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ABHI Microfinance Bank reports highest-ever profit of over Rs. 1 billion in 2025
Pakistan

ABHI Microfinance Bank reports highest-ever profit of over Rs. 1 billion in 2025

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KARACHI: ABHI Microfinance Bank Limited closed 2025 with a profit after tax of Rs 1.019 billion—the highest ever in the bank’s history, compared to a loss after tax of Rs 1.754 billion in 2024, marking a sharp recovery in the bank’s financial performance leading to a Rs. 2.773 billion profitability swing in just one year after many years of losses. It is noteworthy that the bank had last been profitable in 2020. The improvement came on the back of stronger balance sheet growth, higher income generation, improved recoveries, tighter credit monitoring, and better cost discipline during the year. The bank’s total assets increased to Rs 77.066 billion, compared to Rs 40.353 billion in 2024 primarily due to a significant expansion in advances, which nearly doubled to Rs 37.556 billion from Rs 18.387 billion a year earlier, translating to a percentage increase of 104.25%. The increase in the loan book was fueled by a healthy increase in deposits, rising to Rs 69.088 billion from Rs 36.226 billion in 2024 which is a percentage increase of 90.71%. This helped strengthen the bank’s funding base and supported liquidity during a year in which the broader microfinance sector continued to operate in a challenging credit and inflationary environment. The bank’s revenue profile strengthened significantly in 2025, with total revenue rising to Rs 14.25 billion from Rs 9.461 billion in 2024, reflecting a robust increase of 50.66%. Asset quality remained a key area of focus. The bank also reported a significant reduction in credit losses with NPL ratio reducing significantly to 0.68% in 2025. On the capital side, sponsor support and capital injection and organic profitability significantly helped improve the bank’s equity position. The year also saw continued investment in governance, compliance, risk management, and internal controls. The bank strengthened internal audit coverage, compliance monitoring, AML/CFT frameworks, and regulatory alignment. These measures were aimed at improving operating discipline and supporting sustainable growth rather than short-term expansion. Digital banking remained an important part of the Bank’s forward strategy. During the year, the bank expanded its focus on digital lending, merchant financing, Earned Wage Access, automation, and technology-led customer access. Further investment in technology will continue in the coming years. With stronger profitability, higher assets, improved deposits, expanded advances, better recoveries, and continued focus on digital capability, ABHI Microfinance Bank ended 2025 with a materially stronger financial and operational position after many years.

Just 14% of Rs4 Trillion by Pakistan’s Mutual Funds Invested in PSX
Pakistan

Just 14% of Rs4 Trillion by Pakistan’s Mutual Funds Invested in PSX

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Pakistan’s mutual fund industry has grown rapidly, crossing Rs4 trillion in assets under management (AUM) by late 2025. However, this impressive expansion has largely bypassed the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), raising concerns about the depth and long-term growth of the country’s capital markets. According to data shared by the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry, only 14% of mutual fund assets are currently invested in equities. Nearly half of the total AUM is concentrated in money market funds, reflecting a strong investor preference for low-risk instruments. This heavy allocation toward fixed-income products highlights the risk-averse mindset of Pakistani investors. Many continue to favor safer options such as Treasury Bills (T-bills), Pakistan Investment Bonds (PIBs), and Sukuk instead of taking exposure to the volatility of the stock market. Sana Tawfiq, Research Head at Arif Habib Limited, noted that out of nearly Rs4 trillion in industry assets, only a small portion actually supports the equity market, while the majority remains parked in highly liquid and secure instruments. The industry also experienced significant pressure between December 2024 and June 2025, when mutual funds witnessed outflows of approximately Rs384 billion. Investors rushed to withdraw funds amid economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions. HBL Asset Management alone lost around 23% of its AUM within six months. Such large-scale withdrawals force fund managers to quickly liquidate holdings, creating additional pressure on the market. Muhammad Shahroz of Insight Securities explained that panic redemptions are common during market corrections. These redemptions compel fund managers to sell assets rapidly, resulting in higher transaction costs that ultimately affect all unit holders. To address this issue, the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has proposed introducing swing pricing. Swing pricing is designed to ensure that investors exiting a fund bear the transaction costs associated with their withdrawals, instead of passing those costs on to long-term investors. Experts believe this mechanism, already widely used in developed markets, can discourage short-term panic selling and provide greater protection to committed investors during periods of volatility. The Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry has recommended careful implementation of the mechanism. Suggestions include category-specific thresholds and exemptions for retail Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) investors. Industry experts also emphasize that fund managers should disclose swing factors immediately at the time of transactions. Greater transparency, they argue, could help improve investor confidence and trust in the mutual fund sector. Despite the strong growth of Pakistan’s mutual fund industry since 2019, the low 14% allocation to equities underscores deeper structural challenges. The country’s capital market remains relatively shallow and highly sensitive to investor outflows. Encouraging greater participation in equities could improve PSX liquidity, strengthen market depth, and support broader economic growth. However, shifting investor behavior from a safety-first approach toward a more balanced risk strategy is likely to take time.

India Bans Public Eid ul Adha Prayers, Spark Concerns Over Religious Freedom
Pakistan

India Bans Public Eid ul Adha Prayers, Spark Concerns Over Religious Freedom

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Eid ul Adha restrictions in India have triggered debate and concern after authorities in several Indian states imposed strict rules on animal sacrifice, public prayers, and meat sales ahead of the Muslim festival. The latest measures, introduced mainly in Uttar Pradesh and Delhi, have drawn criticism from rights observers and members of the Muslim community who say the restrictions target Islamic religious practices during one of the most important festivals in Islam. As Muslims across India prepare to celebrate Eid ul Adha, authorities in different regions announced tighter controls on religious activities linked to the festival. The moves come at a time when concerns over religious freedom and minority rights continue to grow in the country. Yogi Adityanath Orders Strict Enforcement Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath instructed officials to strictly enforce restrictions related to Eid celebrations. According to Indian media reports, Adityanath chaired a high level law and order meeting through video conference and directed district administrations to ensure full compliance with government rules. The chief minister ordered that animal sacrifices should only take place at pre designated sites approved by local authorities. He also warned officials not to allow any new traditions during the festival period. Authorities further prohibited Eid prayers on roads and public spaces. Adityanath said Muslims should offer namaz only at traditional and designated prayer locations. He instructed officials not to grant permission for road blockades for Eid prayers under any circumstances. The Uttar Pradesh administration also intensified monitoring around slaughterhouses and meat markets. Officials were directed to take action against illegal slaughter activities and maintain restrictions on open meat sales during the festival. Police and local administrations increased security measures in sensitive areas. Authorities also conducted flag marches and expanded patrols around mosques and religious sites before Eid ul Adha. Delhi Authorities Warn of Strict Action In Delhi, minister Kapil Mishra warned of strict action against illegal animal transportation and unauthorised slaughter activities. During a review meeting with officials, Mishra instructed authorities to permit sacrifices only at officially approved locations. He said the measures were necessary to ensure hygiene standards and compliance with legal requirements. Delhi authorities also announced plans to closely monitor animal transport routes and slaughter points during Eid celebrations. The latest announcements added to concerns among Muslims who believe authorities are imposing increasing restrictions on religious activities connected to Islamic festivals. Concerns Over Religious Freedom Human rights observers and activists have repeatedly raised concerns about restrictions imposed on Muslim religious practices in different Indian states. Critics argue that rules targeting animal sacrifice and public prayers disproportionately affect the Muslim community. Several Muslim organisations expressed concern over the growing scrutiny surrounding Eid ul Adha celebrations. Community leaders said authorities should facilitate peaceful religious observances instead of creating fear and pressure during the festival. Eid ul Adha holds deep religious significance for Muslims around the world. The festival commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim AS to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah before God replaced the sacrifice with a ram. Muslims traditionally observe the occasion by sacrificing animals such as goats, cows, camels, and sheep. Families distribute the meat among relatives, friends, and poor communities as part of the religious practice. The festival also includes special congregational prayers, family gatherings, and charitable activities. Growing Debate in India The issue of cow slaughter remains highly sensitive in India. Several Indian states already enforce strict laws against cow slaughter due to religious and political reasons linked to the Hindu majority population. However, critics argue that recent measures have increasingly affected Muslim communities and intensified religious tensions. Political analysts say restrictions related to Eid ul Adha have become part of a broader national debate about minority rights and religious freedoms in India. The administration led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party has often faced criticism from international rights groups over policies affecting Muslims and other minorities. Supporters of the restrictions argue that authorities are enforcing existing laws and maintaining public order during religious events. Government officials insist the measures aim to prevent illegal slaughter activities and ensure cleanliness and security. Despite official explanations, the latest Eid ul Adha restrictions in India have renewed discussions about religious tolerance and equal treatment of minority communities. With Eid celebrations approaching, security remains high across several Indian states as authorities continue to monitor religious gatherings, slaughter activities, and public events linked to the festival.

Karachi Chamber announces Eid-ul-Azha Holidays from May 26 to 29
Pakistan

Karachi Chamber announces Eid-ul-Azha Holidays from May 26 to 29

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KARACHI: The Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry has announced Eid-ul-Azha holidays for all its employees from Tuesday, May 26, 2026 to Friday, May 29, 2026 on the auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Azha.During the holiday period, all offices and departments of KCCI shall remain closed. The Chamber will resume its normal business operations on Saturday, May 30, 2026. President KCCI Rehan Hanif extended warm Eid greetings to the business and industrial community, members of the Chamber, and the entire nation. He prayed that Eid-ul-Azha brings peace, prosperity, unity, and economic stability to the country. He also urged the business community and citizens to celebrate Eid with simplicity, compassion, and a spirit of sacrifice while remembering the underprivileged segments of society.

Pakistan UK Economic Reforms Enter New Phase with Strong British Support
Pakistan

Pakistan UK Economic Reforms Enter New Phase with Strong British Support

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Pakistan UK Economic Reforms are once again in the spotlight after Islamabad and London reaffirmed their commitment to deepening economic and institutional cooperation during a high-level meeting in Islamabad. Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb met British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott at the Finance Division, where both sides discussed Pakistan’s fragile but improving economy, ongoing reforms, and rising geopolitical pressures affecting global markets. The meeting comes at a crucial time when Pakistan is navigating economic uncertainty, volatile energy prices, and pressure on global supply chains. However, government officials insist the country is gradually stabilizing after months of difficult economic adjustments. Pakistan UK Economic Reforms Focus on Stability and Investor Confidence During the talks, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb highlighted what he described as encouraging economic signals emerging from Pakistan’s economy. According to the finance minister, the government has managed to improve several key indicators, including external account stability, stronger remittance inflows, and improving investor sentiment. These developments are being presented as proof that Pakistan’s aggressive reform agenda is beginning to deliver results. Officials also briefed the British side on efforts to expand the tax net and modernize revenue collection through technology-driven systems. The government believes digital reforms can reduce leakages, improve transparency, and increase public trust in state institutions. The discussions also emphasized fiscal discipline and continuity of economic policies, issues long viewed by international investors as critical for Pakistan’s long-term recovery. Britain Signals Confidence in Pakistan’s Reform Agenda The United Kingdom’s support carries major symbolic and diplomatic importance for Pakistan at a time when the country is seeking greater global economic confidence. British High Commissioner Jane Marriott appreciated Pakistan’s continued engagement on regional and economic matters and reaffirmed London’s support for Islamabad’s development and reform priorities. The British side also showed interest in Pakistan’s broader institutional reform efforts, including public sector efficiency, coordination between state institutions, and creating a more business-friendly environment for private investment. Analysts believe stronger UK backing could improve Pakistan’s international economic image and encourage broader investor engagement from Western markets. Pakistan UK Economic Reforms Linked to Global Economic Pressures Another major focus of the meeting was the rapidly evolving global economic situation. Both sides discussed the impact of geopolitical tensions, rising energy costs, and disruptions in international supply chains. Pakistan’s economic managers remain concerned about how external shocks could affect inflation, imports, and industrial growth. Climate resilience and humanitarian concerns also featured prominently in the talks. Pakistan continues to face economic risks linked to climate-related disasters, making international cooperation increasingly important for future planning and recovery strategies. Population planning, social sector coordination, and engagement with international financial institutions were also discussed as part of broader development cooperation between Islamabad and London. Pakistan Seeks Long-Term Economic Resilience The government is attempting to project an image of economic resilience and policy consistency to international partners. Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb stressed that Pakistan remains committed to structural reforms aimed at long-term sustainability rather than short-term fixes. These reforms include improving governance standards, increasing institutional efficiency, and encouraging private sector-led economic expansion. Economic experts say sustained implementation will be critical because Pakistan has historically struggled to maintain reform momentum after periods of temporary stabilization. Still, the latest Pakistan UK Economic Reforms dialogue signals that international partners are closely watching Islamabad’s progress and remain willing to support reform-driven economic recovery. For Pakistan, maintaining that confidence may now be just as important as the reforms themselves.

Islamabad High Court Halts Eviction of One Constitution Avenue Apartment Owners
Pakistan

Islamabad High Court Halts Eviction of One Constitution Avenue Apartment Owners

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The Islamabad High Court (IHC) issued a major order on Monday, restraining authorities from evicting sub-lease holders of apartments at One Constitution Avenue. The interim relief comes as legal proceedings continue in the long-running dispute involving the Capital Development Authority (CDA), the developer, and apartment buyers. A division bench comprising Justice Muhammad Azam Khan and Justice Inaam Ameen Minhas heard intra-court appeals filed by several prominent figures, including former air chief Mujahid Anwar Khan and other residents of the luxury apartment complex. Court Hears Appeals on Third-Party Rights During the hearing, the bench focused on paragraph 30 of an earlier single bench decision that addressed the protection of third-party rights in the disputed project. The appellants challenged the previous ruling, which had dismissed petitions filed against the cancellation of the lease. The residents argued that they were bona fide buyers who purchased apartments after the CDA had approved building plans and issued the required No Objection Certificate (NOC). They maintained that the dispute primarily concerns the CDA and the developer and should not negatively affect genuine purchasers. CDA Opposes Stay, Court Seeks Clarification Counsel representing the CDA argued before the court that the intra-court appeals were not maintainable. However, the division bench decided to hear the matter in detail at a later stage while also considering the request for interim relief. During the proceedings, the judges questioned how residents had moved into the apartments without the issuance of a completion certificate. Justice Muhammad Azam Khan remarked that the CDA appeared inactive at the time when people started occupying the residential units. After hearing arguments, the bench ruled that no eviction would take place until further orders, providing temporary relief to apartment owners facing uncertainty over their properties. Background of the Long-Running Dispute The One Constitution Avenue project spans approximately 13.5 acres and was originally auctioned to BNP Group in 2005. The development has remained embroiled in legal and financial disputes for years, including issues related to lease conditions and outstanding payments. The CDA cancelled the project’s lease in 2016, citing multiple violations. The matter later reached the Supreme Court, which restored the lease subject to payment conditions. However, reports suggest that only a fraction of the required amount has been paid so far. Last month, the Islamabad High Court had ruled that apartment buyers did not possess ownership rights following the termination of the lease. The latest order now offers temporary respite to residents while the broader legal dispute continues.

Pakistan Fiscal Reform Crackdown Deepens as Government Tightens Grip on Illicit Tobacco Trade
Pakistan

Pakistan Fiscal Reform Crackdown Deepens as Government Tightens Grip on Illicit Tobacco Trade

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Pakistan Fiscal Reform has entered a more aggressive phase as the government ramps up efforts to crack down on undocumented economic activity and strengthen tax enforcement across major industries. The latest high-level discussions between the government and tobacco industry stakeholders revealed how Islamabad is pushing forward with an ambitious strategy focused on revenue mobilization, digitization, and tighter regulatory oversight. At the center of the talks was the government’s determination to widen the tax net and eliminate leakages that continue to drain billions from the national economy every year. Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb reaffirmed that enforcement and compliance remain key pillars of the country’s broader economic recovery and fiscal stability plan. Pakistan Fiscal Reform Strategy Expands Beyond Traditional Tax Collection Officials involved in the discussions highlighted that the government is no longer relying on conventional tax collection methods alone. Instead, Pakistan Fiscal Reform policies are now heavily focused on technology-driven monitoring systems, digital enforcement tools, and coordinated operations between federal and provincial authorities. Authorities believe these reforms are already producing measurable improvements in revenue collection and compliance rates across multiple industries. Sectors currently under close scrutiny include: • Tobacco• Sugar• Cement• Beverages• Textiles These industries have long faced allegations of undocumented production, tax evasion, and illicit market activity. Government officials stressed that stricter monitoring systems are helping authorities identify illegal operators more effectively while improving transparency within the formal economy. Tobacco Industry Warns About Illicit Trade Crisis During the talks, representatives from Pakistan Tobacco Company raised concerns regarding the growing scale of illicit trade in the tobacco sector. Company officials acknowledged recent government action against illegal and non-compliant businesses but emphasized the need for a predictable and stable taxation framework. Industry representatives argued that excessive market uncertainty could hurt formal sector growth and reduce long-term revenue potential for the government itself. The delegation also discussed: • Excise taxation challenges• Smuggling and counterfeit products• Export competitiveness• Market conditions• Regulatory enforcement gaps According to industry stakeholders, illegal tobacco products operating outside the documented economy continue to undermine legitimate businesses and reduce tax revenues. Digitization Emerges as Government’s Strongest Weapon One of the strongest themes emerging from the discussions was the government’s increasing reliance on digitization and technology. Officials explained that Pakistan Fiscal Reform efforts are now centered around three major pillars: People Improving accountability and strengthening institutional capacity. Processes Modernizing outdated tax collection and enforcement systems. Technology Using digital tracking, monitoring systems, and data integration to reduce tax leakages and identify undocumented economic activity. Authorities believe technology-backed enforcement will play a critical role in dismantling illegal supply chains and improving overall market transparency. Pakistan Eyes Tobacco Export Growth Despite Regulatory Pressure Interestingly, the discussions were not limited to taxation and enforcement alone. Both sides also explored investment opportunities and export potential within Pakistan’s tobacco sector and related value-added industries. Representatives from the tobacco industry highlighted Pakistan’s growing importance as a regional manufacturing and export hub for selected product categories. The talks included discussions on: • Export market expansion• Regional competitiveness• International regulatory trends• Investment opportunities• Manufacturing capacity growth Officials also exchanged views on international taxation models and enforcement practices being implemented in comparable regional economies. Government Signals Continued Engagement With Formal Business Sector Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb stated that all sector-specific proposals would be evaluated in line with broader economic priorities while maintaining policy consistency. He emphasized that the government remains committed to engaging with formal businesses to support: • Sustainable economic growth• Industrial expansion• Export development• Investment inflows• Improved compliance systems The latest developments indicate that Pakistan Fiscal Reform is rapidly evolving into a nationwide campaign aimed at reshaping the country’s tax culture and reducing the size of the undocumented economy. As enforcement intensifies and digitization expands, industries operating outside the formal system may soon face mounting pressure from authorities determined to boost state revenues and stabilize the economy.

Policy Instability and Rising Costs Threaten Ghee Industry: PVMA Chairman Warns
Pakistan

Policy Instability and Rising Costs Threaten Ghee Industry: PVMA Chairman Warns

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KARACHI: An Extraordinary General Body Meeting of the Pakistan Vanaspati Manufacturers Association (PVMA) was held under the chairmanship of Sheikh Umer Rehan, where participants discussed in detail the challenges confronting the ghee and cooking oil industry, government policies, raw material situation, taxation, regulatory matters, and the prevailing economic conditions affecting the sector, particularly difficulties related to freight and transportation costs. The meeting was attended by PVMA Senior Vice Chairman Asjad Arif, Vice Chairman Sheikh Khalid Islam, Special Assistant to the Chief Minister Punjab on Food Security Salma Butt, prominent business leader and former provincial minister S M Tanveer, along with industrialists and association members from across the country.Various agenda items related to the industry were discussed in detail, while participants also deliberated on future strategies for the sector. Speaking on the occasion, Chairman PVMA Sheikh Umer Rehan said that the ghee and cooking oil industry is a key pillar of the country’s food supply chain. However, he noted that the sector is currently under severe pressure due to prevailing economic conditions, rising production costs, fluctuations in imported raw material prices, frequent changes in petroleum prices causing instability in freight charges, and various regulatory challenges. He stressed that continuous engagement with the government and relevant institutions, along with effective policymaking, was essential for placing the industry on sustainable footing. He further emphasized that the industry remains fully committed to providing quality and safe food products to consumers, but rising business costs and policy instability are adversely affecting industrial activities.Sheikh Umer Rehan stated that if the industry is provided with a conducive business environment, it would not only increase investment but also create new employment opportunities. Addressing the meeting, Salma Butt said that Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has a clear policy to promote industrialization and facilitate the business community in order to strengthen the economy. She said the Punjab government believes in working closely with the private sector for food security, quality food standards, and the development of the food industry. She assured participants that the issues faced by industrialists would be taken up with the relevant forums on a priority basis to further improve the business environment. S M Tanveer said that continuity in policies, a business-friendly environment, and restoration of industrialists’ confidence are essential for Pakistan’s industrial growth. He added that the edible oil and ghee industry plays a significant role in the national economy, and resolving the issues faced by the sector would help promote investment and economic activity. Participants reaffirmed their commitment that PVMA would continue playing its role in resolving industry issues, promoting quality production, and ensuring the supply of safe food products to consumers.

PTA Extends SIM Disown Period to 365 Days
Pakistan

PTA Extends SIM Disown Period to 365 Days

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Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has introduced a major policy change aimed at discouraging the frequent transfer and disposal of SIM cards across Pakistan. Under the new rules, the PTA has extended the SIM disown period from 60 days to 365 days. This means an active SIM card registered under a citizen’s name cannot be removed or transferred for one full year. According to reports, the measure is part of broader efforts to strengthen digital security and prevent the misuse of mobile connections. SIM Ownership Cannot Be Changed for One Year The new PTA policy makes it mandatory for users to retain ownership of a registered Subscriber Identity Module for at least 365 days before any disowning request can be processed. Officials believe the move will help reduce illegal SIM transfers and improve accountability in mobile communication systems. The authority has once again urged citizens to remain careful while providing biometric verification for the issuance of SIM cards. PTA warned users not to allow unauthorized individuals to use their biometric information for mobile registrations. PTA Warns Users About Expired CNICs Earlier, the PTA advised mobile phone users to ensure their National Database and Registration Authority records remain valid and updated to avoid service interruptions. The authority stated that SIM cards registered against expired, cancelled, or deceased Computerised National Identity Cards are being blocked as part of nationwide digital security measures. PTA urged citizens to renew their CNICs through NADRA to prevent the suspension of mobile services. Authorities Stress Importance of Updated Records In its statement, PTA highlighted the importance of uninterrupted mobile connectivity and secure communication services. The authority advised users to keep their personal information updated with mobile operators and ensure timely verification of identity documents through NADRA. Officials said these steps are necessary to improve national digital security and prevent misuse of mobile networks for illegal activities. Digital Security Measures Continue Pakistan has introduced several regulatory measures in recent years to strengthen oversight of mobile communication services and reduce cyber related risks. The latest decision regarding SIM ownership is expected to impact millions of mobile users across the country. Authorities believe the policy will improve transparency in SIM registration and discourage fraudulent practices involving biometric verification and unauthorized transfers. Citizens have been advised to follow PTA and NADRA guidelines carefully to avoid disruptions in mobile services or complications related to SIM ownership.

NADRA Introduces New CNIC Rules for First Time Applicants
Pakistan

NADRA Introduces New CNIC Rules for First Time Applicants

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National Database and Registration Authority has introduced new rules for the issuance of Computerized National Identity Cards to simplify the process for first time applicants across Pakistan. Under the revised regulations, NADRA has made signatures optional for individuals applying for a CNIC for the first time. Officials said that if an applicant does not provide a signature, the letters “NA” will appear in the signature section of the identity card. The authority clarified that it will not print thumb impressions or alternative marks in place of signatures on CNICs. NADRA also confirmed that thumbprint images will not be used due to concerns related to forgery and misuse. NADRA Launches Awareness Campaign A spokesperson for NADRA said the authority has started an awareness campaign targeting illiterate citizens and people who cannot sign documents. The authority has also instructed applicants using the mobile application not to upload thumbprint images during the submission process. Officials stated that any future addition or modification of a signature on a CNIC will require a formal correction request through the proper procedure. NADRA said the new policy aims to improve transparency while making the identity card application process easier and more secure for citizens. Citizens Advised to Renew CNICs Before June 30 Earlier, NADRA warned citizens about possible increases in service charges and penalties linked to identity card and child registration services after the federal budget for 2026 and 2027. The authority urged people to renew expired CNICs and complete registration of children’s B Forms before June 30, 2026. Officials indicated that revised fees could take effect in the new fiscal year. In its public advisory, NADRA encouraged parents to register children who still do not possess a B Form. It also advised eligible citizens to convert existing B Forms into Smart National Identity Cards where applicable. Officials warned that failure to complete documentation within the given deadline could lead to penalties or additional charges. New Firearms Licence Validity System Introduced Separately, NADRA recently introduced a new system regarding the validity of federal firearms licences following directives from the Ministry of Interior Pakistan. According to an official awareness video released by the authority, the previous system caused all firearms licences to expire every year on December 31. Officials said this created administrative challenges and inconvenience for licence holders. The new measures are aimed at improving efficiency and making public services more convenient for citizens. Efforts to Improve Public Services NADRA has introduced several digital reforms in recent years to improve public access to identity and registration services. Officials say the authority continues to focus on reducing procedural difficulties while strengthening security measures against fraud and document misuse. The latest CNIC policy is expected to benefit thousands of first time applicants, especially those unable to provide signatures due to literacy or physical limitations. Authorities have advised citizens to remain updated through official NADRA announcements and complete pending documentation before the end of June to avoid additional costs.

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