Latest news with #Karachi-based
India.com
9 minutes ago
- Business
- India.com
Trading With The ‘Enemy'? Pakistan's India Imports Soar As China Exports Crash, Exposing Diplomatic Double Game
New Delhi: The flags may not fly at borders, but the numbers tell another story. In finance corridors of Islamabad, a spreadsheet has been making rounds, one that shows something few expected this year. Despite frozen ties and public outrage, Pakistan imported more goods from India in FY25 than in any year since the 2019 fallout. The value? A sharp $220.58 million worth of goods crossed into Pakistan from across the eastern border. Last year, it was slightly lower, $206.89 million. The year before that, it was at $190.04 million. The numbers are rising, and few in the ministries are willing to speak openly about it. 'People assume trade with India is dead. It's not. It has moved underground into the technicalities. You can suspend official channels. You can block trucks. But you cannot stop market demand,' said a former trade official on condition of anonymity. Pakistan's exports to India, on the other hand, barely moved. Only $1.43 million worth of Pakistani goods went across this year. That imbalance, over $200 million in favour of India, was not only an anomaly. It became a pattern in a broader regional crisis. The total trade deficit with nine neighbouring countries hit $12.297 billion by June 2025. Last year, it was $9.502 billion. The surge of 29.42 percent is no rounding error. And neither is the trend behind it. Even a year earlier, the signs were there. FY24's regional deficit had ballooned 49 percent from $6.382 billion the year before. Officials cited higher imports from China, India and Bangladesh as the main reason. That explanation has not changed. What has changed is the degree. Imports from these neighbours, combined, climbed to $16.698 billion in FY25. The previous year, that number stood at $13.838 billion. Meanwhile, exports to these same countries barely crept up. $4.401 billion worth of Pakistani goods were exported to nine regional countries in FY25. Last year, it was $4.336 billion. The difference is not only numerical but also political. 'We are buying more than we sell. We are importing where we should be producing. That is a national weakness,' said a former Ministry of Commerce advisor. Pakistan's largest trade partner, China sits at the centre of this imbalance. Imports from Beijing alone hit $16.312 billion in FY25. The year before, it was $13.504 billion. And in FY23? Just $9.662 billion. It is a trend climbing faster than any manufacturing recovery in Pakistan can match. At the same time, Pakistan's exports to China have begun slipping. In FY25, the country shipped only $2.476 billion worth of goods to its largest economic ally. Last year, it was $2.709 billion. The drop of 8.6 percent may seem small, but inside Pakistan's trade community, it has sounded quiet alarms. 'China's demand is shifting. They are looking elsewhere for cotton, seafood and electronics. We cannot keep relying on the same export mix,' said a Karachi-based exporter who deals in bulk seafood shipments to Guangdong. Elsewhere, there is some relief. Pakistan's exports to Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka have shown signs of life in FY25. Those markets, long overlooked, are absorbing more Pakistani goods this year. But the volume is not enough to cover the yawning deficit with Beijing or the flow from New Delhi. Nine neighbours – Afghanistan, China, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, India, Iran, Nepal, Bhutan and the Maldives – make up the region. And in all, Pakistan's trade gap with them is an economic issue and becoming political currency in a country still struggling to exit an International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout cycle and a fragile post-election coalition. The numbers do not lie. And neither does the silence. Behind closed doors in Islamabad, the murmurs are growing louder. Pakistan is losing not only dollars but leverage, market access and in many cases, public trust. And as trade with India rebounds behind the scenes and China pulls the ladder higher with every passing year, a question begins to form in the markets – how much longer can Pakistan afford to import its way out of this crisis?
Time of India
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
When Ram met Raavan in Karachi: Ramayana takes the centre-stage in Pakistan for the first time ever
In a groundbreaking moment for South Asian theatre , Ramayana —the Hindu epic—was performed for the first time in Pakistan, premiering on July 11 at the Arts Council of Pakistan in Karachi, reported TOI. Directed by 30-year-old Yogeshwar Karera , the production featured an all-Muslim cast (except for the director), cutting-edge use of AI, and a sold-out show of around 1,000 tickets—despite ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan. Explore courses from Top Institutes in Select a Course Category Finance Project Management Cybersecurity Operations Management MBA others Technology PGDM Public Policy Data Analytics Data Science MCA Management Leadership Design Thinking Artificial Intelligence Digital Marketing Degree Others Healthcare CXO healthcare Product Management Data Science Skills you'll gain: Duration: 9 Months IIM Calcutta SEPO - IIMC CFO India Starts on undefined Get Details Skills you'll gain: Duration: 7 Months S P Jain Institute of Management and Research CERT-SPJIMR Fintech & Blockchain India Starts on undefined Get Details A Bold Debut for a Beloved Epic Karera, a finance graduate-turned-theatre director, launched the play under the banner of Mauj Collective , a Karachi-based theatre group he co-founded just a year ago. 'We didn't anticipate this level of enthusiasm,' Karera admitted, referring to the warm reception from audiences and the cross-border curiosity it generated. Rather than stir controversy, the show sparked admiration. According to the report, the team also promoted the play with a clever twist: a social media video featuring light-hearted, imaginative questions like 'If Ram could tweet from the forest, what would he say?' and 'If Raavan gave a TED Talk, what would its title be?' The video went viral, adding buzz in the lead-up to the premiere. Live Events Breaking Boundaries, Not Just With Storytelling While the Hindu epic might be seen as a religiously sensitive choice in Pakistan, the cast and crew say they encountered no resistance. 'Nobody questioned our decision—not the sponsors, not the venues,' said Raana Kazmi, who co-founded Mauj Collective and played the role of Sita. 'It only came up when the media asked. People from all walks of life came to see it—students, families, seniors. A friend even shared how a parent explained each scene to their child during the show.' Karera's childhood fascination with the Ramayana began with watching Ramanand Sagar's televised version on Doordarshan, TOI further reported. 'Even though I'm not from the religious community it's rooted in, the story always felt like mine. It's part of our subcontinental culture, and its values are universal,' he said. Faithful Storytelling Meets Karachi Culture To bridge cultural and linguistic gaps, the team modified a few Sanskrit and Hindi terms to ones more familiar to Karachi audiences. Words like prakriti became kudrat . These adjustments occasionally led to on-stage hiccups, said TOI. 'In one scene, Hanuman gives me a ring, and I know the word anguthi . But one day, Jibran (who played Hanuman) said 'mundrika,' and I just froze,' Kazmi laughed, recalling the confusion. 'I had no idea what a mundrika was supposed to be.' Ashmal Lalwany, who played Ram, echoed the belief that the story felt organically theirs to tell. 'It was never about messaging or politics. We weren't trying to say anything profound—we were just telling a story that belongs to this land.' With strong performances, modern tech, and a fearless reinterpretation of a cultural classic, Mauj Collective's Ramayana not only entertained—it made history.
Express Tribune
6 days ago
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Education divide
Listen to article Recent results from the NED University aptitude test have laid bare the academic inequalities that exist within Sindh. While Karachi-based students, particularly those from the Board of Intermediate Education Karachi, performed relatively well — with only 23.4% failing — the majority of students from boards outside Karachi struggled to clear the test. The failure rate for these boards exceeded 54%, despite the fact that most candidates were high-achieving A-graders in their intermediate examinations. This glaring disparity is an indication of a deep-rooted educational divide between urban centres and the rest of the province. Karachi's students often benefit from access to well-resourced colleges and private tuition centres. In contrast, students from interior Sindh face poor teaching standards and limited facilities. Moreover, their long travel to the test centres in Karachi not only adds stress and fatigue but also symbolises the broader structural disadvantages they endure. Even more troubling is what the results suggest about the credibility of the grading systems in different educational boards. If students scoring top marks in their intermediate exams fail to pass a university entrance test, it raises questions about the standards of assessment and the authenticity of those grades. Are students truly being taught, or merely passed through the system? This is a policy failure that needs urgent attention. Provincial education authorities must recognise that the current system is breeding inequality. Reform should begin with revised evaluation systems across all boards to ensure academic rigour and comparability. Investment must also be directed toward improving school infrastructure and curriculum quality in rural and peri-urban districts. A truly inclusive higher education system cannot be built on such uneven foundations. Without meaningful reforms, the education divide will continue to rob thousands of students of their potential simply because of where they were born.
News18
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- News18
A Cultural Triumph In Karachi: Mauj Theatre's Ramayana Blends Tradition, Technology, And Tolerance
Last Updated: By staging the Ramayana, Mauj has reclaimed a forgotten cultural symbiosis and boldly challenged the notion that Pakistani identity is divorced from Indic civilisational heritage In an extraordinary fusion of classical heritage, cutting-edge technology, and cross-cultural dialogue, Karachi-based Mauj Theatre Group has made history by staging the Hindu epic Ramayana at the Karachi Arts Council from July 11 to 13, 2025. Directed by Yogeshwar Karera and produced by Rana Kazmi, this visually stunning and emotionally resonant performance not only pushed the boundaries of South Asian theatre—it also rekindled crucial conversations around shared heritage, pluralism, and religious harmony in the subcontinent. At a time when cross-border narratives are often marred by hostility and polarisation, Mauj's courageous decision to adapt the Ramayana—a cornerstone of Hindu tradition—has emerged as a profound act of cultural diplomacy and collective healing. Composed by sage Valmiki thousands of years ago, the Ramayana is more than just a Hindu scripture—it is a civilisational epic revered across South and Southeast Asia. Its themes of dharma (duty), exile, sacrifice, and the triumph of good over evil echo across religious boundaries, including Buddhist, Jain, Sikh, and Sufi Islamic traditions. Though often seen through a religious lens, the Ramayana is fundamentally a universal tale of human struggle, ethical conflict, and moral resolution. Director Yogeshwar Karera aptly noted, 'To me, bringing the Ramayana to life on stage is not just a performance—it's a statement that Pakistani society is more pluralistic, tolerant, and inclusive than it is often portrayed to be." This production carries added significance in Karachi, a city once known for its vibrant Hindu-Muslim coexistence before the trauma of Partition. By staging the Ramayana, Mauj has reclaimed a forgotten cultural symbiosis and boldly challenged the notion that Pakistani identity is divorced from Indic civilisational heritage. Even Allama Iqbal, Pakistan's national poet, acknowledged the ethical grandeur of Lord Rama, referring to him as 'Imam-ul-Hind"—a moral exemplar for all South Asians, irrespective of religious identity. AI Meets Epic: A Visual Feast for the Digital Age One of the most captivating elements of Mauj's Ramayana was its pioneering integration of artificial intelligence to create a deeply immersive experience. AI-generated visuals—from golden palaces and floating mountains to enchanted forests and flying chariots—transported the audience into the world of ancient mythology through futuristic storytelling tools. Combining interactive projections, digital scenography, dynamic lighting, and live music, the team crafted a performance that felt both timeless and modern. Critic Omair Alavi lauded the show as 'a top-class production that balances digital sophistication with deep emotional storytelling". The cast brought the epic's characters to life with grace and depth: Aamir Ali as Raja Dashrath Waqas Akhtar as Laxman Jibran Khan as Hanuman Sana Toaha as Rani Kaikeyi Ali Sher as Abhimantri Rana Kazmi in a powerful gender-reversal role as Sita Adding to the magic was Monica Ahmed, whose live vocals imbued the performance with spiritual resonance. Producer Rana Kazmi described it as 'a living, breathing tapestry of sound, visuals, and sentiment". Bridging Faiths Through the Power of Art In a Muslim-majority country where staging a Hindu epic could be viewed as controversial, Mauj's Ramayana was met not with resistance but with overwhelming public appreciation. The production defied stereotypes and offered a profound affirmation of cultural coexistence. Yogeshwar Karera, confident in the people's understanding, remarked, 'I never feared backlash because I believe in the intelligence and heart of the people." His belief was validated by standing ovations, viral praise, and endorsements across religious lines. One post on X captured the moment perfectly: 'In Karachi—a city of lost diversity—Pakistani artists brought the Ramayana to life. Enhanced by AI, this was not just theatre; it was a prayer for unity in a fragmented region." Equally significant is how the play redefined patriotism. Rather than viewing the Ramayana as an 'Indian" or 'foreign" text, Mauj presented it as part of a shared subcontinental heritage that predates the India-Pakistan divide. In their hands, the Ramayana became a symbol of cultural continuity and unity, not conflict. From Karachi to the World: A Growing Cultural Movement This wasn't Mauj's first encounter with the Ramayana. An earlier version was staged in November 2024 at The Second Floor (T2F) in Karachi. But the July 2025 production—with upgraded technology, greater visibility, and wider acclaim—marked a major artistic leap. Co-hosted by SOVAPA (School of Visual and Performing Arts), the play's Instagram highlights drew widespread attention and admiration. As of now, cultural institutions across Pakistan are showing interest in hosting the production, sparking talks of a national tour. A Vision for the Subcontinent's Shared Future In a region long divided by political disputes and historical trauma, Mauj Theatre's Ramayana stands as a shining example of unity through culture. It is a gentle but powerful reminder that art can bridge even the deepest divides, reviving empathy, dialogue, and mutual respect across borders. As the curtain fell to thunderous applause on July 13, audiences in Karachi knew they had witnessed something truly historic. More than just a play, it was a reaffirmation of South Asia's composite identity, told through the eyes of today's artists and powered by the tools of tomorrow. 'Where There is Dharma, There is Victory' By staging the Ramayana with integrity, innovation, and inclusivity, Mauj Theatre has not only elevated Pakistani theatre to new heights but has also helped reopen a vital cultural dialogue between India and Pakistan. In an era of deepening division, Lord Rama—embodiment of truth, compassion, and justice—can serve as a shared symbol of peace for the entire Indian subcontinent. As a writer and cultural worker, I offer one sincere suggestion: the Government of India should consider inviting Mauj Theatre to perform this Ramayana on Indian soil, perhaps during Dussehra festivities or on the occasion of Ram Navami. Such an invitation would not only recognise the artistic excellence of our Pakistani counterparts but also celebrate our common cultural heritage, our shared language, and the moral figure of Ram, who remains an ideal for billions across borders. top videos View all Let this artistic gesture become a bridge of understanding, reminding us that long before lines were drawn on maps, our stories were always woven. Shariq Adeeb Ansari is the national working president of the All India Pasmanda Muslim Mahaz. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18's views. tags : ai pakistan Ramayana view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: July 17, 2025, 19:15 IST News opinion Opinion | A Cultural Triumph In Karachi: Mauj Theatre's Ramayana Blends Tradition, Technology, And Tolerance Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
India.com
13-07-2025
- Business
- India.com
Russia Backs Pakistan's Rusting Pride – And Sends A Message To India
Moscow/New Delhi: In a move that is bound to stir concern in New Delhi, Russia has formally signed a new industrial cooperation agreement with Pakistan – a revival attempt of the long-defunct Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM) in Karachi. Described as a protocol of cooperation, the pact was signed at the Pakistani Embassy in Moscow and promises to restart and expand steel production at a facility that was once the pride of Soviet-Pakistani engineering. This deal marks a new chapter in a forgotten story – one that began more than half a century ago. Back in 1971, it was the Soviet Union that helped lay the foundation of Pakistan's largest industrial complex. Today, after decades of neglect, a trail of mounting losses and shifting political winds, Russia is circling back to finish what it once started. 'This revival, with Russia's help, is more than a business deal. It reflects our shared industrial history and a future we want to build together,' said Pakistan Prime Minister's Special Assistant Haroon Akhtar Khan during his Moscow visit. According to Pakistan's national news agency APP, the signing ceremony also reaffirmed the 'long-standing industrial partnership' between the two nations. The objective is to bring the Karachi-based steel plant back to life and boost its output, possibly restoring thousands of lost jobs and reigniting a sector that has remained idle for far too long. Also In The Race, But Left Behind For months, China too was eyeing the same prize. When Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government decided to restart the revival efforts in 2018, it first engaged a Chinese firm for negotiations. However, the talks hit a dead end. The Chinese bid faded, but the Russians, perhaps driven by nostalgia and ownership of the project's origins, never stopped knocking. Russia insisted it was the only logical choice to resuscitate the steel plant it once designed. The Kremlin saw itself not as an outsider but as a returning builder – one who knew the bones of the structure better than anyone else. A Ruin Built From Decay And Delay Once a symbol of industrial ambition, the PSM began its steep descent in 2008. Losses piled up after a slew of politically motivated hirings, combined with the blowback of the global financial crisis. By the end of the 2008-09 fiscal year, the plant had already sunk into a deficit of nearly 17 billion Pakistani rupees. That number ballooned over the next five years, touching 118.7 billion. Even as successive governments, first under the Pakistan's People's Party and later the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz), watched the unit bleed. There was no coordinated effort to stop the rot. President Pervez Musharraf's regime had once seen the plant report profits of over 9.5 billion rupees in 2007-08. A decade later, by May 31, 2018, it had sunk to a terrifying 200 billion-rupee hole. The PTI came with promises of revival. What followed was a silent bidding war between Russia and China for control of the broken machine. This new agreement finally puts Moscow in the driver's seat. The Express Tribune reports that Pakistan now hopes this Russian-backed turnaround will not only rescue an industrial dinosaur but also breathe new life into a crucial sector of its crippled economy. Russia, too, appears eager to re-establish its economic footprint in South Asia, starting with steel, in a country once deeply aligned with the United States but now visibly drifting toward Moscow and Beijing.
