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Why Europe Must Tighten Oversight of Iranian Diplomatic Missions Now

  The line separating conventional diplomacy from state-sponsored asymmetry has completely collapsed. Over the past several months, European security agencies have unravelled a disturbing pattern of surveillance, influence operations, and hybrid activity stretching across the heart of the continent. Most alarming of all is the evidence pointing toward the hubs facilitating these operations: formal embassies and diplomatic missions. For decades, the West treated Iranian state actions as a localized Middle Eastern problem. However, the recent weaponization of social media platforms by Iranian embassies -using coordinated satire, memes, and political trolling to mock international security threats and mask escalating aggression-unmasks a deeper institutional malaise. When official diplomatic channels are diverted to run deniable, grey-zone information campaigns and coordinate intimidation, it is no longer just bad diplomatic etiquette. It is a profound structural threat to European in...
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Apni Zameen Apna Ghar Program: A Step Towards Housing Security



The "Apni Zameen Apna Ghar" program has been launched by the Chief Minister of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, with the aim of providing free plots to homeless citizens across the province. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance housing access for underprivileged communities, following the success of the previous "Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar" scheme, which facilitated the construction of thousands of homes. The program is designed to address the pressing need for housing security among Punjab's most vulnerable populations .

Eligible candidates can apply for free 3-marla plots through the official e-portal at azag.punjab.gov.pk. The program is set to distribute 2,000 plots across 23 housing schemes in 19 districts, including areas such as Jhelum, Pattoki, and Lodhran. This initiative not only aims to provide land for housing but also includes provisions for zero-interest loans to assist beneficiaries in constructing their homes, making homeownership more accessible for low-income families.

To ensure fair distribution, the Punjab government has established strict eligibility criteria for applicants. Candidates must be permanent residents of Punjab, must not own any property in Pakistan, and must be registered with the National Socio-Economic Registry (NSER). Additionally, the monthly household income of applicants must be below Rs50,000. This targeted approach aims to prioritize those who are most in need of housing assistance .

The application process is designed to be user-friendly. Interested individuals can apply online via the official e-portal or visit local Deputy Commissioner offices, where dedicated desks have been set up to assist applicants. This dual approach ensures that those without internet access can still participate in the program, thereby maximizing outreach and inclusivity.

Financial support for home construction is a key component of the program, with Rs36 billion allocated for loans to support 33,500 beneficiaries. The repayment process has been structured into affordable installments, ensuring that low-income families can manage their financial commitments without undue hardship. This financial backing is crucial for enabling families to transition from renting to owning their homes.

In conclusion, the "Apni Zameen Apna Ghar" program represents a significant step towards addressing housing insecurity in Punjab. By providing free plots and financial assistance, the initiative aims to empower low-income families and promote socio-economic development. As the program unfolds, it is expected to have a transformative impact on the lives of many residents, fostering a sense of stability and community.

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