Zardari:
an icon of national integrity
By
Momin Bullo
.jpg)
President Asif Ali
Zardari, who led a treacherous journey from a death cell to Awan-e- Saddar,
undeniably deserve the title of “Nelson Mandela of South Asia”.
After leading PPP back to power in March 2008, he gifted the nation one point theory of political Reconciliation. He reportedly conceived this idea during his days behind the bars. He experienced torments, tortures, troubles and above all virtual segregation from his children. His life away from his people for more than a decade but fortunately or unfortunately with out proving a single charge becomes a worst example of political victimization. He was then facing as many as 30 cases of corruption to criminal nature. He faced the cases with determination and confronted with every successive ruler with steadfastly. In the wake of his long incarceration, Pakistan or the whole world in general saw lot of changes. He was in jail when on one front his country came under dictatorial rule due to wrong policies of the so called democrats who ruled under their influence of so called heavy mandate while on the other hand the whole world was gripped in an unending wave of terror following the attacks on United States of America on September 11.
He saw these rapid changes from isolated jail chambers and went on shaping his destiny predominated with national interests. The newspaper archives are very much evident of the fact that it was Mr. Zardari who time and again roared while in jail that the solution of all problems confronted to the country can be resolved once the PPP was allowed in power with peoples might.
The day PPP found its way to power following 2008’s polls, a flood of conspiracies virtually started inundating Shaheed BB’s mission of poverty elevation and other public welfare schemes. Intriguers, once again got the chance of putting hurdles in the PPP led elected government at its budding stage and a sort of defamation campaign took the shape. They started doing so with out considering the fact that the PPP, which accepted the offer to form the government while taking all the stake holders on board before setting off on the treacherous path in country’s best interests. The day it took off, the flood gates of filthy propaganda virtually left opened by the hidden forces who never afforded to see a party of masses and classes should rise and put some efforts to culminate the dream of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto into reality and take out the oppressed people from the abyss of degradation merely thriving on foreign aids.
Undeniably Asif Zardari deserves lot of accolades and a credit for building a national consensus against militants and terrorists and creation of an enabling environment to initiate war against militants and pursue it to logical end. Gone were the days when Pakistan was used to blamed for running with the hare and hunting with the hound in the war on terror. Earlier, Pakistan was used to be blackmailed and was used to be dictated to do more. While with the change in administration in Pakistan the situation has taken a different shape where Pakistan has started demanding from the world community to do more. The international community was brought together on the platform of “Friends of Pakistan” to lend strategic support to Pakistan in these difficult times of its life on the one hand and a vigorous economic diplomacy was launched on the other to help Pakistan over come its economic problems. President Zardari’s inclination towards China has further increased in his popularity in the international community. His endevour is based on to promote economic diplomacy between the two countries and translate strong political ties between the two countries. The process has yielded positive results when over 50 new initiatives and more than 30 MoUs signed with China on different projects notably on hybrid seeds, sprinkle irrigation, telecom etc.
Similarly, during his one year in the office as president, the Iran-Pakistan Gas pipeline project was signed. Similarly MOU was signed for the Tajkistan-Pakistan power transmission l9ine via Afghanistan to bring electric power to Pakistan and MoU was signed for the building of a 1360-km road linking Pakistan via Chitral with CAs through Tajkistan. For the first time in the contemporary history France agreed to assist Pakistan in civilian nuclear technology.
Asif Ali Zardari: A profile
PPP Co-Chairman Asif Ali Zardari was born on July 26, 1955 in a prominent Baloch family from Sindh. He is the son of veteran politician Mr. Hakim Ali Zardari. On his maternal side he is the great-grandson of than Bahadur Hassanally Effendi. The founder of the first educational institution for Muslims in Sindh. The founder of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah was among the prominent students to graduate from the Sindh Madressah. Mr. Zardari received his primary education at the Karachi Grammar School and his secondary education at Cadet College Petaro. He pursued his further education in London where he studied Business. He was married to Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto in 1987 and was widowed on December 27, 2007, when Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto was assassinated in a terrorist attack in Rawalpindi. Ms Bhutto was PPP Chairperson from 1979 until her assassination and was twice elected Prime Minister of Pakistan. They have three children, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari (born in 1988), Bakhtawar Bhutto Zardari (born in 1990) and Asifa Bhutto Zardari (born in 1993).
Mr. Zardari served as a Member of the National Assembly twice (1990-93 and 1993-96). as Federal Minister to for the Environment (1993.1996) and as Federal Minister for Investment (1995-96). He was the principal architect of the Benazir Bhutto government’s efforts to transform Pakistan’s energy power sector by encouraging major investment opportunities in power generation. He was also the initiator of the Iran-Pakistan natural gas pipeline project. Mr. Zardari was elected Senator in 1997, he served in that capacity until the dissolution of the Senate following the military coup of 1999.
He was elected Co-Chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party in January 2008 following the assassination of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. Mr. Zardari’s political career spans two decades spent working closely with Shaheed Benazir Bhutto. During this period he helped formulate policies that expanded the freedom of the media, revolutionized telecommunications and opened Pakistan for foreign direct investment. During Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto’s first term in office CNN and BBC were allowed broadcasting rights in Pakistan and mobile telephone services introduced at Mr. Zardari’s initiative. During her second term in office, in addition to the Independent Power Producers (IPPs) being allowed in. Mr. Zardari encouraged the introduction of FM radio in the private sector. Mr. Zardari was targeted by antidemocratic forces for vilification and persecution and bore the hardship with fortitude. He spent eleven and a half years in prison in conditions often unacceptable by human rights standards, without any charge ever being proven against him.
A Historic Year
By
Sharmila Farooqi
.jpg)
One year has passed since
Mr. Asif Ali Zardari assumed the office of the President of Islamic Republic
of Pakistan. Last year. on 6th September, Parliament of Pakistan. as well as
all the four assemblies had, unanimously elected him to this august office.
This was, in itself a unique honour, which hasn’t fallen to the share of any
one else in the past. Different opinions one being expressed by different
schools of thought about the performance of the Asif All Zardari during the
past one year which is fair enough as it is their democratic right but there
one some facts which simply cannot be denied. For instance:
President Asif Ali Zardari has implemented in letter and spirit his policy of natural reconciliation. Ills greatest feat, perhaps, is the fact that he saved the country from political polarization and has united all the political, religions and nationalist parties of the country and established a tradition of taking all of them on board on important natural issues. When he became President. Pakistan was at the brink of catastrophe, insofar, politics, economy. it social moors and its culture was concerned. The former government had played havoc with the economy of the country the natural economic never had been completely destroyed by the cartel artificial business in the Stock Exchange and the real estate. The entire country was restive on account of poverty, unemployment, and price hike. The state incitation had lost there credibility. To cap it all, the country was in the grip of mafias and terrorists. In these condition, any type of political confrontation could have shell disaster for the country. The concept of natural recalculation was fine by Shaheed Benazir Bhutto who thought that the country which has been unshaved by undemocratic leaden can only be saved though a policy of natural recalculation. President Zardari has translated into vanity this concept. It was a difficult task because the political forces born and bred by dictators tried to sabotage it they. however. couldn’t succeed---thanks to the political accrue and sincerity of the President. He didn’t victimize any one politically. The media also carried out his trial. A vicious propaganda campaign two was launched against him. Even min-one formula was also touted about. Rut the President shamed extreme tolerance and in the to promote natural recalculation always took the lead in extending olive branch to his political adversaries in order to ensure smooth running of democracy. He has buried for food the past culture of egoistic politics. Had there been somebody else in his place. he would not have shown the same level of tolerance in the face of vitriolic propaganda campaign against him. Ills policy of natural reconciliation has now because people’s agenda and it has developed hope of a better Pakistan in their heart.
Benazir Income Support Programme
becomes popular,
appreciated by the UN and US
By Akhtar Jamal, Editor Economy Watch, Pakistan Observer
Benazir Income Support
Programme (BISP) which has been launched by Government of Pakistan on
personal initiative of President Asif All Zardari has caned appreciation and
admiration at home and abroad.
Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) was beta launched with initial allocation of Rs. 34 billion (US S 425 million approximately) for the year 2008.09 which is the third lama allocation in the total budget and is 0.3% of the GDP for the year 2008-09.
The Programme has been initiated to partially offset the impact of inflation on the purchasing power of the poorer sections of the society. In the yews 2005-07, inflation stood at almost 1010’ with food inflation in the range of 13-15%. In the year -NM M sharp rise in oil prices and primary products in the international as well as domestic market resulted in double digit inflation rate, which has almost halved the purchasing power of the people. Hence there is urgent need for direct and speedy relief to the poor sections of the society and BISP is the above compulsion.
The Programme is aimed at covering almost 15% of the entire population, which constitutes 40% of the population below the poverty line. A monthly payment of Rs. 1000 per family would increase the income of a family earning Rs.5000 by 20%. BISP will cover all four provinces including FATA, AJK, FANA & ICT. Husband, wife and dependent children constitute a family. According to BISP Chairperson the government would provide free of cost gas and electricity to consumers utilizing only 200 units per month. Initially, the beneficiaries will be 21 mullion families registered under BISP and more families will be included having consultation with Ministry of Water and Power.
The pilot project of poverty survey ill be completed by the end of this month will identify ruts dc-serving families and the beneficiaries would reach to five million vulnerable families, she added. Ms. Farzana Raja also assured that government was doing in best b avoid any mishandling of money and strict action has been taken against the workers of 12 post offices who were involved in corruption. Benazir smart card will be issued in districts where the poverty sunny would have been completed
The following categories of families are eligible to take benefits from BISP:
a) Possession of CNIC by female applicant! recipient.
b) Monthly family income is less than Rs. 6000/-
And subject to conditions (a) and (b).
c) Widowed,, divorced women, without adult male members in the family.
d) Any physically or mentally retarded person (s) in the family.
e) Any family member suffering from a chronic disease.
Ineligibility Criteria:
The following families are ineligible to receive any assistance under the Programme:
a) Where any of the members of the family is in employment of government / semi-government / authority / department or armed forces of Pakistan.
b) Where any of the member of the family is drawing pension from government / semi-government / authority / department or armed forces of Pakistan.
c) Where any of the members of the family is receiving any post-retirement benifits from any government department agency.
d) Where any of the members of the family owns an agriculture land ruts than three acres or residential house’ plot of more than eighty square yards (3 marlas).
e) Mere any member of the family is receiving ox-mm support from any Other source like Punjab Food Support Scheme etc.
f) Were any member of the family possesses a Machine Readable Passport
g) here any member of the family possesses a National Identity Card for (Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP).
h) Where any member of the family has a Bank Account (except in NBP, HBL, UBL MCB, ABL, BOP, Bolan Bank, Khyber Bank, First Women Bank, ZTBL, Khushhali Bank. and all microfinance banks)
President pleased with progress. In a recent message issued on the occasion of launching of BISP web site the President said congratulated the Chairperson Ms. Farzana Raja of Benazir Imam Support Programme and her team for this commendable step.
President urged that “transparency and accountability are the two pillars on which a corruption free edifice rests.”
President also hoped that the launching of website is important for nuking the process of providing social security net to the poorest of the poor, transparent and corruption free. “For the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) to eventually become a credible poverty alleviation programme, it is essential that its operations are conducted in a transparent manner.” President Zardari noted and expressed hope that “the smooth and effective running of this programme will help translate into reality the vision of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, whose heart was always with the poor people of Pakistan.”
He also stressed that the BISP should also consider expanding its rule by introducing new measures like provision of micro finance, skill development and education opportunities for the poor segments of the society.
UN chief lauds BISP as model for other countries.
In July this year United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon also praised the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), saying it was oriented along the lines of his vision of helping the world’s most vulnerable people. According to APP news item the secretary-general made these remarks during a meeting with Chairperson of BISP Farzana Raja at UN Headquarters in New York when she briefed him on the progress resulting from the eight-months-old programme, which is aimed at empowering women and reducing poverty.
Ms. Farzana Raja, the chairperson of BISP told Pakistani journalists that after the 30-minute meeting that the Secretary-General took note of the fact that BISP is based cot the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). the globally agreed set of social and economic targets that arc supposed to be realized by 2015.
She said that Ban proposed that Pakistan share this “model programme” with other countries, especially those in South Asia. -I congratulate the President (Asif Ali Zardari) and you for helping the most vulnerable people of your country.” Ban told the Chairperson.
’This programme is good fix your country, good for your people and should he shared with other countries.” Through sheer hard work, she said, programme is already
extending financial help to 2.2 million deserving families against the target of 3.5 million in which the household woman receives Rs. 1.000 per month.
The idea, she added, was to bring the women into the mainstream. Besides cash help, the programme caries other bench s like health and accident insurances as well as vocational training so that the recipients ultimately become self-sufficient. Farzana Raja said she also told the secretary-genial that the programme was non-partisan designed to help the most deserving Pakistanis. “This is not a party specific programme, it is for the people of Pakistan, because of its transparency, the entire world, donor agencies are cooperating and are sending their offers to us,” she said.
Ms. Raja said a poverty census was being cared out across the country with the help of the World Bank to identify morn deserving households so that they could benefit from the programme. In addition, She said the BISP was also helping the families of the victims of bomb blasts and those of the earthquakes as well as the displaced persons from the Swat region. During the meeting. Ms. Raja also conveyed messages of greetings from President Zardari and Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani to the secretary-general who warmly reciprocated their sentiments. She also said she invited Ban on behalf of the Government of Pakistan and he accepted the invitation.
Farzana Raja also paid a courtesy call on the President of the UN General Assembly. Miguel D’Escoto Brokmann. Earlier, she conferred with Ajay Chibber, Assistant Secretary-General and Regional Director at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Farzana Raja also met with senior American officials during her visit and appraised them of its basic objectives. The American officials also assured to generate support for BISP so that poverty issues in Pakistan can be addressed properly.
US provide $175m for BISP
According to BISP Chairperson Farzana Raja the United States would provide financial assistance worth S 175 million to BISP under Kerry-Lugar Bill annually. Senate Foreign Relations Committee chairman John F. Kerry and ranking Republican Richard Lugar had introduced a bill in May to triple non military assistance to Pakistan to S1.5 billion annually. Farzana believes that the US government was interested to support the BISP to alleviate poverty. Terming her recent visit to the United States successful. she said BISP was appreciated for its transparent procedure and all the UN officials haled Pakistani government for its large-scale poverty alleviation programme.
The Chairperson also gave the comprehensive briefing to the President of the World Bank. Robert A Zoellick who terming BISP as an agent for social revolution in Pakistan, expressed Miter 0a in supporting B I SP in the plans to introduce accident insurance as well as vocational training programs for the beneficiaries.
Reconciliation and
progress:
One year of the
Zardari Presidency
By Farahnaz Ispahani
.jpg)
The election of Asif Ali
Zardari as Pakistan’s
president one year ago marked the country’s return to full democracy after
nine years of dictatorship. It was the first time since 1958, when Pakistan
experienced its first coup d’etat that the presidency was to be occupied by
the leader of a major political party in the country.
Politics and politicians have been ridiculed for five decades by those who have championed the dominance by an un-elected establishment. Pakistan’s last politician president held office from 1973 to 1978 but then the constitution provided for the head of state to be a figurehead. Once the presidency was endowed with significant powers through constitutional amendments, the presidency was made a preserve of establishment nominees. The Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) decided to challenge that paradigm when it nominated its co-chairman for the highest office in the country. A year later, Pakistan’s march towards consolidation of democracy continues and the decision to elect President Zardari is proving to have been the correct one.
The PPP remains committed to undo the arbitrary changes to our country’s constitution introduced under authoritarian rule. But until the constitutional balance is restored in accordance with the spirit of the original 1973 Constitution it is important that the presidency should be occupied by someone who has struggled for democracy and suffered at the hands of the forces of dictatorship. With President Zardari in charge, there is no likelihood of presidential powers being used to derail or weaken the democratic process.
Since September 2008, the presidency and the office of prime minister are held by members of the same political party but in an unprecedented configuration. Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani is the Chief Executive, elected by parliament unanimously, and his party’s Co-Chairman holds the office of President ensuring smooth functioning of government. This differs significantly from the equation between 1993 and 1996, when Mr. Farooq Leghari found it tempting as President to stage a coup against his own party’s leader, who was prime minister. By nominating and electing CO-Chairman Zardari as President of the Republic, the PPP shut the door of palace intrigue. This would make it easier to introduce constitutional amendments in accordance with the Charter of Democracy through consensus. President Zardari has powerful detractors, some of whom have been attacking him since the day his nomination as a presidential candidate was announced. Isis bold initiative to save the federation immediately after the assassination of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto by countering regional and ethnic sentiment had made Mr. Zardari very popular. For a short while it was impossible for his visceral critics to attack the widower of Shaheed Mohtarma, who swallowed their hatred and pretended to accept him as ”a changed man”. But once he became a candidate for the presidency. he once again became a target. One scribe set the ball rolling by writing on August ?9, 2008 that ”a grave threat perception is fast developing in Islamabad’s key powers centres around Asif Zardari’s attempt to occupy the Presidency”.
Rumour mills have worked overtime over the last one year to weave conspiracy theories, set deadlines for governmental breakdown and predict a return to the era of palace intrigue and soft coups.
President Zardari has, however, remained steadfast in strengthening democracy and has been fully supported by Prime Minister Gilani and the professional civil and military officials. Last year’s major achievements include gathering public support for the tight against militants in the Swat Valley, securing an IMF bailout for the battered economy, restoration of the independent judiciary, working out of compromises between various political parties, and the outlining of a vision for transforming the Federally Administered tribal Areas.
The democratic government inherited a hemorrhaging economy buffeted by global financial turmoil, exogenous commodities price shock and adverse security environment.
This combined with erroneous policy choices and policy inaction by the previous government during political transition led to macroeconomic imbalances, slower growth, higher inflation. sharp deterioration of external position, decline in capital inflows, historic fiscal deficit and huge drop in gross international reserves from a high of over S 16 billion in April 2007 to a low of $3.4 billion (equal to less than I month import.) by end October 2008.
Prudent policies implemented after President Zardari’s election are yielding results. By end-June 2009, fiscal deficit had declined from a high of 7.4% to 3.4% of GDP, current account balance has declined from 8.4% to 5.3% of GDP and inflation had decelerated from a high of 25.3% in August 2008 to 13.1% by end-June 2009 year-on-year basis. I tome remittances from Overseas Pakistanis reached a historic high of $ 7.911 billion and the trade deficit declined by 16.5% compared to last year. Foreign Direct Investment started to pick up again and stands at $3.721 billion despite adverse domestic and global environment. Gross foreign exchange reserves have moved back to three months imports (over $ 12 billion).
President Zardari’s principal achievement, however, is that he has proven wrong the prophets of doom and gloom. Pursuing the spirit of reconciliation articulated by Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto in her final days, the president has reached out across the political spectrum. Unlike some who prefer to seek approval by doing what is temporarily popular. President Zardari is willing to take difficult decisions and make tough choices. lie has been elected for a five-year term and he need not seek applause on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. As a democrat he remains tolerant of criticism and has put up with a constant chorus trying to run him down. As he completes his first year in office. President Zardari is clearly echoing the words of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah who said while addressing the nation soon after independence ”My message to you all is of hope, courage and confidence. Let us mobilize all our resources in a systematic and organized way and tackle the grave issues that confront us with grim determination and discipline worthy of a great nation.”
(Farahnaz Ispahani is a Member of the National Assembly and Media Adviser to the co-chairman of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP).)
Challenges & Triumphs
By Shazia Marri
.jpg)
Time and tide, they say,
wait for none. Indeed, in the vast canvas of time, the passing of one year
seems like the blink of an eye. Many such years have passed before, and many
more are to come. What matters ultimately is how you’ve spent the time given
to you. I am reminded of Thomas Carlyle who said ”the history of the world
is ultimately the biography of great men.” Indeed the past year, the first
of Mr. Asif Ali Zardari’s Presidency, is part of tomorrow’s history.
The very essence of leadership is that you have to have vision. It was Shaheed Quaid-e-Awam’s vision that made him leave the corridors of power and found the Pakistan peoples Party. It was Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto’s vision that time and again compelled her to take on the forces of extremism and intolerance for the sake of an egalitarian Pakistan and it was President Asif Ali Zardari’s vision that led him to make history by the democratic ousting of a dictator. When President Zardari took office last year, it was in the wake of Musharraf’s departure. The PPP had till then, remained an incomplete government as initiatives. But with the election of President Zardari, the road to sustained democracy became clearer. Through his committed leadership, his adherence to the principles of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, has faith in reconciliation, and his undeterred sense of public service. President Zardari began slowly but surely to erode the years of tyrannical debris accumulated in the democratic fabric of Pakistan.
In the past year, the biggest challenge faced and overcome by the people of Pakistan was the insurgency of Taliban. The decision to begin Operation Rah-a-Raast was not an easy one However, it was necessary. Millions were made to leave their homes as our soldiers fought the extremist insurgents. It was a displacement of unprecedented proportions, and predictions were made that things would not return to normalcy for years, if ever. However in a matter of months, the areas of Swat and Malakand have been cleared of militants, the writ of the State reestablished, and the millions of IDPs who sacrificed their homes for their country, now return home. Any one can steer a boat when the sacs are cairn, but President Zardari effectively steered this country though turbulent water, and this will forever be recorded in the chronicles of history. President Zardari, in his one year in office, concentrated in both internal issues and Pakistan’s international standing. He has made, and continued to make utmost efforts to muster international support for the democratic Pakistan, and has achieved success as when he convinced the US Government that genuine relations can only be based on the US supporting democracy in Pakistan. compelling them to publicly repent earlier support to dictators in Pakistan, he strengthened our existing ties with China and today we are collaboration on many core projects. The international community, friends of democratic Pakistan, supports the democratic government of Pakistan, both morally and financially, and such relations, necessary for sustainable development in the country, have been made possible through the President’s efforts. It is Impossible to sum up in a few pages all that the president has achieved and continues to strive toward Ills commitment to wane emancipation is proven when he announces small dams as public private partnership and commits to the Benazir Behan Basti Program where women holding Benazir Income Support Program cards will be given land to make houses. His dedication to national cohesion is clear when he initiates reconciliation of all political forces for a stronger Pakistan. His vision for a self sufficient Pakistan is evident when he maintains ”trade not aid” and makes Thar coal a priority. From irrigation to police, infrastructure to freedom of the Press, development projects in Karachi to will-being of the residents of Gilgit-Baltistan. President Asif Ali Zardari has time and again done justice to the office of head of state.
Today, as we commemorate his first year in office, we like back and take stock. Yes the journey ahead is still arduous and long; yes the hurdles are still considerable. But with perseverance, and hope, and with capable leadership nothing can stop the our benign goals.
The
initiatives and achievements of present government
for Development of Agriculture
Sector during 2008-09
By Tassawar Hussain
The present government has always strived for making agriculture competitive and profitable through enhanced crop production both at farm and country level. The major initiatives and achievements of the present government during the year 2008-09 are summarized as follow.
1. Critical Review of Agricultural Sector and in Restructuring:
Keeping in view the driving role of agriculture in our economic growth, the present government very seriously and critically reviewed our agriculture sector and agricultural policies of the past and decided to restructure and reorganize the current agricultural system. Fines of all Livestock division of Ministry of Food. Agriculture and Livestock (MinFAL) was upgraded as an independent ministry of Livestock and dairy development creating an enabling environment for the development of livestock, fisheries and poultry sector whose contribution to the country GDP was comparatively higher than the crop sector Under the auspices of Livestock and Dairy Development Company, established by the present government, there is a huge scope for flourishing of livestock industry in the counts
2. Redefining and revision of agricultural Policy:
The present government decided to review our national agricultural policy for the development of agriculture through agricultural modernization. organization restructuring. structural transformation. value addition and quality enhancement in order to meet the demands of modem world. The new comprehensive ”Strategic National Agricultural Development Policy Framework 2010-15 is under preparation keeping in mind the requirement and development of agriculture sector m the next couple of decades. A strategy for effective implementation of this policy will be worked out
3. Ensuring fair returns/economic incentives to Wheat and Rice growers:
The government felt that lack of sustained interest of farmer in the agriculture sector is the non-profitability of the sector. The present government arrived at the policy to ensure, safeguard and guarantee the economic benefits of the growers/farmers of the country successfully accomplishing the strategic role of food production for the entire nation. The government made a record increase in the procurement prix of wheat (Rs. 40kg) that reflects farmers friendly policy of the government. Timely announcement of a very attractive Support Price of wheat a Rs. 950/40kg was the most important achievement of present government that ensured the target wheat production and attains food security. Wheat production of more than 24 million tonnes was achieved during 200$-09 that was landmark achievement of the present government. Implementation of the wheat support prices and record procurement of more than 9 million tons of wheat during the year was undoubtedly another great achievement of the public government. The present govern: menu managed to procure paddy rice directly from growers/ millers to popularize rice production which also adds to food security rescues of the country. Government also announced intervention price for procurement of paddy and rice for the very first time in the country. Objective was to ensure a reasonable reward to the rice growers, for their sustained interest in rice crop production. Intervention prices for paddy was fixed at Rs. 700/40kg for IRRI type varieties. Rs. 1500 40kg for Super-Basmati and Rs.1250/140kg for other Basmati varieties. Introduction of hybrid ice varieties gave a significant boost to rice production and the country achieved a record production of rice (about 6.9 million tonnes) in the country during 2008-09. Procurement of paddy decision resulted in stability of prices of paddy in the country, in spite of significant rise of total paddy production. So far, the government has exported about 2 million tons of rice to other countries earning precious foreign exchange of about Rs. 2 bullion which is also an outstanding achievement of the government
4. Benazir Tractor Scheme to promoting Farm mechanization:
In order to improve various farming practices, Benazir Tractor Scheme was formulated to provide subsidized tractors and agricultural mach may to the farmers. It was planned to distribute 10.000 tractors to farmers with a subsidy of Rs. 200,000 tractor.
5. Availability of Quality Seeds:
Seed is a roost important sit primary input in crop production system. Availability of pure quality certified seeds of high yielding varieties of various crops were ensured during the last few seasons to serve the basis for maximized production. About 35,000 mt certified seed of cotton while 15,000 mt seed of rice was available for planting curing the season. There war good seed quality reports throughout the crop belts. Distribution of good quality seeds resulted in better crop stand establishment thus significantly raising the yield bars in various crops like wheat, roes, maize, gram, mung, pearl millet etc. A special project was started to promote local production of vegetables seeds.
Government facilitated the access of growers to elite international germplasm of various crops. During the year 20011-09, 22 high yielding and street tolerant hybrid rice varieties were screened and their import was allowed by the government to maximize rice production in the country to import after adaptability testing with the objective to ensure food security and produce exportable surplus for international market. Their import was facilitated by exemption of 10% custom duty on their import. This played a key roe to elevate the production levels of m e this year. About 1500 mt hybrid seed of 5 exotic rice hybrids was imported from China and Philippine. A scientific ”an of evaluation of exotic hybrid rice varieties has been developed and strictly implemented by the federal government to ensure import of most promising hybrids in the country and restrict the import of huge number of varieties. Import of hybrid rice from India was also allowed.
Import of most productive varieties of hybrid nave, sunflower, canola, fodder Sorghum and vegetables was also facilitated.
6. Access to Crop Biotechnology through Genetically Modified Varieties of Cotton:
Present government adopted a policy that Biotechnology would provide powerful tools for sustainable development of agriculture in Pakistan. It will ensure food security and poverty alleviation at Rural level. Biotechnology can play a significant roe in meeting the needs of an increasing and expanding natal as well as urban population in the new millennium. Thus the government planned to introduce hi-tech seeds (hybrid and Bt cotton seeds) in the country with the collaboration of multinational seed companies like Monsanto etc. Testing of Ht cotton varieties is in process. Transfer of this technology in the country was also ensured through signing an LOO and developing an NOU with Mensanto.
7. Funding for Agricultural Development Projects:
Out of (drove national income an amount of Rs.20 billion were allocated for agricultural development through Public Sector Development Projects (PSDP) during the year 2008-09 which was 25% higher than the previous year (2007-08). Various agricultural development projects (more than 60) were funded with the objective to ensure food security in the country, provision of quality and timely inputs and transfer of technology to promote Good agricultural practices (GAP) in the farming community throughout the country.
8. Financing Agriculture through Credit:
During the current year 2008-09, Rs. 250 billion were allocated for distribution through public and private sector banks among the growers so finance their inputs and operational requirements that was 20% higher than the last year distribution. The Government also enhanced the ”indicative per acre credit limit” for major and minor crops, orchards and forestry by an average 70% from 2008-09. The enhancement in the credit limit was made on the basis of current prices of agriculture inputs, like seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, fuel, electricity and land rent. The decision was taken in line with government’s priority to develop agriculture sector and to ensure adequate and timely availability of agricultural credit so the farming community. Crop ban insurance scheme was also introduced to enhance the access of farmers to agricultural loans and to protect his investment. Provision of agricultural credit to farmers, facilitated them to procure the costly inputs in order to ensure the target planting and production of various crops.
Benazir Credit Card Schemes and Crop Loan Insurance Schemes were also introduced for the benefit of cotton, rice and other crops growers.
9. Subsidy on Fertilizers:
Government planned to ensure the timely distribution of all types of fertilizers at reasonable prices. In order to promote balanced use of fertilizers a subsidy of Rs.27 billions was provided. Provision of subsidies facilitated the farmers to procure DAP as per their needs along with urea fertilizer to promote balanced use of nitrogen phosphorous.
l0. Achievements in Plant Protection:
Cost effective availability of quality insecticides, weedicides and other agricultural chemicals was managed during various crop production seasons to ensure more efficient plant protection practices resulting m more production. Steps included duty free import of pesticides and waiver of 15% a sales tax as well.
Integrated ’Plant Protection Techniques’ were promoted using ’Biological Control’ of various threatening pests like mealy bug. Biological control of the Insects by using the artificially reared predators has many advantages over chemical control and is being popularized in cotton belt more extensively with the cooperation of provincial plant protection system and NG0s.
11. International Linkages for Agricultural Development:
Interaction and strong collaboration was established with other countries and Food and Agricultural O Organization (FAR)’ of United Nations etc to develop agriculture, increase food production and ensure sustainable food security. Strong interaction campaign with agriculturally developed countries like US and China resulted in hurtful cooperation in the field of agriculture to promote trade in agricultural commodities.
12. Better Coordination with Provinces:
Extensive and efficient coordination of federal government was established with all provincial governments by MinFA and its attached departments for overall tics development of agriculture sector.
13. Technology Transfer and Farmers Awareness through Media/Meetings:
Electronic and Print Mafia were used to popularize the modern agricultural production technologies and inputs. Media campaign resulted in transfer of technology to the farmers to gear up various crop production in the country like wheat, cotton, main etc. Best performing farmers from various parts of the country were motivated through prize distribution during ’Kissan Convention 2009’ and government has decided to convene the convention on annual basis to develop a strong linkage with farmers/growers.
(By Dr. Tassawar Hussain, Deputy Agricultural Development Commissioner).
What it takes to be a leader in a pluralistic society
By Dr. Zafar Altaf
Public life in Pakistan and anywhere is difficult to understand for the number of antiestablishment people are many and the anti establishment public is increasing because of the kind of media we have especially the electronic one. The problem there is that the persons on the silver screen have no means of stating something that can be used against them. The media verbal system as it is dies with the views and I have many people come to me to tell me about what was being discussed and if there is more than one they immediately disagree amongst themselves. Consider what the ordinary viewer must be going through. In the absence of Law of Torts there is free for all. The leader is held responsible for everything under the sun. All that it takes for people to respond to an issue is so absolute that one wonders at the arbitrariness of the individuals at asserting what they have stated as the gospel truth.
I have now had many occasions to work with different top leader. and also had the occasion to meet Nehru and Dr. Rhadakrishan and other cabinet Ministers not to mention some of the immediate leaders of India. I have found that the leaders arc in a very vulnerable position not for what he has done or supposed to have done but what the public feels that he ought to have done and by definition this means that the person has to make do with everything that is stated by them, the lesser the individual the more the demand, My views were contained in the book working with Benazir, Nawaz and Musharaff. Today I intend to talk about my experiences in studying and analyzing the current leadership of President Zardari.
I have been with him on at least three visits and have been able to have views about him. I used to say that the Mogul Badshah at a distance doesn’t seem vulnerable but every king shows his warts when he is close up much like Warts and all of Cromwell. Are leaders a function of nature or of nurture? The jury is still out and probably will never be able to find and determine an answer to what was posed as a generic question? The nature of the job is so vast and the requirements for developing a criterion difficult. I f leadership be a function of native intelligence and ability along with an ability to read an environment then we have a workable definition. Environment does no have the ordinary definition and is meant to convey training and opportunity to exercise leadership. This exercise leadership in a harsh and unfriendly environment tempers the mind and is baptism by fire.
Has President Zardari exercised this baptism by fire and the training was a hands-on experience. Is his native ability and hard work not his forte? It is for I have seen him deal with situations at different levels. It is not easy to get past him with a nonchalant reply for he has determined what the parameters of a problem are and he is looking for not winchers but doers. At all meetings that I have seen him and at the international as well as the national level he remains within his formed level of decency. There is no anger in him and it is apparent that he has forgotten and forgiven all those that have harmed him in the past. He has said that categorically and repeats this to all his friends and foes lest they misunderstand him. Probably his strongest issue is his interactive personality and his ability to instill confidence in the movers and doers of this country. To a meeting where all the senior bureaucrats were invited he asked them for a rendition of fair and frank opinions, mind you opinions on any subject that they wanted to talk on. Of the one hundred odd present only ten or eleven spoke despite the assurance by the President that the matter was open and any opinion was welcome. What does one do about a bureaucracy that has been beaten to the ground by the likes of and the tyrants like Musharaff. At the USA with the state and the leaders he was at his brilliant best by opening the innings as well as allowing his one down and two down batsman to talk and without interruptions. Does he like being contradicted and I think that any one I his right mind and with an ideology that he has he is even with the poorest and even with the lowest in the system.
In China it was different and he was in more of his elements for he knew that the Chinese have been great friends of the Bhutto family and he have of himself in the service of this nation in a manner that is extremely difficult to put in words. There has been criticism at home that the people of his stature and standing did not receive him. Well between friends I do not think that President Zardari looks at status. I have seen him show respect for knowledge and well thought out actions of people and is generous in praise and careful in criticism. Probably my greatest praise for him was an innocuous remark that he made at the fishery Institute in China when he explained that his spectrum was to help the smallest to the biggest and that his responsibility was in that sense unique. His visit also made me look at his ability to be curious and I found him seeking clarifications and reasons for actions taken and that is the ability to be curious seems to be part of his personality. On one occasion I asked Shaheed ZAB [he was mad about cricket] as to what is the one quality that a leader must have and the answer came ’He should never be tired or look tired’. The pace of work in China was such that on not one occasion did I see him tired or bored or inattentive,
As a person who wants to remain anonymous said ’It has fallen to the lot of the President to carry a nation that is sizeable and pluralistic and the guiding hand has to he a guardian hand’. Today he is working, on a selfless way and it is unfortunate that ordinary and polluted minds chose to see him as they do. For my part I think he has outdone every past leader except probably Shaheed ZAB. His vision is and will be different given his exponential experiences. These experiences have tempered the mind and made the steel true and well formed. His initiatives are such that he will make a sea change in Pakistan and carry this civil society to be truly reflective of the decency that he wants to be strength of every personality. You have President who is interactive and inter-subjective given the kind of experiences that he has had. They will serve him well. Life is in living and that is what he is about. On wonders at how the forces of tyranny had treated him and how he has emerged.
That is what takes to be a leader. You and I ordinary mortals would have been bitter. He wasn’t. That is what makes a leader. That is how he deals with swarms of parasites and sycophants. He seeks the truth and unintentional mistakes arc part of human fallibility. Intentional ones will get their due. Take care this is our nation and these are our leaders and no backbiting and no badmouthing. The culture and character of the people of Pakistan has to undergo a sea change. The electronic media is not to reflect the attitudes and values of the defunct class-those that arc incapable of doing but must tell all and sundry how it is to he done.
(Dr. Zafar Altaf, Chairman, Pakistan Agriculture Research Council).
Successes mark one year of Zardari in power
By Tanvir Siddiqi
President Asif Ali Zardari during his first year in presidency achieved many successes on political and economic fronts.
The BBC in a report on Wednesday said that when Mr Asif Ali was elected as President on September 6 last year, the country was on the verge of bankruptcy and facing many challenges such as lawyers’ agitation, implementation of CoD, economic, political and security issues.
All economic, political and security challenges were accepted by President Asif Ali Zardari in his first ever address to the joint session of the Assembly on September 30, the BBC report said.
President Asif Ali Zardari brought the country out of the bankruptcy situation which was his first achievement as President of Pakistan.”
Pakistan had to pay back over 5.5 billion dollars to various international financial institutions. If Pakistan did not return this money within three months there was a fear that Pakistan would be declared bankrupt technically.”
It was a major challenge for President Zardari and managed this money in good manner. He interacted with many countries and established friendship with them on political grounds to influence IMF for granting loan to Pakistan, an analyst Asif Farooqi told BBC.
Another analyst Mahmood Shah said on the issue of Swat and Malakand Regulation President Zardari has demonstrated political maturity and sent it to the assembly which approved it but the Taliban did not accept the regulation.
President Asif Ali Zardari also committed he would make the parliament the centre of power while repealing the 17th amendment.
For the purpose he directed the formation of a Parliamentary Committee comprising representatives of all the political parties. There are a lot of steps which can be linked with the success and good governance of President Asif Ali Zardari.
The President succeeded to achieve economic gains for the country in the name of war on terror. Friends of Democratic Pakistan was formed and likewise, Kerry-Luger bill will bring billions of dollars for Pakistan which is going to be tabled in the US Congress.
On political front President Asif Ali Zardari demonstrated extraordinary interest in addressing the issue of Balochistan. The cases against Baloch nationalist leaders were withdrawn. A successful alliance is continuing with MQM and ANP. Various tiers of Pakistan People’s Party organized functions in various parts of the country on Wednesday to mark the completion of one year by President Asif Ali Zardari as democratically elected President.
People representing different walks of life paid compliments to President Asif Ali Zardari for his courageous and bold policies, praising his decision to launch a determined campaign to curb extremism and terrorism. They were also appreciative of his policy of national reconciliation and promotion of national unity and solidarity.
In Islamabad, a large number of Party workers, People’s Labour Bureau, Youth Wing, Women Wing and PSF took part in the rally. The participants were carrying PPP flags and chanting slogans in favour of President Asif Ali Zardari. They congratulated the President for successfully carrying forward the mission of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto.
Zardari’s one year celebrations
By Nazir Ahmed
The present regime on completion of its first year on 6th September has celebrated ’first year of President Zardari’s rule’, with great fanfare by publishing large size advertisements and supplementary in the print media and holding special programs in local television channels. In the hindsight memory of nation only event praising to the skies the “achievements” of ruler was commemorated in 1968 i.e. ’Centenary Celebration’, but it was no more than after the completion of President Ayub Khan’s ten years dictatorial Rule; which though proved to be his first and last eventful episode of life.
The media this time is publishing articles written by party workers and sitting Ministers, praising President’s passing one year in the office. Although return to democracy after the long night of 10 year’s oppressive rule of Perwaiz Musharaf is enough to be contended of, otherwise one year is to short a phase to judge the performance of an individual holding the office of an all powerful President. Leaving aside the merit and time of celebration, at this juncture when country is going through the worst socio-political and economical crisis spending millions of taxpayers’ money on lengthy advertisements is not at all appreciable let alone dissipating the predicaments of masses. I hope the President and Prime Minster would direct the party workers to avoid such undue celebrations specially at this time when people are dying in queues only to get a bag of flour or sugar. The government needs to be more circumspect while allowing such celebrations as it has more pressing problems to solve to get the people out of serious despair. Nawabshah