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Showing posts from December, 2024

Lawyers’ Sports Gala: Nangyal Zeb Wins Archery Gold

  Peshawar: The Peshawar Sports Complex was abuzz with activity as lawyers from Peshawar High Court participated in an archery competition. Organized in collaboration with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Archery Association, the event saw a remarkable turnout of 40 legal professionals. Sarah Khan, the secretary of the Archery Association, was present to grace the occasion. The results of the competition were as follows: Men's Archery: Nangyal Zeb clinched the first position, followed by Muhammad Sharif Khan in second, and Basit Khan in third. Women's Archery: Shakila Khalid secured the top spot, while Sabiha Iqbal came in second, and Sarah Ali claimed the third position. The organizer of the Lawyers' Sports Gala, Ajaz Ali Shah, expressed gratitude to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Archery Association for their support. #sports #gala #kpk #directorate #kikxnow #lawyer #kpkarchery #musarratullahjan #archery

KP Sports Directorate Faces Scrutiny Over Housing Details, Fails to Respond to RTI Request

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Sports Directorate has yet to respond to a Right to Information (RTI) request filed on August 20, 2024, under diary number 541. The request sought details about employees residing in the directorate's housing facilities, including their designations, tenure of residence, electricity and gas bill payments, and deductions for house rent. Additionally, the request inquired about the total number of residential quarters in the Peshawar Sports Complex, their year of construction, and the current duty stations of the employees living there. The matter was escalated to the KP Right to Information Commission, which has issued a notice to the Sports Directorate for their non-compliance. According to internal sources, several employees of the Sports Directorate are allegedly working in the homes of officers from other departments while still receiving their salaries from the directorate. Furthermore, multiple residential units have reportedly been constructe...

Peshawar Youth Programs Under Fire: Budget Mismanagement and Ineffective Implementation

    The District Youth Office, Peshawar, has organized numerous youth programs throughout the year, focusing on awareness and skill development. However, a deeper analysis of these programs reveals serious issues related to imbalanced budgeting, cost-cutting measures, and inefficient resource allocation. A report released by the Youth Office Peshawar highlights significant discrepancies in program expenditures. For instance, the Women's Week Expo held on September 19, 2024, incurred expenses of 485,000 rupees, far exceeding other programs. In contrast, events like the Monsoon Plantation Drive on July 24, 2024, and Youth Day on August 4, 2024, had budgets of only 40,000 and 50,000 rupees respectively. These disparities raise questions about resource allocation and the justification for such varying costs. Additionally, several programs between September and December 2024 have "bills pending," including key initiatives like the first training session on youth's ro...

Ghost Swimmers Haunt Quaid-e-Azam Games: Questions Arise Over KP's Female Swimming Contingent

  The recent Quaid-e-Azam Games have thrown up a curious case involving the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) female swimming contingent. A list submitted by the Provincial Sports Directorate to the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) raised eyebrows, as questions linger about the legitimacy of the swimmers included. People close to the swimming association team report that they do not know everything about this; only four female girls participated in the Quaid-e-Azam Games there. The main issue is a lack of transparency regarding selection and training of these athletes. Unknown Origins: The association boasts that they don't have much information about the swimmers in the list. Key details like their training history, coaches, and even their knowledge of swimming remain unknown. Who Approved These Names? It is also unclear as to how the selection of these swimmers happened. Who authorized them to join the KP team for the prestigious national games? The Daily Allowance Quagmire: As if the...

KP Dominates Junior National Badminton Championship Semi-Finals in Lahore

    The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) badminton team has achieved a historic feat at the Junior National Badminton Championship in Lahore, with all their players advancing to the finals across various age categories. In the Under-15 singles, Abdul Haseeb Khan and Rayan Khan secured their places in the finals after defeating their respective opponents from Punjab. Hamdullah Khalil continued the winning streak in the Under-17 singles, overcoming Ibadullah from Sindh. The Under-19 singles saw Hasher Shah emerge victorious against Tahir Sabhani of Punjab. This marks the first time in history that all KP players have reached the finals in this category. In the doubles competition, Muhammad Zaid and Najab Al-Saqib defeated their KP teammates Qari Umar and Hasher Shah in one semi-final. In the other, Fahad Ahmed and Hamdullah triumphed over Abdul Haseeb and Taimur Khan. The KP team is now poised to defend their titles in multiple categories, with the Under-15 singles and Under-...

KP Shines in Junior National Badminton Championship 2024 – All Players Reach Semi-Finals

  In a historic achievement, all players from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) have reached the semi-finals in the Junior National Badminton Championship 2024, held at the Gymnasium Hall of Nishter Park Sports Complex in Lahore. Over 250 boys and girls from across the country are competing in the Under-15, Under-17, and Under-19 categories. In the Under-15 Singles semi-finals, KP's Abdul Haseeb Khan defeated Punjab's Danish, and Ryan Khan beat Punjab's Zain Subhani. In the Under-17 Singles, Hamdullah Khaleel triumphed over KP's Najib Ul-Taqib. For the first time in history, all of KP's Under-19 players have reached the semi-finals. In the doubles quarter-finals, the teams of Muhammad Zaid & Najib Ul-Taqib defeated Abdullah Gujjar & Haider from Punjab, while Qari Umar & Hashir won against Sawal Shafiq & Junaid from Punjab. In the third quarter-final, Fahd Ahmed & Hamdullah Khaleel triumphed over Hamza Waseem & Zain Ul-Abidin from Punjab. Finally, i...

Swat Chief of army Staff Hockey Tournament: Mingora Triumphs Over Fateh Purah

  An exciting match was played in the second Chief of army Staff Hockey Tournament in Swat, where Swat Green Mingora and Swat Eleven Fateh Purah teams faced off. The match took place at the Swat Hockey Turf, where the Swat Green Mingora team delivered an outstanding performance, defeating Fateh Purah. Mingora’s team scored three brilliant goals, while Fateh Purah was only able to score two goals during the allotted time. The chief guest for the event was Mamoon Rashid, also known as Khay Saray, from the Fateh Purah Hockey Club, who introduced the players. Alongside him, Dr. Zafar Ali, President of the Swat Hockey Association, Malik Wadan, a representative of the association, and Advocate Nasir Ali Khan, the treasurer, were also present. This match was a memorable moment for Swat hockey, where the exceptional performance of the local players was highly appreciated. #SwatHockey #HockeyTournament #Mingora #FatehPurah #SwatEleven #HockeyPakistan #Swat

Student-Fraud Scheme: International Sports Fraud Swindles One Lakh Rupees from a Khyber Athlete

    In a worrisome trend of fake schemes aiming at gullible and young students willing to bet for opportunities abroad, a new fall guy, a teen-age athlete from Khyber, fell prey for promises of sporting in the lands of Romania. The sport scheme was actually disguised and used as an opportunity to give them the status of player to represent Pakistan at international levels student games; this will ultimately leave an athlete's career uncertain as well, after having gone through big loss financially. The athlete, whose hope of playing sports overseas was dashed, had paid a hefty sum of one lakh rupees under the false pretense of being selected for sports events in Romania. The money was handed over to a contact based in Karachi, who, according to the athlete, had connections to prominent figures in the sports world. The situation started with the approach by a figure known in the sports circles, who told the athlete that he had already arranged for a slot for them to compe...

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Youth Hostel Workers Face Pay Discrepancy

    Peshawar: A recent report has revealed a discrepancy in the salaries of employees working at youth hostels in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's picturesque Naran region. Despite the Labor Department stipulating a monthly salary of PKR 36,000 for such positions, employees at the Batakundi Youth Hostel are reportedly receiving only PKR 30,000. The Directorate of Youth Affairs has taken over the management of two major youth hostels, Batakundi and Chapra, in a bid to enhance youth tourism and recreational activities in the province. While the move is seen as a positive step towards improving facilities for young travelers, the issue of underpayment has raised concerns. The Batakundi Youth Hostel, which employs 16 permanent staff members, has been allocated a substantial budget of PKR 2 million for the fiscal year 2024-2025. This allocation is attributed to the hostel's increasing popularity, with earnings expected to reach PKR 1.2 million in the current fiscal year, a significant in...

RTI Uncovers Quaid-e-Azam Games Funding Allegations of Irregularities

    Peshawar: A local journalist's Right to Information application has unmasked alleged irregularities in the disbursement and expenditure of funds allocated for the Quaid-e-Azam Games in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The applicant has filed an RTI with the Sports Directorate seeking comprehensive information regarding the distribution of funds and athlete preparation for the prestigious sporting event. The RTI has requested specific information in regard to the total amount provided for men's teams as well as how these allocations were further divided into funds for various sports. Furthermore, the applicant has sought information in regards to funds allocated for the training camps, including detailed breakdowns of funds on equipment as well as information on contractors involved in that process. The journalist has also demanded the details regarding the openness of the procurement process and receipt availability. The RTI also requests information on total funds allocated for ...

Hero Awards 2023: A Case of Mismanagement and Neglect at KP Sports Directorate

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Sports Directorate has  been   criticized   for its gross mismanagement and questionable practices  regarding  the Hero Awards 2023.  More   than  a year has  elapsed  since the directorate signed a contract with a contractor to organize the awards,  but  the event  is   still  in limbo, leaving athletes and stakeholders disillusioned. In   contrast,   the   Sports   Directorate was allocated a huge amount,  and  an advance payment to the contractor   was   made   without   any   result . Sources  inside  the department  have   confirmed  that no concrete updates or timelines have been provided,  adding   fuel   to the  speculation  that   the   finances are not in order . Adding to the controversy, the  selection  criteria for  the  awardees...

KP Government to Reward Medalists at Quaid-e-Azam Games 2024 in Grand Ceremony

  The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has announced exciting news for athletes who participated in the Quaid-e-Azam Games 2024, with a prize distribution ceremony scheduled for next week. The event, which will honor the winners of the recently concluded games, is set to take place on Tuesday, December 24, 2024, at 2:00 PM at the Arena Sports Directorate. The government will reward athletes who clinched medals in both individual and team events, with a generous cash prize scheme aimed at encouraging sportsmanship and fostering a competitive spirit. According to sources from the Sports Directorate, the following prizes will be awarded: Individual Games: Gold Medalists: PKR 50,000 Silver Medalists: PKR 30,000 Bronze Medalists: PKR 20,000 Team Events: Gold Medalists: PKR 100,000 Silver Medalists: PKR 50,000 Bronze Medalists: PKR 30,000 The event will be graced by prominent officials, including the Minister of Sports, Syed Fakhar Jahan, Secretary of Sports, the Di...

Mahnoor Ali Makes History as First Pakistani Female Squash Player to Win Gold in US Junior Open

  Peshawar: In a groundbreaking achievement, Mahnoor Ali has brought immense pride to Pakistan by becoming the first Pakistani female squash player to secure a gold medal at the prestigious US Junior Open 2024. Competing in the U-13 category, Mahnoor's historic victory came after defeating Egypt's Linda Alsyed in a thrilling four-set final. The match, held at the Arlen Specter US Squash Center, showcased Mahnoor’s exceptional talent and determination. She won with a final scoreline of 3-1 (11/8, 12/10, 6/11, 11/6), capturing the hearts of fans back home and inspiring young athletes across the nation. This victory marks a significant milestone for Pakistan, which has a rich history in squash but has long awaited recognition in the female category on international platforms. Mahnoor’s achievement not only reflects her dedication but also shines a spotlight on the potential of female athletes in the country. Speaking after her win, Mahnoor said: "This is a dream come tr...

Mystery Appointment: Questions Raised Over Additional Charge Given Before Official Joining in KP Sports Directorate

  In a controversial move, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Sports Directorate granted Mr. Shah Fazil (PPS) the additional charge of Director of Development on August 1, 2023 , even though official records show he assumed his responsibilities in the directorate on August 2, 2023 . This irregularity raises questions about procedural violations and governance issues within the Youth Affairs Department. Details of the Events Order Issued on August 1, 2023 : An official notification (No. DG/Sports/Admin/2023-24) was issued by the Director General of the Sports Directorate, assigning Mr. Fazil the additional charge. Joining Date : According to departmental records, Mr. Fazil officially joined the Sports Directorate on August 2, 2023 , a day after the additional charge was granted. Legal and Administrative Concerns 1. Overstepping of Authority KP’s administrative appointment policies clearly state that only the Secretary of Sports has the authority to appro...

"Sports Directorate KP: Office Space Shortage Sparks Controversy Amid Project Mismanagement"

  The Sports Directorate of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a pivotal government department tasked with promoting sports and physical activities, finds itself in a dire space shortage crisis. With a significant role in fostering athletic development, the Directorate is now forced to share its already limited office space with staff from other projects, leading to operational inefficiencies and concerns over resource allocation. The controversy stems from the Project Director's decision to rent office space within the Directorate's premises to accommodate staff from two major development projects: the Kohat Development Authority and the "1,000 Sports Facilities Project." For the past four months, the second floor of the Provincial Sports Directorate in Peshawar has served as a makeshift workspace for both projects, alongside the Sports Directorate for merged districts. However, this arrangement has displaced many employees, leaving them unable to work effectively due to the lack...

KP Sports Directorate facing Space crunch while giving Offices for Rental to Kohat Development Authority

  Peshawar, The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Sports Directorate that was to help the province meet sports goals is itself short of the same by dint of its short working area. Ironically enough, during the times when it suffers this acute crunch for offices, space in its very own office building has been allowed on rent to Kohat Development Authority. According to sources, KDA would pay Rs. 200,000 as a monthly rent to the Sports Directorate; this amount is apparently sourced from a KDA project fund. This deal speaks for the priorities and the practices of the management of the Sports Directorate, which, at this point, does not even provide enough seating arrangements for its officers, including those who will take care of sports activities in the merged districts. Adding to the controversy is Shah Fazil, Project Director of the ambitious "1000 Sports Facilities Project", who has been entrusted with more responsibilities within the Directorate in the last six months. Despite the ser...

Peshawarite Umpire Returns Home after Successful Stint in China

    Haroon-ul-Rashid Shabi, an international hockey umpire hailing from Peshawar's Civil Quarter, has returned home after successfully officiating in the recent hockey league held in China. The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) had nominated Shabi for this prestigious assignment following a request from the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF). His selection is a testament to his exceptional skills and dedication to the sport. Shabi's successful stint in China has brought pride to Pakistan and highlighted the talent emerging from the city of Peshawar. His achievement inspires young hockey enthusiasts and underscores the growing recognition of Pakistani officials on the global stage. #AHF #PHF #Pakistan #Peshawar #Proud #KIKXNOW #Hockey #Umpire