The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has released a statement regarding the election process for a vacant seat in the Chess Federation of Pakistan. The statement aims to clarify the current situation and provide context to the election. In 2022, the PSB observed the elections of the Chess Federation, which resulted in the election of Hanif Qureshi as President and Umar Khan as Secretary General.

Following the election, Umar Khan, the Secretary General, submitted a requisition to the PSB to hold an election to fill the vacant position of Vice President. In response, the Election Commission of the PSB issued a schedule for the election of the Vice President seat. The PSB has emphasized that any internal conflicts or differences within the Chess Federation are considered internal matters and will not affect the electoral process.

The election is being conducted in accordance with the relevant regulations and constitutions, including the PSB Constitution (2022), the National Sports Policy (2005), the Sports Election Regulations (2024), and the Constitution of the Chess Federation of Pakistan. The PSB is ensuring that the election process is fair and transparent, and that it is conducted in accordance with the established rules and regulations.

It is worth noting that the PSB is taking a neutral stance in the election, and is not taking sides in any internal factionalism or differences within the Chess Federation. The Board’s primary concern is to ensure that the election is conducted in a fair and transparent manner, and that the vacancy is filled in accordance with the relevant regulations.

Overall, the PSB’s statement aims to provide clarity on the election process and to reassure stakeholders that the election will be conducted in a fair and transparent manner. The Board is committed to upholding the principles of good governance and fairness in the election process, and to ensuring that the Chess Federation of Pakistan is able to function effectively and efficiently.

The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) recently supervised elections for three sports federations: the Pakistan Bodybuilding Federation, Pakistan Tenpin Bowling Federation, and Alpine Club of Pakistan. The elections took place at the PSB Coaching Centre in Peshawar on Friday. According to official notifications, Muhammad Tariq Hassan was elected as the President of the Pakistan Bodybuilding Federation, while Sohail Anwar was elected as the Secretary General.

The newly elected team for the Pakistan Bodybuilding Federation also includes several vice presidents, including Muhammad Irshad, Khanzeb, and a panel of eight other vice presidents. Armugham Muqeem was elected as the Finance Secretary, and Muhammad Fayyaz was elected as the Associate Secretary. The elections were conducted in accordance with the Pakistan Sports Board Constitution (2022), the Revised National Sports Policy (2005), and the Sports Election Regulations (2024).

The Chief Election Commissioner, Waseem Majid Malik, along with members Babur Suhail and Zohaib Hassan Gondal, oversaw the elections to ensure a peaceful and transparent process. The elections for the Pakistan Tenpin Bowling Federation were unopposed, with Ijaz ur Rehman being elected as President and Kamran Khalid as Secretary General.

The elections were a significant step towards promoting sports development in Pakistan. The Pakistan Sports Board plays a crucial role in regulating and promoting sports in the country, and the election of new leaders for these federations is expected to bring fresh ideas and energy to the sports scene. The peaceful and transparent nature of the elections is also a positive sign, indicating that the sports community in Pakistan is committed to fair play and good governance.

Overall, the elections mark an important milestone for sports in Pakistan, and the newly elected leaders will play a key role in shaping the future of bodybuilding, tenpin bowling, and other sports in the country. With the support of the Pakistan Sports Board, these federations can work towards promoting sports development, identifying and nurturing talent, and competing at the international level.

The Director General of the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB), Muhammad Yasir Pirzada, visited the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) Headquarters in Lahore to reaffirm the PSB’s commitment to revitalizing football in Pakistan. Pirzada was warmly received by senior PFF officials, including Ali Akram and Aziz Malik, and congratulated the federation on its recent elections, which were deemed historic and transparent. The new leadership of the PFF, under President Syed Mohsen Gilani, has a vision to uplift football in Pakistan, and Pirzada assured the PSB’s full support for this effort.

During the meeting, Pirzada emphasized the importance of developing sustainable infrastructure, promoting inclusive participation, and modernizing facilities to international standards. The proposed renovation and upgradation of the Punjab Stadium in Lahore was a key point of discussion, with Pirzada stressing the need to align the facility with international standards, similar to the recently upgraded Jinnah Stadium in Islamabad. This would enable the stadium to host national and international football events, promoting the sport and providing opportunities for Pakistani footballers to compete at the highest level.

The talks also focused on nationwide football development initiatives, with Pirzada expressing the PSB’s readiness to support the PFF’s strategic roadmap. This roadmap includes expanding grassroots infrastructure, promoting youth and women’s football, and establishing robust professional league systems. The collaborative dialogue between the PSB and PFF highlighted a mutual understanding to work together to revive football in Pakistan, a sport with immense potential and popularity across the country.

The visit marks a significant step towards enhanced cooperation between the PSB and PFF, and is expected to have a positive impact on the development of football in Pakistan. With the PSB’s support, the PFF can focus on implementing its strategic plan, which aims to promote football at all levels, from grassroots to professional. The ultimate goal is to create a thriving football ecosystem in Pakistan, which can produce talented players, competitive teams, and a strong football culture. By working together, the PSB and PFF can help to unlock the full potential of football in Pakistan and bring the sport to new heights.

The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has announced the schedule for the elections of three sports federations, marking an important step towards promoting democracy and transparency in the country’s sports landscape. According to the announcement, the elections for the federations of Athletics, Cycling, and Rowing will be held simultaneously, with a clear timeline and process outlined to ensure a smooth and fair process.

The elections are expected to take place in the coming weeks, with the exact dates and venues to be confirmed by the PSB. The board has already issued notifications to the concerned federations, informing them of the election schedule and the necessary procedures to be followed. The elections will be held in accordance with the PSB’s constitution and the rules and regulations of the International Federation.

The announcement of the election schedule is a significant development, as it paves the way for the democratization of sports in Pakistan. The elections will provide an opportunity for the sports community to elect their representatives, who will be responsible for promoting and developing their respective sports. The elected representatives will also be responsible for ensuring that their sports are managed in a transparent and accountable manner.

The PSB has emphasized that the elections will be held in a free and fair manner, with all stakeholders having an equal opportunity to participate. The board has also assured that it will provide all necessary support and facilities to ensure the smooth conduct of the elections. The elections are expected to be contested by a large number of candidates, representing different regions and interests.

The holding of elections for the sports federations is a key component of the PSB’s efforts to promote sports development in Pakistan. The board has been working tirelessly to create a conducive environment for sports to thrive, and the elections are an important step towards achieving this goal. By providing a platform for the sports community to elect their representatives, the PSB is empowering the community to take ownership of their sports and work towards their development.

Overall, the announcement of the election schedule is a positive development for sports in Pakistan, and is expected to have a significant impact on the country’s sports landscape. With the elections set to take place in the coming weeks, all eyes will be on the PSB and the sports community as they work towards a brighter future for sports in Pakistan.

The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has unveiled an ambitious strategy to revive Pakistan’s sporting legacy, with a focus on infrastructure development, elite athlete training, and comprehensive sports promotion programs. As the country prepares to host the South Asian Games in January 2026, the PSB has entered a critical phase in its nationwide campaign to rejuvenate sports at all levels. Director General of PSB, Yasir Pirzada, emphasized that the upcoming Games are a matter of national pride and represent a unique opportunity to re-establish Pakistan’s regional stature in sports.

To achieve this goal, the PSB is undertaking extensive renovation and upgradation projects at the Pakistan Sports Complex in Islamabad, transforming it into a state-of-the-art venue capable of hosting major international events. The facility will provide top-class amenities for athletes, aligning with international standards. Pirzada credited the government’s leadership for putting sports back on the national agenda, noting that specialized athlete training camps are being run to prepare Pakistan’s athletes for elite international competition.

The PSB’s long-term roadmap includes grassroots talent identification and development programs, revival of school and college-level sports competitions, and strategic public-private partnerships to boost investment in sports. The board also aims to enhance media collaboration to build a sports-positive culture. Pirzada interacted with a delegation from the Rawalpindi-Islamabad Sports Journalists Association (RISJA), exchanging ideas and underlining the importance of media engagement in supporting Pakistan’s sporting resurgence.

The PSB’s efforts are focused on delivering a world-class edition of the South Asian Games, with every aspect aligned with international standards. With the government’s support, the board is committed to rejuvenating sports at all levels, from infrastructure development to athlete welfare. The upcoming Games are a crucial milestone in this journey, and the PSB is working tirelessly to ensure that Pakistan makes a strong impression on the regional sports scene. By investing in sports infrastructure, athlete development, and promotion programs, the PSB aims to restore Pakistan’s sporting legacy and inspire a new generation of athletes to achieve excellence.

PSB Academy, a leading private education institution in Singapore, has launched an initiative worth over S$2.1 million to promote inclusivity and access to education. The initiative, called Beyond60, aims to provide equal opportunities for all, particularly for youths at risk, women pursuing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), and the workforce pursuing social causes. This effort aligns with Singapore’s 60th birthday theme of “Building Our Singapore Together”.

As part of the initiative, PSB Academy will award full scholarships to up to 30 deserving recipients, selected by its partners, including the Singapore Centre for Social Enterprise (raiSE), United Women Singapore (UWS), and Care Corner Singapore. The scholarships will cover the full cost of the recipients’ educational programs, which can range from six months to four years.

The partnership with raiSE aims to strengthen the capabilities of leaders in the social enterprise sector, enabling them to create a positive impact on the communities they serve. The collaboration with UWS will provide opportunities for young women from local polytechnics to pursue higher education in STEM and related disciplines. Meanwhile, the partnership with Care Corner will support youths preparing for their N and O Levels, as well as at-risk youths, helping them achieve their academic aspirations.

The scholarships will be awarded in multiple tranches, with the first tranche commencing in the second half of this year and the last tranche by December 2026. Interested applicants can contact raiSE, UWS, and Care Corner directly to learn more about the eligibility requirements and application process.

PSB Academy’s CEO, Derrick Chang, emphasized the importance of providing equal opportunities for Singaporeans to progress, ensuring that prosperity extends to more members of the community. The initiative is part of PSB Academy’s legacy of 60 years of excellence, which includes supporting over 2,000 adult learners in Singapore with more than S$3.5 million in education grants.

The academy will also host a series of public engagement activities to promote inclusivity and accessibility in education. These events will invite members of the public to participate in hands-on experiences across various disciplines, showcasing the core values of accessibility and inclusivity that define PSB Academy as Asia’s Future Academy.

In addition to the Beyond60 initiative, PSB Academy has also unveiled its third city campus in Singapore and inked a Memorandum of Understanding with Coventry University and the Singapore Civil Defence Force to offer industry-relevant programs. The academy’s approach to education focuses on performance in the New Economy, providing quality education that nurtures future-ready graduates equipped with the skills and tools necessary to thrive in a digitally-driven world.

PSB Academy’s partners, including raiSE, UWS, and Care Corner, also expressed their support for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of empowering individuals to create positive change in Singapore. The scholarships are now open for application until December 31, 2025, and interested applicants are encouraged to contact the respective partners to learn more about the eligibility requirements and application process.

The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) is set to establish three Padel tennis courts in major cities across the country, including Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi. This move aims to promote the sport and make it more accessible to people from all backgrounds. Padel has been gaining popularity in Pakistan, especially in cities like Karachi and Lahore, where private facilities are already operating. However, the sport remains expensive and out of reach for the average citizen.

To address this issue, the PSB plans to set up Padel courts at its centers in the three cities, providing an opportunity for sports enthusiasts to play the game without having to pay high fees at private facilities. The courts will be established at the Jinnah Sports Complex in Islamabad, the National Coaching Centre in Lahore, and the National Coaching Centre in Karachi.

In addition to the Padel courts, the PSB also plans to undertake several other projects at its Karachi center. These include the installation of a new tartan track, which has been delayed for over two decades, and an increase in seating capacity around the track and football stadium. The existing tartan track is nearly 29 years old and is in desperate need of replacement. As a result, athletic events for the upcoming 35th National Games, scheduled to be held in Karachi later this year, will not be held at the National Coaching Centre.

Other ongoing projects at the Karachi center include the installation of two small synthetic turfs for Hockey 5 and futsal, as well as the installation of floodlights. While poles for the lights were erected two months ago, the lights themselves have yet to be installed. The PSB is expected to receive funding for these projects in the upcoming 2025-26 federal budget, which will help to expedite their completion. Overall, the PSB’s initiatives aim to promote inclusivity and provide better sporting facilities for people from all backgrounds.

Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has honored medal-winning athletes with cash awards worth Rs 20.75 million. The ceremony was held to recognize and reward the achievements of Pakistani athletes who have made the country proud in various international sports events. The cash awards were given to athletes who won medals in events such as the South Asian Games, Asian Games, and World Championships.

The athletes were awarded cash prizes based on their performance, with gold medal winners receiving the highest amounts. The cash awards are aimed at motivating and supporting Pakistani athletes to continue performing well in international competitions. The PSB has been providing financial support to athletes to help them prepare for major events and achieve their goals.

The ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials from the PSB, including the Director-General, who congratulated the athletes on their achievements. The officials praised the athletes for their hard work and dedication, which has brought laurels to the country. The athletes thanked the PSB for the recognition and financial support, which they said would help them to continue performing well in future events.

The cash awards are part of the PSB’s efforts to promote sports in Pakistan and encourage athletes to participate in international competitions. The PSB has been working to develop sports infrastructure and provide training facilities to athletes to help them improve their performance. The organization has also been collaborating with international sports organizations to provide opportunities for Pakistani athletes to participate in international events.

The awards ceremony was a significant event that recognized the achievements of Pakistani athletes and provided them with financial support to continue pursuing their passion for sports. The PSB’s efforts to promote sports in Pakistan are expected to have a positive impact on the country’s sports scene, and it is hoped that more athletes will be inspired to participate in international competitions and bring glory to the country. Overall, the ceremony was a celebration of Pakistan’s sporting achievements and a testament to the country’s potential to produce talented athletes who can compete at the international level.

PSB Academy, a leading private education institution in Singapore, has launched the “Beyond60” initiative, a comprehensive scholarship program aimed at empowering deserving individuals to pursue higher education. The S$2.1 million initiative will fully fund education scholarships for 30 recipients, selected through a partnership with four social enterprises: the Singapore Centre for Social Enterprise (raiSE), United Women Singapore, and Care Corner Singapore.

The Beyond60 initiative is designed to support individuals who face significant barriers to accessing higher education, including those from low-income backgrounds, single parents, and individuals with disabilities. The program aims to provide these individuals with the opportunity to acquire new skills, knowledge, and qualifications, enabling them to improve their socio-economic status and contribute to the community.

The selection process for the scholarship recipients will be conducted through the partner social enterprises, which will identify and nominate eligible candidates. The scholarships will cover the full cost of tuition fees, as well as other related expenses, ensuring that the recipients can focus on their studies without financial burdens.

The Beyond60 initiative is a significant commitment by PSB Academy to give back to the community and make a positive impact on the lives of deserving individuals. The program is also aligned with the Singapore government’s efforts to promote social mobility and inclusivity, and to support the development of a more compassionate and equitable society.

Through this initiative, PSB Academy aims to create a positive ripple effect in the community, empowering the scholarship recipients to become agents of change and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. The academy believes that education is a key driver of social mobility and economic growth, and that by providing access to quality education, it can help to break the cycle of poverty and create a more just and equitable society.

Overall, the Beyond60 initiative is a testament to PSB Academy’s commitment to social responsibility and its dedication to making a positive impact on the community. By providing fully funded education scholarships to deserving individuals, the academy is helping to create a more inclusive and compassionate society, where everyone has the opportunity to succeed and thrive.

The research focuses on the associative effect of Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) such as Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB) and lime stress on root biomass. The study aimed to investigate how these factors interact to affect root development in plants.

Introduction

Plant growth and development are significantly influenced by factors such as nutrient availability, microbial interactions, and soil conditions. Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB) are beneficial microorganisms that can solubilize phosphorus from soil, making it available to plants. On the other hand, lime stress can negatively impact plant growth by altering soil pH and nutrient availability. The interaction between PSB and lime stress on plant growth, particularly root biomass, is not well understood.

Methodology

The study involved a pot experiment where plants were grown in soil with varying levels of lime application (0, 1, 2, and 3 tons ha⁻¹) and inoculated with PSB. The root biomass was measured at the end of the experiment.

Results

The results showed that PSB inoculation significantly increased root biomass in plants grown under lime stress conditions. Without lime application, PSB inoculation also increased root biomass, but to a lesser extent. The associative effect of PSB and lime stress on root biomass was more pronounced at higher levels of lime application. The study found that PSB can mitigate the negative effects of lime stress on root growth by increasing phosphorus availability and modifying soil pH.

Discussion

The findings suggest that PSB can play a crucial role in alleviating lime stress in plants by promoting root growth. The associative effect of PSB and lime stress on root biomass highlights the importance of considering the interactions between soil microorganisms, soil conditions, and plant growth. The study’s results have implications for sustainable agriculture practices, where the use of PGPR like PSB can help mitigate the negative effects of soil degradation and promote plant growth in challenging environments.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the associative effect of PSB and lime stress on root biomass is a significant factor in plant growth and development. The study’s findings highlight the potential of using PSB as a biofertilizer to promote sustainable agriculture practices and mitigate the negative effects of soil degradation. Further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms underlying the interactions between PSB, lime stress, and plant growth, and to explore the potential applications of PSB in agriculture.

A Sheriff’s sale has been scheduled for May 29, 2025, at 10:00 am in the lobby of the Justice Center in Bozeman, Montana. The sale is for the property owned by defendants Dennis Len Johnson and Brenda Johnson, located at 8555 Camp Creek Road, Manhattan, MT 59741. The property is described as a portion of Section 27, Township 1 South, Range 3 East, in Gallatin County, Montana, with certain exceptions.

The sale is being conducted by the Sheriff’s Office, and the property will be sold to the highest and best bidder. The sale is subject to the plaintiff’s approval, and all bids must be made on a cash basis. The accepted bids must be paid in full by cashier’s check or cash on the day of the sale.

The property is being sold as a result of a lawsuit filed by PSB Credit Services, Inc. against the defendants, with case number DV-16-2024-10-FO. The sale is a public auction, and anyone can attend and bid on the property.

It’s worth noting that there is a one-year right of redemption for this sale, which means that the defendants or their representatives may be able to redeem the property within one year of the sale by paying the purchase price plus any additional costs and fees.

The Sheriff’s Office has announced that the sale will be conducted by Deputy Ben Peterson, and the notice of sale has been published in a local newspaper on May 8, 15, 22, and 29, 2025. The sale is scheduled to take place at 10:00 am on May 29, 2025, and interested bidders are encouraged to attend and participate in the auction.

A recent study by the Public Schools Branch in Prince Edward Island has recommended the closure of Parkside Elementary School, one of Canada’s oldest schools, due to significant ongoing challenges with air quality, heating, and maintenance. The 27-page report suggests that the school’s heritage status would make it difficult to upgrade, and instead proposes building a new school to accommodate up to 750 students from kindergarten to Grade 9. The new school could be located along the East-West Corridor, a new artery road being built through the City of Summerside, which is expected to experience significant growth and development in the coming years.

Summerside Mayor Dan Kutcher, who recently toured the school, described it as “physically, structurally probably not fit for teaching” due to various physical issues, including leaking water and loud HVAC machines that had to be turned off during the day. The report also outlines options to address overcrowding, including adding classrooms, rezoning students, and potentially moving Grades 7-9 out of Miscouche Consolidated.

The proposed closure of Parkside Elementary has sparked concerns in the community, with Liberal Opposition Leader Hal Perry stating that families are facing the possibility of closure without proper consultation or information. Premier Rob Lantz has assured that no decisions will be made without full consultation with the school community, and has expressed his commitment to investing in Island schools and providing students with the best possible facilities.

Public consultation on the proposal will continue until June 2, with school board trustees ultimately having the final say on what happens. The issue has been discussed in the provincial legislature, with Perry asking Lantz to guarantee full and transparent consultation with the school community before any decisions are made. Lantz has confirmed that no decisions will be made without such consultation, and has emphasized the importance of investing in Island schools to provide students with quality education and facilities.

The proposed new school would address significant enrollment growth expected in the Greater Summerside Area over the next few years, with the East-West Corridor identified as a potential location. The area is expected to experience significant development, with over 2,000 homes expected to be built on 3,000 acres of land. The new school would provide a modern and suitable learning environment for students, addressing the current challenges faced by Parkside Elementary.

Cibus Fund II, a sustainable agri-food investment fund, has acquired a majority stake in PSB Producción Vegetal, a leading stonefruit breeder. The acquisition will drive the development of high-quality, climate-resilient fruit varieties to meet the evolving demands of producers, consumers, and the supply chain. PSB, founded in 1989, has a portfolio of 74 patented varieties and 51 more under development, including peaches, nectarines, apricots, and plums. The company’s research and development (R&D) integrates advanced molecular marker techniques and a hybridization program to develop fruit varieties with superior flavor, disease resistance, and adaptability to climate change.

The investment from Cibus Fund II will accelerate PSB’s R&D capabilities and global expansion, supported by strategic guidance from industry veterans. The partnership aims to address global food security, sustainability, and climate change adaptation through advanced plant breeding. PSB’s recent advancements include the development of disease-resistant stone fruit varieties, enabling healthier production with a lower environmental impact.

The acquisition is seen as a significant milestone for PSB, with CEO Stéphane Buffat retaining a stake in the business and continuing to run it. Buffat believes the partnership will enhance PSB’s breeding programs through technological innovation and expand into new markets, delivering exceptional fruit varieties that will delight consumers and empower growers. Rob Appleby, founder and CIO of Cibus Capital, commented that partnering with PSB places the fund at the forefront of natural breeding in the high-value fruit sector, with enormous potential to expand its impact globally and transform the fruit industry with next-generation varieties.

The investment highlights the critical role of advanced plant breeding in addressing global challenges, including climate change adaptation and sustainability. With the support of Cibus Fund II, PSB aims to create climate-resilient crops that ensure sustainable food supply chains in a rapidly changing world. The partnership is expected to drive growth and innovation in the fruit industry, delivering benefits to producers, consumers, and the environment.

The Athletics Federation of Pakistan (AFP) is under investigation for withdrawing from the Imam Ali Raza Athletics Championship in Iran at the last minute. The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has written a letter to the AFP seeking an explanation for the withdrawal, which caused financial losses to the host country and prevented Pakistan’s athletes from competing in the event. The AFP had confirmed their participation in the championship and had even obtained a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the PSB.

The Iranian organizers had made all necessary arrangements, including non-refundable hotel bookings and transportation, for the eight-member Pakistan contingent. However, just days before the event, the AFP informed the organizers that the team would not be arriving, causing shock and frustration. The organizers are planning to write a letter to the international body and the AFP to express their concern about Pakistan’s late withdrawal.

The PSB has expressed disappointment and embarrassment over the incident, stating that it has severely undermined the morale of Pakistani athletes and strained bilateral sporting relations. The PSB had fulfilled all formalities and issued an NOC for the team’s participation, and the Iranian organizers had completed all visa arrangements. The PSB has asked the AFP to submit a detailed written explanation within three days, stating the reasons behind the abrupt withdrawal.

The incident has raised questions about the governance and accountability of the AFP, and the PSB has called for an explanation to prevent such incidents in the future. The withdrawal has also affected the preparations of Pakistani athletes for the upcoming Asian Athletics championship. The PSB has emphasized that such behavior reflects poorly on the country’s sporting reputation and has urged the AFP to take necessary measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The AFP has been given a deadline to respond to the PSB’s letter, and further action may be taken if a satisfactory explanation is not provided.