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Budget and layman
That the country is currently engaged with the IMF in negotiations for a new package must be kept in mind. The Prime Minister has seemingly been rattled by the general reaction to this government’s first budget, which has been generally negative. Even those who should defend the Budget, the Treasury Benches, are at best silent. The government’s main ally, the party without which it cannot survive, the PPP, has been critical of the Budget, and decided to vote only for the sake of government.
Mr Sharif has tried to limit the political damage, but he should not forget that his opposition is giving the public the narrative that it will not submit to the IMF. At the same time, his announcement that the government will not abolish the zero-rating enjoyed by exporters indicates that the PML(N) has vindicated its reputation as a business-friendly party. Coddling exporters may not amount to a whole policy, but it would be a step in the direction of obtaining the foreign exchange needed to service the country’s external debt.
The emphasis on expanding the tax net was known to come from the IMF, but now it has been brought into the open that the IMF is behind this step. He would certainly like businessman, filers and non-filers alike, both compilers and evaders, that what is happening is not his fault. Miseries of common man increasing day by day. If Roti price is brought down, the rates and charges on Electricity and Gas are being raised continuously. The other eatables are also becoming out of reach of the layman. Ever soaring dearth has broken the backbone of middle class as well. Every sensible and responsible citizen wants to pay tax but on the cost of luxurious life being enjoyed by the elite but to avail facilities as being enjoyed in western countries.
MUNAWAR SIDDIQUI
Lahore
Bridging generation gap
In many households today, parents are often exasperated by their children’s preoccupation with games, cartoons, and gadgets. The complaint, “These children never complete their homework on time! They’re always glued to screens, chatting away or watching shows,” resonates in about 80% of homes. However, dismissing children as being wrong simply because they are different from previous generations is a significant mistake. Every child belongs to their own era, with unique interests shaped by their time. Each generation is distinct, and it’s unfair to compare children to those from different times. Today’s children are part of a digital age, characterized by remarkable intelligence and rapid technological advancements. While it is easy to blame children for their behaviours, the role of parents and teachers in shaping their character is paramount. Unfortunately, many parents and teachers fail to recognize this responsibility, focusing solely on providing material needs or academic instruction without imparting essential life skills and values.
Understanding the distinction between education and upbringing is crucial. Education imparts knowledge, but upbringing moulds character. The relationship between parents and children should blend friendship with respect. Providing children with tools like computers and mobile phones is essential, but these should be introduced at appropriate times to avoid becoming detrimental.
GULAB UMID
Turbat
IMF’s role in Pak economy
The IMF has been pivotal in Pakistan’s economic management, providing crucial financial assistance during times of economic turmoil. This support focuses on stabilizing foreign reserves and managing fiscal deficits, which are essential for ensuring the country meets its international payment obligations. However, the IMF’s involvement often necessitates stringent conditions, such as structural reforms aimed at broadening the tax base, improving the energy sector and enhancing public sector efficiency.
While these measures are intended to foster fiscal discipline and macroeconomic stability, they have drawn criticism for their impact on ordinary citizens. For instance, reducing subsidies and increasing taxes can disproportionately burden lower and middle income groups, exacerbating socio-economic inequalities. Despite its short-term benefits in stabilizing the economy, questions linger about the long term effectiveness of IMF interventions in promoting sustainable economic growth in Pakistan.
Balancing immediate stabilization with equitable development remains a significant challenge, sparking ongoing debate over the socio- economic impacts of IMF policies on the country’s economic trajectory.
ADEEBA AFZAL
Lahore
Box letter
First floating solar power plant
I am writing to share my enthusiasm and support for the upcoming installation of Pakistan’s first floating solar power plant at Keenjhar Lake in Sindh. This innovative project marks a significant milestone in our country’s journey towards sustainable energy and environmental conservation. Keenjhar Lake, also known as Kalri Lake, is a vital water reservoir and a popular tourist destination. Utilizing its surface for solar energy generation is a brilliant example of maximizing natural resources without compromising the lake’s ecological balance. Floating solar plants offer numerous advantages, including reduced land usage, decreased water evaporation and improved efficiency due to the cooling effect of water. This initiative aligns with Pakistan’s commitment to increasing renewable energy capacity and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Given our country’s abundant sunlight, investing in solar energy solutions is both practical and necessary. The floating solar power plant at Keenjhar Lake could set a precedent for similar projects nationwide, encouraging innovation and investment in green technologies. Furthermore, this project can provide local employment opportunities and boost the regional economy.
MENAHIL ISHFAQ
Rawalpindi
