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Evacuation in the Snow: Fears of Conflict Drive Mass Exodus from Pakistan’s Tirah Valley

Residents from Tirah valley, who fled a remote mountainous region bordering Afghanistan, gather to get themself registered, in Bara, Khyber District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Pakistan A wave of displacement is sweeping through northwest Pakistan as thousands of families flee the Tirah Valley after mosque loudspeakers warned residents of possible upcoming military action. The sudden announcements triggered a rapid and chaotic departure, with many families leaving in the middle of harsh winter conditions. Residents describe a tense atmosphere in the valley, where fears of renewed conflict between security forces and militant groups have been simmering for months. Entire communities have packed their belongings onto trucks, donkeys, and makeshift carts, heading toward safer towns such as Bara and Peshawar. Government officials insist that no military operation has been ordered and attribute the movement of people to seasonal migration patterns. Locals strongly dispute this, sayi...

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Tax season is upon us, and staying informed can make the process smoother and less stressful. Here are some essential updates and tips for the 2025 tax-filing season:

  •  Important Deadlines: 
    •    The deadline for most individuals to file and pay taxes is April 30, 2025. 
    •    Self-employed individuals have until June 16, 2025, to file, but any taxes owed must still be paid by April 30 to avoid interest.

  • New Changes:
    •   Federal income tax brackets have been adjusted to account for inflation, with rates ranging from 15% for earnings up to $57,375 to 33% for earnings above $253,414.
    • The contribution limit for Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs) has increased to $32,490.
    •  The Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) contribution room remains at $7,000 for 2025.

  •  Digital Services Enhancements:
    • The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) now offers a document verification service for quicker access to online accounts.
    • A live chat feature is available in the CRA's "My Account" portal for personalized assistance.

  • Filing Tips:
    • File early to avoid last-minute stress and ensure quicker refunds.
    • Double-check all tax slips and receipts to claim every eligible credit and deduction.
    • Consider seeking help from free tax clinics if you have a modest income and a simple tax situation.

By staying organized and informed, you can make the most of this tax season and potentially maximize your refund.



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