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Category: pakistan

  • NYC cop’s parents robbed in Karachi

    Karachi: Parents of a New York police officer arrived in Karachi were robbed by unknown men in densely populated Liaqatabad neighbourhood.

    As per details, Fazal Karim, the father of a New York police officer, arrived in Karachi from America on the night of February 9 and 10 and was on his way home from the airport when his car was stopped in Liaquatabad.When the driver did not stop the vehicle, the suspects pretended to be government officials started checking the car, and fled with thousands of US dollars, mobile phones and other items.

    Fazal Karim arrived in Karachi along with his wife to attend the Dastarbandi of his second son and participate in Jamia Banuria Ceremony regarding completion of Bukhari Sharif.

    The suspects claimed themselves as government officials and asked to check the passport. During the search, thousands of US dollars, gold ornaments and other valuables were taken away.

    Fazal Kareem is an American National. He said that accused checked the passport and returned it and took his wife’s purse with them.

    Abdul Hameed, a teacher of Jamia Banuria, says that every year parents come from foreign countries for the certificate distribution ceremony, but no security is provided despite repeated requests.

    The police have registered a case and started investigating the incident.

    The post NYC cop’s parents robbed in Karachi first appeared on VOSA.

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  • Pakistani American Think-tank holds Kashmir Day event to condemn Indian atrocities

    New York: Pakistani-American Think-tank organized a Kashmir Day event in New York to denounce the continued atrocities and human rights violations of the Indian government in the IOK, and to support the Kashmiris’ struggle for freedom and self-determination.

    Tahir Hanafi, a well-known poet from Pakistan, was the chief guest at the event that was held at a local restaurant in Brooklyn.

    Addressing the event, Tahir Hanafi said that Kashmir is the jugular vein of Pakistan.

    Pakistan-American thinks tank chief Raja Razak said that holding the G-20 conference in the occupied territory is a very wrong move.

    While the general secretary of the organization, Farida Bibi, said that Kashmir is a region which is called heaven, but due to Indian persecution, Kashmir is presenting a scene of hell.

    Kashmiri leader Sardar Sawar Khan and retired Colonel Maqbool Malik said that February 5th is celebrated all over the world to express solidarity with the Kashmiris and that the 220 million people of Pakistan, their wishes and efforts are with the Kashmiri people.

    The Sikh community participating in the event said that during the freedom struggle, Gandhiji, Nehru and other leaders made various promises to the Sikh community and other minority communities but they could not be fulfilled.

    The participants of the event expressed their solidarity with the Kashmiri people and described only Pakistan’s efforts regarding Kashmir’s freedom as insufficient, but the whole world should raise their voice regarding atrocities in Kashmir.

    The organizers of the event thanked the Chief Guest and other participants for attending the event.

    The post Pakistani American Think-tank holds Kashmir Day event to condemn Indian atrocities first appeared on VOSA.

  • APPAC holds Meet and Greet in honor of U.S Senator Cory Booker

    New York: American-Pakistani Public Affairs Committee (APPAC) organized a ‘Meet and Greet’ in honor of US Senator Cory Brooker in Staten Island, New York.

    Speaking at the event, Cory Brooker said that he always feels happy with the Pakistani community.

    “Pakistani people have always given respect and support to me,” he said.

    The host committee of the event included Dr. Mazhar Malik, Sadia Malik Sheikh, Sara Malik Malhiban, Dr. Inam Haq, Dr. Fakhira Haq, Dr. Mahmood Alam and Asad Chaudhry.

    The National Anthem of Pakistan was also played at the beginning of the ceremony.

    A gift representing Pakistan’s  culture (Gilgit-Baltistan’s traditional cap) was also presented to US Senator on behalf of APPAC.

    APPAC Chairman Dr. Ijaz Ahmed, New York Assemblyman Charles Fall, and former US Congressman Ed Towns also participated in the event.

    In the ceremony, the attack on New York Police officer Adeed Fayyaz and the tragedy of Peshawar were also condemned.

    The post APPAC holds Meet and Greet in honor of U.S Senator Cory Booker first appeared on VOSA.

  • Over 400 accused involved in land grabbing, yet to get punishment from Karachi courts

    By Farhan Rajput

    KARACHI: More than 400 accused involved in some 110 cases including the illegal occupation of government land could not be punished so far, through the court of law as most of the accused have been released on bail.

    According to the details, mafias have seized the land worth billions of rupees of Karachi Development Authority (KDA), Malir Development Authority (MDA) and Board of Revenue and deprived hundreds of citizens of their life long savings.

    Despite the presence and actions of anti-encroachment police and other law enforcement agencies in Karachi, the land mafia has not been brought to justice.

    The anti-encroachment police registered more than 80 cases last year. In the first month of this year, a number of cases have also been registered against the occupation of land worth billions of rupees by KDA, MDA and Board of Revenue.

    The case was transferred to the special anti-encroachment court in Karachi. After which the number of such cases under hearing in the court has increased to 110.

    The number of accused involved in the said cases is more than 400 as the Sindh prosecution has not been able to punish the accused involved behind this crime.

    The accused have secured freedom on bail by hiring highly paid lawyers, including politicians and other land grabbers.

    According to records, the anti-encroachment police have registered two cases against PTI leader Haleem Adil Sheikh and his 11 associates for occupying 40 acres and 25 acres of land in Mangopir area.

    The police have also imposed provisions on Haleem Adil Shaikh for illegally building a housing society on 25 acres of occupied land.

    Similarly, a case has been filed against Ali Hasan Brohi and six of his associates, which is being heard in the relevant court.

    The police arrested Azim Marri, Aleemuddin alias Mulla and Akbar Chandio, Gul Sher and others in a case of similar nature. The accused have developed a network to occupy the government lands and the accused have also determined the procedure for the occupation of the government lands.

    Land mafia operatives burn the bushes one by one before demarcating the plots and some of the operatives clear the bushes with an ax after which plots are made in different sizes. They erect walls with giving written numbers.

    Speaking to Voice of South Asia, Special Counsel Board of Revenue Senior Counsel Ahmed Pirzada said that the cases against the occupations of MDA, KDA and Board of Revenue lands are established only in the complaint of the officers of the relevant institutions. But, unfortunately no accused has been punished.

    A senior lawyer says that the court will give the sentence only when the case is made according to law and the plaintiffs follow the cases effectively.

    Experts advised that before investing their hard earned money in property, people should get information from the relevant institutions before making any investment.

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  • PACOLI pays tribute to Peshawar Mosque tragedy victims, holds candlelight vigil

    New York: Pakistani-American Community of Long Island (PACOLI) organized a prayer ceremony in memory of recent Peshawar mosque tragedy victims in New York State.

    The prayer event participants including the officials and community members of PACOLI expressed solidarity with the heirs, and also expressed their heartfelt regret over the incident.

    Over a hundred Muslims were killed when a suicide bomb ripped through the Peshawar Peshawar Police Line Masjid a few days back, that left the entire nation in state of fear and shock.

    The prayer ceremony began with recitation of a few verses of the Holy Quran by PACOLI Director Muhammad Ali.

    Addressing the participants of the event, Qamar Bashir, the founder of PACOLI said that terrorism is a global problem, all countries are affected by it.

    PACOLI President Azra Dar strongly condemned the terrorist attack on worshipers in a holy place like a mosque. “This attack is the height of brutality. We pray for the forgiveness of the martyrs and patience for the bereaved families,” she said.
    PACOLI General Secretary Atiq Qadri also condemned the incident and paid tribute to the martyrs.

    Senior Vice President of PACOLI Dr. Ijaz ul Hasan, said “no matter how much can be said about this sad incident, our heart cries tears of blood, we want to ask the concerned authorities to take strict security measures to prevent the loss of innocent human lives.”

    On this occasion, Comptroller PACOLI Salman Sheikh said that all Pakistanis living in America have been deeply shocked by this incident and we all share the grief of the bereaved.

    “We request the government of Pakistan to give severe punishment to the elements involved in the incident,” he sais.

    In the prayer ceremony, the participants were carrying placards and banners of condemnation.
    A minute’s silence was observed in the ceremony against the incident.

    Candles were lit in the memory of the martyrs and the state institutions were demanded to take full action against the terrorists.

    The post PACOLI pays tribute to Peshawar Mosque tragedy victims, holds candlelight vigil first appeared on VOSA.

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  • From education to healthcare, APAG comes up with multiple community development initiatives in 2022

    New York: The American Pakistani Advocacy Group (APAG) organized multiple community development programs in the year 2022 from the provision of better education to healthcare,  from uplifting community members in the United States to conducting relief and rehabilitation activities in flood-hit Pakistan.

    The APPAG’s community development initiatives include food drives, scholarship programs, parades, and flood relief and rehabilitation activities for Pakistan.

    APAG hosted the first-ever Pakistani flag hoisting ceremony at Bowling Green Park, Manhattan in August.

    The event was attended by Mayor Eric Adams, Consul General of Pakistan in New York Ayesha Ali, NYC Commissioner of Immigrant Affairs Manuel Castro, and other officials.

    NYC’s 38th annual Pakistan Day Parade was also held in August.

    APAG also collaborated with New York Police Department (NYPD’s) Muslim Officers Society (MOS) to help flood victims in Pakistan.

    The organization also introduced a first-of-its-kind scholarship, the Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah Scholarship, to guide and support Pakistani-American students.

    In November, APAG along with the Consulate General of Pakistan in New York organized the Kashmir Black Day event, in which the participants censured Indian troops’ atrocities on the innocent Kashmiris and the  human rights violations being committed in the Indian occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IOK).

    At the end of last year, APAG’s care group organized an annual holiday ‘Toy drive’ in partnership with the NYC Mayor’s Office for Immigrants.

    In this drive, toys were distributed to newly arrived immigrant children at the Red Cross Navigation Center.

    The post From education to healthcare, APAG comes up with multiple community development initiatives in 2022 first appeared on VOSA.

  • Gilgit-Baltistan Cultural Fest NYC showcases region’s natural beauty, cultural diversity

    New York: The Gilgit-Baltistan Cultural Fest in New York showcased the region’s natural beauty, lofty mountains, lush green fields, diverse culture, history, people, and above all its untapped tourism potential.

    Gilgit-Baltistan is known to be the most attractive and picturesque region located in the extreme north of Pakistan. Much of its natural beauty, and tourism potential is still untapped.

    Thanks to Sony Watan Gilgit-Baltistan (NYC) USA for organizing a magnificent yet colorful event titled ‘the Gilgit-Baltistan Cultural Fest’ at Queens Boulevard, Forest Hill, in the bustling city of New York.

    Raja Nasir Ali Minister of Tourism Gilgit-Baltistan asked the people across the world to visit Pakistan’s northern region of Gilgit Baltistan and witness the natural beauty, peace, and cultural diversity. He also hailed the cultural services of Naseem Gilgiti in US for the last many many years.

    Besides G-Bians, people from other communities, US officials, etc. thronged to the venue and were amazed by GB’s traditional, yet peaceful songs and folk music, presented on this occasion in traditional attire.  The guests were also given gifts of traditional hats and awards.

    The festival was organized by Naseem Gilgiti, Chairman of Sony Watan Gilgit-Baltistan USA, and his team.

    The event started with a recitation of a few verses of the Holy Quran, followed by the national anthems of the USA and Pakistan.

    Sony Watan Gilgit-Baltistan USA Chairman Muhammad Naseem Gilgiti told the audience that the nature loving people across the globe to visit Gilgit-Baltistan – the true beauty of Pakistan.

    Another official Sher Ali presented the welcome speech and appreciated the arrival of the guests.

    A documentary film was also shown on the dedicated screen to make the audience aware of the beautiful valleys, waterfalls, high mountains and natural beauty of Gilgit-Baltistan.

    Mr. Tim of Grace Community thanked for inviting himself and praised the role of Gilgit-Baltistanis in the development of America.

    Secretary Tourism Gilgit Asifullah Khan drew a picture of the beauty of Gilgit-Baltistan in such a way that the audience gave him a standing ovation.

    The musicians presented a traditional folk dance of the region in Burushaski, one of the regional languages, which was well received by the audience.

    Deputy Inspector Adeel Rana, President of Muslim Officers’ Society (MOS) of New York Police Department (NYPD), expressed his happiness to be a part of the event.

    The post Gilgit-Baltistan Cultural Fest NYC showcases region’s natural beauty, cultural diversity first appeared on VOSA.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • Travel Adventure Show NYC showcases Pakistan’s tourism  potential, natural beauty

    New York: Travel Adventure Show 2023 in New York has also showcased the untapped  travel and tourism, and investment opportunities in Pakistan.

    The magnificent two-day show was held  at the famous Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in Manhattan, New York.

    In the program, stalls were set up by different countries for the promotion of tourism. People showed great interest in the Pakistani stalls.

    The Pakistani stall in the show was inaugurated by the Pakistani Ambassador to US Masood Khan, Advisor to the Prime Minister Aun Chaudhry and Minister of Tourism of Gilgit-Baltistan Nasir Khan by cutting the ribbon.

    The Ambassador of Pakistan and other guests were welcomed in traditional Pakistani attire.

    The staff at the Pakistani stall introduced Pakistan’s culture to the visitors of different countries who took special interest.

    Meanwhile, a grand ceremony was held at the Pakistani Consulate to promote tourism in Pakistan.
    The event started with the recitation of Holy Quran, while the attendees were informed about the history and heritage of Pakistan.

    Ambassador Masood Khan said that the purpose of today’s ceremony is to tell the world that Pakistan is rich in natural beauty but also a safe country for tourism.

    Minister of Tourism Gilgit-Baltistan Nasir Ali appreciated the organization of the event and assured cooperation to solve the problems faced by the tourists.

    Ayesha Ali, the Pakistani Consul General posted in New York, expressed her views and assured all kinds of cooperation for the promotion of tourism in Pakistan.

    Pakistan is a suitable country for tourism while many authors have written their works on its natural beauty.

    The purpose of participating in the Travel Adventure Show in America was to draw the attention of other countries to the tourist destinations of Pakistan.

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  • NYPD’s MOS constructs new houses for the flood victims in Pakistan

    New York: The New York Police Department’s (NYPD) Muslim Officers’ Society (MOS) has built a number of new houses for the flood victims in Pakistan, and the construction phase is underway, with full swing.

    Sain Dad, a village predominated by the Rind tribe in Kandiaro region of Sindh’s District Naushahro Feroze was hit by the ruthless floods five months back. However, now life is slowly returning to normalcy.

    Ali Nawaz,49, is one of the worst victims to pay a heavy price of climate change in the Sain Dad village, as the floods washed away his home, leaving his extended family homeless and helpless.
    Eventually, he was left with no choice, but to move his family to the port city of Karachi. Indeed, it was a painful migration.

    But, thanks to MOS for its generous humanitarian work. It has constructed a new house for Nawaz’s family and they are back from Karachi.

    Nawaz’s wife informed that when the New York Police Department’s Muslim Officers’ Society started reconstruction of houses in this flood-affected village of Kandiaro, her family was overwhelmed with joy.

    Ali Nawaz Rind said after the construction of a new house, the flood-affected family is very happy and prays for the Muslim Officers Society.

    Muslim officers’ Society’s delegation comprised Sagheer Ahmed, Nauman Malik and Sergeant Moinuddin Qureshi visited the flood-affected districts of Sindh two and a half months ago under the leadership of MOS President Deputy Inspector Adeel Rana.

    They visited the victims in their respective villages in Pakistan.

    Meanwhile, in a video message, Adeel Rana said the possible help is now visible on ground in the form of construction of new houses.

    Adeel Rana expressed his happiness and   reiterated his commitment that the Muslim Officers Society will continue to do whatever is possible to help the flood victims of Pakistan.

    Financed by the Muslim Officers Society, he said the construction phase of more new houses with quality materials, is going on, rapidly in Kandiaro.

    MOS President  said that as soon as the construction phase is completed, the organization will begin rehabilitation of the victims.
    The humanitarian work and rashan distribution activity will also begin in the Muslim holy Month of Ramadan.

    The post NYPD’s MOS constructs new houses for the flood victims in Pakistan first appeared on VOSA.

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  • Virginia family in US sentenced for human trafficking of Pakistani woman

    VIRGINIA: A family in the US state of Virginia was sentenced by a federal court on Tuesday for committing forced labor of a Pakistani woman for 12 years.

    Defendants callously exploited the victim’s vulnerabilities and brutally coerced her labor,

    The federal court in Richmond, Virginia sentenced Zahida Aman, 80, to 12 years in prison; Mohammed Rehan Chaudhri, 48, to 10 years behind bars; and Mohammad Nauman Chaudhri, 55, to five years in prison, according to AA.COM.

    Aman and Rehan Chaudhri were further ordered to pay the victim, who was not publicly identified, $250,000 for back wages and other financial losses.

    The defendants were found guilty by a jury in May of conspiracy to commit forced labor. Aman was separately found guilty of forced labor and document servitude while Rehan Chaudhri was found guilty of forced labor.

    Aman was accused of arranging her son’s marriage to the victim in 2002, and keeping the victim in the Virginia home alongside the other defendants even after the husband left the household in order for her to serve the household as a domestic servant.

    “These defendants callously exploited the victim’s vulnerabilities and brutally coerced her labor through physical violence and emotional abuse,” Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division said in a statement.

    “Human trafficking is an affront to human rights and to our nation’s core values. The Department of Justice is committed to vindicating the rights of survivors and bringing human traffickers to justice.”

    Prosecutors said the family physically and verbally abused the victim, and forbode her from communicating with her family in Pakistan. In one particularly gruesome incident, prosecutors said the family hog tied the victim and dragged her down a set of stairs in front of her children.

    They further confiscated her passport, and money, prohibited her from speaking to anyone outside the family, and threatened to separate her from her children by deporting her to Pakistan, according to the Justice Department.

    The Justice Department said that Aman, Rehan and Nauman were convicted following a seven-day trial in May of last year. The jury had declared the three of conspiracy to commit forced labour, convicted two of the defendants of forced labour and convicted Aman of document servitude.

    The post Virginia family in US sentenced for human trafficking of Pakistani woman first appeared on VOSA.

  • Watto Family organizes Fateha for the salvation of Mian Muhammad Aslam Watto, M. Ayub Watto (late)

    New York: New York: The Pakistani-origin US-based Watto Family organized Fatiha (prayer) ceremony for the salvation of their family head Mian Muhammad Aslam Watto, and Muhammad Ayub Watto.

    The Qur’an recitation and prayer session began at Makki Masjid located on Coney Island Avenue in Brooklyn, New York.

    The event was attended by a large number of religious scholars and the Pakistani community.

    People from different walks of life in the Pakistani community participated in the prayer event and they expressed condolences to the members of the Watto family.

    The members of the Watto family thanked the people of the Pakistani community and other friends for remembering the departed souls of Watto family and standing with the bereaved family in this hour of sorrow.

    Mian Muhammad Aslam Khan, the head of the Pakistani American Watto family, had died in a private hospital in Lahore, Pakistan, due to illness. He was laid to rest in a local cemetery of his native Jaranwala village in Punjab. Muhammad Ayub Watto, a young man of the Watto family, also passed away last year.

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  • NICVD becoms world’s largest facility for free cardiac surgeries, primary PCIs

    KARACHI: The National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD) included 10 hospitals and 24 Chest Pain Units, has become the only healthcare facility in the world to have treated over 2.2 million patients and performed 3,641 cardiac surgeries and 19,888 primary PCIs free of charge in 2022.

    The Executive Director of NICVD Professor Nadeem Qamar said that NICVD’s motto is to provide state-of-the-art cardiac treatment to everyone at their doorstep, totally free of cost.

    NICVD Spokesperson said this on Friday. According to him, teams of NICVD surgeons performed the aforesaid cardiac surgeries and procedures on children and adults in various cities of Sindh during 2022.

    “NICVD has emerged as the only cardiac healthcare facility in the country which performed around 3,641 cardiac surgeries and over 74,758 procedures all free of charge at main NICVD centre in Karachi and nine satellite centres spread all over Sindh,” the NICVD’s spokesperson said.

    He added that the NICVD Karachi also emerged as one of the largest centres in the world in terms of performing primary PCI or angioplasty during heart attack as well as elective angioplasties in a single year. Cardiologists at the NICVD Karachi performed 9,466 primary PCIs in the year of 2022. Moreover; a total of 86 interventions in acute stroke procedures were done so far.

    Regarding the number of cardiac patients examined at the main facility of the institute in Karachi, the spokesperson said the NICVD Karachi received 1,138,240 cardiac patients, of whom 2,768 required surgeries and were operated.

    “A record number of 9,466 primary PCIs or angioplasties in emergency, around 3,735 elective angioplasties & early invasive, over 17,470 angiographies, 18 TAVI procedures, 2,196 thallium scans, 51,420 echocardiograms, 914 PPM, and 134 ICD & CRT procedures, were performed by the NICVD Karachi in 2022”, the institute spokesperson said.

    He further said that, 304,414 cardiac patients visited the OPD at the NICVD Karachi in 2022, while 276,865 patients were treated in emergency and more than 51,162 patients admitted to the wards. NICVD Karachi has also performed more than 20 minimally invasive cardiac surgery or keyhole surgeries.

    He added that during the year 2022, a total of 275,568 patients visited NICVD system from other provinces of the country, who were provided free treatment. A total of 63,639 patients from Punjab, 184,387 from Balochistan, 12,492 from Khyber Pukhtunkhwa, 13,102 from Azad Kashmir and 1,948 from Gilgit-Baltistan benefited from the latest and expensive treatment absolutely free.

    Satellite centres

    Apart from Karachi where the main facility of the NICVD exists, the institute has been operating through its nine satellite centres, including Larkana, Tando Muhammad Khan, Hyderabad, Sehwan, Sukkur, Nawabshah, Mithi, Khairpur and Lyari.

    All the satellite centres offer diagnosis facilities and other cardiac procedures. The centres at Sukkur, Larkana, Tando Muhammad Khan and Hyderabad even have facilities of open-heart and bypass surgeries, included paediatric cardiac surgeries as well. Adding that 873 open-heart surgeries were performed at these centres during 2022.
    A total of 214,254 cardiac patients were treated at the NICVD facility in Sukkur, 165,994 in Tando Muhammad Khan, 118,613 in Larkana, 30,922 in Nawabshah, 135,895 in Hyderabad, 21,983 in Sehwan, 50,410 in Khairpur, 30,979 in Mithi, and 62,258 in Lyri” in 2022, the NICVD spokesperson said.

    Chest Pain Units (CPUs)

    Besides satellite centres spread all over Sindh, the centre has also opened small units, named chest pain units, in various locations of Karachi and other cities of the province so that in case of emergency, patients living nearby could receive first aid as soon as possible.

    “There are currently a total of 24 chest pain units, 17 CPUs are in Karachi, 1 in Ghotki, 1 in Tando Bago, 1 in Jacobabad, 1 in Umerkot 1 in Tando Allahyar, 1 in Mirpurkhas and 1 in Shikarpur” he said.

    The NICVD spokesperson added that more than 295,634 patients were treated at these units, of whom 7,662 patients had suffered from severe heart attacks and they were immediately shifted to the main NICVD for primary angioplasty in 2022. 10 more chest pain units would soon be established at different locations in Karachi and other cities of the province.

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  • Watto Family to organize Fateha for the salvation of Mian Muhammad Aslam Watto (late)

    New York: The Pakistani-origin US-based Watto Family is organizing a Qur’an recitation (Fatiha) for the salvation of their family head Mian Muhammad Aslam Watto, and Muhammad Ayub Watto.

    The event is being held on January 22, at a mosque in Brooklyn.

    Mian Muhammad Aslam Khan, the head of the Pakistani American Watto family, died in a private hospital in Lahore, Pakistan, due to illness.

    He was laid to rest in a local cemetery of his native Jaranwala village in Punjab.

    Muhammad Ayub Watto, a young man of the Watto family, also passed away last year.

    The relatives of the Vito family have appealed to the community to participate more in the recitation of the Qur’an and Fatiha and get the reward.

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  • W2W Forum set to hold its 5th annual International Women’s Day

    New Jersey: Like every year, Women2Women Forum (W2W) is organizing an annual International Women’s Day event this year as well. The program of its 5th International Women’s Day will be held on March 5. 

    In the pre-organization meeting of the Women2Women Forum at a local restaurant in New Jersey, the host committee informed about the details of the event.

    Nusrat Sohail, the chairperson of the Woman2Women Forum, said that International Women’s Day is an annual event of the forum in which panels discuss various topics of community interest while talking about bringing social changes in America with the help of women from the community.

    Sabeen Sarmast, a woman abuse survivor who participated in the meeting, said that she had been a victim of domestic violence and was aware of all the problems faced by women.

    “So I myself want to help people through this forum,” she said.

    It was informed in the meeting that Woman2Woman annually selects Women of Distinction or Heroes community and awards them in recognition of their services.

    Like every year, this year too, the Women2Women Forum will award five American women and one man who have rendered valuable services to the community.

    In the meeting, a discussion was held with the host committee about the event and sub-committees related to the program were also formed.

    The pre-event meeting was also briefed about the newly established transitional home Shahzavari House by the Women2Women Forum.

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  • U.S yet to grant TPS for a hundred thousand Pakistani immigrants, as government at home is unmoved

    New York: The future of over a hundred thousand Pakistanis including students living in the U.S. without proper documents is bleak, due to the indifference and apathy of the Pakistani government.

    If Pakistan writes a letter to the US, requesting it to grant Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to those who have been living in the United States without documents for years, the US government will consider the request, Pakistani immigrants in America said.

    Due to the incompetence of the Pakistani government, the future of more than 100,000 undocumented Pakistanis living in the United States is at stake.

    At a press conference held at a local restaurant in Brooklyn, New York the Executive Director of DRUM Organization Fahad Ahmed said more than one hundred thousand Pakistani immigrants and students are living in the United States without documents.

    He said that getting TPS status saves citizens from deputation and get a work permit that allows them to work in any sector while also getting permission to return to their homeland.

    The purpose of the press conference was to draw the attention of the government of Pakistan to request the US government to grant Temporary Protected Status to Pakistanis in US.

    Fahad Ahmed said that The United States has granted Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for many immigrants from different countries living in US, but Pakistan has not yet received this status.

    The Pakistani students participating in the press conference said that those who call the youth the capital of the country are least bothered. They are nothing to do with resolving their issues.

    We are demanding TPS because we want to benefit our country.

    In the press conference, Nisar Khan of Brooklyn Emerge said that everyone has to do their part to deal with this problem and we also have the right to protest on the relevant platforms.

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  • A Pakistani-American organization dispatches consignment of relief goods to flood-hit Pakistan

    New York: The Council of People’s Organization (COPO) has dispatched a consignment containing relief goods from New York to Pakistan.

    Another container comprising humanitarian aid will be sent to Pakistan next week.

    The Council of People’s Organization sent its relief supplies to Pakistan in a container from its office in Coney Island, Brooklyn.

    The New York Police Department’s (NYPD’s) Muslim Officers’ Society (MOS) also handed over aid collected for the flood victims to COPO, and MOS and COPO volunteers participated in the packing and containerization process of the relief items.

    COPO head Muhammad Rizvi said that the flood victims of Pakistan still need a lot of help from the world at large; “we are trying to do something for our brothers and sisters who are in trouble with the support of our community,” he said.

    The goods sent in the container include clothes, medical supplies and other items for the flood victims.

    On this occasion, Sagheer Ahmed an officer representing Muslim Officers’ Society said that the community’s trust in MOS has increased due to its recent aid activities in Pakistan, and now the society is sending relief goods to Pakistan through COPO.

    The Council of People’s Organization and the Muslim Officers Society have more supplies to help the flood victims and another container is likely to be sent to Pakistan next week.

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  • APPAC’s efforts pay-off as US announces another $100m in aid to Pakistan

    New York: The American Pakistani Public Affairs Committee’s efforts to bring international aid to Pakistan yield fruits, as the US government has announced to grant another $100 million in aid to Pakistan to deal with the flood devastation.

    According to the State Department, this aid money will be given under the Pak-America Green Alliance.

    The American Pakistani Public Affairs Committee is an important and representative organization of the Pakistani American community, which has highlighted the grim situation of Pakistan after floods wrecked havoc.

    In the special international environmental conference held in Geneva, the US has announced an additional 100 million dollars in aid to Pakistan.

    This aid money will be given under Pak-America Green Alliance and, spent on food, medical aid, agriculture and infrastructure construction and maintenance.

    APPAC has welcomed the announcement of another 100 million dollars in aid to Pakistan by the United States.

    APPAC Chairman Dr. Ijaz Ahmad, National Executive Committee President Dr. Mehmood Alam, Vice President Dr. Tariq Ibrahim, Secretary General Ayesha u-kio and board members thanked US Senator Bob Menendez, Senator Cory Booker, Senator Lindsey Graham, and the president Joe Biden for the announcement of generous aid.


    US State Department spokesperson Ned Price said in a statement that the US will provide an additional $100 million in financial aid to Pakistan and both countries are working together to Materialise this.

    Now our share in aid has reached 200 million dollars.

    The USAID Deputy Administrator Isobel Coleman has further announced that his agency will spend on agriculture, health, education and governance in Pakistan.

    While speaking in Geneva, Isobel Coleman said that seeing the flood disasters in Pakistan, the USAID decided that it will not leave Pakistan alone in this difficult situation.

    Isobel Coleman said that a disaster response team was appointed in September. American officials and USAID administrator Administrator Samantha Power visited the flood-affected areas and reviewed the damage caused by the flood.

    The post APPAC’s efforts pay-off as US announces another $100m in aid to Pakistan first appeared on VOSA.

  • Uptick in teenagers’ involvement in Karachi street crimes

    By: Farhan Rajput

    KARACHI: Underage boys are allegedly found involved in street crime in Karachi and the rate of their indulgence in street offenses has alarmingly increased up to 25 percent in 2022, as compared with 2021.

    According to reports, until December 31, 2022, police and paramilitary rangers have arrested more than 1,000 accused (boys) from different areas of the metropolis on charges of robbery, mobile phone theft/snatching, motorcycle and car theft, drug peddling, etc.

    The law enforcers claimed to have recovered stolen valuables, cash, gold ornaments, motorcycles, cars, drugs, weapons, etc. from the under-arrest accused.

    The nabbed accused have been moved to juvenile jail on directions of the respective courts during the period.

    In this regard, social leaders working for the welfare of children say that society needs to do a lot of work for the protection of youth through awareness campaigns, education, and trainings. They said parents should also keep an eye on the activities of their children, besides fulfilling their needs such as pocket money, school fee.

    On the other hand, the under trial accused while talking to Voice of South Asia (VOSA) rejected charges framed by the law enforcement agencies upon them by declaring as ‘baseless’. They insisted that they are innocent and they have nothing to do with the crimes framed against them by the police.

    Media Advisor of Karachi Bar Association, Saba Somro, said that the cases against these accused are still pending in the court of law, the police have to prove whether the under arrest accused have committed crime or not.

    However, she admitted with concerns that the youth are involved in crimes, we all have to play a role for this; especially parents have to keep an eye on their children.

    The post Uptick in teenagers’ involvement in Karachi street crimes first appeared on VOSA.

  • Pakistani Hindus to immerse ashes of their deceased relatives in the Ganges River?

    KARACHI: In a historic development, the Indian government has reportedly revised the sponsorship policy for Pakistani Hindus and now the ashes of 426 cremated Hindus of Pakistan are expected to be immersed in the Ganges River in Haridwar, India, by their family members.

    The move will also develop people-to-people (P2P) contact between the two countries. P2P is considered a useful diplomatic tool to ease tension and ensure peace in the region.

    Since the partition of the Indian subcontinent back in 1947, Pakistan and India have not been able to enjoy good relations as close neighbors. Rather, they have fought three wars, and border clashes on several occasions during the last seven decades, resulting in the loss of precious lives on both sides (military and civilians) and the waste of public resources to the tune of billions of dollars.

    According to a report published in Express Tribune, earlier the Modi government did not allow entry to Pakistani Hindu pilgrims without any sponsorship from India, but now New Delhi has indicated that a 10-day visa would be issued to the family members of a dead Hindu to travel to India to immerse the ashes of their loved ones in the Ganges River.

    The ashes are currently kept at the Hindu temples and crematoriums in Karachi.

    Entry into India was not allowed without a sponsor and a Pakistani Hindu could bring the ashes of a deceased relative to the river Ganges only if a relative or acquaintance living in India took responsibility.

    In Karachi, Soldier Bazaar and Ranchore Line have sizable Hindu communities who have been living here since long before the Partition of the Subcontinent. Some estimates put their numbers between 100,000 and 150,000. Another nearly half a million Hindus live in Kunri, Nagarparkar, and Islamkot, in Tharparkar District, according to the ET report.

    Since most Pakistani Hindus have no relatives in India, it was difficult to fulfill the last wish of the deceased person.

    Pakistani Hindus will immerse the ashes of their 426 deceased relatives in the Ganges River in the Hindu religious city of Haridwar in India.

    The last rites of these deceased Hindus have been performed in Pakistan. Their bones and ashes are kept in ‘Kalash’ (urns) in Hindu temples and crematoriums.

    The post Pakistani Hindus to immerse ashes of their deceased relatives in the Ganges River? first appeared on VOSA.

  • Hindu woman demonstrates loyalty, interfaith harmony by performing Muslim Husband’s funeral according to Islam

    New York: A Hindu woman living in New York, USA set an example of loyalty and interfaith harmony by performing her Muslim Husband’s funeral rituals as per the Islamic practices, and teachings, on his demise.

    Walid Bilal, a native of Karachi, Pakistan, came to America in 1990 some 32 years back in search of a better future and settled here permanently in the US while working as a baker.

    Walid Bilal married Kiran, an Indian Hindu citizen, with whom he has two daughters.

    In 2000, he suffered from heart disease, after which he fell ill and became disabled in 2013, leaving his family with no other option but government assistance to survive.

    Walid Bilal passed away recently due to prolonged illness, his widow contacted the social organization named ‘One Nation’ and told the organization that she wanted her husband to be buried in accordance with his religious practices and Islamic teachings.

    One Nation US appealed to the community to arrange for the funeral and burial expenses of late Waleed Iqbal, to which everyone responded and all the arrangements were completed.

    One Nation US President Raja Tahir said that it is a blessing and a mercy for us to come to the family during one’s most difficult time.

    The funeral prayer of Walid Bilal was offered and he was laid to rest at a local graveyard in New Jersey State. The funeral was attended by volunteers from One Nation US and a large number of community members.

    Iqbal has left behind a widow and two daughters to mourn his death.

    The post Hindu woman demonstrates loyalty, interfaith harmony by performing Muslim Husband’s funeral according to Islam first appeared on VOSA.

  • Pakistan: Update on flood affected areas and the need for relief and rehabilitation

    While floodwaters have receded across much of Pakistan, relief efforts continue to support flood-affected communities, reports Farooq Tariq.

    This post was originally published on Green Left.

  • 1668 journalists killed in past 20 years (2003-2022), says RSF

    Pacific Media Watch

    With murders, contract killings, ambushes, war zone deaths and fatal injuries, a staggering total of 1668 journalists have been killed worldwide in connection with their work in the last two decades (2003-2022), according to the tallies by the Paris-based global media watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF) based on its annual round-ups.

    This gives an average of more than 80 journalists killed every year. The total killed since 2000 is 1787.

    RSF secretary-general Christophe Deloire said:

    “Behind the figures, there are the faces, personalities, talent and commitment of those who have paid with their lives for their information gathering, their search for the truth and their passion for journalism.

    In each of its annual round-ups, RSF has continued to document the unjustifiable violence that has specifically targeted media workers.

    This year’s end is an appropriate time to pay tribute to them and to appeal for full respect for the safety of journalists wherever they work and bear witness to the world’s realities.

    Darkest years
    The annual death tolls peaked in 2012 and 2013 with 144 and 142 journalists killed, respectively. These peaks, due in large measure to the war in Syria, were followed by a gradual fall and then historically low figures from 2019 onwards.

    Sadly, the number of journalists killed in connection with their work in 2022 — 58 according to RSF’s Press Freedom Barometer on December 28 — was the highest in the past four years and was 13.7 percent higher than in 2021, when 51 journalists were killed.

    15 most dangerous countries
    During the past two decades, 80 percent of the media fatalities have occurred in 15 countries. The two countries with the highest death tolls are Iraq and Syria, with a combined total of 578 journalists killed in the past 20 years, or more than a third of the worldwide total.

    They are followed by Afghanistan, Yemen and Palestine. Africa has not been spared, with Somalia coming next.

    With 47.4 percent of the journalists killed in 2022, America is nowadays clearly the world’s most dangerous continent for the media, which justifies the implementation of specific protection policies.

    Four countries – Mexico, Brazil, Colombia and Honduras – are among the world’s 15 most dangerous countries.

    Asia also has many countries on this tragic list, including the Philippines, with more than 100 journalists killed since the start of 2003, Pakistan with 93, and India with 58.

    Women journalists also victims
    Finally, while many more male journalists (more than 95 percent) have been killed in war zones or in other circumstances than their female counterparts, the latter have not been spared.

    A total of 81 women journalists have been killed in the past 20 years — 4.86 percent of the total media fatalities.

    Since 2012, 52 have been killed, in many cases after investigating women’s rights. Some years have seen spikes in the number of women journalists killed, and some of the spikes have been particularly alarming.

    In 2017, ten women journalists were killed (as against 64 male journalists) — a record 13.5 percent of that year’s total media fatalities.

    Pacific Media Watch collaborates with Reporters Without Borders.

  • US-based Pakistani-origin Wattoo family head passes away in Pakistan

    New York: Pakistani-Origin US-based Wattoo Family head Aslam Wattoo has passed away in Lahore, the Capital of Punjab Province, after a brief ailment.

    As per family sources, Aslam’s body was paralyzed and undergoing medical treatment at a private hospital (Doctor Hospital) in Lahore.

    However, he could not recover, and breathed his last on Wednesday, leaving behind loved ones including family, friends, and relatives to mourn his death.

    His body will be transported to the native village on the outskirts of Gujranwala District in Punjab.

    Aslam will be laid to rest in a local graveyard of Juranwala on Thursday, December 29, amid tears and mourning.

    The Pakistani-Americans have expressed their deep sorrow over the sad demise of Aslam Wattoo and extended condolence to his loved ones including his daughter Shazia Wattoo, Son Shehbaz Wattoo, Asif Wattoo and Son-in-law Karim Wattoo.

    The post US-based Pakistani-origin Wattoo family head passes away in Pakistan first appeared on VOSA.

  • 11th Interfaith Holiday Celebration, SACO brings together South Asian under one roof

    New York: As part of the 11th Interfaith Holiday Celebration, the South Asian Community Outreach (SACO) – a not-for-profit organization brought together South Asians under one roof in New Jersey.

    SACO organized a grand ceremony in honor of the guests in a local hall, which was also graced by US officials with their presence.

    The 11th Interfaith Holiday Celebration of South Asia Community Outreach started with the National Anthem of the United States of America.

     

    After which SACO President Nilesh Dasondi and Chairman Sam Khan welcomed the guests and thanked the attendees for making the event a success.

    They said that the New York Police Department’s (NYPD’s) Muslim Officers Society (MOS) paid a detailed visit to Pakistan and helped the flood victims. The local people not only appreciated this great humanitarian gesture but a short documentary film based on their tour of duty was also shown.

    Guests were invited on stage to raise their hands to light the candle of unity

    People belonging to different religions offered prayers according to their religious beliefs.

    SACCO also conferred awards upon those who have rendered services to South Asian communities and other issues.

    South Asian Community Outreach’s Interfaith Holiday Celebration also featured South Asian music. The singers danced and the expert dancers gave a great performance.

    A sumptuous dinner was also given to the guests by SACO. South Asian Community Outreach has been bringing communities together every year for 11 years to convey the message that development depends on unity.

    The post 11th Interfaith Holiday Celebration, SACO brings together South Asian under one roof first appeared on VOSA.

  • Pakistan’s stunning debutant Abrar Ahmed destroys England’s batting order

    MULTAN: In his dream test debut, Pakistan’s ‘mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed crushed the batting line of mighty England, bagging a rich haul of seven wickets on the first day of the 2nd Test match being played at Multan Cricket Stadium.

    The 24-year-old bowler took 7-114 and put Pakistan in a stronger position on Friday. The England batters initially played aggressively however, as Abrar began bowling they could not stand before him. He took the first wicket of Craweley who was playing at his individual score 19, while England’s total was 38.

    England won the toss and opted to bat first.

    Abrar’s bowling gave great help for his side on the dry wicket at Multan Cricket Stadium. Pakistani bowlers dismissed England for 281 inside the first two sessions.

    According to APP, England got rid of both Pakistan openers — Imam-ul-Haq and Abdullah Shafique — early before captain Babar Azam’s unbeaten 61 carried the home team to 107-2 at stumps when bad light stopped play with 10 overs still remaining in the day.

    Saud Shakeel, who scored a gritty half century in Pakistan’s 74-run defeat in the first test at Rawalpindi, was not out on 32.

    Of the 12 wickets that fell on the day, James Anderson was the only fast bowler to dismiss a batter when he found an edge off Pakistan opener Imam-ul-Haq, who departed without scoring.

    Abdullah Shafique scored 14 before edging spinner Jack Leach to keeper Ollie Pope, but Babar and Saud saw off the day with a third-wicket unbroken stand of 56.

    Babar brought up his 24th Test half-century off just 57 deliveries whereas Saud also looked in control during his undefeated 46-ball stay on the opening day.

    According to Pakistan Cricket Board (PBC), the Mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed became 252nd player from Pakistan to play Test cricketer as he was named in the XI announced by Pakistan captain Babar Azam at the toss for the second of the three Tests against England at the Multan Cricket Stadium.

    Abrar had received maiden call-up in the Test squad ahead of this series following an impressive run in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy 2022-23.

    The 24-year-old right-arm spinner won the best bowler of the tournament award and topped the leading wicket-taker chart with 43 scalps in seven matches at an average of 21.95.

    Pakistan XI for the second Test: Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam (c), Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (vc & wk), Salman Ali Agha, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Zahid Mehmood, Abrar Ahmed and Mohammad Ali

    Overall, Pakistan made three changes from the side that played the first Test at the Pindi Cricket Stadium with Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, who has a niggle in his bowling shoulder, and Azhar Ali being replaced with Abrar, Faheem Ashraf and Mohammad Nawaz.

    The post Pakistan’s stunning debutant Abrar Ahmed destroys England’s batting order first appeared on VOSA.

  • Clergy Council 49th Pct, Bronx Borough jointly organize prayer for the recovery of Sunoco gas station shooting victim Zulfiqar Ali Albi

    New York: The Clergy Council 49th Pct in conjunction with Bronx Borough President and community held an event – a ‘prayer response against violence’ for the speedy recovery of Zulfiqar Ali Albi – a Pakistani community member in New York, who was shot and injured by assailants, recently at the Sunoco gas station. 

    Zulfiqar Ali Albi is a member of the Pakistani community who was shot in the head on duty at the Sunoco gas station on Boston Road, at Astor Avenue, in Allerton, last Tuesday.

    Zulfiqar Ali, the Sunoco gas shooting victim

    He is still being treated in the hospital in critical condition.

    A prayer event was organized by Clergy Council 49th Precinct and Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson against violence at the gas station.

    Bronx Borough President who participated in the event, said that we are against those who are involved in violence. Such elements should be dealt with iron hand.

    We pray for Zulfikar Ali Albi that he gets well soon. We are with you every step of the way.

    President of New York Police Department’s (NYDC) Muslim Officer Society (MOS), Adeel Rana and others who participated in the event said that they have gathered here to express solidarity over the incident with Zulfiqar Albi.

    “Such an incident can happen to anyone. We must show solidarity,” they stressed.

    The organizers thanked the people present at the prayer event saying that we are especially grateful to the 49th Precinct, President of the Community Council, Mr. Jill Thompson and all the others who participated in the prayer.

    The post Clergy Council 49th Pct, Bronx Borough jointly organize prayer for the recovery of Sunoco gas station shooting victim Zulfiqar Ali Albi first appeared on VOSA.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • PPP USA marks party’s 55th Foundation Day with renewed commitment to uphold democratic norms

    New York: Pakistan People’s Party USA chapter celebrated the party’s 55th Foundation Day with great enthusiasm and grandeur.

    Members of the Pakistan People’s Party in America gathered at a local restaurant in Jackson Heights to celebrate the day.

    Party officials and workers participating in the foundation day renewed their commitment to follow the manifesto of their leaders.

    On this occasion, President of People’s Party of America Khalid Awan said that Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto took historic steps to include Pakistan in the ranks of developed countries which will never be forgotten.

    While PPP New York President Zafar Chatha reiterated his determination to make Bilawal Bhutto the next Prime Minister of Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

    Meanwhile, Sehrish Waqar, who joined the People’s Party, was welcomed and Khalid Awan also announced her appointment as the Secretary General of the People’s Party Women’s Wing USA.

    On this occasion, senior leaders Azra Dar and Sahrish Waqar said that Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto included every citizen in politics and gave a complete constitution to Pakistan, and they vowed to follow the footsteps of the leaders.

    The foundation day was also attended by party office-bearers and workers from other political parties and community members.

    They said that all the political parties should continue to work together in the future to get the country out of the current difficulties and crisis.

    At the end of the ceremony, everyone gathered at a cake cutting ceremony. They remembered the founders of the party and other martyrs and prayed for their elevation.

    The post PPP USA marks party’s 55th Foundation Day with renewed commitment to uphold democratic norms first appeared on VOSA.

  • US congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee seeks $600m emergency assistance for the flood hit Pakistan.

    WASHINGTON, DC –Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, a Democrat representing the 18th Congressional District of Texas is writing a letter to House Committees on Appropriations and Foreign Affairs, requesting $600 million as part of emergency assistance for the flood hit Pakistan.

    This funding request follows the $500 million in aid sent by the United States to Pakistan following the 2005 earthquake, which laid the foundation for an unprecedented international effort to rescue and rebuild Pakistan.

    This request for the $600 million assistance to Pakistan is aimed at saving more Lives by averting a Winter Disaster and assure a stable and sustainable recovery following devastating flooding in the spring.

    Sheila Jackson Lee also serves as Chair of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security and a senior member of the House Committees on Budget. She is the founder and chair of the Pakistan Caucus.

    The Homeland Security Committee and the Pakistan Caucus conducted a CODEL visiting Pakistan and touring the agriculture region impacted by the flooding disaster that created a 62-mile wide lake, destroying crops and other agricultural assets; and saw an enormous loss of life including children.

    Congresswoman Jackson Lee was joined by fellow members of the House Pakistan Caucus.

    This request, if implemented would be an investment in Pakistan following the devastating earthquake in 2005 proved to be a sound investment in preventing disabling forces in that country following the disastrous earthquake.

    The same investment approach in 2022 will yield even more important outcomes by providing much-needed assistance that would save lives; and help counter dictatorships in the region,while enhancing the U.S.-Pakistan relationship.

    The post US congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee seeks $600m emergency assistance for the flood hit Pakistan. first appeared on VOSA.

  • US becomes the educational destiny for Pakistani students pursuing higher education

    New York: US has become the educational destiny for Pakistani students pursuing higher education, as the number of Pakistani students studying at different US educational institutions is surging at 17 percent, on an annual basis.

    A US government report suggests that the number of Pakistani students in the US has surged by 17 percent in 2022, compared to 2021.

    This week, a report released from the US capital – Washington said that the US has been the top priority for the students of South Asian Countries including Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Nepal.

    Bengali students are taking lead with an annual 23 percent penetration in the US educational institutions, followed by Indians with 19 percent, during the period under review.

    It is relevant to mention here that Pakistani students are making the most of the US-funded Fulbright Scholarship program in the educational field under which as many as 150 students go the different US institutions for the higher education.

    US has been kind enough to ensure monetary assistance for some 800 students from Pakistan each year under the  Exchange Program.

    This is the reason why Pakistan is considered as the hub of students’ network formerly graduated from the US.

    ‘Open Donors Report on International Educational Exchange’ suggests that the number of students visiting the US from China and India constitute 52 percent of the total students coming to the US from across the globe.

    The post US becomes the educational destiny for Pakistani students pursuing higher education first appeared on VOSA.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • Khyber Society of America holds Pukhtun Cultural Day on completion of its 15 years of establishment

    New York: Khyber Society of America, a premiere not-for-profit cultural organization held a grand Pashtun Cultural Day on completion of its 15- year-journey, in New York City with traditional zest and fervor.

    The rich Pakhtun Cultural Day was celebrated in Punjab Restaurant, Brooklyn.
    The Pakhtoon Day event also featured a humorous dialogue on married couples often arriving late for ceremonies.

    Awards were also distributed among prominent personalities of the community.

    The Khyber Society officials said that the organization amis to be the world’s premier Pashtun organization. It has been assisting and educating the Pashtun Dispora while preserving and evolving their culture and 6000 years old creed of Pashtunwali.

    The event began with the recitation of a few verses of Holy Quran by Nisar Khan.

    Later, the National anthem of Pakistan was played, and all the participants of the ceremony stood up, respectfully.

    Khalid Khattak administrated the event and welcomed the guests on their arrival and introduced everyone.

    In his address to the participants, Taj Akbar, the head of Khyber Society of America said that he has realized that now the element of show off is reflecting when it comes to helping the needy ones, and humanitarian works.

    He said the journey of Khyber Society of America began some 20 to 25 years back. We had great loyal companions, but they left this mortal wold in the middle of this tough journey. This journey is very difficult, he said adding  to seve a person in need, and that too without any interest is quite difficult task. One person cant carry out this legacy of humanitarian work.  The community people must come forward, help and support the organization.

    The 67-year-old Taj Akbar asked the youth to come forward and take the lead in this noble cause.

    Consul General of New York Ayesha Ali and Deputy Consul General on this occasion said the organization has been providing invaluable services to the community and that she is proud of it. She said she listened the speakers of the event who were underscoring the need of constitutionalism.

    She said the democratic spirit is so much alive in your society, and your society is so much democratic, and the way this society has been organized.

    Nawab Adil Khan said that all the nationalities living in Pakistan have their own unique identity but they all work together for the country.

    Other speakers also expressed their views at the event. They said that Pakhtun people and their culture are thousands of years old, but we should learn other languages ​​too.

    On this occasion, a report containing the relief activities carried out by Taj Akbar and his team in the flood-affected areas of Pakistan was also shown.

    The participants appreciated the efforts of Khyber Society and Taj Akbar. At the end, eminent personalities of the community were also honored with awards in recognition of their services.

    The post Khyber Society of America holds Pukhtun Cultural Day on completion of its 15 years of establishment first appeared on VOSA.