KARACHI:
The recent announcement by PM Shahbaz Sharif of a comprehensive package to honour overseas Pakistanis for their remarkable contribution of $4.1 billion in remittances in a single month is a commendable step. Public recognition of such efforts fosters national pride and encourages continued dedication.
Similarly, the salaried class has demonstrated extraordinary fiscal responsibility, contributing Rs331 billion in income tax over eight months — a staggering 1,350% more than the business class. Within this group, provincial government employees paid Rs57 billion (up 96%) and federal employees Rs34 billion (up 66%). Their unwavering compliance deserves equal acknowledgment and incentives, rather than disproportionate favouritism toward other segments.
However, a concerning trend persists: underperforming institutions — such as the PCB, Parliament, certain ministries, the judiciary and chancellors — continue to receive undue patronage and lionisation at public expense, despite lacklustre outcomes. True national progress demands that recognition and rewards align with merit, performance and sacrifice — not privilege or political convenience. Let us champion a culture where dedication to the homeland, whether through remittances, taxes or service, is justly celebrated, without bias or exclusion.
Ashfak Siyal
Karachi
