News

PSDP funds: A tool for political gains

Distributive politics is at the core of Pakistan’s electoral system, where the ‘electability’ of an individual politician is believed to largely depend on their ability to secure resources to fund ‘development schemes’ or public services in their respective constituencies once the voters return them to the assemblies. No wonder the ruling parties allocate state resources, especially the annual

Inquiry into automakers’ bad practices hits roadblock

An inquiry by the Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) into consumer exploitation by the automobile sector regarding premium payments (on-money), delayed deliveries, increased car prices after booking, etc has come to a standstill. Sources in the commission told Dawn that the investigations have been hindered by a court order and non-cooperation of Honda Atlas Cars (Pakistan) Ltd, as the co

Industry is better for growth than IMF bailouts

With the commodity production improving, there is a noticeable pickup in exports, mainly to the Middle East, supporting the country’s apex trade body’s view that more resources can be generated by industry and trade than by knocking at the International Monetary Fund’s doors. With some initial increase in farm output, food exports grew 30 per cent in the first four months of the current fiscal

Pakistan’s perspective on net zero

When preparing and planning for the 2050 net zero target, it’s important to remember that the Earth’s atmosphere knows no boundaries and that every nation is responsible for preserving the environment and atmosphere. This obligation falls particularly heavy on those countries that have contributed the most to pollution and continue to do so. The Earth’s atmosphere comprises 78 per cent nitrogen

A step towards transparency or more manipulation?

While the amendments to election finance rules under the enacted law in August 2023 may contribute to reducing the disparity between the declared and the actual spending by national and provincial assemblies seat aspirants, it is unlikely to eliminate the gap entirely. The substantial increase in the campaign spending limits of candidates has bolstered the perception that engaging in electoral