CBD PUNJAB’S UPCOMING AUCTION SET TO IGNITE ECONOMIC GROWTH.

                                                                                

The Punjab Central Business District Development Authority (PCBDDA), also recognized as Central Business District Punjab (CBD Punjab), is set to mark a significant milestone in the region's real estate landscape with the auction of six exclusive plots, comprising three mix-used commercial and three residential plots, scheduled for May 9, 2024.

As the premium development authority of Punjab, CBD Punjab is at the forefront of transforming the urban landscape, and this auction represents a pivotal moment in Punjab’s economic evolution. The auction event will showcase the immense potential for investment and development within the CBD Punjab precinct.

With this auction, CBD Punjab is proud to introduce its latest ventures: CBD Business Bay and CBD Residencia. These ventures epitomize CBD Punjab's commitment to innovation and excellence in urban development, offering prime real estate opportunities for both commercial and residential purposes.

CBD Business Bay presents a unique opportunity for businesses to thrive in a dynamic environment. With mixed-use commercial plots available, CBD Business Bay caters to the diverse needs of enterprises seeking a strategic location for their operations. The commercial plots ranging from 8.73 kanals to 8.89 kanals with an FAR of 1:16 and height provision of 415 ft, will provide ample space for growth and expansion.

Meanwhile, CBD Residencia offers an unparalleled living experience, with residential plots designed to accommodate modern lifestyles. Ranging from 6.35 kanals to 7.11 kanals with a FAR of 1:14 and height provision of 380 ft these plots will offer residents a vibrant and well-connected community.

To further facilitate investment and development, CBD Punjab has devised an easy five-year installment plan and a streamlined one window solution for prospective buyers and investors. This initiative underscores CBD Punjab's commitment to fostering growth and prosperity in the region while ensuring accessibility and affordability for all stakeholders.

While expressing his views about upcoming auction Imran Amin, CEO of CBD Punjab said, "CBD Punjab is poised to play a pivotal role in the economic development of Punjab by providing lucrative opportunities for real estate developers and the business community. This auction will serve as a catalyst for highlighting the vast investment potential within CBD Punjab."

The auction event promises to attract a diverse range of investors, developers, and stakeholders eager to capitalize on the burgeoning opportunities within CBD Punjab. With its strategic location, modern infrastructure, and visionary approach to urban development, CBD Punjab continues to emerge as a beacon of progress and prosperity in the region.

Businesses urged to take steps to maximise the opportunities of AI and lay foundations for responsible use of new technologies

                                                          

Chief executive officers (CEOs) and chief financial officers (CFOs) need to build trust in artificial intelligence (AI) by taking steps in their organisations to manage the associated risks.

 

As AI plays a greater role in the accounting and financial reporting of businesses, CFOs and financial controllers will have to be confident about the adequacy of oversight and controls of AI systems.In the first in a series of insights, AI monitor: trust, ACCA urges finance professionals to ensure that AI governance and AI risk management is in place, beginning with:

 

Investing in AI literacy and skills development: finance professionals must invest in education and training to critically evaluate AI outputs, communicate clearly with key stakeholders, and make informed decisions. Collaborating via cross-functional teams: finance professionals should actively engage with IT, data science, legal and risk management teams. 

 

Developing an AI governance framework: beginning with critical uses, finance professionals should take steps within their organisation to establish clear policies, oversight and governance practices.

AI presents many opportunities to businesses such as providing more insights from a wider array of information sources, driving greater efficiency and better customer experiences. But it also poses a challenge to trust in accounting and finance reporting with new dynamics being introduced to the traditional trust mechanisms that underpin corporate accounting.

 

Alistair Brisbourne, Head of Technology Research, ACCA, said: ‘Introducing AI is both about trust in the systems and trust in the people that we work with, and how we bring those two elements together.

 

‘CEOs and CFOs need to focus on making the changes needed to harness the many potential opportunities but also retain trust. This includes upskilling to deal with the technology and introducing new knowledge into their organisations. They also need to focus on the governance, the oversight and culture required to allow different teams to work together effectively. It’s about bringing change management and governance together.’

 

AI monitor: trust highlights some of the risks of AI in accounting systems, such as:Impacting decision making without clearly explaining the rationale of the forecast or recommendation;

An over-dependence on AI procedures in auditing and assurance and a decline in use of human intervention and judgement;

 

Concern over AI bias or error in fraud detection, risk assessment and compliance monitoring;

Over relying on AI-powered virtual assistants which give inaccurate or inappropriate responses.

Brisbourne said: ‘In the AI era the role of finance professionals is to focus on the outcomes driven by technology. Value lies in understanding how these outputs inform decisions and actions that drive business outcomes.’In 2024 issues of the AI monitor will explore talent, risk and controls, the relevance of effective data strategy, and sustainability applications.

 

Read Enabling trust in an AI-enhanced world.

Federal IT Minister launches the mega version of Syngenta’s ‘CropWise Grower’ App for Pakistani Farmers

                  

Syngenta Pakistan Limited, a leading agriculture innovation and technology company that provides crop protection, seeds, and digital services to millions of Pakistani farmers, has launched the mega version of ‘Cropwise Grower’ mobile application in a high-powered meeting which was graced by Ms. Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Federal Minister of State for IT & Telecommunication, as the chief guest.

Cropwise Grower app is a free-of-cost, highly innovative digital solution to engage & advise the Pakistani farmers to enhance their farm productivity offering multiple features including instant detection & diagnosis of crop-diseases, pests & other threats to the crops. Covering over 3 million acres of farmland, the app’s ‘Scan, Detect and Diagnose’ feature called Crop Doctor is powered by the most advanced ‘Artificial Intelligence’ (AI) based mechanism which provides a one-stop solution to farmers to identify crop problems and address these problems efficiently. ‘Cropwise Grower’ offers several other valuable facilities such as e-commerce module for online ordering of products, ‘Naya Savera’ franchise locations and a deeper understanding of spraying-windows, based on localized weather information and evolving environment. Besides recommending products suitable for various crop-growth stages, it provides crop-management information and tutorials on timely identification of pests & disease.

Appreciating Syngenta’s efforts in bringing digital technologies closer to the farmers and sharing the groundbreaking initiatives of the government in this space, Ms. Shaza Fatima Khawaja shared: “Agritech has an essential role to play in enhancing Pakistan’s agricultural productivity, promoting economic well-being of the farmers and ensuring country’s food security. In this regard, Digitalization and Agriculture are among the top priorities of the government and we are devising strategic initiatives and policy frameworks to facilitate all stakeholders especially our farmers to benefit from the emerging technological solutions. It is good to see that Syngenta Pakistan is investing in digitalization of the agriculture sector to bring useful offerings closer to the farmers in the form of their Cropwise application and e-Commerce facility.”    

The Country General Manager Syngenta Pakistan - Zeeshan Hasib Baig stated: “Syngenta Pakistan’s core strength lies in its close relationship with the growers. To further strengthen this connection with our growers, we are delighted to share the Cropwise Grower app which brings smart solutions closer to farmers and enables them to be more self-sufficient. Resonating with the worthy comments of the Honourable Minister about the importance of agritech in our country’s development, we at Syngenta believe that technology can be a key enabler in helping farmers grow efficiently and sustainably. The Cropwise Grower app is a revolutionary step in the crop protection industry and we firmly believe that it will help in addressing Pakistan’s food security challenges by building resilient food systems and by supporting our farmers in improving their crop yields for better returns on their investment.”

 

LAHORE'S FIRST JEEP RALLY LAHORE RAVI RALLY CROSS KICKS OFF WITH SPECTACULAR FLAG CEREMONY AT CBD PUNJAB

                                                            

The excitement reverberated through Lahore's bustling streets as the city's first-ever Jeep Rally flagged off in a grand ceremony held at Pakistan's pioneering Central Business District Punjab (CBD Punjab). Organized jointly by the Ravi Urban Development Authority (RUDA) and the Tourism Development Corporation Punjab (TDCP), with the generous support of CBD Punjab, the event marked a significant milestone in Pakistan's motorsport and tourism landscape.

The flag off ceremony of rally titled Lahore Ravi Rally Cross, held at CBD Punjab Quaid District Lahore Prime, was a testament to the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders. CBD Punjab spared no effort in adorning the entire area with vibrant race flags and banners, setting the stage for an exhilarating start to the rally. The esteemed Chief Guest, COO of CBD Punjab and RUDA Brigadier (R) Mansoor Janjua, graced the occasion alongside dignitaries like Secretary Tourism Punjab Raja Jahangir Anwar and other high-ranking officials from CBD Punjab, RUDA, and TDCP.

Adding to the fervor, Team CBD Punjab announced its participation in the rally with their branded rally truck, heightening anticipation among attendees. Rally enthusiasts from across Pakistan, including renowned drivers such as Suneel Manj, Ronnie Patel, Sahibzada Sultan, Aqeel Ahmed Shiraz Khaqwani, and teams like Team Asia and Multan Racing Club, converged at the flag ceremony, ready to showcase their prowess on the challenging terrain.

In a significant display of inclusivity, female drivers including Salma Marwat Khan, Zulaikha, and Laiba Khan Lodhi, also joined the ranks, underscoring the rally's commitment to diversity and equality in motorsports. Over 70+ jeeps, trucks, and dirt bikes lined up for the podium at the flag off ceremony, setting the stage for a fiercely competitive event.

Speaking on the occasion, the COO of CBD Punjab and RUDA Brigadier (R) Mansoor Janjua said, "It is a commendable imitative by RUDA & TDCP and the support shown by CBD Punjab for this is remarkable.  Lahorites gathered at CBD Punjab Quaid District Lahore Prime are amazed to see the modern rally vehicles, which is a testament to the city's vibrant spirit and love for adventure."

The main race of the rally unfolded on a specially prepared 35-kilometer track, meticulously crafted over two months on the Ravi Riverbed near Lahore-Sialkot Motorway. This track, designed to international standards, will remain open year-round, offering racers a dedicated space for practice and competition.

The Lahore Ravi Rally Cross represents a significant milestone in promoting motorsports in Pakistan, bringing together enthusiasts from all walks of life to celebrate the thrill of off-road racing. With its successful flag ceremony, the event sets the stage for an action-packed competition that promises to captivate audiences and participants alike.

CBD PUNJAB & STAR MARKETING INAUGURATED SITE OFFICE FOR GRAND SOUQ LAHORE

                                                        

 In a significant stride towards realizing the vision of Pakistan's first Souq, The Grand Souq Lahore (GSL), Central Business District Punjab (CBD Punjab), in collaboration with Star Marketing, proudly inaugurated the site office for GSL. This development marks a pivotal moment in the journey towards establishing a landmark destination for commerce, culture, and community in Lahore.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by the esteemed presence of COO CBD Punjab, Brigadier (R) Mansoor Janjua. Joining him were distinguished personalities including Director Business Development CBD Punjab, Ali Waqar Shah, Director Marketing CBD Punjab, Waseem Siddiq, Ali Habib, Regional Director Punjab, Star Marketing, Faisal Butt Manager Sales & Marketing, star Marketing, Danyal Hassan Manager Sales & Marketing, Star Marketing and Murtaza Imran, Senior Manager, Star Marketing.

Designed to international standards by renowned architects, GSL is set to occupy 68 kanals on LOS Morr Ex-Rescue 1122 Depot, Ferozepur Road, Lahore. This sprawling project promises to redefine the local business landscape, offering a comprehensive one-stop shopping solution for residents and visitors alike.

While addressing the ceremony COO CBD Punjab Brigadier (R) Mansoor Janjua said, "The Grand Souq Lahore represents a bold and innovative approach to urban development in Lahore. As a dynamic retail destination, GSL will not only cater to the diverse needs of residents but also serve as a catalyst for economic growth and social cohesion. We are committed to realizing this vision and contributing to the socio-economic development of the city.”

Ali Habib, Regional Director Punjab, Star Marketing, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating "This project is not just about bricks and mortar. We have envisioned The Grand Souq Lahore, more than just a marketplace it's about creating a vibrant space where commerce, culture, and community converge to enrich the lives of residents of Lahore."

GSL's strategic location will serve as a hub for residents from diverse neighbourhoods, including Icchra, Samnabad, Shama, Shadman, Mozang, and Muslim Town. By providing convenient access to a wide array of retail options, GSL aims to enrich the lives of individuals and families across the city.

The Grand Souq Lahore promises to be a catalyst for economic growth, tourism, and social cohesion in Lahore. As stakeholders and partners come together to realize this ambitious vision, GSL emerges as a symbol of progress and prosperity for the city and its resident

P&G PAKISTAN TAKES HOME CHAMPION OF 2023 AWARD AT THE 6TH ANNUAL OICCI WOMEN EMPOWERMENT AWARDS

                                                        

In acknowledgment of its efforts in promoting women empowerment and fostering a diverse and fair workplace environment, P&G Pakistan today was awarded with the prestigious 'Champion of 2023' title at the 6^th annual OICCI Women Empowerment Awards hosted by the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI).

 

OICCI, the oldest and largest investment chamber, plays a major role in the growth of commerce and industry in the country with 200 plus members representing 35 different countries and 14 different sectors of trade and industry. OICCI Women Empowerment Awards are the continuation of the OICCI Women initiative which was launched to encourage member companies to become role models to empower women in the workforce and create gender equality within their respective organizations.

 

Promoting gender equality and diversity has been a long-standing mission of P&G Pakistan. The company has been actively working to raise their voice to tackle gender bias, remove barriers to education for girls, create economic opportunities for women through corporate and brand programs, and policy advocacy, achieve an inclusive, gender-equal environment within P&G, while also advocating for gender and intersectional equality in workplaces everywhere so that everyone can contribute to their full potential.

 

Commenting on the receipt of this prestigious award the SVP and CEO of P&G Pakistan, Adil Farhat said “We're honored to be named the 2023 Champion by OICCI at the Women Empowerment Awards for the second consecutive year. This recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to gender equality. With women comprising over 50% of leadership and key roles across our sites, we're proud of the progress we have made. We remain steadfast in our commitment to achieving gender parity and expanding economic opportunities for women in a sustainable way. Thanks to OICCI for this acknowledgment, inspiring us to further our efforts towards a more inclusive world.”

 

P&G Pakistan is committed to fostering fair and equitable opportunities for all employees, with a dedicated focus on recruiting and promoting a diverse workforce. As part of our commitment to advancing Equity & Inclusion (E&I), promoting mental wellness is a key priority for the company. This is where the Company proactively engages in conversations and initiatives aimed at addressing microaggressions, underrepresentation, and unconscious biases. Recognizing the importance of creating an inclusive and supportive workplace environment, P&G prioritizes creating spaces where all employees feel valued and respected.

 

Moreover, P&G is actively bridging the generation gap by engaging and empowering Gen Z, recognizing their growing influence in both the workforce and consumer landscape. This commitment is reinforced through diverse leadership styles that resonate with this dynamic demographic. In addition, P&G demonstrates its dedication to employee well-being and family support through progressive policies. New mothers’ benefit from six months of fully paid maternity leave, while the 'Share the Care' parental leave policy provides new fathers with a minimum of eight weeks of fully paid leave. These initiatives underscore P&G's commitment to fostering inclusivity and support during significant life transitions.

 

Furthermore, P&G's impact extends beyond the workplace through strategic partnerships with organizations like Health Oriented Preventive Education (HOPE) and Akhuwat Microfinance. These collaborations have resulted in substantial strides towards providing quality education and economic empowerment to underprivileged communities in Pakistan. To date, P&G has facilitated the education of over 20,000 girls and offered microloans to approximately 100 women, empowering them to create brighter futures for themselves and their families. As a proud partner of STEMconnector, P&G is dedicated to inspiring and supporting girls and women worldwide to pursue, persist, and excel in STEM careers. Through mentoring programs, P&G Pakistan has had the privilege of guiding nearly 1000 women on their journey towards success in various fields, contributing to greater gender diversity and representation in critical areas of expertise.

 

CBD Punjab's Urban Development Projects Earn Praise from Secretary Asad Ullah Khan

                              

Secretary Housing, Urban Development & Public Health (HUD & PHE) Punjab, Captain (R) Asad Ullah Khan, made a significant visit to the Punjab Central Business District Development Authority (PCBDDA), also known as Central Business District Punjab (CBD Punjab), upon his arrival, Secretary Asad Ullah Khan was warmly welcomed by the CEO of CBD Punjab, Imran Amin.

 The visit commenced with an introductory meeting, chaired by Secretary HUD & PHE Captain (R) Asad Ullah Khan. The meeting was attended by  Additional Secretary HUD & PHE Omar Farooq, Executive Director Technical CBD Punjab, Riaz Hussain; Executive Director Legal CBD Punjab, Barrister Bilal Afzal Khokhar. Director Architecture and Planning CBD Punjab, Sameer Aftab Sial, Director Business Development CBD Punjab, Ali Waqar Shah, Director Project Management CBD Punjab, Asif Iqbal, Director Construction CBD Punjab, Asif Babar, Director Marketing CBD Punjab, Waseem Siddiq, Director HR CBD Punjab, Palwasha Mengal, alongside other esteemed officials of CBD Punjab.

During the meeting, Secretary HUD & PHE Captain (R) Asad Ullah Khan was provided with a comprehensive briefing on CBD Punjab, its operational framework, and ongoing projects. The focal point of discussion revolved around the establishment of Pakistan's inaugural and largest IT city, Nawaz Sharif IT City, and the forthcoming auction of six commercial and six residential plots within the CBD Punjab.

Highlighting recent endeavors, the authority emphasized its strategic alliances with international universities and IT corporations, forged during a recent visit to China for Nawaz Sharif IT City. Moreover, Secretary HUD & PHE Captain (R)  Asad Ullah Khan was apprised of notable achievements, including the remodeling of Kalma Underpass, the construction of Captain Karnal Sher Khan Shaheed Flyover, and the inauguration of CBD Route 47.

CBD Punjab is on the verge of completing the Walton Road Railway Crossing Flyover and Walton Road Upgradation projects, underscoring its commitment to infrastructural development and urban enhancement.

During his visit Secretary HUD & PHE Captain (R) Asad Ullah Khan said, "I appreciate the progress made by CBD Punjab. I want to reiterate the government's unwavering support towards realizing the objectives of the authourity. The development initiatives undertaken by CBD Punjab are instrumental in fostering economic growth and prosperity in the region."

CEO CBD Punjab Imran Amin expressed his gratitude for appreciating CBD Punjab’s projects. He said, Secretary HUD & PHE sentiments truly align with ours. I want to emphasize CBD Punjab's dedication to pioneering innovative solutions and fostering an environment conducive to investment and development. Our goal remains clear to transform Punjab into a thriving hub of economic activity and technological innovation."

The visit concluded on a note of optimism, reaffirming the commitment to strive hard for advancing Punjab's urban landscape and fostering sustainable growth.