CHITRAL: Pakistan is an unfortunate country on any account. Despite it being endowed with abundant natural resources, a young and skilled workforce, and a strategic location, it is in a tattered form today, mainly due to severe mismanagement.
Of Pakistan’s most significant natural resources on top is it’s agricultural potential. We are a major producer of wheat, rice, cotton, and sugarcane. The country also has a significant livestock population. However, Pakistan’s agricultural sector is plagued by low productivity, inefficient irrigation practices, and inadequate infrastructure. As a result, Pakistan instead of exporting, imports a significant amount of food each year.
Another area where Pakistan has significant potential is tourism. Pakistan is home to a variety of natural wonders, including the world’s most spectacular Karakoram and Hindukush Mountain ranges, the Indus River Valley, and the Thar Desert. The country also has a rich cultural heritage, with ancient mosques, forts, and tombs. However, Pakistan’s tourism sector is underdeveloped and suffers from mismanagement, poor infrastructure, and security concerns.
Pakistan is also rich in mineral resources. The country has deposits of coal, copper, iron ore, and precious metals in the northern mountains. However, Pakistan’s mining sector is underdeveloped and suffers from corruption and mismanagement.
In addition to its natural resources, Pakistan also has a young and skilled workforce. The country’s median age is 24.2 years, and its literacy rate is 60%. However, Pakistan’s education system is underfunded and produces graduates who are not always equipped with the skills needed to succeed in the workplace.
Pakistan’s strategic location is another advantage. The country is located at the crossroads of Central Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East. This gives Pakistan access to major markets and makes it a potential hub for trade and investment. However, Pakistan’s strategic location has also made it a target for terrorism and instability.
Despite its many advantages, Pakistan has not been able to achieve its potential due to chronic mismanagement. The country has been plagued by corruption, political instability, and economic problems. As a result, Pakistan ranks among lowest on international indices of development.
It would also be pertinent to highlight Pakistan’s manpower wealth as a key asset. Pakistan has a large and growing population, with over 220 million people. This population is young and dynamic, with a median age of 24.2 years. Pakistan also has a significant diaspora population, with over 7 million Pakistanis living abroad.
Pakistan’s manpower wealth can be a major driver of economic growth and development. However, it is important to invest in human capital development to ensure that the country’s workforce is equipped with the skills needed to succeed in the global economy. This includes investing in education, training, and healthcare.
Pakistan also needs to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. This includes improving infrastructure, reducing bureaucracy, and providing tax breaks and other incentives to investors.
If Pakistan can effectively manage its manpower wealth and create a favorable business environment, it can achieve rapid economic growth and development.
Pakistan is a country with immense potential. It has the resources, the people, and the strategic location to become a prosperous and developed nation. However, it is important to address the challenges of mismanagement, corruption, and instability if we have to go anywhere. .. CN report, 09 Nov 23