Latest news with #Aurangzeb
India.com
10 hours ago
- India.com
Less Crowd More Magic: 7 Hidden Hill Spots Near Chandigarh You Will Love
Chandigarh is surrounded by beautiful hill stations and is considered as one of the gateways of northern India. The well-known places such as Shimla, Manali and Kasul are often famous, but there are a few lesser known hill stations near Chandigarh that provide natural beauty and solitude. The best part is that these hill stations let you escape from the daily life of the city without consuming long hours of travel. In this article we will highlight seven of them. 1. A Secret Paradise: Morni Hills Morni Hills is one of the nearest hill stations to Chandigarh at around 45 kilometers. This region features abundant greenery, scenic views and calm atmosphere, making it perfect for adventure lovers and nature lovers. Some of the trek paths lead to ancient temples and small villages as well as some unique features like twin lakes of Tikkar Tal and Mansarover. Morni Hills is home to several eco-friendly establishments and resorts. Of course, no trip to Morni Hills is complete without trekking to Morni Fort, which is situated on a hilltop, enabling your eyes to gaze upon the breathtaking beauty of the whole region. 2. Pinjore Gardens: Celebrating Nature and Ancient Culture It may not look like one but Pinjore Gardens or Yadavindra Gardens, is a hill station garden which is part of a historical site with Aravali hills around the place. The garden is located on the southern side of the Shivalik range and is 20 kilometers away from Chandigarh. This beauty was constructed during the rule of Emperor Aurangzeb and contains upper level Mughal style architecture along with steps, fountains, and flower gardens. It is a great place for summer holidays. For families, the place hosts cultural events along with light shows making the location very ideal. 3. Solan: Famous for Mushrooms and Much More Located approximately 70 kilometers away from Chandigarh is Solan. This place is another underrated jewel in the Shivalik range. Solan is well known for its mushroom growing and processing units, hence the name 'The Mushroom Capital of India.' Solan is also famous for its amazing landscapes, ancient colonial buildings, and temples and churches. For people looking for some adventure, there is paragliding and trekking. For the history lovers, Solan also has the Dagshai Jail Museum which showcases British Colonial history. 4. Chail: Host to the Cricket Ground at the Highest Altitude. Chail is well-known for having the highest cricket field which rests at a staggering 90 kilometers away from Chandigarh. It is also famously known as a summer retreat for Maharaja Bhupinder Singh from Patiala which featured breathtaking views of the sky-high Himalayas, Chail consists of a palace which has been converted into a hotel to draw in tourism, dense forests and vast meadows. Alongside the stunning beauty, Chail Palace marks the royal history of the Patiala Palace. Nature Lovers will also appreciate the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary that contains sambars, ghorals, and barking deer. Alongside this high class cricket field, Chail is also restocked with various mountains. 5. Kasauli: The Hidden Colonial Gem. Kasauli is the ideal place to visit when resting while enjoying a stunning view. It is located near Chandigarh and is about 70 kilometers away, making it a perfect tourist attraction. The area is renowned for its ancient feeling with spine streets filled with old churches and other remarkable sights. The best in this town is the Monkey Point Viewpoint from is perfectly located for a calm also features Gilbert Trail along with the famously known Kasauli Baptist Church . The streets are also not packed with a large crowd making it a perfect area for some natural peace and relaxation. 6. Barog: Lovely Detour Along The Kalka-Shimla Railway Barog, a small and beautiful hill station that sits on the UNESCO Kalka-Shimla railway, is about 60 km from Chandigarh. The town is named after Colonel Barog, who played an important role in building the railway line. Barog is surrounded by mesmerizing pine trees and has stunning views of the Valley beneath. Don't miss out on Barog Tunnel, the longest in Kalka Shimla railway track Travelers can relax at Timber Trail Resort, which has cable cars and zip lining too, or go stroll around the area. 7. Naldehra: A Golfing Escape Located Within Hills Naldehra is a beautiful township approximately twenty kilometers away from Shimla, making it one of the top places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. The area is also about 110 kilometers away from Chandigarh. Naldehra is home to the Naldehra Golf Club which is known to be the oldest golf course in India. This nine hole golf course was established in 1905 and is quite popular all over the country. Along with primitive golfing, one can visit the Tattapani Hot Springs that are nearby, or just relax in the calmness of the surroundings. The vibrant slopes and cool mountain breeze makes it one of the best weekend destinations. What Makes An Outstanding Hill Station Different From Others? If you are looking for beauty with substance, these spots standing outside Chandigarh effortlessly blend scenic beauty with opportunities to engage in nature, culture and history all at once but without the throngs of tourists Limiting your experience. Unlike their more renowned counterparts, these places allow travelers to enjoy the destination exactly how it's meant to be enjoyed without losing out on comfort. Also, its closeness to Chandigarh means lesser time spent traveling and greater enjoyment which makes them perfect for both quick getaways and long vacations. To Wrap Up Not only does Chandigarh impress as a beautiful city with much to discover, but a trip to these humble hill stations enhance your travel delight. Chail's peaceful heights, the adventurous spirit of Barog, and the historical charm of Pinjore Gardens are exceptional places which are best String together. These underrated hill stations are overflowing with something for everyone including solo travelers, couples yearning for romance, or even families eager to spend time together. Make new memories that last forever by visiting these places. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your bags, drive along, and immerse yourself in these unsung wonders lying beyond the Chandigarh boundary.
Business Recorder
21 hours ago
- Business
- Business Recorder
Petroleum products: Senate body rejects Rs2.50/litre carbon levy
ISLAMABAD: The Senate Standing Committee on Finance and Revenue with majority vote rejected the carbon levy of Rs2.5 per litre on petroleum products proposed in the Finance Bill 2025-26, from which the government has projected to generate a revenue of Rs45 billion. Under the ongoing International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme for Resilience and Sustainability Financing (RSF), the government has agreed for the imposition of the carbon levy on petrol, diesel and furnace oil of Rs5 per litre, which will be phased in over two years. The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) chairman said that revenue from carbon levy would be increased to Rs90 billion in 2026-27. The levy is a condition of the IMF's RSF programme of $ 1.4 billion. This levy will be imposed on petrol, diesel and furnace oil. Aurangzeb tells Senate body: Govt eyes $2bn loan to boost reserves The parliamentary panel chaired by Senator Saleem Mandviwalla, observed that carbon levy could not implemented through finance bill. The committee observed that the way carbon levy is going to be impose was not correct and rather it should come as carbon tax. The committee also underlined that Petroleum Division has proposed Rs2.5 carbon levy without providing sustainable 'Emission Reduction' plan for the environment. Senator Sherry Rehman opposing the levy said that there is difference between the carbon levy and carbon tax. 'There is no place in the world where carbon levy been imposed but carbon tax used to be enforced'. Sherry Rehman said that carbon taxes been enforced over specific industries with an aim. 'You are imposing all types of levies and that also directly over the public users,' she added. 'It requires an act of law and not enforced with the finance bill,' she added. Senator Mohsin Aziz said that the Supreme Court has restrained imposition of carbon levy in Zafar Iqbal Jhagra case. 'It will be contempt of the court if carbon levy is imposed', he added. After debate the carbon levy was rejected by the government with majority vote. The FBR chairman said that tax on hybrid vehicles is not being increased. The committee also raised questions on the proposed amendment in regulation of Generation, Transmission and Distribution of Electric Power Act 1997 agreed with IMF. According to the proposed amendment, the Debt Service Surcharge (DSS) is currently set at 10 percent of the NEPRA-determined revenue requirement, adjusted each year at the time of annual rebasing, per current practice. In the event that DSS revenues fall short of the annual payment requirement, the DSS will be increased to make up for the shortfall and calibrated per any anticipated future shortfalls in the succeeding year. To facilitate this, NEPRA has proposed to adopt legislation to remove the 10 percent. Discussing the power sector initiative for payment of circular debt through refinancing, NEPRA officials stated that, as of now, Rs3.23 per unit is being charged to consumers. However, NEPRA proposed removal of 10 percent cap limit, as it would help in obtaining necessary refinancing needed for the payment of power sector's circular debt. However, the committee objected while saying that authorities concerned wanted blanket power to increase DSS, which would result in power tariff increase for consumers. The committee decided to call minister and secretary for power to brief the committee. Chairman committee said that they need a briefing on the circular debt repayment plan. If permission is given, you will increase this rate with proposed blanket power and if there is no need to increase it, then why is permission being sought, he asked. The joint secretary took the stand that this will not happen and consumers will continue to be charged Rs3.23 per unit. Senator Sherry Rehman opposed it and said that this cannot be allowed. The joint secretary said that there is a 10 percent service surcharge limit and IMF has demanded that the limit on debt service surcharge be removed. The government will use the surcharge to pay off a debt of Rs1,275 billion. The surcharge is used to pay interest on the circular debt. Currently, a debt service surcharge of Rs3.23 per unit is being charged from consumers, he added. Senator Shibli Faraz said that if the levy money is being spent on roads, what would happen to combating climate change. The prime minister says that the funds will be spent on the roads of Balochistan. The government should first determine its priorities, he added. The committee took exception to certain clauses of 'Public Finance Management Act' allowing autonomous bodies to retain money and submit surplus profit into Public account. The committee called for rationalisation of these clauses, as it would only result in financial irregularities. The committee was briefed on the exemptions provided to businesses located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and newly-merged districts. It was informed that the exemptions for cinema operators have been limited to 2030, granting five years exemptions from the date of operations. However, the FBR has extended the withholding exemption for businesses existing in erstwhile FATA till 2026. Highlighting the significance of newly introduced 'Digital Presence Proceeds Act', the FBR chairman stated that the tax has been imposed on digital platforms providing services within the country without retaining physical footprint. The FBR chairman said that a sunset clauses for SEZs and STZs are included in the finance bill. He said that IMF was stressing to limit this tax exemptions for SEZs and STZs to 2027, however after hectic efforts the deadline was extended to 2035. The committee recommended the proposal. The committee also gave its nod to the budgetary proposals of tax on pension income exceeding Rs10 million for individuals under the age of 70. The committee recommended a proposal of the Federation of All Pakistan Universities Academic Staff Associations (FAPUASA) for continuation of 25 percent tax rebate. FAPUASA representatives strongly asserted that this rebate is an essential incentive to retain top academic talent, attract young scholars to the profession, and prevent brain drain from Pakistan's universities. Removing this rebate, they argued, would undermine academic motivation and weaken the research capacity of the country. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
3 days ago
- Business
- Business Recorder
Pakistan govt unveils revised tax fraud punishment procedure
ISLAMABAD: Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Wednesday, presented revised procedure for penalty, arrest and imprisonment to the persons committing tax fraud with new safeguards for the business community to avoid misuse of powers by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). The Senate Standing Committee on Finance and Revenue, under the chairmanship of Senator Saleem Mandviwalla, held its fifth consecutive session to deliberate on the Finance Bill 2025 and the Annual Budget Statement laid before Parliament. Aurangzeb informed that on special directive of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, four safeguards have been placed to ensure that powers to arrest must not be misused by the tax officials of the FBR. Arrest for tax fraud: Senate panel for defining a threshold Aurangzeb stated that the government would incorporate four major safeguards for allowing arrests on tax frauds in order to avoid misuse of powers. In the first pre-requisite, the minister said that the accused of tax fraud would be arrested where there was a fear of his escape, but it would be done with the approval of three members of the Board, in grade 21, notified by the FBR. The tampering of proof could be the second reason, and the third reason could be tax fraud amounting to Rs50 million. The fourth condition of the arrest, he said, would only be possible if someone received three notices but not bothered to respond. The Senate Standing Committee on Finance has unanimously recommended for approval and collection of GST from erstwhile FATA/PATA areas and refrained from backing out at the time of approval of the budget from the Parliament. Chairman of the Finance Committee objected that the FBR cannot give sales tax exemption to only PIA. This is a discriminatory exemption and would be challenged in courts once become law. The proposal should cover all leased aircrafts and not be limited to one airline. The committee discussed a range of critical recommendations and policy matters: The committee strongly recommended withdrawing the proposed 18 per cent GST on solar panels. Members observed that ahead of the budget, certain stakeholders had imported and dumped solar equipment in anticipation of the tax hike. The chairman emphasized the discriminatory nature of the move, saying, 'The committee rejects the sudden imposition of GST on solar imports and urges immediate withdrawal.' A seven per cent pension increase for retired government employees was proposed. Proposals were put forward to extend the duration of family pensions. The Higher Education Commission (HEC) was recommended for additional funding allocations. The committee expressed serious concern over the increase in GST from 12 per cent to 18 per cent on small vehicles, including 850cc cars. Chairman Mandviwalla called the 18 per cent sales tax on a Rs3 million vehicle 'unfair,' a sentiment echoed by several senators. Proposals were discussed to moderate the tax to 14 per cent or 15 per cent instead. Senator Shibli Faraz criticised the inequity, noting that while tax relief is being extended to certain regions, small car owners continue to face high taxation. FBR Chairman Rashid Mehmood Langrial said the IMF placed a principle that wherever the reduced GST rate was five percent, it would go up to 10 percent, and any rate of over five percent would go to the standard rate of 18 percent. From the next fiscal year, iron scrap importers will be obligated to sell only to registered manufacturers. Officials said this measure aims to eliminate the misuse of 'flying invoices' and commercial manipulation in scrap trade. The committee also held into consideration the recommendations put forward by Senator Farooq Hamid Naek related to tax fraud and its offences and punishments. Senator Mandviwalla praised the overall conduct and participation of members in the budget discussions, highlighting that the nature of engagement this year signifies a transparent and participatory process reflective of public will. The committee witnessed enthusiastic participation from members of the Senate. Senators Shibli Faraz, Anusha Rahman Ahmad Khan, Faisal Vawda, Muhammad Abdul Qadir, Mohsin Aziz, Kamran Murtaza, Manzoor Ahmad, Agha Shahzaib Durrani, Ahmed Khan, Zarqa Suharwardy Taimur, Waqar Mehdi, Jam Saifullah Khan, Irfan ul Haq Siddique, Khalida Ateeb and other members attended the meeting. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
3 days ago
- Business
- Business Recorder
Govt well prepared to tackle any fallout: Aurangzeb
ISLAMABAD: Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said Tuesday that the government will ensure adequate stockpiles of petroleum products in the country keeping in view geopolitical tensions and regional developments in Middle East. Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb participated as the Chief Guest at the 'National Workshop on Transitioning to Defined Contribution Pension Schemes', organised by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) at a local hotel on Tuesday. Finance Minister assured that Pakistan was well-prepared to navigate any potential fallout from regional instability. In his keynote address, the Minister began by briefing the participants on the recent geopolitical tensions and regional developments, sharing insights from a high-level meeting he chaired yesterday to review the evolving situation and its potential economic implications for Pakistan. He noted that in-depth discussions were held with key stakeholders on scenario planning, ensuring adequate stockpiles of petroleum products, and monitoring asset class pricing. He emphasised the government's firm resolve and preparedness to handle any eventuality, stating, 'We are in a good place — but hope is not a strategy. We have to plan for every possible outcome.' Touching upon international economic developments, Senator Aurangzeb shared details of his constructive and positive conversation with the US Commerce Secretary held late last night. He described the ongoing discussions on US tariffs as encouraging and noted that both countries are making steady progress and the broader objective is to deepen bilateral relations into a strategic economic partnership. Highlighting the government's reform agenda as laid out in the recently announced federal budget, the Minister reaffirmed the government's commitment to macroeconomic reforms. He emphasised that the government would continue to push forward on key areas such as privatization, tax reform, state-owned enterprise (SOE) restructuring, federal government rightsizing, pension, and public finance reform. Speaking on the subject of pension reforms, Senator Aurangzeb explained the rationale behind the government's decision to transition new civil servants to a Defined Contribution (DC) pension scheme, effective July 1, 2024. He underscored that this shift was a critical step taken even before addressing the legacy issue of unfunded pension liabilities. 'We had to stop the bleeding,' he said, referencing the fiscal burden of pension payments which have now exceeded one trillion rupees— surpassing the federal government's entire development budget. 'This raises a fundamental question of macroeconomic sustainability,' he added, stressing the urgency of reform. The Minister also commended provincial governments for their proactive role, particularly in the area of public-private partnerships and for taking the lead on defined contribution initiatives. He noted that the theme of the workshop—transitioning to defined contribution schemes—was both timely and significant, likening it to ongoing tariff reforms in its structural importance. Concluding his remarks, Senator Aurangzeb expressed confidence in the collective ability of stakeholders to bring about meaningful change in Pakistan's pension landscape, driven by sustainability, transparency, and long-term fiscal responsibility. Finance Minister underscored the urgent need for pension reform, noting the unsustainability of the current defined benefit system. In his address, Akif Saeed, Chairman SECP, outlined the progress made in developing a robust regulatory framework for DC pension schemes. He emphasised the critical role of technology, transparency, and awareness-building in shaping a modern and inclusive pension landscape. Federal and provincial government representatives shared updates on reform progress, with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa presenting valuable insights from its early implementation experience. The workshop served as a platform for dialogue among senior officials, regulators, financial sector leaders, and development partners. The SECP reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with all stakeholders to develop a transparent, reliable, and future-ready pension system that supports long-term financial security and inclusion. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
3 days ago
- Business
- Business Recorder
Govt unveils revised tax fraud punishment procedure
ISLAMABAD: Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Wednesday, presented revised procedure for penalty, arrest and imprisonment to the persons committing tax fraud with new safeguards for the business community to avoid misuse of powers by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). The Senate Standing Committee on Finance and Revenue, under the chairmanship of Senator Saleem Mandviwalla, held its fifth consecutive session to deliberate on the Finance Bill 2025 and the Annual Budget Statement laid before Parliament. Aurangzeb informed that on special directive of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, four safeguards have been placed to ensure that powers to arrest must not be misused by the tax officials of the FBR. Arrest for tax fraud: Senate panel for defining a threshold Aurangzeb stated that the government would incorporate four major safeguards for allowing arrests on tax frauds in order to avoid misuse of powers. In the first pre-requisite, the minister said that the accused of tax fraud would be arrested where there was a fear of his escape, but it would be done with the approval of three members of the Board, in grade 21, notified by the FBR. The tampering of proof could be the second reason, and the third reason could be tax fraud amounting to Rs50 million. The fourth condition of the arrest, he said, would only be possible if someone received three notices but not bothered to respond. The Senate Standing Committee on Finance has unanimously recommended for approval and collection of GST from erstwhile FATA/PATA areas and refrained from backing out at the time of approval of the budget from the Parliament. Chairman of the Finance Committee objected that the FBR cannot give sales tax exemption to only PIA. This is a discriminatory exemption and would be challenged in courts once become law. The proposal should cover all leased aircrafts and not be limited to one airline. The committee discussed a range of critical recommendations and policy matters: The committee strongly recommended withdrawing the proposed 18 per cent GST on solar panels. Members observed that ahead of the budget, certain stakeholders had imported and dumped solar equipment in anticipation of the tax hike. The chairman emphasized the discriminatory nature of the move, saying, 'The committee rejects the sudden imposition of GST on solar imports and urges immediate withdrawal.' A seven per cent pension increase for retired government employees was proposed. Proposals were put forward to extend the duration of family pensions. The Higher Education Commission (HEC) was recommended for additional funding allocations. The committee expressed serious concern over the increase in GST from 12 per cent to 18 per cent on small vehicles, including 850cc cars. Chairman Mandviwalla called the 18 per cent sales tax on a Rs3 million vehicle 'unfair,' a sentiment echoed by several senators. Proposals were discussed to moderate the tax to 14 per cent or 15 per cent instead. Senator Shibli Faraz criticised the inequity, noting that while tax relief is being extended to certain regions, small car owners continue to face high taxation. FBR Chairman Rashid Mehmood Langrial said the IMF placed a principle that wherever the reduced GST rate was five percent, it would go up to 10 percent, and any rate of over five percent would go to the standard rate of 18 percent. From the next fiscal year, iron scrap importers will be obligated to sell only to registered manufacturers. Officials said this measure aims to eliminate the misuse of 'flying invoices' and commercial manipulation in scrap trade. The committee also held into consideration the recommendations put forward by Senator Farooq Hamid Naek related to tax fraud and its offences and punishments. Senator Mandviwalla praised the overall conduct and participation of members in the budget discussions, highlighting that the nature of engagement this year signifies a transparent and participatory process reflective of public will. The committee witnessed enthusiastic participation from members of the Senate. Senators Shibli Faraz, Anusha Rahman Ahmad Khan, Faisal Vawda, Muhammad Abdul Qadir, Mohsin Aziz, Kamran Murtaza, Manzoor Ahmad, Agha Shahzaib Durrani, Ahmed Khan, Zarqa Suharwardy Taimur, Waqar Mehdi, Jam Saifullah Khan, Irfan ul Haq Siddique, Khalida Ateeb and other members attended the meeting. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
