KARACHI: Remittances by overseas Pakistanis showed a modest growth during the first two months of this fiscal year. The State Bank of Pakistan said yesterday Pakistanis remitted $2.637bn in the first two months (July-August) of the fiscal 2013-14 — up 7.05pc compared with $2.463bn during the same period of last fiscal year.
Kashmir to hold polls next year
ISLAMABAD: The Azad Jammu and Kashmir government yesterday said it would hold long due local bodies polls on party basis in April next year. However, the opposition and critics in the ruling People’s Party are sceptical about the seriousness of the government, recalling a similar proclamation two years back. “The government has decided to hold local bodies elections after 22 years under the previous system to transfer powers at the grassroots level and solidify democracy,” an official said.
Oil, gas firms to be privatised
ISLAMABAD: The government is gearing up for privatisation of all oil and gas companies after seeking consent of provinces in an upcoming meeting in line with a programme agreed with the International Monetary Fund. Sources said the decision has been conveyed to firms, including Oil and Gas Development Company, Pakistan Petroleum Limited, Sui Southern Gas Company and Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited.
150 suspects held in Karachi
Islamabad: More than 150 suspects were held in Manghopir and Khanabad in Karachi in a large cache of weapons and ammunition was seized, police said yesterday. The cabinet has approved a “targeted operation” against criminals identified by the military and civilian agencies.
Agencies
