Articles and letters may be edited for the purposes of clarity and space.
Reassessing independence
As we enter the month of August, the heart of Pakistan’s Independence celebrations, it is a time for both reflection and celebration. We remember the sacrifices made by our forefathers, the struggle for a separate homeland, and the dream of a prosperous, independent nation. However, as we mark another year of independence, I find myself contemplating the true essence of this freedom and whether we have achieved the independence envisioned by those who fought for it.
Independence was meant to bring prosperity, unity and self-reliance. It was a promise of a better future, free from the shackles of oppression and injustice. Yet, today, we face numerous challenges that question the reality of our independence. Economic instability, political turmoil and social inequalities continue to plague our society. The gap between the rich and the poor widens and access to basic necessities like education, healthcare and clean water remains a distant dream for many.
Moreover, the recent events highlighting corruption, lack of accountability and governance issues further erode the spirit of independence. The sacrifices of our ancestors seem in vain when we witness the daily struggles of our fellow citizens. Is this the freedom they envisioned? Are we truly independent if our people still suffer from poverty, illiteracy and injustice?
As we celebrate this month, let us not only remember the past but also commit to building a future that truly reflects the ideals of independence. It is imperative that we work towards a society where every citizen enjoys equal opportunities, where justice prevails and where our nation can stand proud on the global stage. In this independence month, let us pledge to address the issues that hinder our progress. Let us strive for a Pakistan that embodies the true spirit of freedom and independence, a Pakistan where every individual can thrive and contribute to the nation’s success.
WASIF KHALIQ DAD
Rawalpindi
Eco-friendly Independence Day
Every year on Independence Day, lakhs of balloons are released in the air to mark Independence Day celebrations. Though they look pretty, they can have disastrous effects on the planet and its inhabitants, including a choking hazard for infants. This Independence Day, let us start to honour our nation without harming our planet.
Avoiding the use of plastic flags can be one of the best tributes to our nation on Independence Day. While paper flags are made out of trees that reduce the forest cover of our planet, plastic flags are non biodegradable harming the atmosphere with its toxic fumes. Instead of using symbolic flags to showcase one’s patriotism, it is essential to spread awareness amongst fellow residents, especially children, to carry the nation in one’s heart and not in any symbolic flag. Also, start your day by planting a seedling as a representation of progress and the freedom of the country.
JUBEL D’CRUZ
Mumbai, India
National Testing Services
National Testing Services (NTS) biannually conducts GAT (General) and GAT(Subject) tests. Thousands of students around the country apply for these tests; as it is a mandatory requirement to pass GAT General for Mphil/Job Purpose and GAT (Subject) for PhD Studies.
Recently, NTS has increased the fees. However, several candidates faced technical errors of Invalid Invoice number paying the fees online yesterday which was the last date to apply for the GAT subject (IV).
One of the candidates said that unfortunately due to official commitment, I could not apply for the test before; however when applying in the evening, the invoice number generated on the NTS portal appears to be invalid and hence the fees cannot be submitted online.
Another candidate said the banking application gave an error while entering the invoice number. Similarly, another candidate said that I tried applying the whole day, but it gave the same error that the invoice number is invalid. Three other candidates said that we tried all the banking applications, but we faced the same error.
Unfortunately due to invalid 1Link 1Bill consumer number, several candidates have failed to apply for the NTS GAT (subject) test. Hence, NTS should regenerate the challans/link and extend the deadline as well.
Also, NTS should facilitate candidates via the helpline number which remains engaged most of the time. Candidates should not miss an opportunity to appear in the GAT Subject. Also, the candidates must learn a lesson that applying on the last date is not a good strategy.
M HASSAN ABBASI
Karachi
