressive measures against counterfeit medicines are inevitable: Mustafa Kamal

    Islamabad: Federal Minister for health Syed Mustafa Kamal has said that the impressive measures against counterfeit medicines are inevitable while the counterfeit medicines also discredit credibility of the pharma industry.

    A delegation of Pakistan Pharma Manufacturing Association called on the Health Minister while Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP)and other senior officers were also in attendance.

    The meeting reviewed in detail on progress on implementation of 2D bar code for eradication of the counterfeit medicines.

    Besides that the huddle also considered a strategy for production of vaccines locally. While Mustafa Kamal said that the government is determined for preparation of vaccines locally.

    The Minister urged the DRAP and Pharma Industry to form coordinated roadmap for production of vaccines locally, so that Pakistan could become self reliant in this vital field and dependence on outer world be lowered down.

    He added that with the production of vaccines locally it will strengthen the health system and will save precious foreign exchange.

    He also emphasised on the pharma industry and and DRAP to ensure taking all necessary measures to uptick export.

    The delegation lauded the recent reforms in the DRAP conducted under his supervision and said that digitisation of medical devices has brought ease to the business community.

    Read More: KP floods: Health department confirms 335 deaths, 356 injuries

    On the other hand, secretary board of investment capt (retd)Muhammad Mahmood, also called on the health Minister.

    Investment opportunities in the health field, public-private partnership, measures regarding providing facilities to local and foreign investors were discussed in the meeting.

  • High flood in Chenab, Ravi, Sutlej expected  in 48 hours

    High flood in Chenab, Ravi, Sutlej expected in 48 hours

    Lahore: Water level in rivers of Punjab are continuously rising, stated by Director General (DG) Provincial Disaster Management Authority Punjab Irfan Ali Kathia on Tuesday.

    The DG said water level in Chenab, Ravi, and Sutlej Rivers are increasing while hill torrents and streams are also in flood.

    He warned of high level of flood in these rivers during the next 48 hours.

    He further said there is also a risk of flash flooding in hill torrents of Dera Ghazi Khan.

    Meanwhile, the provincial government has established flood relief camps in areas equipped with all basic facilities, said Relief Commissioner Punjab Nabeel Javed.

    Earlier, people of several districts of Punjab and Azad Jammu and Kashmir have been warned of by the National Disaster Management Authority heavy downpours in upcoming 12 hours.

    The advisory follows a broader alert for potential urban flooding and waterlogging in low-lying areas.

    The rainfall is expected in the districts of Gujrat, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Narowal, Lahore, and Kasur.

    In addition, Jhelum, Chakwal, Mandi Bahauddin, Hafizabad, Nankana Sahib, Chiniot, and Pakpattan are also likely to experience heavy rains within the next 12 to 24 hours.

    The rains may cause flooding in urban and low-lying areas, while water levels in local streams and nullahs may rise significantly.

    Intermittent downpour is also expected across AJK in the coming 12 to 24 hours.

    This increases the risk of flash floods in streams and landslides in hilly areas of Neelum Valley, Bagh, Kotli, Rawalakot, Muzaffarabad, and Haveli. The NDMA has warned that strong water flow in mountain streams could also disrupt traffic on connecting roads.

    The NDMA had already issued an alert regarding rising water levels and potential flooding in the River Sutlej.

    Authorities have launched large-scale evacuation operations in areas near the Sutlej. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab, Rescue 1122, and Pakistan Army engineers are actively engaged in relief operations to manage the situation, the authority said in a handout.

    Read More: India releases more water into Sutlej River, flood alert issued

    Authorities have cautioned against possible overflow of streams and flooding in vulnerable zones, particularly in hilly regions where landslides and flash floods remain a risk.

    Citizens are advised to avoid unnecessary travel, stay clear of rivers and streams, and follow official instructions issued via television, radio, mobile alerts, and the NDMA Disaster Alert app.

     

  • PTI founder directs party lawmakers to quit parliamentary committees

    PTI founder directs party lawmakers to quit parliamentary committees

    Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan has directed party lawmakers to resign from all parliamentary committees, his sister, Aleema Khan, said on Tuesday.

    Speaking to the media outside Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail after meeting her brother, Khan said that the former prime minister directed PTI lawmakers to quit all standing committees of the National Assembly.

    Aleema Khan maintained that all of Imran Khan’s sisters got to meet him in jail after four months.

    About Imran Khan, she said that the PTI founder was in good health, however, he was feeling a bit of pressure on his eye.

    Read more: Details of FIRs against Aleema Khan’s sons Shahrez, Shershah revealed

    According to Aleema Khan, the PTI founder also inquired about the arrest of her sons, Shershah Khan and Shahrez Khan, who have been arrested over their alleged involvement in the attacks on Jinnah House and other incidents of arson and vandalism on May 9, 2023.

    Her meeting came soon after PTI Secretary General Salman Akram Raja tendered his resignation to the party founder over alleged disagreement with Aleema Khan.

    However, after meeting Khan inside Adiala Jail, Raja said that the former prime minister refused to accept his resignation.

    Speaking to the media, the PTI secretary general revealed that a decision will be made about participation in the by-elections in the political committee’s meeting later today.

  • Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce announce engagement

    Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce announce engagement

    American pop star Taylor Swift and NFL star Travis Kelce announced their engagement on Tuesday, two years after they started dating.

    The couple made the announcement on Instagram with a carousel of photos, showing the moment Travis Kelce proposed to the singer-songwriter in a rose garden.

    One of the photos showed Taylor Swift wearing a diamond wedding ring.

    “Your English teacher and your gym teacher are getting married,” the caption of the Instagram post read.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Taylor Swift (@taylorswift)

    Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift made their first public outing in October 2023.

    Read more: What did Taylor Swift ask Travis Kelce on their first date?

    The singer-songwriter recently announced her new album, ‘The Life of a Showgirl,’ on Kelce and his brother Jason’s ‘New Heights’ podcast earlier this month.

    In an interview earlier this month, the NFL star opened up about the events leading to their meeting and how they fell in love.

    “Nothing I’ve ever done has been a controlled, organised process. When I say it was so organic, we fell in love just based off the people we were sitting in a room together with,” Travis Kelce said.

    He continued, “We are two fun-loving people who have the morals to appreciate everyone for who they are. We share all those values. It kind of just took the f— off.”

  • Lil Nas X shares first post after brief time in jail

    Lil Nas X shares first post after brief time in jail

    Grammy-winning rapper Montero Lamar Hill, aka Lil Nas X, shared his first post on Tuesday after getting bailed out of jail.

    The 26-year-old was arrested on four felony charges last week after he was caught roaming through Ventura Boulevard in Studio City, seemingly intoxicated.

    Initially, Lil Nas X was hospitalised for a possible drug overdose, however, he was later arrested for battery on a police officer.

    US authorities later charged him with three counts of battery with injury on a police officer, along with resisting an executive officer.

    He was then transferred to Valley Jail in Van Nuys, where he remained through the weekend.

    The rapper secured bail in the case a day earlier after pleading not guilty to any of the charges brought against him.

    According to US media outlets, the 26-year-old’s bail was set at $75,000.

    Read more: Lil Nas X released from jail after pleading not guilty to felonies

    During his arraignment, the rapper’s team argued that he had no prior criminal history or a history of violence.

    Approving his bail, the court ordered the American rapper to enroll in a drug treatment programme.

    Lil Nas X has now called the experience ‘terrifying,’ while assuring his fans that he will be fine.

    “Your girl is gonna be ok, ya’ll. She’s going to be alright. Shit, that was f–king terrifying. That was terrifying. That was a terrifying last four days, but your girl is going to be alright,” he wrote on Instagram Stories on Tuesday.

     

  • PM Launches New Energy Vehicle Policy 2025-30

    PM Launches New Energy Vehicle Policy 2025-30

    Islamabad, August 26, 2025 — Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif unveiled Pakistan’s New Energy Vehicle (NEV) Policy 2025-30 on Tuesday, heralding it as a transformative step toward clean transport, climate resilience, industrial innovation, and youth empowerment. The landmark policy aims to reduce emissions, promote sustainable technology, and position Pakistan as a leader in electric mobility.

    Latest Pakistan News

    Speaking at the launch ceremony, the Prime Minister described the policy as a national commitment to combating climate change while fostering economic and social progress. “Pakistan is among the most climate-vulnerable nations, despite minimal contributions to global emissions,” he said, referencing the devastating 2022 floods and the loss of over 700 lives to extreme weather in 2025. He called for international technical and financial support to bolster Pakistan’s efforts.

    The NEV Policy, crafted under the leadership of Minister for Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan and Federal Minister Rana Tanvir Hussain, was lauded as a “comprehensive and forward-looking framework.” The Prime Minister acknowledged the contributions of federal and provincial institutions, as well as technical support from the British government and the UK High Commissioner.

    Empowering Youth and Promoting Sustainability

    As part of the launch, Prime Minister Shehbaz distributed e-scooters to top-performing students from across Pakistan, including Balochistan, Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Islamabad Capital Territory. The merit-based initiative, which included a 10% additional quota for Balochistan students, recognized academic excellence in disciplines like General Science and Medical at the intermediate level.

    The Prime Minister also announced plans to distribute 100,000 laptops to high-achieving students and proposed increasing the program’s budget from Rs9 billion to Rs90 billion in the next fiscal year. “This policy is about empowering our youth, reducing our carbon footprint, and opening doors to innovation and opportunity,” he emphasized.

    A Blueprint for a Clean Transport Revolution

    Minister Haroon Akhtar Khan described the NEV Policy as a “blueprint for Pakistan’s clean transport revolution.” He highlighted its role in reducing the country’s reliance on costly fuel imports, which drain billions annually, and addressing urban air pollution, which incurs over Rs105 billion in healthcare and productivity losses.

    The policy prioritizes electric mobility, with a focus on battery production, charging infrastructure, and advanced parts manufacturing. Akhtar noted that Pakistan’s surplus electricity capacity of 125 terawatt hours can be harnessed to make electric vehicles, particularly e-bikes, a cost-effective alternative, costing one-third per kilometer compared to petrol-powered vehicles. Incentives such as financing support, toll exemptions, and free registration aim to make electric transport accessible to households, delivery riders, and businesses.

    A Vision of Continuity and Inclusion

    Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanvir Hussain, who initiated the policy during his tenure as Minister for Industries, praised its realization under Prime Minister Shehbaz’s leadership. “This is a powerful example of governance continuity, where national interests endure beyond changes in government,” he said. He commended the integration of the policy launch with youth-focused initiatives like e-bike distribution, calling it a step toward inclusion and innovation.

    The NEV Policy 2025-30 positions Pakistan at the forefront of sustainable development, blending environmental responsibility with economic and social progress. With its focus on clean energy, industrial transformation, and youth empowerment, the policy sets a bold vision for a greener, more inclusive future.

  • UAE Dirham to Pakistani Rupee Rate Today, August 26, 2025

    UAE Dirham to Pakistani Rupee Rate Today, August 26, 2025

    Dubai, August 26, 2025 – The UAE Dirham (AED) has slipped to 76.75 Pakistani Rupee (PKR) today, down by 0.02 PKR from yesterday’s rate of 76.77 PKR, as verified by trusted financial sources tracking interbank and open market rates.

    AED to PKR- Daily Updates

    This minor decline follows a strong June, when the AED gained 0.81 PKR, rising from 76.44 PKR at the month’s start to 77.25 PKR by its close, peaking at 77.6111 PKR on July 1, 2025. The Dirham’s resilience, despite this small drop, highlights the United Arab Emirates’ forward-thinking economic policies and its pivotal role as a global financial powerhouse. This movement in the AED-PKR exchange rate carries significant implications for trade, remittances, and economic strategies between the UAE and Pakistan in 2025.

    The UAE Dirham, established as the UAE’s official currency in 1973, is pegged to the US Dollar at a fixed rate of 3.6725 AED to 1 USD, managed by the Central Bank of the UAE. This fixed peg ensures the AED’s reliability, making it a trusted currency for global commerce and investment across the UAE’s seven emirates, from Dubai’s bustling markets to Abu Dhabi’s cultural landmarks. In contrast, the Pakistani Rupee, Pakistan’s currency since 1948, operates as a floating currency under the State Bank of Pakistan’s oversight, making it vulnerable to fluctuations driven by domestic economic conditions, global market trends, and geopolitical events, which often challenge Pakistan’s financial stability.

    Today’s AED-PKR exchange rate of 76.75 PKR strengthens the economic bond between the UAE and Pakistan, presenting both opportunities and challenges. For the millions of Pakistani expatriates working in the UAE, the still-robust Dirham continues to boost remittance values, which reached $717.2 million in June 2025, per State Bank of Pakistan data, cementing the UAE as Pakistan’s second-largest remittance source after Saudi Arabia. These funds are a lifeline, supporting essentials like education and healthcare while driving economic activity in regions such as Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. However, the elevated exchange rate keeps import costs high for UAE goods, from luxury electronics to everyday commodities like food and clothing, putting pressure on Pakistani businesses and consumers facing inflation. The AED’s tie to the US Dollar may further strain Pakistan’s trade deficit and increase costs for servicing debts in USD or AED. Economists recommend Pakistan focus on boosting export growth, diversifying trade partnerships, and implementing policies to stabilize the PKR to address these challenges.

    The UAE’s economic vitality continues to fuel the Dirham’s strength. The nation has strategically shifted from oil dependency to a diversified economy, investing heavily in technology, renewable energy, and thriving tourism and trade sectors. Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi have become global hubs, attracting significant foreign investment, as evidenced by World Bank reports. The Central Bank of the UAE’s meticulous oversight ensures the Dirham’s dependability, reinforcing its status as a trusted currency for international transactions. This economic resilience supports the AED’s steady performance, even amidst today’s slight dip, making it a cornerstone of the UAE’s financial influence.

    This news story leverages verified financial data from reputable sources and expert economic analysis to provide clear, reader-focused insights on the AED-PKR exchange rate. Tailored for SEO, it targets trending search terms like “AED to PKR exchange rate 2025,” “UAE Dirham today,” and “Pakistan currency trends,” ensuring visibility for readers seeking reliable updates on currency movements and their economic impacts. The Dirham’s slight decline to 76.75 PKR today reflects a minor adjustment in the UAE’s strong economic landscape, while Pakistan continues to navigate trade and debt challenges, making this a key topic for businesses, expatriates, and policymakers in 2025.

  • Punjab, AJK warned of heavy downpours in coming 12 hours

    Punjab, AJK warned of heavy downpours in coming 12 hours

    Lahore/Muzaffarabad: People of several districts of Punjab and Azad Jammu and Kashmir have been warned of by the National Disaster Management Authority heavy downpours in upcoming 12 hours.

    The advisory follows a broader alert for potential urban flooding and waterlogging in low-lying areas.

    The rainfall is expected in the districts of Gujrat, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Narowal, Lahore, and Kasur.

    In addition, Jhelum, Chakwal, Mandi Bahauddin, Hafizabad, Nankana Sahib, Chiniot, and Pakpattan are also likely to experience heavy rains within the next 12 to 24 hours.

    The rains may cause flooding in urban and low-lying areas, while water levels in local streams and nullahs may rise significantly.

    Intermittent downpour is also expected across AJK in the coming 12 to 24 hours.

    This increases the risk of flash floods in streams and landslides in hilly areas of Neelum Valley, Bagh, Kotli, Rawalakot, Muzaffarabad, and Haveli. The NDMA has warned that strong water flow in mountain streams could also disrupt traffic on connecting roads.

    The NDMA had already issued an alert regarding rising water levels and potential flooding in the River Sutlej.

    Authorities have launched large-scale evacuation operations in areas near the Sutlej. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab, Rescue 1122, and Pakistan Army engineers are actively engaged in relief operations to manage the situation, the authority said in a handout.

    Read More: India releases more water into Sutlej River, flood alert issued

    Authorities have cautioned against possible overflow of streams and flooding in vulnerable zones, particularly in hilly regions where landslides and flash floods remain a risk.

    Citizens are advised to avoid unnecessary travel, stay clear of rivers and streams, and follow official instructions issued via television, radio, mobile alerts, and the NDMA Disaster Alert app.

     

  • Saudi Riyal to Pakistani Rupee Rate Today- August 26, 2025

    Saudi Riyal to Pakistani Rupee Rate Today- August 26, 2025

    KARACHI, August 26, 2025: The Saudi Riyal (SAR) dipped to Rs75.12 against the Pakistani Rupee (PKR) in today’s open market, down slightly from Rs75.13 on August 25 and significantly lower than Rs76.03 on July 28, currency traders reported. The selling rate adjusted to Rs75.69. This marginal decline, driven by market adjustments and sustained remittance inflows, underscores the Saudi Riyal’s vital role in Pakistan’s financial landscape.

    SAR to PKR- Daily Updates

    Economic Effects of the Riyal’s Decline

    The Saudi Riyal’s decrease to Rs75.12 has both immediate and broader impacts. For Pakistani families, the Riyal’s still-dependable value supports remittance purchasing power, with 1,000 Saudi Riyals converting to Rs75,120, down from Rs75,130 yesterday, slightly reducing funds for essentials like education, healthcare, and daily necessities amid rising costs. Companies importing goods, such as oil and petrochemicals from Saudi Arabia, benefit from the Riyal’s dollar-linked stability, and this decline eases import costs, offering relief to Pakistan’s trade balance. On a broader scale, the Riyal’s performance continues to strengthen Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves, which exceeded $11 billion in October 2024, helping manage inflation and external debt. A weaker Rupee boosts export potential, and this adjustment supports Pakistan’s economic resilience.

    Significance of the Saudi Riyal for Pakistan

    The Saudi Riyal is a critical economic pillar for Pakistan, fueled by deep ties with Saudi Arabia, where millions of Pakistani workers contribute to industries like construction, medical services, and hospitality. In May 2025, Saudi Arabia accounted for $913.3 million of Pakistan’s remittance inflows, the largest share, according to the State Bank of Pakistan. From July 2024 to May 2025, total remittances reached $34.9 billion, a 28.8% increase from the previous fiscal year. The Riyal’s reliable value continues to drive economic activity and support households across Pakistan.

    Overview of the Saudi Riyal and Pakistani Rupee

    The Saudi Riyal, divided into 100 halala, is Saudi Arabia’s currency, overseen by the Saudi Central Bank and pegged to the US dollar for consistency. This reliability makes it a trusted medium for remittances and trade, particularly for Pakistanis in the Kingdom. The Pakistani Rupee, denoted by ₨, has been Pakistan’s currency since 1948, managed by the State Bank of Pakistan under a flexible exchange rate system. Its value is shaped by inflation, trade flows, and remittance inflows, with the Riyal-PKR rate reflecting market forces.

    Future Prospects for the Riyal-PKR Exchange Rate

    The Saudi Riyal’s slight decline to Rs75.12 reflects ongoing market adjustments, supported by remittances and trade with Saudi Arabia. Currency traders and economic planners should stay attentive, as even small fluctuations can impact remittances, import costs, and fiscal strategies. For countless Pakistanis, the Riyal’s steady value remains a cornerstone of financial security and economic resilience.

    Sources: State Bank of Pakistan, Forex Association of Pakistan