Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) and Ufone launched a nationwide maternal mental health initiative on Mother’s Day 2026. The programme offers free psychiatric consultations to mothers across Pakistan through the UPTCL app. The campaign, titled #MoreSupportForMothers, marks the first large-scale mental health initiative by Pakistan’s telecom industry focused on maternal care. For this initiative, the companies partnered with Oladoc, one of Pakistan’s leading digital healthcare platforms. As a result, mothers can now connect with certified psychiatrists at no cost. According to the announcement, mothers can access consultations through the UPTCL app on Android and iOS devices. Moreover, the service requires no referrals or prior diagnosis. Officials said the initiative aims to address Pakistan’s growing maternal mental health crisis through digital connectivity and easier access to care. “Today, there is somewhere to turn. A real resource. A real professional. A real conversation,” the statement said. Meanwhile, the companies also released a digital video campaign highlighting the emotional struggles many mothers face after childbirth. Pakistan faces severe mental health gap According to figures shared by PTCL and Ufone, postpartum depression affects nearly 40% of Pakistani mothers. Health experts say the rate is among the highest in Asia and well above the global average. At the same time, Pakistan faces a shortage of mental health professionals. The country has only 0.19 psychiatrists per 100,000 people. Meanwhile, mental health spending accounts for just 0.4% of total healthcare expenditure. The companies stated that nine out of ten Pakistanis who need mental health support receive no professional care. Women in rural districts and smaller cities face even greater challenges. In many cases, mobility restrictions, limited healthcare facilities and social stigma stop mothers from seeking help. “Mental health in Pakistan has long been underfunded, understaffed, and overlaid with stigma,” the statement said. Through this initiative, PTCL and Ufone aim to extend healthcare access beyond major cities such as Karachi and Lahore. Connectivity transformed into care PTCL and Ufone said the programme reflects their long relationship with Pakistani families and communities. The telecom operators stated that their networks carried “the calls that has crossed distances, the messages that kept people close, and the connections that made the country feel smaller.” Company officials described the initiative as an effort to turn connectivity into practical healthcare support for mothers. In addition, the partnership with Oladoc gives users access to verified psychiatrists through a nationwide digital platform. Healthcare experts say online consultation services can reduce barriers to mental healthcare in Pakistan. Therefore, the initiative could particularly benefit women who cannot easily access in-person treatment. PTCL and Ufone acknowledged that the programme alone would not solve Pakistan’s wider mental health challenges. However, they stressed that immediate support for struggling mothers remains urgent and achievable. Furthermore, analysts believe the campaign could encourage more companies to invest in mental health awareness and digital healthcare services across Pakistan.
Pakistan Plans EV Battery Policy as Chinese Investors Eye Market
Haroon Akhtar Khan held separate meetings with leading Chinese and Pakistani companies to attract investment into Pakistan’s electric vehicle sector, according to the Ministry of Industries and Production. The discussions focused on industrial collaboration, technology transfer and joint ventures. Officials also discussed plans to strengthen Pakistan’s manufacturing sector through modern EV technologies. Khan said the government wanted to move beyond announcements and ensure practical implementation of agreements. Read More: Suzuki Fronx Price Revealed: Offers Hybrid Power At A Surprising Price “Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s vision is to transform memorandums of understanding and agreements into practical implementation,” Khan said. He added that authorities were working “day and night” to ensure effective follow-up and execution of investment plans. Meanwhile, Chinese investors showed strong interest in Pakistan’s electric vehicle industry. Their focus included EV assembly, battery manufacturing and advanced energy storage systems. Pakistan has recently increased efforts to attract foreign investment into industrial and technology sectors. The government aims to reduce import dependence and create employment opportunities through local production. Industry experts say Pakistan’s growing population and rising fuel costs have increased interest in electric mobility solutions. EV battery policy in final stages Khan said the government was finalising a dedicated EV Battery Policy to support investors and manufacturers. The proposed policy aims to encourage local production of lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries. These batteries are widely used in electric vehicles, renewable energy storage and consumer electronics. Read More: Pakistan’s Electric Revolution Gains Momentum as Bold Shift Targets Fuel Import Reduction Currently, Pakistan imports most EV components and battery technologies. As a result, production costs remain high and local industrial growth stays limited. Officials believe domestic manufacturing can lower import dependence and strengthen Pakistan’s industrial base. In addition, Khan assured stakeholders that the government would ensure proper follow-up on memorandums of understanding and joint ventures. He also stressed Islamabad’s commitment to maintaining a business-friendly environment for international investors. “Chinese investment in Pakistan would generate significant economic benefits, strengthen local manufacturing and create new employment opportunities,” he said. Pakistan and China have expanded economic cooperation under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor in recent years. The partnership already includes projects in infrastructure, energy and industry. Focus shifts to advanced battery technology Khan said practical steps were underway to promote advanced battery technologies and support Pakistan’s EV industry. The government plans to introduce modern lithium-ion and sodium-ion battery systems for industrial and consumer use across the country. Globally, demand for EV batteries has surged as governments push for cleaner transportation systems. China currently dominates global EV battery production and supply chains. Read More: ‘Fuel Chhoro, Electric Chalao’: Revoo Announces Major Discounts Therefore, analysts believe Chinese investment could help Pakistan gain access to modern manufacturing expertise and advanced battery technology. Experts also say the partnership could create training opportunities for Pakistani engineers and industrial workers. Khan said industrial cooperation between Pakistan and China was entering “a new era of economic partnership,” driven by technology-focused investment and long-term collaboration.
Pakistan Wants One Million AI-Skilled Workers by 2030
Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication plans to launch 20,000 online artificial intelligence training programmes across Pakistan under a major national initiative aimed at preparing the workforce for the rapidly evolving digital economy. The courses, spanning six to 12 months, will target fresh graduates, government officials, teachers, freelancers and professionals from multiple sectors through an advanced learning management system. The programmes will operate under the National AI Advancement Initiative, a strategic intervention designed to position Pakistan as a competitive player in the global AI market. Read More: How To Use AI Without Losing Your Thinking Power Officials say the initiative seeks to improve workforce capabilities, encourage innovation in the public and private sectors and strengthen AI governance in key industries including healthcare, agriculture, education and manufacturing. Under the programme, specialised certifications will cover high-demand fields such as machine learning, deep learning and AI ethics. Separate AI literacy programmes will also train civil servants and corporate leaders to support informed policymaking and technology adoption. The ministry has invited training and capacity-building companies through a request for proposal process to develop an advanced learning management system capable of offering multiple AI courses aligned with domestic and international market needs. Pakistan’s IT sector has emerged as one of the country’s fastest-growing export industries in recent years, driven by software services, freelancing and overseas demand for digital solutions. Government officials believe artificial intelligence could significantly accelerate that growth. Experts see opportunity in AI transition Software and AI expert Asim Tausif Khan described artificial intelligence as a “golden opportunity” for Pakistan to improve its global IT standing. “Pakistan’s share in the global IT sector currently stands at less than 1%. However, with the rapid transformation driven by AI and related technologies, the country has the potential to secure a significant global position through trained human resources and upgraded infrastructure,” he said. Khan stressed that Pakistan must rapidly upskill students and professionals, especially those with mathematics and science backgrounds, to meet growing international demand for AI expertise. Read More: Meet The Robot Hand That Acts Like A Human Brain In Real Time He said the Gulf Cooperation Council region could become a major destination for Pakistani AI talent if the country develops skilled human resources at scale. Pakistan’s National AI Policy 2025 aims to upskill one million people by 2030. The policy also targets the creation of 10,000 AI trainers, 20,000 internships annually and 3,000 advanced research scholarships every year. Dr Noman Said, an IT exporter and AI coach, said artificial intelligence has become essential for professionals seeking long-term relevance in global markets. “The adoption of AI is no longer a choice but a necessity to remain relevant, productive and part of a high-demand global workforce,” he said. He urged authorities to introduce AI concepts at the secondary school level to accelerate the development of a future-ready workforce. “Going forward, a tech-savvy and highly skilled nation will make a significant difference across every sector of life, ranging from IT and e-commerce to healthcare and agriculture, safe cities to strong defence,” he remarked. Freelancers warned to adapt Industry experts warn that emerging AI technologies could replace millions of jobs globally each year, increasing pressure on workers to adapt to changing market demands. Ibrahim Amin, chairman of the Pakistan Freelancers Association, said many freelancers risk losing work opportunities unless they upgrade their skills and learn AI tools. Read More: Pakistani Founder’s AI Startup Lands $60 Billion SpaceX Deal He noted that artificial intelligence also offers new opportunities for professionals willing to relearn modern digital skills and invest in training. Amin welcomed the government’s efforts to improve workforce capabilities through large-scale online training initiatives. Analysts say Pakistan’s youthful population could become a major advantage if the country successfully implements its AI strategy and creates sustainable pathways for digital employment and innovation.
The Powerful History of Mother’s Day and Why It Still Matters Today
Every year, millions of people across the world pause for a moment to celebrate the women who shaped their lives with love, sacrifice and quiet resilience. Mother’s Day, now observed in more than 40 countries, has evolved into one of the world’s most emotional and widely embraced occasions. Families mark the day with flowers, gifts, handwritten notes and gatherings, while social media fills with tributes to mothers and maternal figures. Yet the modern celebration began with a deeply personal story in the United States more than a century ago. The modern version of Mother’s Day traces its roots to Anna Jarvis, an American activist who wanted to honor her late mother, Ann Jarvis. Ann Jarvis had spent years caring for wounded soldiers during the American Civil War and organizing “Mother’s Work Days” to improve public health conditions for women and children. After her mother died in 1905, Anna Jarvis launched a campaign to establish a national day dedicated to mothers. The first official Mother’s Day service took place on May 10, 1908, at Andrews Methodist Episcopal Church in Grafton, West Virginia. Anna Jarvis sent 500 white carnations to honor her mother’s memory. She believed mothers deserved recognition because, in her words, “a mother is the person who has done more for you than anyone in the world.” In 1914, then US President Woodrow Wilson officially declared the second Sunday of May as Mother’s Day in the United States. The occasion later spread across Europe, Asia, Latin America and beyond. From Churches to Social Media Historians say celebrations honoring mothers existed long before the modern holiday. Ancient Greeks and Romans held festivals for mother goddesses, while Britain observed “Mothering Sunday” during Lent centuries ago. Over time, Mother’s Day transformed into a global tradition shaped by local cultures and customs. In the United States, Canada and many Asian countries, people usually celebrate with flowers, greeting cards and family meals. In parts of Europe, families attend church services and prepare traditional dishes for mothers. Today, Mother’s Day ranks among the world’s biggest retail and social occasions. Analysts say spending on flowers, chocolates, restaurants and gifts reaches billions of dollars annually. The day also records some of the highest phone and video call traffic worldwide as families reconnect across borders. Ironically, Anna Jarvis later opposed the commercialization of the holiday she created. She criticized companies for turning a heartfelt tribute into a profit-driven celebration. Jarvis once described Mother’s Day as becoming “a burdensome, wasteful, expensive gift-day.” A Growing Tradition in Pakistan In Pakistan, Mother’s Day gained wider popularity during the past two decades as television channels, schools, brands and digital platforms embraced the occasion. While respect for mothers has always held deep cultural and religious importance in Pakistani society, public celebrations of Mother’s Day became more visible with the rise of social media and global media trends. Schools organize special assemblies and tribute performances, while restaurants and brands launch campaigns centered on family bonding and appreciation for mothers. Pakistani celebrities, athletes and politicians also share personal messages and photos with their mothers every year. Religious scholars in Pakistan often note that Islam places extraordinary emphasis on the status of mothers. One of the most quoted sayings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) states that “Paradise lies under the feet of mothers.” That message continues to resonate strongly across the country. For many Pakistanis, Mother’s Day is no longer just a Western celebration. It has become a moment to acknowledge sacrifices often made quietly behind closed doors by mothers who spend decades caring for families without seeking recognition. In cities like Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad, florists, bakeries and gift shops now witness major increases in sales during the week leading up to Mother’s Day. At the same time, many families choose simpler gestures such as handwritten letters, home-cooked meals or spending time together. More than a commercial event, the day remains a reminder of unconditional love, patience and emotional strength. And despite changing trends and modern celebrations, the central message behind Mother’s Day remains unchanged: honoring the women who hold families together through every hardship and triumph.
Debutant Azan Awais Enters Record Books With Brilliant 103
Pakistan opener Azan Awais marked his arrival on the international stage with a composed century on Test debut against Bangladesh national cricket team on Sunday at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium. The 21-year-old resumed the third day unbeaten on 85 and completed his hundred in the 51st over of Pakistan’s innings with a single off fast bowler Nahid Rana. Azan’s innings immediately placed him among some of Pakistan cricket’s biggest names. He became only the 14th Pakistani batter to score a century on Test debut, joining players such as Javed Miandad, Younis Khan and Fawad Alam. The left-handed batter eventually fell for 103 after edging experienced pacer Taskin Ahmed, ending a patient knock that came off 165 deliveries and included 14 boundaries. Pakistan’s dressing room applauded the youngster as he walked back after delivering one of the most memorable innings by a debutant in recent years. Rare achievement in overseas conditions Azan also entered another exclusive list with his century in Dhaka. He became only the third Pakistani batter to score a Test hundred on debut in away conditions. Before him, only Umar Akmal and Fawad Alam achieved the feat. Umar scored 129 in Dunedin against New Zealand national cricket team in 2009, while Fawad struck 168 against Sri Lanka national cricket team in Colombo the same year. Pakistan’s first-ever Test debut centurion was Khalid Ibadulla, who scored 166 against Australia national cricket team in 1964. The country has since produced several memorable debut centuries, including Miandad’s 163 against New Zealand in 1976 and Yasir Hameed’s remarkable twin centuries against Bangladesh in 2003. Yasir remains the only Pakistani batter to score a century in both innings of his debut Test after making 170 and 105 in Multan. Azan’s century also continued Pakistan’s recent trend of successful debutants in red-ball cricket. Kamran Ghulam scored 114 against England cricket team in 2024, while Abid Ali made an unbeaten 109 against Sri Lanka in 2019. Pakistan eyes batting stability Pakistan’s team management has searched for consistency at the top of the order following several changes in recent seasons. Azan’s calm approach and ability to handle Bangladesh’s pace attack on a challenging Dhaka surface will likely strengthen his case for a permanent role in the side. The young batter built his innings carefully and showed discipline outside off stump while rotating strike effectively. His knock also helped Pakistan recover from early pressure in the first Test of the series. Cricket analysts in Pakistan praised the youngster’s temperament and shot selection, describing the innings as a major positive for the national team’s future Test plans. With his maiden Test appearance, Azan has already secured a place in Pakistan cricket history and offered fans hope of another long-term batting prospect. List of Pakistan batters to score Test century on debut: Khalid Ibadulla, Javed Miandad, Saleem Malik, Mohammad Wasim, Ali Naqvi, Azhar Mahmood, Younis Khan, Taufeeq Umar, Yasir Hameed, Fawad Alam, Umar Akmal, Abid Ali, Kamran Ghulam and Azan Awais.
Pakistan Plans Historic Yuan Bond Launch After IMF Lifeline
Pakistan is set to enter China’s capital markets for the first time through a yuan-denominated Panda bond next week, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb announced on Saturday, as Islamabad moves to strengthen foreign exchange reserves and reduce reliance on traditional external lenders. “God willing, next week you will hear good news that for the first time, we will be accessing Chinese capital markets through Panda bond,” Aurangzeb said while addressing a press conference alongside Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik. Read More: Pakistan Could Hit $50 Billion Remittances With Crypto Legalisation The planned $250 million issuance forms part of a wider $1 billion programme and will carry guarantees from the Asian Development Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. Officials believe the guarantees will improve investor confidence and reduce borrowing costs for Pakistan. A Panda bond refers to yuan-denominated debt issued by foreign governments or institutions in China’s domestic bond market. Analysts say Pakistan’s entry into the market signals deepening financial cooperation between Pakistan and China at a time when Islamabad faces mounting external financing requirements. Pakistan has relied heavily on friendly nations and multilateral institutions since the 2023 balance-of-payments crisis pushed the economy close to sovereign default. The country secured an IMF bailout package last year after implementing difficult fiscal reforms, increasing taxes and tightening subsidies. According to Reuters, Islamabad has also explored funding options in Gulf markets while seeking to diversify external borrowing sources beyond conventional dollar-based debt. IMF support and reserve pressures Aurangzeb’s remarks came days after the International Monetary Fund approved the release of about $1.32 billion under two ongoing lending programmes for Pakistan, providing temporary support to the country’s foreign exchange reserves. The finance minister said the government was also evaluating Eurobonds, commercial borrowing and support from allied countries to replace a $3.5 billion financing facility from the United Arab Emirates. Read More: No Impact Yet: Pakistan’s Remittances Hold Firm Amid Middle East War Pakistan is also expecting additional financial support from Saudi Arabia in the coming months as policymakers attempt to stabilise reserves and maintain import cover. The country remains vulnerable to external shocks because of its dependence on imported fuel and liquefied natural gas. Regional tensions linked to the Iran war and concerns around disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz have added pressure to global energy markets in recent months. Despite these challenges, Aurangzeb said several economic indicators pointed toward recovery. He said Pakistan’s large-scale manufacturing sector recorded 11% year-on-year growth in April, while cumulative growth during the first nine months of the current fiscal year stood at 6.5%. “The government expected the GDP growth rate to remain close to 4% during the current fiscal year, compared to 3.1% last year,” he said. Exports and remittances show momentum Aurangzeb also highlighted strong export and remittance figures, calling them evidence of growing confidence in Pakistan’s economy. “Exports have grown by 9% month-on-month and 14% year-on-year, driven by value-added textiles, IT and other sectors,” he said, adding that the growth remained broad-based across industries. Pakistan’s IT exports have remained one of the fastest-growing segments of the economy, supported by freelancing, software services and overseas demand for digital solutions. Read More: SBP Eases Forex Rules, Lets Freelancers Retain Up to $5,000 Monthly to Boost IT Exports The finance minister said workers’ remittances reached $3.5 billion in April after touching $3.8 billion during Ramazan in March. He described the sustained inflows as “a strong sign of confidence from overseas Pakistanis” despite uncertainty in the global economy. Aurangzeb added that inflows under the Roshan Digital Account surged to $320 million in April, marking the highest monthly figure since the programme’s launch. “This is an investment-led discussion. Overseas Pakistanis are investing in New Pakistan Certificates, real estate and the stock market,” he said. Economists say the success of the planned Panda bond issue could open another financing channel for Pakistan and strengthen investor sentiment at a time when the government seeks durable economic stability after years of crisis-driven borrowing.
