‘Rural support schemes reduce poverty’

NRSP chief emphasises collective responsibility to eliminate socio-economic disparities

ISLAMABAD:

Speakers at a moot on Tuesday underlined the need to continue with the rural support programmes to fight rural poverty in the country.

The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) hosted its latest ‘Thought Leaders Forum’ (TLF) under the title, “Poverty Alleviation and the Role of Rural Support Programme.”

National Rural Support Programme (NRSP) Chairman Shoaib Sultan Khan shed light on poverty alleviation and the role of rural support programmes.

He emphasised that Pakistan's rural support programmes are among the oldest in the region, are widely acknowledged for their success and have served as a model and inspiration for similar initiatives in South Asia, including India. The pursuit of poverty eradication should be a shared political agenda, serving as a unifying force rather than a source of division within regions, Sohaib added.

“It’s a common goal that has the potential to foster collaboration and solidarity across diverse geographical areas, emphasising the collective responsibility to address and eliminate socio-economic disparities.”

The NRSP chief further elucidated multiple factors that contribute to the success of such programmes including long-term political commitment, poverty eradication as a common political agenda, political support and ownership, sustained governmental support, institutional development, innovation and adaptation, and participation of women.

He brought attention to four essential elements of the success of a rural support program; (i) the willingness of the households to organise and enable their potential; (ii) a competent community leader with social mobilisation vision; (iii) professional, dedicated and committed support organisation; and (iv) availability and commitment of resources.

Dr Neelum Nigar, the Director of the Centre for Strategic Perspectives (CSP), said that under the TLF, ISSI acknowledges and pays tribute to individuals esteemed as authoritative voices in specific fields. These individuals have played a crucial role in shaping perspectives, influencing decisions, and driving innovation within their respective domains in Pakistan.

ISSI director-general Ambassador Sohail Mahmood noted that Pakistan has made significant strides in reducing absolute poverty, with rates dropping from 61.6% in 1998-99 to 21.5% in 2021-22. However, multidimensional poverty remains high at 39%, highlighting deprivation in health, education, and standard of living.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 15^th 2024.