Articles
Pakistan and Bangladesh Turning the Page on a Bitter Past
After almost half a century, as a student of history, I was struck by a picture that symbolized the transformation of relationships between two nations. The photograph captured Pakistan Army Chief General Syed Asim Munir presenting souvenirs to a top military delegation from Bangladesh, a gesture of goodwill and friendship. This seemingly simple act carried …
Uraan Pakistan Charting the Course for a Resilient and Equitable Future
By Muhammad Mohsin Iqbal The 13th Five-Year Plan (2024-2029), aptly titled “Uraan Pakistan,” represents a bold and comprehensive strategy aimed at steering Pakistan towards sustainable development, economic resilience, and societal progress. At a critical crossroads in its history, Pakistan seeks to leverage lessons from earlier plans while addressing systemic obstacles that have previously impeded progress. …
2024 reflecting the prolonged instability?
The immediate aftermath of 2024 may bring uncertainty and turmoil, but it also offers opportunities for creating more equitable and accountable systems worldwide. The key question remains whether nations and societies will capitalize on these shifts or succumb to the risks inherent in such transformations. This analysis of 2024 captures a pivotal moment in global …
RESCUE 1122 – From Ground to Sky: A Journey Beyond Boundaries
Deeba Shahnaz Akhter In 2024, Emergency Service Rescue 1122 achieved a significant milestone as Pakistan was honored with the United Nations INSARAG Chair for the Asia-Pacific region. This recognition followed its INSARAG classification and led to the hosting of three major international events: the International Rescue Challenge, the United Nations INSARAG Exercise in Lahore, and the …
The Old Educational System of Pakistan Challenges and the Need for Reform
Education is a fundamental pillar of any nation’s progress, providing the foundation for socioeconomic development, innovation, and global competitiveness. In Pakistan, however, the educational system has long been criticized for being outdated, failing to meet modern challenges, and inadequately preparing students for the future. This essay delves into the factors that contribute to the antiquated …
The Rise of Antibiotic Resistance: A Silent Global Threat
In the world of modern medicine, antibiotics have been nothing short of a miracle. Since their discovery, they have saved millions of lives by treating infections that were once considered fatal. However, this remarkable success story is now under serious threat. Antibiotic resistance, a phenomenon where bacteria evolve to withstand the effects of these drugs, …
Another Six IPPs Set for Shutdown
The federal government of Pakistan has initiated steps to terminate agreements with six more Independent Power Producers (IPPs) with a cumulative generation capacity of 2,396 MW. These plants, mostly fueled by furnace oil, have high generation costs, ranging up to Rs 63 per unit. The move aims to save approximately Rs 300 billion by eliminating …
SC Greenlights Conditional Verdicts in May 9 Riot Cases
The Supreme Court’s constitutional bench on Friday conditionally allowed military courts to pronounce reserved verdicts of 85 civilians who were still in custody for their alleged involvement in last year’s May 9 riots. A significant development in Pakistan’s legal and political landscape. This decision is “conditional,” meaning it likely includes specific stipulations to ensure compliance …
Crisis in South Korea and Regional Tension
On December 3, 2024, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol took the extraordinary step of declaring martial law, accusing the opposition Democratic Party of engaging in “anti-state activities” and attempting to obstruct governmental operations. This sudden decision sparked an immediate response from lawmakers, with 190 of South Korea’s 300 parliamentarians convening to demand its revocation. …
The Rise and Fall of Yahya Sinwar in the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
The killing of Yahya Sinwar, a key figure responsible for some of Hamas’ most violent actions, is a clear example that those who engage in terrorism often do not end peacefully. Although his death marks a tactical success, it does little to change the situation in a region where the fall of one leader often …
