Much has been said about the importance of improving the quality of life of the people living in remote areas of Sindh and Balochistan provinces to foster overall prosperity and well-being of the nation. Sadly though, nothing noticeable has been done by those at the helm.
From the past and present budgetary allocations record, it is pretty evident that rural development has remained a low priority for the successive governments. Our rulers have not accorded the desired attention to rural areas and people residing there. That is the reason why those who get the opportunity to settle in big cities readily say goodbye to their rural abodes — something that is causing unmanageable urbanisation and related problems.
Therefore, the rulers are requested to rethink rural development policy for accelerating rural development. There is need to set up research centres in rural areas and promote research in agriculture and applied economics, in particular. International development players are also requested to launch rural development programmes in Sindh to empower rural communities, with a special focus on girls and women, especially those with disabilities. Promoting small-scale industry and livestock is essential to alleviate poverty and uplift rural areas.
HASHIM ABRO
ISLAMABAD
