The federal government has decided to close down all Utility Stores Corporation (USC) outlets across Pakistan by July 10, 2025. This decision was taken during a top-level meeting chaired by the Managing Director and backed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Over 5,000 permanent and thousands of contract/daily-wage employees will be offered a Voluntary Separation Scheme (VSS) package  . In preparation for the shutdown, stock will be shifted to warehouses and either returned to suppliers or auctioned off, while IT equipment, fixtures, and rented properties will be reclaimed by August 1  . A closure-operations department and detailed inventory of assets will oversee the process, and essential staff will temporarily remain active to manage wind-down logistics  .

 

 The recent federal budget in Pakistan introduced sweeping reductions on import duties for luxury vehicles, directly benefiting the resale market, especially for models like the Mercedes‑Benz G‑Wagon. According to industry insiders and dealers, prices on used G‑Wagons have dropped by up to Rs. 2 crore, making these elite SUVs more attainable than ever  .

Typically, G‑Wagons were trading at over Rs. 8 crore. Now, depending on model year, mileage, and overall condition, resale prices have plunged to around Rs. 6 crore or even lower  . Car market analysts see this as a rare golden opportunity for buyers previously deterred by steep import costs. The budget’s duty waiver is refreshing interest in high-end used luxury vehicles across major urban centers—Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad leading the charge  .

This price reduction hasn’t significantly affected new‑car prices yet, since new imports still carry other taxes and fees. Still, the immediate effect is clear: increased activity in Pakistan’s luxury resale market  . Dealers are optimistic that this shift could ripple out to other premium brands, as similar duty relief is expected to apply soon.

For prospective buyers, now is an opportune moment to proactively explore the used G‑Wagon segment. With savings nearing Rs. 2 crore, models that were once fantasy-level may now be within reach—provided you act swiftly before competition heats up.

 Here's a simple recipe for Chicken Korma:

Ingredients:

- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs

- 1/2 cup plain yogurt

- 2 tablespoons lemon juice

- 1 teaspoon cumin powder

- 1 teaspoon coriander powder

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)

- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 2 tablespoons ghee or oil

- 2 medium onions, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon ginger paste

- 1/2 cup nuts (almonds or cashews)

- Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Marinate the chicken: Mix yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder (if using), garam masala, and salt. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Cook the onions: Heat oil in a pan, add chopped onions, and cook until golden brown.

3. Add garlic and ginger: Add minced garlic and ginger paste to the pan and cook for 1 minute.

4. Add chicken: Add marinated chicken to the pan and cook until it's tender.

5. Add nuts: Blend nuts with a little water to make a smooth paste. Add the nut paste to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes.

6. Simmer: Simmer the korma for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce thickens.

7. Garnish: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with basmati rice or naan.

Tips:

- Use high-quality spices for the best flavor.

- Adjust the amount of chili powder according to your desired level of spiciness.

- You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or cauliflower to the korma.

 Here's a simple recipe for Karachi-Style Nihari:

Ingredients:

- 1 kg beef shank or mutton, cut into small pieces

- ½ cup ghee or oil

- 2 large onions, finely sliced

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon ginger paste

- 4-5 cups water or beef stock

- 2 tablespoons wheat flour (for thickening)

- Nihari Masala:

    - 1 tablespoon coriander seeds

    - 1 tablespoon cumin seeds

    - 1 tablespoon fennel seeds

    - 1 teaspoon black peppercorns

    - 4-5 green cardamoms

    - 2 black cardamoms

    - 1-inch cinnamon stick

    - 4-5 cloves

    - 1 bay leaf

    - ½ teaspoon nutmeg powder

    - ½ teaspoon mace powder

    - 1 tablespoon red chili powder

    - 1 tablespoon Kashmiri chili powder

    - 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

    - 1 tablespoon dry ginger powder

    - Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Nihari Masala: Dry roast the spices and grind them into a fine powder. Mix with nutmeg, mace, red chili powder, Kashmiri chili, turmeric, dry ginger, and salt.

2. Cook the Meat: Heat oil in a pan, add sliced onions, and cook until golden brown. Add ginger-garlic paste, beef, and Nihari masala. Cook until the meat is tender.

3. Thicken the Gravy: Mix wheat flour with water and add it to the Nihari. Cook for another 10-15 minutes.

4. Finishing Touches: Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the Nihari. Garnish with julienned ginger, chopped green chilies, and fresh coriander.

Tips:

- Slow cooking enhances the depth of flavor, so be patient and let it simmer.

- Beef shank is ideal for Nihari due to its rich marrow and gelatin, giving the gravy a silky texture.

- Serve hot with naan or fresh tandoori roti

 Biryani! Here's a simple recipe for delicious Pakistani-style biryani:

Ingredients:

- 1 cup basmati rice

- 1 lb lamb or chicken, cut into small pieces

- 2 medium onions, chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon ginger paste

- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1 teaspoon coriander powder

- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1 teaspoon red chili powder

- Salt, to taste

- 2 tablespoons ghee or oil

- 2 cups water

- Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the rice: Rinse and soak basmati rice for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.

2. Marinate the meat: Mix meat with yogurt, ginger paste, garlic, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

3. Cook the meat: Heat oil in a pan and cook the marinated meat until it's tender. Set aside.

4. Layer the biryani: In a large pot, layer the cooked rice, meat, and fried onions.

5. Steam the biryani: Cover the pot with a tight lid and steam the biryani over low heat for 10-15 minutes.

 

 

Tips:

- Use high-quality basmati rice for the best flavor and texture.

- Adjust the amount of spices according to your taste preferences.

- You can add other ingredients like potatoes, carrots, or peas to the biryani for added flavor and nutrition.

 Pakistani motorists are bracing for a substantial petrol-price hike starting July 2025. According to a May 30 notice, this follows modest June reductions of Rs 0.60–1/L, offset by pending fiscal measures  .

The key driver: under the Budget 2025–26, federal authorities plan to raise the Petroleum Development Levy (PDL) from ~Rs 78 to Rs 100 per litre, alongside an additional *carbon levy (approx. Rs 5/L)*  . Non-cash (card) users may see slight rebates, but petrol prices overall are expected to climb.

OGRA projections add ₹3–5/L due to new sales tax and margin adjustments to support OMCs and refineries—the total burden may exceed Rs 4/L  . IMF-recommended levies on cash transactions add about Rs 2/L further  .

Result? Petrol prices could approach or surpass Rs 300/L by mid‑2025, sparking ripple effects: transportation, food, utilities—all likely to see cost increases. This could fuel broader inflation and public dissatisfaction  .

In summary, while June offered modest relief, the combined impact of Budget levies, IMF conditions, and tax adjustments means a significant petrol‑price hike is imminent—with profound implications for consumers and the wider economy. Stakeholders should monitor announcements closely and prepare for increased financial strain.

 A ceasefire is not just a pause in violence; it is a fragile lifeline for civilians, aid workers, and all those caught in the crossfire. It offers a moment of hope, a chance for negotiation, and an opportunity to prevent further bloodshed. Violating a ceasefire breaks trust and deepens suffering. Leaders must recognize their power and responsibility. Donald Trump, your words influence millions—please choose peace. Saying “I’d bow” to peace means prioritizing humanity over politics, restraint over provocation. Do not fuel division or encourage violations. Every broken ceasefire is a broken promise to those who dream of a better future.

A ceasefire is a temporary suspension of fighting, intended to create space for peace and dialogue. Its success depends on all parties honoring the agreement. Violating a ceasefire can reignite violence, harm civilians, and damage credibility. When leaders like Donald Trump speak on conflicts, their influence carries weight. Therefore, it's vital for such figures to advocate for peace and respect ceasefires, not undermine them. “I’d bow” to the cause of peace means putting ego aside to protect lives. Ceasefires should be honored, not politicized. Please, do not violate them—words and actions matter when the cost is measured in human lives.

 Home Tips for Hair Growth

1. Warm Oil Scalp Massage

Use oils like coconut, castor, olive, or almond oil.

Warm the oil slightly and massage into your scalp for 5–10 minutes.

Leave it on for at least 1 hour or overnight before washing.

Helps increase blood flow and nourishes hair follicles.

2. Aloe Vera Gel

Apply fresh aloe vera gel directly on your scalp.

Leave for 30 minutes, then wash off.

Aloe soothes the scalp, reduces dandruff, and promotes healthy hair growth.

3. Onion Juice

Blend an onion and strain to get juice.

Apply to scalp, leave for 15–20 minutes, then wash off with mild shampoo.

Onion juice is rich in sulfur, which supports collagen production and hair growth.

(Tip: Do a patch test first — it can be strong and cause irritation in some people.)

4. Egg Mask

Mix 1 egg with 1 tablespoon olive oil and honey.

Apply to hair and scalp, leave 20–30 minutes, then rinse with cool water.

Eggs provide protein and nutrients that strengthen hair and promote growth.

5. Green Tea Rinse

Brew green tea, let cool.

After shampooing, pour it over your hair as a rinse.

Green tea is rich in antioxidants that can help reduce hair loss.

6. Avoid Hot Water

Wash your hair with lukewarm or cool water instead of hot water.

Hot water can strip natural oils, drying out the scalp and hair.

7. Healthy Diet

Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds.

Foods rich in vitamins A, C, D, E, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids support hair growth.

8. Stay Hydrated

Drink enough water daily to keep your scalp hydrated and healthy.

9. Use Natural Hair Masks Regularly

Try masks like:

Banana + honey

Yogurt + turmeric

Avocado + olive oil

10. Limit Chemical Exposure

Avoid excessive use of hair dyes, relaxers, or heat styling.

If you do use them, always apply a heat protectant and deep condition often.

 Natural Ingredients:

1. Honey: 

Apply pure honey as a face mask to lock in moisture and soothe skin.

2. Turmeric:

Mix turmeric powder with yogurt or honey to reduce inflammation and acne.

3. Aloe vera: 

Use aloe vera gel to calm irritated skin and promote healing.

4. Cucumber:

Slice cucumber and apply it to the skin to reduce puffiness and hydrate.

5. Oatmeal:

Mix oatmeal with water or yogurt to create a soothing face mask for sensitive skin.

Homemade Face Masks:

1. Banana and honey mask:

Mash ripe banana and mix with honey for a nourishing face mask.

2. Avocado and olive oil mask:

Mash ripe avocado and mix with olive oil for a moisturizing treatment.

 1. Eat a Balanced Diet:

Include plenty of protein, iron, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins (especially A, C, D, and E) to support hair growth and strength.

2. Stay Hydrated:

Drink enough water daily to keep your hair hydrated from the inside out.

3. Avoid Excessive Heat Styling:

Limit the use of blow dryers, curling irons, and straighteners. Always use a heat protectant when styling.

4. Use Mild, Sulfate-Free Shampoo:

Harsh chemicals can strip hair of natural oils. Opt for gentle, nourishing shampoos.

5. Condition Regularly:

Use a good conditioner after every wash to maintain moisture and reduce breakage.

6. Don’t Wash Hair Too Often:

Washing hair 2–3 times a week is usually enough. Overwashing can dry out your scalp and hair.

7. Trim Regularly:

Trim your hair every 6–8 weeks to prevent and remove split ends.

8. Massage Your Scalp:

Scalp massages boost blood circulation and can promote hair growth.

9. Avoid Tight Hairstyles:

Styles that pull on your scalp can cause hair breakage or traction alopecia.

10. Protect Hair While Sleeping:

Use a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent hair damage.

 Home Designs: Crafting Comfort and Style

Home design is far more than just arranging furniture or selecting paint colors—it's about creating a living space that reflects personality, meets practical needs, and enhances quality of life. Over the years, home design has evolved from simple shelter concepts to sophisticated, multifunctional environments. From architectural blueprints to interior aesthetics, every element contributes to the overall harmony and utility of a home. In today’s world, where homes often double as offices, schools, and sanctuaries, thoughtful design has never been more important.

Interior Design Trends

Interior design is where a home truly begins to show its character. The choice of color palettes, furniture, lighting, and decor all contribute to the mood and functionality of each room. In recent years, minimalist interiors have become increasingly popular. This design philosophy promotes the idea of “less is more,” focusing on clean spaces, neutral tones, and purposeful furnishings.

Lighting design, in particular, has benefited from technological advancements. Adjustable LED lighting can be programmed to change throughout the day, mimicking natural sunlight and supporting human circadian rhythms. Similarly, automated blinds and smart thermostats contribute to a more comfortable and energy-efficient home environment.

Functional and Flexible Spaces

The pandemic has highlighted the importance of flexibility in home design. More people are working from home, necessitating dedicated office spaces or multipurpose rooms. Designers now prioritize adaptable layouts that can change with the needs of the occupants. For example, a guest room might double as a home gym or office, depending on the furniture and layout.

Outdoor Living Spaces

Modern home design often extends beyond the interior, incorporating outdoor living areas that serve as extensions of the home. Decks, patios, balconies, and gardens are increasingly designed for comfort and functionality. Outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and cozy seating areas enhance usability and encourage time spent outside.

Landscaping also plays a crucial role in home design. Thoughtfully planned gardens can increase curb appeal and create serene spaces for relaxation. Drought-resistant plants, native species, and low-maintenance designs are common choices for homeowners who want attractive but sustainable yards.

Technology has significantly influenced home design, transforming how spaces function. Smart homes integrate devices that allow residents to control lighting, temperature, security, and even appliances from their smartphones or through voice commands. This seamless integration improves convenience and energy efficiency.

Lighting design, in particular, has benefited from technological advancements. Adjustable LED lighting can be programmed to change throughout the day, mimicking natural sunlight and supporting human circadian rhythms. Similarly, automated blinds and smart thermostats contribute to a more comfortable and energy-efficient home environment.