PRESS RELEASES

Press Releases are issued by Information & Archives Department , Government of Sindh.

EDUCATION IS THE WAY TO CHANGE FATE OF NATION – GOVERNMENT IS STRIVING TO IMPROVE QUALITY EDUCATION – SAYS SHAZIA MARRI

Karachi, April 24: Sindh Minister for Tourism Ms. Shazia Marri has said that the education is only way or key to change the fate of nations but it is unfortunate that in past, this very important sector has not been given
due attentions importance.  This she said in her address as chief guest and talking to media in the annual concert of the City Kindergarten, Defence Campus/School, atAuditorium of D.A. Degree College for Women, here today.

Ms. Shazia Marri said that like other developed nations, we have to spent a big portion of GDP on the education sector which was not done in past but the present government of PPP has taken efforts in this regard. She held responsible to bureaucracy on the failure of achieving forgets of quality education and needed more efforts at all levels to improve quality of education in public sector schools. Replying to a question, Ms. Marri said that all the private educational institutions have to teach Sindhi as a subject which many are not doing.
She said that the constitution of Pakistan give protection to the regional languages and the Assembly of Sindh has also passed resolution for the implementation of law of teaching of Sindhi as a subject in all the schools. Ms. Marri assured that the steps will be taken to ensure that Sindhi is taught in all the private schools. She further assured
that action will be taken against those private schools who breaches law and enhances fees without approval of the government.
Ms. Shazia Marri lauded the role of the City School and said that she herself is educated from this school. Ms. Marri supported extra curriculum activities and said that through this the child build him/her character through healthier competition.
HANDOUT NO: 442/2010 (ZAS)

SINDH MINISTER FOR TOURISM MS . SHAZIA MARRI REPRESENTS SINDH AT ITB BERLIN TOURISM FAIR.

Karachi: March 14:- Sindh displayed the majestic sufism of its soil to over 400,000 people at the largest tourism fair in Berlin Germany.
Minister Tourism Sindh Ms. Shazia Marri, is representing Sindh at the ITB Berlin with Secretary Tourism Ms. Rabiya Javeri-Agha, while the Pakistan delegation to the event includes Federal Minister Tourism Maulana Atta-ur-Rehman. The event, classified as the largest tourism fair in the world is ideal to showcase the beauty and extraordinary potential for tourism in Pakistan, and present the true picture of the country. Ms. Shazia Marri said that tourism was the largest industry in the world and it was a shame that Pakistan was deprived of its rightful share in the industry owning to negative perceptions. Ms. Marri, who, at the sidelines of the event, also met with counterparts from Indonesia and Turkey, said that the role of the media is paramount in countering these perceptions, and portraying reality as it exists.
Speaking on the present government's efforts to promote Pakistan's soft image and enhance tourist trade in the country, Ms. Shazia Marri said both the Honourable President Zardari and Prime Minister Gillani were deeply committed to Pakistan attaining and retaining its deserved position in the international community, adding that they had extended their complete support and patronage to all endeavors aimed at increasing the inflow ofinternational visitors to the country.

Ms. Shazia Marri said that Sindh was the land of the Sufis who were famous for their tolerance and love of their fellow man. It was this reality, she said, that needed to be projected in the international media. Ms. Shazia Marri said that although this was the first time after many years that Sindh was represented at the ITB, her ministry would now endeavor to continue its presence on the international tourism arena.     Handout No.    (ZAS)

IT DEPARTMENT SIGNED MoU WITH INTEL PAKISTAN .

Signing ceremony of Intel Easy Step Programme MoD was held at a local hotel between Intel Pakistan Corporation and Sindh LT. Department to improve skills in LT. amongst the adults population of the Province of Sindh with the objective of increasing and improving opportunities for education, common health care and communication in Pakistan. At the event Chief Guest Mr. Mohammad Raza Haroon, Minister, LT. Govt. of Sindh said that there is a need to support I.T. literacy amongst the adults in our country as I.T. has become the basic necessity.

The "Intel Easy Step Programme" is the efforts to support and train the adults how to use the I.T. so that they can use these technologies as a tool and became more productive in their daily life. The programme will also train Government employees.

Minister further stated that I.T. Department's vision is that adeast one person in every home must know LT. He said that I.T. Department, Government of Sindh is working in remote areas of rural Sindh for improving the I.T. awareness and the particular programme will mainly focus on rural population.

He stated that I.T. is the necessity of every people and organization in order to save time and manpower. He visualizes that that every government, semi-government and other government organization to be online for basic documentation. I.T. Department, Government of Sindh already established 16 Computer training Centers in the rural areas and this programme would further revolutionaries the LT. in the rural Sindh. 

On this occasion Country Manager Mr. Ashar Zaidi, Secretary I.T, Muhammad Hussain Syed and Director General, Mohammad Yousuf also presents.

PROVINCIAL DISASTER RISK MANAGEMENT PLAN LAUNCHED

 Karachi, August 12: The Launching Ceremony of Provincial Disaster Risk Management Plan for Sindh was held here today in a local hotel. Speaking on the occasion Senior Member Board of Revenue Mr. Ghulam Ali Pasha hoped that with the implementation of this plan it is hoped that a disaster prevention frame work will be put in place across the province which will help in protecting the lives of people as well as vital infrastructure against impending disasters, it will also put in place effective mechanisms of preparedness and mitigation against multiple hazards, the plan also envisages how to manage an emergency response in an effective and timely manner he added. He further stated that it has been Sindh Revenue Department endeavor to develop the Provincial Disaster Management Authority into a responsive and smart organization with strong linkages and partnerships in order to make the lives of our people and our province safe. He also thanked Sindh Chief Minister who is also the chairman of Provincial Disaster Management Committee for his support and to Minister Revenue Jam Mahtab Hussain Dahar for extending patronage. Earlier, Senior Member National Disaster Management Authority, Mr. Shaukat Nawaz Tahir in his speech thanked UNDP, NDMA and others for their effects in making of this Disaster Risk Management Plan of Sindh and hoped that all provincial stake holders would follow the strategic direction given in the plan to make Sindh Province safer from Disaster Risks. Also to speak on the occasion were D.G. Provincial Management Authority Mr. Muhammad Sualeh Ahmed Farooqui and Mr. Tariq Rafique National Project Manager Disaster Risk Management, while Mr. Ghulam Mustafa Abro made a presentation of the plan and stated that an action plan has also been made and further this project is first of its kind in Pakistan. Meanwhile, Minister Revenue Jam Mahtab Hussad Dahar has congratulated the officers of Board of Revenue and of Provincial Disaster Management Authority for their achievement and efforts that has given Sindh Province the distinction of being the ris to launch such project and hoped that all stake holders will extend their support to strengthen the disaster Management capability of Government of Sindh. The launching was well attended amongst other by officials of Board of Revenue DCO’s of Thatta and Umerkot, and by secretaries of various department. HANOUT NO. 705/09 (IHB)

MEETING OF THE STANDING COMMITTEE ON HOME ON 20TH

Karachi, August 12: A meeting of the standing committee on home to be held on August 20, 2009 at 11.00 a.m. at Central Office of the Chairman, Citizen Police Liaison Committee (CPLC) at Governor House, Karachi regarding briefing on law and order situation in Sindh by Chairman, CPLC. Entrance will attend from gate No. 4, Governor’s House Karachi. The meeting will be followed by lunch. HANOUT NO. 706/09 (AMK)

POSTING OF 596 LECTURERS RECOMMENDED BY SINDH PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION

Karachi, August 08: The Education & Literacy Department, Government of Sindh has announced that Provincial Minister for Education & Literacy Pir Mazhar-ul-Haq, will hand over 596 appointment orders to the lecturers of various subjects selected by Sindh Public Service Commission in 2008 in a ceremony to be held on August 10, 2009 at 11.00 a.m. in the Auditorium of Sindh Secretariat Building No. 1, Karachi. According to the spokesman of the Department, the selected lecturers are requested to bring original CNIC along with offer and acceptance letters to receive their notifications for appointment. The selected lecturers who are not interested to receive orders personally, may not attend, their orders will be delivered through post on the addresses available on record. HANOUT NO.687/09 (MK)

MEETING SCHEDULE 

August 01: In order to manage and stabilize the prices of essential ammodities in the Holy month of Ramzan, Minister Supply & Prices Mr. Shoaib Ahmed Bukhari will chair the meeting with the representatives of traders and consumers organization Karachi Meat Merchants Association on Tuesday, August 4, 2009; Karachi Dates Merchants Association on Thursday August 6, 2009; Karachi Dairy Farmers Association on Saturday, August 8, 2009 and Pakistan Poultry Association on Monday, August 10, 2009 in his office. HANDOUT NO: 664/2009 (SE)

Karachi, August 01:  Sindh Minister for Information Ms. Shazia Marri has welcomed and appreciated the decision for the Supreme Court of Pakistan declaring Emergency imposed on 3rd November 2007 as unconstitutional and termed it a historic decision. Ms. Shazia Marri in a statement said that the decision is a great victory for democracy and independence of Judiciary for which our leader Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto struggled and sacrificed her precious life. She said that in future no any tyrant will dare to over- rule constitution and hostage democracy and the entire nation welcome this historical decision. Ms. Marri hoped that the judiciary will continue to play role for strengthening democratic institutions and rule of law. HANDOUT NO: 660/2009 (MU)

SKAA GOVERNING BODY MEETING ON MONDAY

Karachi, June 27 : A 27th Governing Body, meeting of Sindh Katachi Abadis Authority (SKAA) will be held on Monday i.e. June 29,2009 at 11.00 a.m. at Sindh Katachi Abadis Authority Directorate Behind Sindh Assembly Building, Karachi. The Sindh Minister for Katchi Abadis Engineer Mohammad Rafique Advocate, who is also the chairman of the authority will preside over the said meeting which will be attended by District Nazims, DCOs, Government representatives and the members of the governing body. The meeting will discuss proposed new budget of the Authority for the year 2009-2010 and thread bare discussion on the last year Budget 2008-2009. HANDOUT NO: 554/2009 (HBM)

Karachi, May 29: Sindh Minister or Information Ms. Shazia Marri has said that the present government is striving hard to fulfill its party’s commitment to provide Roti, Kapra and Makan to people and the private sector will be encouraged to strengthen government’s efforts with regard to low-cast house building and construction.

This she said while addressing as chief guest to inauguration ceremony of IAPEX-2009’s Building & Materials Exhibition which was organized by the Institute of Architects Pakistan, Karachi Chapter, here at Expo Center, today. The exhibition will continue up to May 31st. Ms. Marri said that Architecture word itself evokes thought of man’s basic necessities of Shelter which man has needed since life began and a structure serves so many purposes, the most important one being that of a home. She said that this necessity is directly connected to our survival and the job of those who design, construct and provide shelter, can considered noble.

“Pakistan is a country teeming with architectural gems, diverse in their style and range from stark severity to intricate opulence and our varied architecture reflects our rich cultural history’” she added and said that we as Pakistanis take immense pride in our architectural heritage and Pakistan undoubtedly is the proud owner of many remarkable structures that are a delight for any modern day architect. She further said that the Sindh Province has a heritage of great and historical architecture which we have to preserve and also promote our culture in the new life-styled structures. Shazia Marri referring the successful role f women in every field of life, said that women are the architects of human life, right from cradle to grave and it gives immense pleasure to see that many successful women architects are working and delivering to nation in the field of building and construction.

She said that the women have truly proved their mantle in every field and appreciated the role of sensitized men who are providing an encouraging environment to the women and hoped that such positive examples will change many mindsets. “In a country like ours, and so many others that are developing, many people are still struggling fore a concrete structure that they could call home and this very feeling reminds us of our great leaders like Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto who were destined to fight the three most important necessities i.e. Roti, Kapra and Makaan,” she said and further added that it is sad that whenever the voice of people is raised by a brave leader for these rights, he is either sent to the gallows or shot with bullet.

Ms Shazia Marri further said that the Government at federal as well as at Sindh level, is working for implementation of human friendly policies of housing for all and those people who cannot afford a house in which they can make their home, will be provided homes. She also quoted low cost housing schemes being developed by the present government at the coasts of Thatta and Badin and around the metropolis Karachi and also referred the government’s efforts of regularization of katchi abadis and said that the President Asif Ali Zardari is also working hard to materialize the visions of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. Ms. Marri also referred the displacement of people in Swat, Mardan and Malakand areas and said that they are giving sacrifices for safe Pakistan and their displacement can not be called a problem but it is time of test for nation to show unity with IDPs as Pakistani nation shown for earthquake sit people in 2005.

She called upon every Pakistani to work together and serve as architects of not only his individual home but also the home we collectively call Pakistan. On this occasion Architect Ejaz Ahad President, Institute of Architects Pakistan also spoke on the occasion and highlighted the contribution of IAP. He urged the builders to produce environment friendly architecture in Pakistan and Karachi specially and also extended help and expertise of IAP to the Government at local and national level in construction sector. On this occasion Ms. Maria Haider and Ms. Sabeena Lalji also addressed the ceremony. Later Ms. Shazia Marri visited stalls established by builders and manufacturers of building and construction sector. HANDOUT NO: 473/2009(ZAS)

PSDP ALLOCATION OF POPULATION WELFARE DEPARTMENT INCREASED Karachi

May 27: Under Public Sector Development Program (PSDP) the allocation of Population Welfare Department Sindh has been increased from 990 million to Rs. 1290 million; this has been stated by the Spokesman of Population Welfare Department. According to spokesman on the directives of Minister Population Welfare Jam Mehtab Dahar the Secretary of Department Mr. Muhammad Siddique Memon and Additional Secretary Syed Ashfaq Ali Shah attended the Annual Programme Coordination Committee meeting held in Islamabad recently under the Chairmanship of Sardar Asif Ahmed Ali, Chairman Planning Commission and presented Population Welfare Department case for increase of PSDP allocation from earlier allocation of Rs. 990 million. The participants of the meeting approved the request made by for increase of PSDP allocation and it was decided that PSDP earlier allocation of Rs. 990 million would be increased to Rs. 1290 million for the next year besides additional Rs. 20 million were approved for 2 new schemes proposed viz : Youth Education for Family Planning and Reproductive Health and for Training of General Medical Practitioners in Family Planning Methods. It may be added here that Sindh Population Welfare Department in the next 5 years plans to add 500 more Family Welfare Centres to its already existing 586 Centres besides opening of 20 more Reproductive Health Centre “A” at Taluka and at Regional Levels. HANDOUT NO: 466/2009(IHB)

GOVERNMENT OF SINDH ANNOUNCES REWARD MONEY

Karachi, April 18: The Government of Sindh has announced reward money to those who will provide information leading to the arrest of any of the criminals involved in various heinous crimes in Sindh. Noor Muhammad alias Baba Ladla s/o Ghulam Hussain Lund Rs. 1,000,000/- Abdul Jabbar alias Jenghoo s/o Abdul Sattar, Rs. 800,000/- Abdul Ghaffar alias Zikri s/o Essa Zikri 1,000,000/- , Rashid alias Rakha s/o Muhammad Shareef 1,000,000/- and Akhtar alias Akkoo s/o Asghar Rs.800,000/- respectively for Karachi Region and Allah Dino alias Babu s/o Saleh Titni Rs.1,000,000/-, Abdul Sattar alias s/o Ali Janvri Rs. 1,000,000/- Loung s/o Jani Sorjo Rs, 1,000,000/- Yaseen s/o Muhammad Rind Rs, 1,000,000/- Akbar s/o Khuda Dino Bhambro Rs. 1,000,000/- and Ali Ahmed s/o Muhammad Siddiq Bachani Rs. 1,000,000/- respectively for Hyderabad region. Information should be provided to the nearest Police Station / Police Officer. Identity of the informer (s) will be kept in secret. HANDOUT NO: 355/2009 (MUD)

OMBUDSMAN DIRECTIVE TO K.B.C.A OFFICIALS

Karachi, April 18: Ombudsman for Sindh Asad Ashraf Malik has ordered the Chief Controller Building Control Authority to take suitable legal actions after razing the buildings against those who have violated building rules in construction of buildings in North Nazimabad Town. According to details, Rasheed Ahmed and others complained to Ombudsman that third floor was being erected in violation of approved plan. On this Ombudsman ordered advisor Nazeer Ahmed Kudvai to investigate the matter. On demand, it was learnt that such violation has been made in other nine buildings too. The Ombudsman ordered Chief Controller to follow 6 points decision, in which razing building to the ground, to take steps against those who were involved in willful negligence in dispose off their departmental duties, to disconnect water, electricity and gas connections of illegal constructed flats, to cancel lease of the said flats to present report about implementation of court order within 45 days and to ensure implementation of building plan in future, are included. HANDOUT NO: 356/2009 (MUD)

SINDH ASSEMBLY TO MEET ON APRIL 16 

Karachi April 14: Dr. Ishrat-ul-Ebad Khan, Governor of Sindh has summoned the Provincial Assembly of Sindh to meet on 16th April 2009 at 9:30 a.m.at the Sindh Assembly Building Karachi. HANDOUT NO: 338/2009(MK) 

SHAZIA MARRI LAUDS ROLE OF PAKISTANI CHRISTIANS IN EDUCATION & HEALTH SECTORS—SAYS PAKISTAN LAND IS FULLY SAFE FOR NON-MUSLIMS

Karachi: April 14: Sindh Minister for Information Ms. Shazia Marri has said that in Pakistan, the people belonging to all religions are having equal rights and the large scale celebrations of Easter in country, proves that Pakistani land is fully safe for non-Muslims as well as for Muslims.       

She was speaking as chief guest to the Easter celebrations, arranged by Christian community at Saint Andrews Church, Saddar, Karachi, last night. A large number of people belonging to Christian community participated in this function.

        Ms. Shazia Marri lauded the role of Christian community in the social development of this country and said that the contribution of this community’s’ people for the promotion of quality education and in health sector, can not be ignored. She said that we all have to be proud as Pakistanis therefore we all may contribute collectively for the development, progress and prosperity of our country.

        Minister Information reiterated the need of maximum possible opportunities for youth in the social development sectors and said that this is the way to acquire knowledge, go a long way for development and compete the developed world. She also appreciated the role of media to promote such type of social gatherings.

The leader of Christian community and known educationist Ms. Nuzhat William in her speech to the gathering assured that her community will continue to play a great role for the social and economical development and prosperity of the Sindh and Pakistan.

        Later-on Ms. Shazia Marri visited the stalls established in connection with Easter Mella and mixed up with the Christian community people to share their joy of Easter.HANDOUT NO: 339/2009(ZAS) 

4-DAYS GENDER SENSITIVE PROJECT PLANNING SKILLS TRAINING START 

Karachi, April 14: Planning and Development Department, Government of Sindh organized “4-Days Gender Sensitive Project Planning Skills Training “under Gender Based Governance Systems (GBG) Project of UNDP and the Government of Pakistan at Pakistan Institute of Management (PIM), Karachi. The officers of grade 17 and 18 from Provincial and district government departments (Finance, Planning, Education, Health, Works & Services and Community Development) attended the training. Ms. Rehana G. Ali Memon, Special Secretary (Tech) and Provincial Project Director from P&D Department represented Additional Chief Secretary (Dev), P&D Department in the inauguration ceremony and gave Key Note address. She welcomed the participants and informed the purpose of the training and briefly gave current initiatives being taken by the government on gender issues and also thanked to the UNDP, Federal and Provincial GBG Units and PIM for providing all support and arranging this training. She further informed that the project is in line with the national and international commitments made by the government on gender equality through formulation of policies and programs aiming to reduce gender disparity. Ms. Mussarat Jabeen, Deputy Director represented the Secretary, Women Development Department, Government of Sindh and informed the policy guidelines and initiative taken by the government on gender equality.

        Mr. Abdul Fattah Tunio, Provincial Project Manager, GBG introduced the project and highlighted the overall aim and objectives of the project, he gave quick update on last year’s achievements and current year’s targets.

He expressed the overall aim of the project to promote women’s access to the economic, political and social empowerment at the National, Provincial and district level.

        In addition, he informed that the project has also planned to train Elected representatives those are 30 women parliamentarians, 2500 Nazims,Naib Nazims, 5170 current women councilors, 3000 potential women leaders and 1500 government functionaries during the course of implementation of the project in its five years period.

HANDOUT NO: 340/2009(GUS) 

MINISTER HEALTH SUSPENDS RMO FOR FORCING PATIENTS TO PURCHASE MEDICINE FROM OUTSIDE 

Karachi, April 14: Sindh Minister for Health Dr. Sagheer Ahmed has suspended a doctor and other concerned staff for their careless behavior towards patients admitted in Sindh Government Hospital Saudabad.

        During his visit to the hospital, Provincial Health Minister Expressed his displeasure for not providing all medicines to patients from the store of the hospital and asking them to purchase the same from outside. He warned that this practice should be avoided as Government is providing funds for purchase of medicines and there was no reason to force patients to spend from their pocket for securing required medicine.

        Dr. Sagheer said that the concept of considering Government Hospitals as charitable institutions was not right as these facilities are provided by the Government from the national exchequer, and it is money of the masses which is being provided to them.

        He also expressed reservations on use of hepatitis vaccines and ordered for utilization of the same with more effectiveness. Camps should be arranged in various localities of Malir to create awareness about this killer disease, he directed.

        Dr. Sagheer also announced establishment of a cardiac ward in the hospital, on the proposal of Mr. Waseem Ahmed, MPA of the area. He said a scheme regarding construction of Cardiac Unit would be included in the Annual Development Programme of the next financial year.

        Dr. Sagheer Ahmed lauded the establishment of blood bank in the hospital. In charge of the blood bank Dr. Farrukh Ali Hazim informed the Minister that an average 500 tests are being performed monthly in the blood bank.

        Minister Health also inaugurated pediatric ward and ICU of Medical Wardin the hospital.

        He directed the Medical Superintendent of the hospital to utilize all available recourses and ensure proper medical facilities to the patients in the hospital.

        He also directed Medical Superintendent to submit a comprehensive report regarding the staff and other requirement in the hospital, Cleanliness should also be ensured in all wards and other parts of the hospital, he directed.

        Mr. Waseem Ahmed, MPA, Town Nazim Malir Mr. Nadeem Razi, Additional Secretary Halth (Admn) Dr. Shireen Narejo, Additional Secretary Health(Dev) Mr. Dabeer Ahmed Khan, Medical Superintendent Dr. Salma Kausar Ali,Town Health Officer Malir Dr. Fahim Ejaz, In charge Hepatitis initiative. Aftab were also present on the occasion.HANDOUT NO: 341/2009(MSK) 

APPOINTMENT IN EDUCATION DEPARTMENT ENTRY TEST FROM APRIL 24 

Karachi, April 14: The Education & Literacy Department Government of Sindh has announced that the process of recruitment regarding appointment of PST, JST and HST has been started and contract regarding conduct of entry test/written test of prospective candidates has been awarded to University of Sindh after completion of all codel formalities. It may be mentioned here that the Chief Minister has taken notice of news appeared indifferent news papers regarding flaw in model paper & non delivery of admit cards to few prospective candidates till date.

        The entry test is schedules on 24th, 25th and 26 April, 2009 in all districts. The University authorities have been advised to remove all flaws from model test paper and must ensure that admit cards along with corrected model test paper shall be delivered to all prospective candidates well in time. HANDOUT NO: 342/2009(GUS) 

WHEAT MOVEMENT PROHIBIT

Karachi, April 14: The Government of Sindh in exercise of the powers conferred under section 144 Cr. P.C. has prohibit the movement of Wheat &Atta outside the limits of District Dadu for a period of Thirty (30)days with immediate effect. Any violation of this order shall be liable to penal action u/s 188 PPC.        The Police of above districts is directed and authorized to take legal action against the violators in accordance with applicable laws. HANDOUT NO: 343/2009(GUS

CM COMPLAINT CELL : SHAZIA MARRI CALLS UPON GOVERNMENT FUNCTIONARIES TO ENSURE IMPROVED  SERVICE DELIVERY TO PUBLIC

Karachi April 13: Sindh Minister for Information Ms. Shazia Marri has stressed upon all the civil servants to work honestly for the betterment of the province and ensure that every citizen is provided basic civic facilities without any discrimination.

        This She said while talking to media at Sindh Chief Minister’s Complaint cell at C.M. House today, where she spent busy hours to listen public complaints from all over the Sindh and ordered for the solution of these.

        Ms. Shazia Marri said that the present elected government focusing law &order and also striving to ensure visibly improved delivery of civic services to the common people for which the bureaucracy and functionaries of civic agencies have to play a great role. She said that the CM’s Complaint Cell is a great source for general public where everybody can lodge his/ her grievance and the Provincial Ministers, who sits in two shifts in rotation, take action to solve these public complaints.

        Ms. Shazia Marri also received complaints through telephone (numbers 919+080091915) and fax etc and contacted personally the concerned authorities for the solution of these. She asked the Secretary Education Sindh forthe availability of teachers of English and other subjects to The Government College for Women, Chand Bibi Road Eidgah. The Minister Information got complaint from a resident of Nausheroferoze that the School building of Government Boys Primary School, Haji Arab Ali Bhatti, has not been completed since last 3 years and 175 children are taking education under open sky. She immediately contacted DCO Nausheroferoze and directed him to ensure completion of school building.

        Ms. Shazia Marri also contacted Chief Engineer HESCO Mr. Nazir Ahmed Shaikh and referred him the complaint of non availability of electricity transformer to the residents of Bye – pass Moro, distt Nausheroferoze.        On this occasion, Ms. Marri also got complaints about Police, shortage of water, sewerage problems etc. from the residents of Karachi as well as from rest of Sindh and she contacted to the authorities concerned and ordered for the solution of these. HANDOUT NO: 335/2009(ZAS)

OPEN KATCHEHRIES POSTPONED

Karachi, April 13: Due to the forthcoming Assembly Session, the Chief Minister Sindh has ordered for the postponement of the scheduled of all open katcheries with in the province. However, a revised schedule will be issued at appropriate time. HANDOUT NO: 337/2009(SKY)
 

 MINISTER ENVIRONMENT ASKS ENGINEERS TO PREPARE FEASIBILITY FOR DESALINIZATION OF SEA WATER.

 Karachi, April 08: Sindh Minister for Environment and Alternate Energy, Mr. Askari Taqvi asked the engineers to assist entrepreneurs in preparing feasibility studies for desalinization of sea water through Solar Energyto meet water shortage in Karachi and also along the coast up to Keti Bander.

This he said while inaugurating 24th Multi Topic two-day symposium on“Self Reliance Need Of The Hour”. of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Pakistan (IEEEP) at a local hotel today.

He said that combination of Solar Energy and Wind Energy also need to be developed for large and small power generation plants in the Province. The programme of the Government includes the promotion of water desalinization

Techniques by pumping out underground brackish water and desalinizing it thereby making it fit for human consumption in those areas which are not commanded by the canal irrigation system, he added.

        Mr. Askari Taqvi said “we have to rely on our own resources. Our Engineering Universities are carrying out research and producing equipment for solar water desalinization and power generation. If foreign companies can plan the establishment of solar cell manufacturing plant in Saudi Arabia, there is no reason why we cannot secure this technology through public private participation and follow the technology and equity participation”. He said it is hard to believe that industrialists are unaware of the EPA and the rules and regulations made there under, but they don’t pay any heed to them. Many of industrialists do not even provide clean filtered water to their employees, he said.

He strongly urged KESC to seriously consider hiring barge – mounted power plants to solve the immediate need of power for Karachi. These barge –mounted power plants can be secured within weeks and inducted inthe grid system without any serious difficulty.

           Earlier, Engineer S.K. Pervez provided a hands-on knowledge and

experience of introducing both qualitative and quantitative ingredients of excellence of managing an engineering organization. Engineer Pervez said that the most important approach is a consistent “Self Assessment” of all the areas

such as leadership, people management, policy and Strategy, resources, processes, people satisfaction, customer satisfaction, impact on society and finally Business Results.

The Chairman IEEEP Karachi Centre Engineer Tapir Salem said that current efforts are not enough and we have to do more in self reliance. He requested the chief guest to enhance cooperation between the Government and Institution and Professional bodies. He said IEEEP Karachi Centre can contribute but it requires material and financial resources. In the two day symposium, there will be five technical sessions in which prominent speakers will address issues such as Electrical and Electronic Communication, Green Power, IT Advancement in electrical Engineering; solar Energy etc, besides there will also be a special session for students.HANDOUT NO: 312/2009(FZF) 

MINISTER HEALTH ASKS KESC TO SPARE HOSPITALS FROM LOAD SHEDDING 

Karachi, April 08: Sindh Minister for Health Dr. Sagheer Ahmed expressed grave concern over prolong periods of load shedding by KESC in hospitals and other health institutions creating hardship for the patients admitted there, and out door patients, coming for treatment. This he said while talking to various delegations of Karachites, who called on him at his office here today. Provincial Health Minister said that it was very astonishing that despite agitation from general public, KESC is not paying any heed towards the plight of the citizen. Due to the inept behavior of KESC, summers have arrived early in Karachi, he added.

He said that KESC, it seems, was deliberately ignoring the concerns of the masses of Karachi which is creating unrest and sense of deprivation amongst them, and as such their agitation was justified. He said due to the arrogant attitude of KESC, towards health institutions, operations are being delayed and mandatory treatment and tests are also not made in time. Life saving medicines are also at risk of becoming in-effective due to load shedding, he added. He said that KESC management should change its attitude and seriously think about enhancing their power supply resources. The management should also consider adopting alternate energy options including energy from solar source and the garbage, he opined. He said producing electricity from solar energy and garbage are feasible options, and if adopted by KESC, the citizens would feel a visible change in the power supply position.HANDOUT NO: 313/2009(MSK) 

WRITTEN TEST SCHEDULED FROM 14TH AND 15TH APRIL 2009 IN ALL THE DISTRICT OF SINDH 

Karachi, April 08: The spokesman of Local Government Department, Government of Sindh has said that the tests for the different posts ofBS-5 to BS-15 already been advertised by the Local Government Department are scheduled to be held on 14th & 15th April 2009 in all the districts of Sindh simultaneously.

        For any information candidates are required to contact District Officer (Monitoring & Evaluation), Local Government of the concerned district.HANDOUT NO: 314/2009(SKY) 

PROCURE BEST MEDICINES FOR FAMILY WELFARE CENTERS – MINISTER POPULATION DIRECTS DEPARTMENT

Karachi, April 07: Sindh Population Welfare Minister Jam Mehtab Hussain Dahar has asked officials of the Department to ensure that best medicines and services are provided to patient visiting Family Welfare Centres and RHA Centres working under the department. These directives he gave while presiding over the meeting of technical standardization committee of the department in the committee room of provincial head quarters here today. Jam Mehtab said that the department must procure such medicines which is of high quality for which no compromise be made and that the committee members should jointly receive the medicine supply from companies whose quotations have been approved by the committee before their distribution to various centres. He stated that some family welfare centres location is not appropriate and they need to be relocated besides their look being kept clean. Later the Minister along with Secretary of Department Mr. Muhammad Siddique Memon and other members of the committee thoroughly examined the quality of medicines being procured from 11 firms who had participated in the open tender and whose bids were opened by Tender Opening Committee for supply of medicines worth Rs.18,610,000/- (Rupees one crore eighty six lacs and ten thousand) for 586 family welfare centres, and 74 Reproductive Health Services Centre. The Committee members also decided to incorporate the indent of medicine for family welfare centres to be funded by Government of Sindh in order to increase the quantity of medicines of family welfare centres. The meeting was attended amongst others by Additional Secretary Medical, D.G. Population Welfare, Deputy Secretary (Administration); Deputy Secretary RHS/ PLD; Incharge Medical officers of RHA Centres of Jinnah, Civil Hospitals, Deputy Director Industries; Deputy Secretary Finance and other concerned officers. HANDOUT NO: 309/2009(IHB)  

SHAZIA MARRI STRONGLY CONDEMNS BOMB BLASTS IN CHAKWAL AND ISLAMABAD 

Karachi, April 05: Sindh Minister for Information Ms. Shazia Marri has strongly condemned the killing of innocent people in sue side attack in Imam Bargah of Chakwal on Sunday and in attack on FC Check-post in Islamabad.

Ms. Shazia Marri terming these acts against Islam, Pakistan and democracy said that the enemies of nation do not want the progress and prosperity of nation and they are trying to damage the country by targeting forces and innocent people. She said that the present government is taking all-out measures to combat terrorism and eradicate terrorists who are trying to creating unrest and damaging national interests. She said that the democratic government will succeed to overpower these social evils with the support of people of Pakistan.

Ms. Shazia Marri condoled with the families of those who lost their precious lives in these blasts and prayed for the early recovery and health of people injured in these bomb blasts.

HANDOUT NO: 303/2009(ZAS)

EPA CLARIFIES NEWS ITEM

Karachi, April 01: The spokesman of Environmental Protection Agency (epa) has clarified a news item appearing in a section of the press today about the death of four people in the Combined Effluent Treatment Plant at Korangi. The spokesman said that occupational safety and other rights of Workers, is not the domain of the Environmental Protection Agency, Sindh, and is infact looked after by another Government Department. However, the environmental concerns due to the treatment plant have a relevance with the EPA Sindh, and accordingly the Minister for Environment& Alternative Energy has directed the Director General, EPA to investigate into this incident and take actions as required under the Pakistan Environmental Protection Act, 1997, the spokesman added. HANDOUT NO: 288/2009(FZF) 

FURNITURE EXPORTERS ASSURED OF ALL POSSIBLE ASSISTANCE

Karachi, March 25, 2009: Sindh Minister for Information Ms. Shazia Marri has said that Pakistan is producing very high quality furniture and by promoting its export a huge capital can be earned for which the Government will provide all possible facilities to the Furniture producers and exporters. . This she said while talking to media after inaugurating a 5-day international exhibition “The Furniture Show-2009’ here at local hotel, today. Ms Marri said that she is surprised by seeing such type of international quality furniture and if we produce it at large level, we not only can earn a big foreign capital but through its expansion we can overcome the problem of unemployment. She said that furniture trade can provide backup to the growing economy of country and the Government will take all-out efforts to explore this sector. Ms. Shazia Marri said that power is a must for the economical development and when the present democratic took over it inherited many problems including the shortage of power. She said that the privatization of KESC was not done in a transparent manner which resulted present electricity shortage being witnessed by Karachiites in these days. Ms. Marri said that the President Asif Ali Zardari is very determined to address the problem of power shortage in country and in this regard many projects of power generation are under completion, thereafter the economy will get a new boost. Minister Information assured the Furniture exporters and producers of all possible support and said that the Government of Sindh will provide them all required assistance. She in this connection supported the suggestion of establishment of Furniture City in Karachi alongwith maximum possible arrangements of Furniture exhibitions so that this industry get due patronage at Government level and a sufficient foreign exchange is made available for national exchequer from its exports On this occasion the leaders of All Pakistan Furniture Exporters Association Mr. Humayun Laiq, Mr. Misbah-ul-Haq, Mr. Burhan Baig and others briefed Sindh Minister about the Furniture industry. HANDOUT NO: 258/2009(ZAS)