In response to the Taliban's attack on the Army Public School in Peshawar, Pakistan's Sindh province police have detained hundreds of Afghan refugees as part of the National Action Plan to combat militancy, extremism, and terrorism. Karachi Police Chief Ghulam Qadir Thebo stated that the crackdown targets illegal immigrants and militants, with over 600 Afghans arrested in various parts of Sindh. Despite some refugees having proper documentation, arrests are still made under the Foreigners Act, often requiring bribes for release. Afghan Consul General in Karachi, Shah Ahmed Saeed, refuted claims linking Afghan refugees to militancy, emphasizing their peaceful existence in Pakistan. The Sindh government plans to repatriate illegal Afghan immigrants within months, although financial constraints for deportation have led to reliance on community support for those detained.

A significant disruption in gas supply to Quetta and other towns in Balochistan has led to a 35% increase in LPG prices. The damage to key gas pipelines due to floods has forced residents to seek alternative fuel sources, resulting in long queues and price hikes by LPG dealers. The situation is exacerbated by the suspension of LPG imports from Iran and Karachi due to closed highways, leaving many residents without affordable cooking gas options.

Syed Asif Ali Shah Hazara, a young boxer from Quetta, rose from a humble background to become an Asian champion. Despite financial struggles and limited resources, he has achieved significant success in national and international boxing events. His journey began in 2007, guided by his coach Haji Habibullah Jafri. Asif's father, a former cobbler, and his coach have been his primary supporters. Asif now aims for Olympic glory, but he faces challenges due to a lack of government support. The article highlights his achievements and the need for better facilities and support for Pakistani boxers.

Sindh province in Pakistan is experiencing a severe water shortage, leading to significant agricultural challenges. Farmers in Badin and Thatta districts are protesting due to the lack of water for irrigation and drinking. The acute water shortage has rendered hundreds of thousands of acres of land barren, severely impacting the cultivation of crops like cotton, rice, and sugar cane. The Sindh government attributes the crisis to unfair water distribution by the Indus River System Authority. The situation is exacerbated by climate change, with significantly reduced rainfall. Farmers are facing economic hardships, and the water crisis is affecting both agricultural production and exports.

Pakistan's football potential is hindered by a FIFA ban and internal political issues within the Pakistan Football Federation. Despite these challenges, initiatives like the national talent hunt and the creation of a flagship football city in Karachi aim to nurture young talent. The talent hunt, supervised by Michael James Owen and European coaches, selected 21 players for training in Europe. Key figures like Mohib Ullah and Ahsanullah highlight the opportunities and challenges faced by young footballers in Pakistan. The Global Soccer Venture, in collaboration with various partners, is committed to promoting football in the country despite political uncertainties.

The EU envoy indicated a potential extension of the GSP+ trade benefits to Pakistan, emphasizing the need for compliance with international human rights conventions. The conference in Sindh highlighted the province's legislative efforts in human rights, with calls for international support and improved implementation of laws. The Sindh government, led by the Pakistan People Party, is recognized for its proactive stance on human rights, while the EU's role in trade and employment is positively acknowledged. The event underscored the importance of a cohesive strategy among stakeholders to sustain trade benefits and improve human rights conditions.

Karachi's rich multicultural history includes significant contributions from the Portuguese Goan community, which began migrating to the city in the 1820s. Despite a shrinking population, the Goans have left a lasting impact on Karachi's culture, particularly in areas like food, religion, and education. Key figures and institutions, such as the Karachi Goan Association and St. Patrick’s High School, highlight the community's influence. However, many young Goans are now seeking opportunities abroad, leading to a decline in the local Goan population.

International Women's Day in Pakistan has become a contentious event due to the annual Aurat March, which advocates for women's rights and challenges patriarchal values. Despite opposition from religious conservatives and political figures, organizers and participants continue to push for gender equality and highlight issues such as gender-based violence and discrimination. The event has faced threats and criticism, but it remains a significant platform for women's empowerment and social activism in Pakistan.

The article discusses the state of various sports in Pakistan, highlighting the challenges and potential each sport faces. It begins with the story of Syed Asif Ali Shah Hazara, who became an Asian boxing champion despite his humble beginnings. The article then moves on to the struggles of gymnastics in Pakistan due to insufficient investment in infrastructure. It also touches upon traditional games like Sang Gerak, martial arts, and the potential for Kung Fu in Pakistan. Volleyball's popularity is noted, yet its development is hindered. The recent success of Pakistan in the Kabaddi World Cup is contrasted with the sport's declining status. Wrestling, both traditional and mud wrestling, is reminisced upon, with veterans sharing their memories. Archery's traditional form, Makha, is mentioned, and the article concludes with the issues plaguing Pakistan's cycling federation and the sport's growth.

The article discusses the significant increase in the prices of food staples in Karachi during the month of Ramazan. It highlights the economic impact this price gouging has on the working-class residents of the city, who are finding it increasingly difficult to afford basic food items. The article implies that the price hikes are a recurring issue during the holy month, which is causing distress among the local population.