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What about medical allowance?
Radio Pakistan’s serving and retired employees have heaved a great sigh of relief on getting the 17.5 percent increase in their salaries/pensions. While expressing gratitude in this respect to Caretaker Federal Information Minister, Murtaza Solangi, they are now requesting him for immediate intervention for their long overdue Medical Allowance.
Former federal government had replaced Radio Pakistan’s own pay scales in July 2022 with the government pay scales. This had entitled Radio Pakistan’s serving and retired employees to payment of fixed Medical Allowance with their salaries and pensions every month. For the very kind information of the worthy Federal Information Minister, Radio serving and retired employees are also waiting for the reimbursement of their Medical Bills which have been pending for the last three years or so. They have been purchasing medicines from their own sources as and when these were not available at Radio Pakistan’s prescribed medical stores and submitting the bills for reimbursement accordingly.
They are hopeful the honourable Information Minister will intervene in the matter on some priority in the midst of his other engagements and commitment as he must be aware of these problems as he had served as Radio Pakistan’s Director General some years back.
M Z RIFAT
Lahore
Impact of social media on society
Today, social media plays an important role in our daily life. Social media has a huge impact on society. It has made communication fast and more accessible, allowing us to connect with friends, family and even strangers from different corners of the globe. It is also a great platform for self-expression and creativity.
But, like everything else there are pros and cons. social media can sometimes create unrealistic expectations and lead to feelings of inadequacy, as we compare our lives to the highlight reels of others. It can also lead to cyberbullying and the spread of misinformation.
Overall, social media has definitely shaped our society in both positive and negative ways. it is all about finding that balance and using it in a way that enhance our lives.
ALIZA ARSHAD
Islamabad
Hunger crisis in Gaza
I am writing to draw attention to the escalating hunger crisis in Gaza, a situation that demands immediate international intervention. The people of Gaza are facing severe food shortages, exacerbated by ongoing conflict and economic challenges. The impact on the most vulnerable, particularly children, is devastating. Malnutrition rates are rising and access to basic necessities like clean water and nutritious food is alarmingly limited.
It is imperative that the global community comes together to address this humanitarian crisis. Increased humanitarian aid, facilitated by international organizations, is crucial to providing immediate relief to those suffering in Gaza. Additionally, diplomatic efforts should be intensified to seek a sustainable solution to the underlying issues contributing to this dire situation.
Ignoring the plight of the people in Gaza not only goes against our shared human values but also undermines the prospects for peace in the region. As responsible global citizens, we must unite to alleviate the suffering and work towards a lasting resolution. Don’t turn a blind eye. Speak up, act and let’s make a difference.
HOORAIN WAKIL
Gulberg Greens, Islamabad
Reducing smoking risks
As Pakistan grapples with the persistent challenges posed by smoking-related illnesses, there is a need to adopt a comprehensive approach embracing harm reduction as a vital component of tobacco control policy.
Tobacco harm reduction focuses on minimizing the adverse health effects associated with tobacco use, recognizing that complete abstinence may not be immediately achievable for all individuals. One of the most effective harm reduction tools are alternative nicotine delivery systems. Research in the developed countries suggests these alternatives pose significantly fewer health risks than traditional cigarettes.
There can be no doubt that complete cessation should be the ultimate goal. However, it is important to keep in mind that harm reduction is a pragmatic and compassionate pathway for those struggling with quitting smoking. Harm reduction strategies can contribute to reducing smoking-related diseases and alleviate burden on healthcare system.
What the government and the tobacco control activists need to consider that embracing harm reduction does not mean neglecting prevention and cessation efforts. Rather, it complements existing strategies by providing additional tools to help individuals transition away from more harmful forms of tobacco use. Pakistan must carefully weigh its options when employing the tobacco harm reduction products. And at the same time, learn from the experience of the countries such as Sweden and the UK.
SARNAWAZ SALAMAT
Islamabad
