Stupidity and Negativity: Falling Points of Pakistani News Media

Media is an important source for representing any country and its political system. However, its importance increases in a democratic political system. There is a relationship of dependency between media and political system. When a media become an autonomous function, it starts to strengthen the democratic institutions and democratic system of a country.

Pakistani Channels

               In Pakistan, media is working freely and independently. In case of electronic media, there are a number of channels including news, sports, entertainment, etc. So, it is the responsibility of the media to highlight those issues which are good for the public and discourage all unethical factors of the society. Media should be sensitive to represent the situation of the country towards the world. Pakistani media tells the world exactly what we are, what our norms are and what are our values and culture.

Through the media, every time people look towards the news channels which are playing the heroic role in the country. With many news channels, newspapers and magazines, people of Pakistan are more aware of their political and democratic rights.

               Role of media in Pakistan is getting quite irresponsible, as there are many talk shows and political debate are  there on different news channels every time but sometimes it seems that they are crossing their limits. Media is supposed to be responsible for the present society, their norms, and values and so on. People are what they see around them. So instead spreading exaggeration, Pakistani media should resolve the problems with positivity.

               Pakistani News media is playing the same destructive role as were played by the Muslim leader of Colonel Time by protesting against the foreign education and adopting rational science. One of the major programmes of our media is to make sure that people do not think and use their intelligence, reason, understanding and sense of their own. In other word, make people stupid and help few to rule. This programme is called “Do as you get”.

Shows on Pakistani Media

               Media which uses this programme extensively in Pakistan. In such an environment, it is very easy for Big Powers to impose their agendas on the nation without any problem. These goals and agendas may be to get the political sovereignty, natural resources, occupy the trade routes or to propagate their positions, etc. but people think feels as if this is for religion. Main source of spreading this programme is through news channels. More people watch theses channels, more they are become zombies. News channels are full of fun, entertainment, color and gossips, which makes the people to attract more towards them. This is a nice move by media to make the people waiting for such programmes.

               In a country like Pakistan, which is facing the threats of terrorism, religious extremism and voilance and in the country where the norms and institution of democracy are not well established, media should play its role with a lot of responsibility. These threats are making the system dysfunctional and also decreasing the harmony and stability of society. So this is an additional responsibility of media that its operation should not lead towards the negativity. So, Pakistani social and electronic media should learn from the experience of other societies ridden by many conflicts. Pakistani media should play a positive role to strengthen the political stability and establish democratic institutions and a real Islamic and democratic society in our country.

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HIGHER EDUCATION COMMISSION...!!!

The Higher Education Commission (HEC), formerly the University Grant Commission, is the primary regulator of higher education in Pakistan.Up till 2002, Universities were recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) which draws its powers from The University Grants Commission Act, 1974. Higher Education Commission of Pakistan (HEC) is responsible for higher education policy, quality assurance, degree recognition, development of new institutions and uplift of existing institutions in Pakistan. It also facilitated the development of higher educational system in pakistan. Its main purpose was to upgrade universities in Pakistan to be centres of education, research and development.

Dr.Atta ur Rahman actually changed the face of HEC and started the policy to send Pakistani youngsters outside the country for their higher studies.This step became a milestone in the educational development of pakistan and increased the number of Ph.Ds in Pakistan.

Prof.Dr.Atta ur Rahman

Dr.Javed Laghari

But PM Yousuf Raza Gilani during his regime tried to dissolve the HEC and in this he first stopped all the funds of HEC and upon asking of HEC,the PM relied that "We are facing bad economical problems these days." ,against which many had been held by young students of Pakistan and atlast PM had undo his decision and restore the commision.

Dr.Javed Laghari is now leading HEC in these days and HEC is working days and nights to educate Pakistani peoples...

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The Mysterious 'Suicide' Case of Kamran Faisal

A few days back, we never heard of anyone named Kamran Faisal whose mysterious suicide (or was it death?) is now the talk of the town. Who is this person? Well, Kamran Faisal was Assistant Director in the National Accountability Bureau and was investigating the Rental Power Case.

Kamran Faisal

               Kamran Faisal was found hanged in his bedroom on 18th January 2013. He lived alone in his house in Islamabad.

               His death took place a day after the NAB Chairman, Fasih Bukhari, told the Supreme Court of the lack of evidences against Raja Pervez Ashraf to arrest him. The Supreme Court has ordered the government to form a commission to investigate the mystery behind the suicide.

               Initial post-mortem reports suggest that it was a mere suicide but the deceased's family blamed that Faisal was being pressurized to abandon the Rental Power Case. The family also showed the violence marks on the body of Faisal, suggesting that it may be a murder.

               Furthermore, cell-phone records of Kamran Faisal have been collected by the police, including text messages too. The SMS records strengthen the blames of Faisal's family about the work pressure. The last messages sent by Faisal to a friend - whose name has not been disclosed - said that he was asked to visit the NAB Chairman, Fasih Bukhari, and during the meeting with him, Bukhari forced him to leave the Rental Power Case.

The police is investigating the suicide case to date.

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India’s tour of Pakistan hurt by tension at LOC...!!!

The latest tour of Pakistan to India was for three-match ODI series, in which Pakistan came out in flying colours and a two-match Twenty20 International series that was drawn. According to the Future Cricket Tour Programs (FTP) prepared by the International Cricket Council (ICC) India vs. Pakistan, bilateral series 2012-13 was scheduled to begin on December 25^th 2012. Organised by India, it was to consist of two T20 and three ODI matches and to end on 6^th January 2013.

Indo-Pak flags ...

                     

 It’s obvious that India Pakistan rivalry in matches is entertaining as well as intense that gathers and attracts millions of viewers and cricket fans towards it. So, mostly people were keenly looking forward to afford this upcoming tension for the sake of enjoyment attained in these matches but, the tensions at LOC has halted this event and has left cricket fans in anticipation for period unknown. Chairman of PCB Zaka Ashraf revealed on Wednesday 23^rd January that because of the killing of two Indian soldiers near the LOC, the chances of having the bilateral series have been minimized. Albeit seeing eye to eye for the accomplishment of the event, both India and Pakistan realise the plight that has occurred between them. The chairman further asserts that he is not at all disappointed by this setback and is hopeful that the revival of International Cricket will soon be observed.

                                    The efforts will be extended such that our honour and national pride are not compromised. Well, they shouldn’t be, because our pride has importance above anything, be it a game, a team that not considers our place safe or whatever. What is essential is, Pakistan, its individual strength comprising our people that remain unaffected in facing the repercussions while striving for its betterment.

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EID MILLAD UN NABI S.A.W.W

Rabi ul Awwal, 3^rd month of Islamic calendar has been awarded with the great significance in the Islamic History. Allah Almighty blessed the whole mankind by the birth of Last Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (S.A.W.W). This month comes after the month of Safar al Muzaffar in Islamic calendar. This month has great importance among the whole Muslim Ummah because of the birth of Allah’s Last Prophet.

Eid Millad un Nabi

               Hazrat Mohammad Mustafa (S.A.W.W) was born on 12^th of Rabi ul Awwal on Monday in the city of Makkah. According to the Georgian calendar the year was 671 A.D. But according to many Islamic scholars the date 12^th of Rabi ul Awwal is not correct. Barelvi scholar Ahmed Raza Khan wrote in his Fatawa Rizvia that Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.W) was born on 8^th of Rabi ul Awwal while 12^th Rabi ul Awwal was the date of his death. Similarly, according to Abdul Qadir Jilani R.A the Prophet (S.A.W.W) was born on 9th Rabi ul Awwal and on 12th Rabi ul Awwal he left this world.

               Muslims celebrate birth anniversary of Last Prophet (S.A.W.W) all around the world on 12^th of Rabi ul Awwal. People in Pakistan also celebrate 12^th of Rabi ul Awwal as the day of birth of their beloved Prophet (S.A.W.W). People decorate their house, Buildings, streets, roads and Mosques with lights and also mount a Green Flag. Also events of Eid Millad un Nabi take place in many places throughout the country. In these events, Islamic Scholars tell Muslims about the life of Holy Prophet (S.A.W.W) and Naat Khuwan Read Naats in the praise of Holy Prophet (S.A.W.W).

Decoration and Lighting on Mosque

For All Muslims, Eid Millad un Nabi is a symbol of love with their beloved Prophet. Such an occasion is a best way to remind the people about the teachings and life of Prophet (S.A.W.W). Allah Almighty directs us to follow steps of His beloved Prophet in Holy Quran.

According to Quran:

“Verily, in the Messenger of Allah, you have a good example for him who looks to Allah and the Last Day, and remembers Allah much.” (al-Qur’an, 33: 21)

               Many Muslims celebrate 12^th of Rabi ul Awwal as their 3^rd Eid. They call it Eid Millad un Nabi. However, not all Muslims belonging to different school of thoughts are satisfied with it. Neither they celebrate this birth anniversary nor they attend or conduct events of Millad un Nabi. They have a question that why they should celebrate birthday of last Prophet (S.A.W.W). They say:

• It is not 100% confirmed that Prophet Muhammad SAW was born on 12th Rabi Ul Awwal.
• Prophet SAW never celebrated his birthday.
• Sahaba (R.A) never celebrated birthday of Prophet SAW and not done anything special on 9th or   12th Rabi Ul Awal unlike many of us do.
• Eid Milad Un Nabi which is declared third Eid by some people is an invention which was created centuries after Rasool Allah SAW. We find nothing like Eid Milad Un Nabi in Hadiths or even in books of four Imams.

               They call it Biddah to celebrate any event which was not celebrated by the Prophet (S.A.W.W) himself or by his Sahaba (R.A). They said that there is no place of Eid Millad un Nabi in Islam and it is a Biddah (invention) in Islam. They said that if Muslim really love Holy Prophet (S.A.W.W), they should adopt his teachings and his way of life.

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Mushaira___Identity of Pakistan...!!!

A  medium of expressing, giving vent to the sentiments, these are the poets that write their heart out and publish their work. People read poetry, renowned ones grant them with their worthy comments, they are recognized and praised and all in all the poets feel satisfied. But this all appreciation is not all what is requisite for the poetic people.

They also need to be listened openly, to be heard what they have to say. And here comes the oral tradition of Urdu, the Mushaira.  Mushaira in Pakistan is an important cultural element that need not be ignored. It gives propagation to not only the language but also to the esteemed ones’ expression that is actually worthy,  as these people have their intelligent and thorough look on the surroundings. They are watchful of the happenings inside the country and are best in conveying the messages that deserve to be understood and followed. A Dawn writer in Books and Authors also highlighted these Mushairas that serve as a forum for the poets. 

Food for thought

             A Mushaira, is a gathering of poets and some known people that gather together for the public recital of poetry. It has been a very intrinsic part of our cultural heritage since the birth of Urdu. Nowadays though Urdu is not given its actual importance but the Mushairas held, are contributing in keeping it alive.

 The entertaining Mushairas therefore should be kept alive for the communication and propagation of the beautiful art of poetry. This helps writers to express their thoughts in subtle ways and also their imagination when comes in open depicts the creativity and lustre of our culture.

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Arfa Kareem Randhawa...!!!

Arfa Karim (Feb 2, 1995 – Jan 14, 2012), born in Jatt Randhawa family was a student from Faisalabad in Pakistan, who in 2004 at the age of nine years, became the youngest Microsoft Certified Professionals.She is an all-rounder. She has experiences from being the grand daughter of a poor farmer to meeting Bill Gates.Her father Major(R) Amjad Randhawa described the brilliancy of her daughter by using following words "Arfa is a pond of brilliancy.".Her aunty said in a Geo Tv program "EK DIN GEO K SAATH" that "The word 'brilliancy' is far less from her."

A thought is found in Pakistan related to Arfa that she has not been put to natural death, infact she has been murdered by slow poison.This thought is also found among the peoples of Pakistan that if Arfa would be alive then she would be the next Dr.Afia Siddiqui.

Arfa Karim

She also wrote about Bill Gates

*Born in October 1955, Programing was his only aim of life 

*Started programing at the age of 13, In his work he was really very keen

*Entered Harvard  in 1973, Thought more than a child could think to be 

*In 1975 begun Microsoft, With children he’s very soft 

*At the end I would just like to say, I like Bill Gates in every way

A brilliant student whose life came to an end due to cardiac arrest. The cardiac arrest was caused by an epileptic attack which also damaged her brain.Bill Gates also contacted Arfa's parents and ask them about Arfa's treatment and also hired a medical team for Arfa who contacted pakistani doctors of Arfa and overview her medical report through internet but Bill Gates was late.

Well in the end,unfortunately Arfa is no more with us and whole Pakistani nation mourns on it. All we can do for her is to pray for her soul and to keep her mission towards success.

RIP ARFA < PAKISTAN PRIDE>

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Career Choices

At the birth of a child, the parents usually always ponder over what career will the newly-borned will choose. It may seem strange that nobody knows whether the child will live long enough to fulfill the dreams of his parents but, yet still, it's just like a tradition for parents to think the child's name as well as his future career.

Choosing a profession is an immensely important task in a person's life. It decides your future lifestyle(obviously due to the salary package you get :P). Parents want their children to choose a profitable career. Mostly, people think, in Pakistan at least, that medicine, accounting and engineering are the "only worthwhile" professions and that those who opt them are successful. Oh please, someone tell them that if that was the case, there would've been no artists, no chefs, no teachers, no psychologists and others who are rich and content in their lives. A child should be given freedom to decide a profession suitable for himself. The readers might remember the great movie 3 Idiots by Aamir Khan, the social message of which was to choose a profession of your interest, irrespective of the luxuries you get from it.

Enforcing a person to follow a particular career may damage his self-confidence and performance skills. I, being an engineering student myself, have seen so many people who are into their respective fields because of family or peer pressure and, believe me, many of them DO NOT have the least possible interest, saying that "Koi aur choice nahin thi tou ye field choose kee" (There was no other choice so I had to choose this field.).

A career which suits your interest enhances your capabilities and chances are that you will perform better in that field even in critical circumstances. Ending up in a field which is uninteresting to you makes you dull. Once you go for something challenging or upto your skills, you can enjoy your work. Nowadays, when companies hire you, they sometimes ask you whether the field itself fascinates you or not. Yes, it does add plus points for your job appointment! Choose wisely. Obeying your elders is a good trait but when it comes to your profession, use your mind to determine whether you are comfortable with it or not.

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Pakistan Railway in crisis...!!!

Pakistan Railway, under the leadership of federal government with it’s headquarter in Lahore is an important source of transportation to carry millions of passengers throughout Pakistan. But the serious issue that the passengers, employees and the railway department are facing depicts the likely collapse to happen in the near future. In January 17, in Rawalpindi, its 100 employees retired because the authorities were unable to pay them due to the shortage of money. 

According to a senior Railway official the Prime Minister provided Rs 7.5 million from his development fund to be used in the improvement of the railway project. This amount was used in Gujar Khan City for the development of gas pipeline, tube well etc. The revenues earned by the Jhelum and Sargodha railway stations in Rawalpindi Division which are Rs 4 million and Rs 6 million monthly are better than the  revenues earned by the Gujar Khan station which are only Rs 700,000. White wash is also not done since seven years. We can only imagine the woes of Gujar Khan’s railway and its workers, but overall the Pakistan Railway is suffering a loss of 35 million every day. Rs 27 million it earns in a day are all used up in the diesel through which it runs.

Pakistan Railway

               When a hometown resident himself is not concerned and shows no serious attitude towards the destruction of such an important asset than how can be this matter considered or taken seriously on a  country level; it’s like the authorities are busy securing their own future over the ‘about to crush’ or ‘crushed’  future of the employees. Writing down the main problems faced in the PR department are:

• Lack of Government attention
• Shortage of locomotives
• Mismanagement
• Poor maintenance techniques
• Corruption
• Lobbies whose interests are ignoring this sector

              People are forced to take route of buses rather than trains due to the problems they face while travelling, such as mid way breakdowns, reservation of a birth which is sometimes only confirmed after the receiving bribes, normally the trains are too late and the facility of lights is also not available due to the failure of generators.

When there is care then there comes the hearty attitude of working for a task to its fullest, and when the importance is given to self benefits then carefree attitude exhibits, the same is happening here. Only a little attention towards Pakistan Railway will serve this asset its own purpose and life but if this made up crisis continues than its life is near to a downfall.

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President Trophy: Another Title for Misbah as Captain

After the announcement of long awaited President Trophy Grade-I Final by PCB, final was played between teams of Habib Bank Limited (HBL) and Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL). It was played on 14 January 2012 to 18 January 2013 at National Stadium, Karachi. These teams also included many stars of Pakistan national team including Misbah ul Haq, Younis Khan, Umar Gul, Umar Akmal, Adnan Akmal, Mohammad Hafeez, Asad Shafiq and others.

Captain Misbah ul Haq

               SNGPL team was led by Pakistan’s national team's skipper Misbah ul Haq and Younis Khan led HBL team. HBL won the toss and invite SNGPL to bat first. Misbah led from the front from the very first day of final match. As SNGPL loses 3 wickets for only 49 runs, 38 years old give a strong support to his team by making unbeaten 85 runs and take team total to 283 runs. Inform batsman Ali Waqas also contributed 83 runs. Fahad Masood of HBL clinched 5 wickets for 67 runs.

Misbah ul Haq playing shot

               In their first innings, HBL batsmen were struggling throughout the whole innings. They bowled out for the total of only 137 runs. Ahmed Shahzad played a good knock of 79 for his team. Mohammad Hafeez took 4 wickets for only 16 runs.

               SNGPL was leading with 146 runs. In their 2^nd innings, SNGPL batting line up failed to establish against the good pace bowling of Umar Gul. Umar Gul’s Hat-Trick destabilized SNGPL batting line and they were dismissed only for 182 runs. Umar Akmal was the highest scorer for SNGPL who scored 76 runs. Umar Gul bowling figures were 6-67.

Umar Gul Celebrating after taking wicket

               Chasing the target of 329 runs, HBL started the innings and finished day 4 on the score of 159 for 6. At the start of final day of the final match, Imran Farhat was the only hope for HBL to lead their team towards the victory. But no one succeeded to have victory for HBL. Remaining 4 batsmen dismissed at the total score of 253 and lose the match.

Imran Farhat

               At last, Mr Patient Misbah ul Haq snatched the President Trophy title for his team by 75 runs after beating Younis Khan’s side. He has been continuing his victorious journey in different national and international tournament as captain since 2001, winning different national and international titles for his team, including defeat to World Cup holders in recent bilateral ODI series.

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