IN the fiscal year 2024-25, the Government of Pakistan faces a daunting task of addressing numerous socio-economic challenges that have significantly impacted the lives of its people. With pervasive issues such as high inflation, soaring prices, stagnant incomes, escalating taxes and exorbitant utility costs, the average Pakistani is grappling with a daily struggle to make both ends meet. These economic hardships are compounded by a deteriorating law and order situation, necessitating new military operation “Azm-e-Istihkam” against criminal elements. This confluence of economic and security challenges demands urgent and effective policy interventions from the state to alleviate the suffering of its citizens and restore stability. The government’s fiscal policies, including budgetary allocations and monetary interventions, play a crucial role in managing inflationary pressures. Effective management of fiscal deficits, prudent monetary policies and targeted subsidies for vulnerable populations are essential measures to curb inflation and ease the burden on the populace.
Other South Asian countries, like India, have implemented digital transformation initiatives to improve financial inclusion and access to services, while Bangladesh has focused on export-oriented industrialization and social development. The country’s Ready-Made Garments sector has contributed significantly to GDP and employment, while Bhutan prioritizes social welfare programs to reduce poverty and improve healthcare and education outcomes. Bhutan’s commitment to Gross National Happiness (GNH) and environmental conservation has made it a regional leader in renewable energy production. Sri Lanka has focused on infrastructure development and regional connectivity as key drivers of economic growth, with the Colombo Port City project aiming to create a financial hub and attract foreign investment.
Social welfare programs have been implemented to support vulnerable populations and improve access to healthcare and education. These examples illustrate diverse approaches to tackling common socio-economic challenges in South Asia, promoting inclusive growth, improving living standards and fostering resilience in the face of global economic uncertainties.
A major contributor to the economic strain on Pakistani households is the rapid increase in prices of goods and services. The price hikes across various sectors have outpaced income growth, leaving families struggling to afford basic necessities. Addressing price stability requires comprehensive strategies, including enhancing agricultural productivity, reducing reliance on imports and fostering competition in markets to mitigate monopolistic practices that drive up prices. The issue of low incomes is intricately linked to Pakistan’s economic structure, where informal employment and underemployment prevail. Many Pakistanis work in the informal sector, lacking job security, social protection and adequate wages. Formalizing the informal economy through policy incentives, promoting entrepreneurship and investing in skill development can create opportunities for decent work and improve income levels for the marginalized segments of society.
The high cost of utilities, including electricity, gas and water, poses another significant challenge for Pakistani households. Inefficient governance, inadequate infrastructure and subsidy mismanagement contribute to the soaring utility bills that strain family budgets. Investing in renewable energy sources, improving transmission and distribution networks and rationalizing subsidy mechanisms can help stabilize utility costs while ensuring sustainable energy access for all.
Taxation policies are regressive in nature and put constant burden on the middle and lower-income groups. Reforming the tax system to make it more progressive, broadening the tax base and curbing tax evasion are critical steps to ensure equitable distribution of fiscal burdens. Moreover, simplifying tax procedures and reducing bureaucratic hurdles can enhance compliance and promote a culture of tax honesty among citizens. The deteriorating law and order situation in Pakistan, exacerbated by criminal activities and terrorism, has necessitated stringent security measures, including military operations against culprits. While security operations are crucial for maintaining public safety, sustainable peace and stability require holistic approach. Strengthening law enforcement agencies, enhancing intelligence capabilities and promoting community engagement are essential components of a comprehensive security strategy.
In addition to economic and security challenges, Pakistan faces pressing social issues such as education, healthcare and environmental degradation. Access to quality education remains limited, particularly in rural areas, perpetuating socio-economic disparities and hindering human capital development. Investing in education infrastructure, teacher training and curriculum reform can improve educational outcomes and empower future generations. Healthcare services in Pakistan suffer from inadequate funding, infrastructure deficiencies and unequal access, leaving millions without essential medical care. Expanding healthcare coverage, upgrading facilities and investing in preventive health initiatives can improve healthcare delivery and reduce the financial burden on households coping with illness and disease.
Environmental degradation poses another existential threat to Pakistan’s future, with issues such as water scarcity, air pollution and climate change impacting public health, agriculture and livelihoods. Adopting sustainable development practices, conserving natural resources and implementing climate adaptation strategies are imperative for safeguarding the environment and ensuring resilience against environmental hazards. Moreover, corruption remains a pervasive issue that undermines governance effectiveness, erodes public trust and diverts resources away from essential public services. Strengthening anti-corruption measures, promoting transparency and fostering accountability across government institutions are crucial steps to combating corruption and enhancing public service delivery.
Amidst these complex challenges, the Government of Pakistan must adopt a coherent and inclusive policy framework that prioritizes the welfare of its citizens, promotes economic stability, strengthens security and advances social development. Collaborative efforts involving government agencies, civil society organizations, private sector stakeholders and international partners are essential for implementing sustainable solutions and achieving inclusive growth. Pakistan must confront its socio-economic issues and design a course for prosperity and resilience in the fiscal year 2024-2025. Prioritising economic reforms, strengthening security, boosting social services and encouraging good governance would help Pakistan lessen the suffering of its citizens, advance sustainable development and fulfil its potential as a dynamic and resilient country in the international arena.
—The writer is PhD in Political Science and visiting faculty member at QAU Islamabad.
(zafarkhansafdar@yahoo.com)
