Pakistan observed the 149th birth anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah with nationwide ceremonies and heartfelt tributes to the founding father whose vision and leadership led to the creation of the country. Citizens from all walks of life paused to reflect on Jinnah’s enduring legacy, his unwavering commitment to justice, and his dream of a prosperous and inclusive Pakistan. Across the country, government institutions, educational centers, and civil society organizations marked the day with special events. Flags were flown at half-mast as a sign of respect, and programmes highlighting the life and contributions of Quaid-e-Azam were held throughout the morning. In Islamabad, senior officials and members of the diplomatic corps gathered to pay homage, laying floral wreaths at monuments dedicated to Jinnah’s memory. In Karachi, Jinnah’s final resting place at Mazar-e-Quaid saw a steady stream of visitors who came to offer prayers and express gratitude for his leadership. Many placed floral tributes and recited verses from the Quran, echoing sentiments of unity and national pride. Schools and universities shared messages of Jinnah’s principles, emphasizing the importance of values he famously championed like unity, faith, and discipline. President and political leaders addressed the nation, highlighting how Jinnah’s ideals remain relevant today. They called on citizens, especially the youth, to uphold the principles of democracy, tolerance, and rule of law. Religious leaders also urged people to follow Jinnah’s example of moral integrity and commitment to the welfare of all citizens, regardless of background. The anniversary came against a backdrop of contemporary challenges, but many commentators stressed that Jinnah’s vision for a just society provides guidance for Pakistan’s future. His emphasis on economic development, education, and equal opportunity resonates deeply with today’s aspirations for progress. Social media platforms buzzed with tributes and reflections, as people shared quotes and stories about the Quaid’s life, reinforcing his place in the national consciousness. In schools, students participated in essay competitions and special assemblies where they learned about Jinnah’s journey from a young lawyer to a formidable leader who united millions under the banner of Pakistan. These activities aimed to instill appreciation for the struggles that shaped the nation and to inspire the next generation to contribute positively to its development. As the day concluded, many Pakistanis acknowledged that while much has changed over nearly one and a half centuries, the ideals of Quaid-e-Azam remain a unifying force. His dream of a strong, peaceful, and prosperous Pakistan continues to inspire hope and collective effort toward a brighter future.
India’s Aviation Market Set for Expansion with Two New Airlines
India has moved to strengthen competition in its fast-growing aviation sector by granting initial approvals to two new airlines, a decision that comes amid renewed debate over market concentration and service reliability. The move is being seen as a step toward reducing dependence on a small number of dominant carriers and offering passengers more choices in the skies. The Ministry of Civil Aviation has issued no-objection certificates (NOCs) to Al Hind Air and FlyExpress, allowing both carriers to move ahead with regulatory formalities required to begin operations. Once they secure their Air Operator Certificates from aviation authorities, the airlines will be able to launch commercial flights. The approvals come weeks after widespread flight cancellations and delays by India’s largest airline brought travel plans to a halt for thousands of passengers. Those disruptions reignited concerns about the country’s aviation “duopoly,” with one carrier holding a dominant share of the domestic market and the Air India group emerging as the second major player. Industry experts argue that greater competition is essential for improving service quality, resilience, and pricing. Al Hind Air is expected to focus on regional connectivity, particularly in southern India, using turboprop aircraft suited for short-haul and underserved routes. The airline’s business model is aimed at connecting smaller cities and towns with major hubs, aligning with the government’s broader regional air connectivity goals. FlyExpress, meanwhile, is positioning itself as a new-age carrier that will add capacity on domestic routes. While its detailed route plans and fleet strategy are still being finalized, the airline has signaled its intent to enter a market that continues to see strong passenger growth year after year. The government has repeatedly stated that it wants to encourage new entrants to make the aviation sector more competitive and consumer-friendly. Officials believe that a broader mix of airlines will not only reduce pressure on existing carriers but also help absorb demand during peak travel seasons. India is currently one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets, driven by a rising middle class, expanding regional airports, and increased air travel affordability. Analysts say that while new airline launches take time and face financial and operational challenges, the latest approvals send a clear signal that policymakers want a more balanced and competitive aviation ecosystem. If successful, the entry of new airlines could translate into better connectivity, more reliable services, and greater choice for Indian travelers in the years ahead.
Popular Sweets Brand Launches New Karachi Outlet
KARACHI: One of Pakistan’s most trusted names in sweets and bakery, United King, has further strengthened its presence in Karachi with the inauguration of a new outlet in the city’s bustling Dhoraji area. The outlet was officially opened on Monday, December 22, 2025, marking another important step in the brand’s steady expansion across the country. The opening ceremony was held under the leadership of Shaikh Muhammad Tehseen, Chief Executive Officer of United King, whose vision and commitment have played a central role in the company’s growth. Speaking on the occasion, company representatives highlighted that the new outlet reflects United King’s mission to make its premium-quality products more accessible to customers in key urban neighborhoods. The Dhoraji branch features a modern and welcoming layout designed to enhance the customer experience. From traditional Pakistani sweets to a wide variety of cakes, pastries, biscuits, and baked items, the outlet offers the full range of United King’s signature products. While the ambiance reflects contemporary retail standards, the focus remains firmly on the taste, quality, and consistency that the brand has been known for over the decades. United King’s journey began several decades ago as a local sweets business and gradually evolved into one of Pakistan’s leading bakery and confectionery brands. Over the years, it has built a strong reputation for maintaining high standards of hygiene, using quality ingredients, and preserving authentic flavors. This reputation has helped United King earn the trust of generations of customers across Pakistan. Today, the brand operates numerous outlets in major cities including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Faisalabad. Beyond Pakistan, United King has also expanded its footprint internationally, serving South Asian communities in select global markets and strengthening its image as a recognizable Pakistani brand abroad. With the launch of the Dhoraji outlet, United King continues its strategy of expanding closer to residential and commercial hubs. Company officials say this approach not only improves convenience for customers but also reinforces the brand’s long-standing relationship with local communities. As United King continues to grow, it remains focused on blending tradition with innovation—bringing familiar flavors to new locations while maintaining the trust that has defined its success for decades.
Planning to Buy a Cultus? Here’s What the 2026 Models Will Cost You
Pak Suzuki Motor Company has officially unveiled the updated prices for the Suzuki Cultus 2026, confirming what many car buyers had been expecting — owning one of Pakistan’s most popular hatchbacks will now require a bigger budget. The revised price list applies to all three variants of the Cultus lineup: VXR, VXL, and AGS, each catering to a different segment of urban drivers. Despite growing competition and a challenging auto market, the Cultus continues to hold its place as a go-to option for families and daily commuters, largely due to its fuel efficiency, compact size, and strong resale value. The Suzuki Cultus VXR, the base manual variant, is now priced at Rs 4,089,490. This model remains aimed at buyers looking for a practical city car without unnecessary frills. It comes equipped with a 998cc petrol engine, manual transmission, air conditioning, power steering, power windows, and keyless entry – features that make it suitable for everyday urban use. Moving up the range, the Cultus VXL has been priced at Rs 4,359,160. This mid-tier option adds a layer of comfort and safety, offering alloy wheels and Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), making it an appealing choice for drivers who want a balance between affordability and added features. At the top of the lineup is the Suzuki Cultus AGS, carrying a price tag of Rs 4,591,460. Designed for drivers who prefer convenience, the AGS variant features an Auto Gear Shift transmission, eliminating the need for a clutch while driving in congested city traffic. Along with automatic transmission, it also includes ABS, fog lamps, alloy wheels, and the same fuel-efficient 998cc engine. It is important for buyers to note that these prices are ex-factory and do not include freight charges, registration costs, or withholding tax, which can vary depending on filer status and city of purchase. As a result, the final on-road price may be noticeably higher. Despite rising prices across Pakistan’s auto sector, the Suzuki Cultus continues to attract interest due to its reliability, low maintenance costs, and widespread service network. For many buyers, it remains a familiar and trusted option in an increasingly expensive small-car market.
Arif Habib Consortium Wins Bid for PIA Privatisation After Intense Competition
After a closely contested bidding process, the Arif Habib Consortium has emerged as the successful bidder for the privatisation of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). According to official details, the bidding process for PIA’s privatisation has been completed, with the Arif Habib Consortium acquiring 75 percent shares of the national airline for Rs135 billion. The Lucky Cement Consortium submitted the second-highest and final bid of Rs134 billion, while Airblue offered Rs26.5 billion. The Arif Habib Consortium includes Arif Habib Limited, Fatima Fertilizer, The City School, and Lake City Holdings. Privatisation Policy and Government Stance Chairman of the Privatisation Commission Muhammad Ali stated that the privatisation of PIA is a key component of the government’s economic policy. Speaking to the media, he said the bidding process would open new avenues for investment in the aviation sector. He added that bidders were informed of the privatisation framework in April. Of the four bidders, two expressed interest in purchasing 100 percent shares, while two opted for 75 percent ownership. Ultimately, the government proceeded with the sale of 75 percent shares. Muhammad Ali further noted that 92.5 percent of the proceeds from the sale will be reinvested into PIA, while the remaining 7.5 percent will be transferred to the government. He emphasized that the objective is not merely to sell the airline, but to put it back on a sustainable and self-reliant footing. Future Share Sale and Payment Structure The government has also decided to sell the remaining 25 percent shares within 90 days, while two-thirds of the payment will be received upfront. Earlier in April, the cabinet had approved the sale of 51 to 100 percent shares as part of the broader privatisation plan. Investor Obligations and Asset Transfer According to privatisation officials, the new investor will be required to inject Rs80 billion over the next five years to stabilize and modernize PIA. The successful bidder will take control of key operational units, including aviation operations, cargo services, the training wing, and catering (kitchen) business. Under the agreed terms, PIA employees will be granted job protection for one year, while pensions and post-retirement benefits will remain the responsibility of the holding company. The new owners will be responsible for salaries and benefits of existing employees, alongside ensuring immediate financial support and professional management to restore the airline’s operational efficiency. Commitment to Revival Commenting on the development, representatives of the Arif Habib Consortium said the move marks a victory for Pakistan, expressing confidence that PIA’s historic reputation will be restored through professional governance and sustained investment.
Indonesia’s Gede Priandana Makes History With Five Wickets in a Single T20I Over
Indonesia fast bowler Gede Priandana created history by becoming the first player in men’s or women’s T20 International cricket to take five wickets in a single over, a remarkable feat achieved during the first T20I against Cambodia. The historic performance came at the Udayana Cricket Ground, where Indonesia secured a convincing 60-run victory after posting a total of 167 runs. Defending the target, the 28-year-old right-arm fast bowler turned the match on its head in the 16th over of Cambodia’s chase. At that stage, Cambodia were 106 for 5 after 15 overs and still very much in the contest. However, Priandana’s introduction into the attack proved decisive. He struck with his first three deliveries, claiming wickets on consecutive balls to complete a sensational hat-trick, dismissing Shah Abrar Hussain, Nirmaljit Singh, and Chanthon Rathnak. After delivering a dot ball, Priandana went on to remove Moung Dara Sok and Pel Venk, conceding just one wide in the over. Cambodia collapsed shortly thereafter, well short of the target. With this spell, Priandana etched his name into the record books as the first bowler in T20 International cricket history—across both men’s and women’s formats—to take five wickets in a single over where official fall-of-wicket records exist. Earlier in the match, Priandana also contributed with the bat, opening the innings alongside wicketkeeper-batter Dharma Kesuma, scoring six runs. Indonesia’s innings was anchored by a magnificent knock from Dharma Kesuma, who smashed an unbeaten 110 off 68 balls, including eight fours and six sixes, guiding the team to a competitive total of 167 runs. It is worth noting that while the feat of taking five wickets in an over has occurred twice in domestic men’s T20 cricket, this is the first time it has been achieved at the international level, making Priandana’s achievement truly historic.
Call of Duty Co-Creator Vince Zampella Killed in California Car Crash
Vince Zampella, one of the most influential architects of modern video gaming and the co-creator of the global phenomenon Call of Duty, has died in a car accident in California, Electronic Arts confirmed on Monday. He was 55. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the fatal crash occurred Sunday on a scenic mountain road north of Los Angeles. Zampella was driving a Ferrari when the vehicle suddenly veered off the roadway, struck a concrete barrier, and burst into flames. Authorities said both the driver and a passenger, who was ejected from the vehicle, died from their injuries. The victims were not officially identified by police, and the cause of the crash remains under investigation. Footage shared by witnesses on social media showed the mangled, cherry-red sports car engulfed in flames along the winding road, underscoring the severity of the collision. Zampella’s death has sent shockwaves through the global gaming community, where he was widely regarded as a visionary who helped define the first-person shooter genre. Over a career spanning more than three decades, his studios produced some of the best-selling and most influential video games in history. He first rose to prominence after co-founding Infinity Ward in 2002 and launching Call of Duty the following year. The franchise would go on to become one of the most successful in entertainment history, today boasting more than 100 million active monthly players worldwide. Activision later acquired Infinity Ward, cementing Zampella’s reputation as a driving force behind blockbuster game development. After departing Activision under contentious circumstances, Zampella co-founded Respawn Entertainment in 2010. The studio quickly earned acclaim for titles such as Titanfall, Apex Legends, and the Star Wars Jedi series. Electronic Arts acquired Respawn in 2017, and Zampella later assumed a broader leadership role at EA, where he oversaw efforts to revive the long-running Battlefield franchise. Earlier this year, following the record-breaking success of Battlefield 6, Zampella reflected on his career with characteristic humility. “We never take moments like this for granted,” he said, despite decades of commercial and critical success. In a statement, Electronic Arts described his passing as a devastating loss. “Vince’s influence on the video game industry was profound and far-reaching,” the company said. “His work helped shape modern interactive entertainment, and his leadership inspired generations of developers.” Respawn Entertainment also paid tribute, praising Zampella’s leadership and creative philosophy. In a message shared on the official Battlefield account, the studio said he trusted his teams, encouraged bold ideas, and consistently put both players and creators first. Industry observers echoed those sentiments. Washington Post video game reporter Gene Park told NBC4 that Zampella possessed a rare ability to blend gameplay with powerful storytelling. “He knew how to create experiences that captured terror, heroism, and human emotion,” Park said, adding that Zampella’s work reflected the political and cultural realities of its time. Zampella is survived by his family and leaves behind a legacy that reshaped the video game industry. From Call of Duty to Battlefield, his creative vision not only defined a genre but also transformed interactive entertainment into a global cultural force.
Bidding for 75% Stake in Pakistan International Airlines to Take Place Today
The bidding process for the privatization of a 75 percent stake in Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) will be held today, according to an official statement issued by the Privatization Commission. As per the schedule, bids will be received between 10:45 a.m. and 11:15 a.m., while the bids will be formally opened at 3:30 p.m. After submission, the sealed bids will be placed in a secured box. Subsequently, the Privatization Commission Board will convene to determine the reference price. The Cabinet Committee on Privatization will approve the reference price, which will be officially announced at the time of bid opening. If the submitted bids exceed the reference price, an open auction will be conducted. In case the bids fall below the reference price, preference will be given to the highest bidder. Under the privatization framework, 25 percent of PIA’s shares will remain with the government as a strategic asset. The successful bidder will have the option either to purchase the remaining 25 percent stake or leave it with the government. Following approval from the federal cabinet, the relevant documents received from bidders will be signed. The Privatization Commission will then complete all legal formalities within 90 days. In line with the government’s decision, the entire bidding process will be broadcast live on television networks. Adviser to the Prime Minister on Privatization Muhammad Ali will hold a press conference at the conclusion of the bidding process. The privatization of the national flag carrier is being carried out under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s economic reform agenda, aimed at restructuring state-owned enterprises and improving overall economic efficiency.
