Oct 24, 2010
Juan Williams what goes up must come down
Juan Williams saying Monday that he gets nervous on planes when he sees people in Muslim dress is exactly the same as someone seeing a black man wearing normal clothes and feeling threatened that he will mug or rob me.
Apr 8, 2010
Within a short One Year President Obama has really made a bad situation worse.
Dow Jones UP and UP
Nasdaq UP and UP
Economy getting better
Improving Retail Sales
Consumer Confidence going up
Slowing Job losses
Increasing Employment numbers
Environmentally responsible Green Jobs
USA & Russia to Reduce Nuclear Arsenal by 1/3
We really need to bring back the BUSH Era
Nasdaq UP and UP
Economy getting better
Improving Retail Sales
Consumer Confidence going up
Slowing Job losses
Increasing Employment numbers
Environmentally responsible Green Jobs
USA & Russia to Reduce Nuclear Arsenal by 1/3
We really need to bring back the BUSH Era
Jan 15, 2010
The US Should Learn from the Failure of the Soviet Union and Change Course
The only way of winning the war against terror is by inundating the region with primary schools, basic health facilities, vocational training programs, and team sports. There is a large Pakistani-American Diaspora successfully engaged in such endeavors. It can show the way of winning hearts and minds.
Lamentably, the US Government, the State Department, the Defense Department have yet to connect with this very useful resource. They have yet to emulate the Pakistani-American example. Their priorities must change. The sooner, the better.
For can anyone deny that the United States actions in Muslim countries so far have only resulted in breeding 1000’s of committed terrorists bent on harming the West? Drone strikes, bombardment, deployment of ground troops at a cost of billions of $ in the tribal belt between Pakistan and Afghanistan have substantially increased acts of terrorism. It is hardly realized that the cost of one deadly "Drone Aircraft" approximates the money needed to place almost 5 million poor children into Universal Primary Schooling and building 500 sports or basketball courts and providing 10,000 basketballs. We are also a witness to the tragic fact that placing of armed Xe or Ex-Blackwater private soldiers in major cities of Pakistan is only bringing untrackable suicide bombers into the financial centers of the country.
It is time for a change. The Pakistan-American community can deliver. Yes, we can!
Lamentably, the US Government, the State Department, the Defense Department have yet to connect with this very useful resource. They have yet to emulate the Pakistani-American example. Their priorities must change. The sooner, the better.
For can anyone deny that the United States actions in Muslim countries so far have only resulted in breeding 1000’s of committed terrorists bent on harming the West? Drone strikes, bombardment, deployment of ground troops at a cost of billions of $ in the tribal belt between Pakistan and Afghanistan have substantially increased acts of terrorism. It is hardly realized that the cost of one deadly "Drone Aircraft" approximates the money needed to place almost 5 million poor children into Universal Primary Schooling and building 500 sports or basketball courts and providing 10,000 basketballs. We are also a witness to the tragic fact that placing of armed Xe or Ex-Blackwater private soldiers in major cities of Pakistan is only bringing untrackable suicide bombers into the financial centers of the country.
It is time for a change. The Pakistan-American community can deliver. Yes, we can!
Nov 10, 2009
Should I LAUGH or should I CRY or just say HELL with trying to help Pakistan
It has been very challenging 8 years for me trying to do some revolutionary poverty alleviation work in Pakistan combined with bringing special skills and creating jobs in Pakistan. Most people would have giving up long time ago and many I know have. Unfortunately I am stubborn and get more excited and challenged when things don’t work. As long as I see the “LED” light at the end of the tunnel I will not give up.
Reasons I am having these problems:
1) I prefer using the system and process in place that everyone else uses instead of “Sifarish” or “Favor” from people in Islamabad or at local level.
2) I am not willing to give gifts or bribes.
3) I am not willing to pay huge “Duty” and “Taxes” when exporting my “Alternative Energy” donated products out of KEPZ Karachi into Pakistan.
4) Policy makers and Policy implementers not on same page.
5) Process implementers not accountable, corrupt, and illiterate.
Case 1: Immediately after the devastating 2005 earthquake in Pakistan I had my KEPZ Karachi assembly plant stop everything and assemble 11,500 latest technology LED Flashlights to be rushed to earthquake areas through a highly qualified NGO called NRSP. I personally supervised the completion of these emergency use Flashlights and started export process of donating these free to earthquake areas in December 2005. After all the Red-Tape and Bureaucracy I was able to legally hand over the Flashlights to NRSP in March 2007.
Case 2: In January 2009 I had set a goal of donating 1000 Solar Charged LED Lanterns to 1000 huts in the poorest area of Sehwan Sharif, Dadu District in Sindh. It is now 10 months and I cannot get clearance from customs authority at KEPZ or FBR to export these LED Lanterns out of my KEPZ Assembly plant to a qualified NGO for delivery to 1000 poor households in Sehwan to serve purely donation purpose. The FBR Notification under S.R.O 575 (1)/2006-35 (f) is declaring tax exemption on solar powered lights if certified by AEDB ( Alternative Energy Development Board). NGO gets required certification from AEDB but KEPZ customs authority rejects and now requires written permission from Big Boss in Islamabad FBR office. We are now contacting concerned custom collector to resolve this issue. The story thus goes on and on…..
Reasons I am having these problems:
1) I prefer using the system and process in place that everyone else uses instead of “Sifarish” or “Favor” from people in Islamabad or at local level.
2) I am not willing to give gifts or bribes.
3) I am not willing to pay huge “Duty” and “Taxes” when exporting my “Alternative Energy” donated products out of KEPZ Karachi into Pakistan.
4) Policy makers and Policy implementers not on same page.
5) Process implementers not accountable, corrupt, and illiterate.
Case 1: Immediately after the devastating 2005 earthquake in Pakistan I had my KEPZ Karachi assembly plant stop everything and assemble 11,500 latest technology LED Flashlights to be rushed to earthquake areas through a highly qualified NGO called NRSP. I personally supervised the completion of these emergency use Flashlights and started export process of donating these free to earthquake areas in December 2005. After all the Red-Tape and Bureaucracy I was able to legally hand over the Flashlights to NRSP in March 2007.
Case 2: In January 2009 I had set a goal of donating 1000 Solar Charged LED Lanterns to 1000 huts in the poorest area of Sehwan Sharif, Dadu District in Sindh. It is now 10 months and I cannot get clearance from customs authority at KEPZ or FBR to export these LED Lanterns out of my KEPZ Assembly plant to a qualified NGO for delivery to 1000 poor households in Sehwan to serve purely donation purpose. The FBR Notification under S.R.O 575 (1)/2006-35 (f) is declaring tax exemption on solar powered lights if certified by AEDB ( Alternative Energy Development Board). NGO gets required certification from AEDB but KEPZ customs authority rejects and now requires written permission from Big Boss in Islamabad FBR office. We are now contacting concerned custom collector to resolve this issue. The story thus goes on and on…..
Oct 31, 2009
What Will $1.5 Billion Per Year United States Assistance for Pakistan Do? NOTHING!
For over 50 years, Pakistan has paid a heavy price for the one-sided friendship with the United States. Disunity, corruption, personal and party gains in Pakistan have marred the national scene. The absence of a “National” agenda and “Unity” provided an ideal opportunity to the outsiders to take advantage of the disconcerting situation.
For 50 years, multi-million dollar annual economic and military assistance has been appropriated by the United States for Pakistan. Very little or none of this assistance has ever reached the people or the intended projects in Pakistan. It is only now that this is being talked about and people are asking where the huge amount of money has gone. And this wholesome change has come about only after the Pakistani Americans started coming together and connecting with lawmakers in Washington D.C.
See TIME Oct 1 issue article by Ken Stier
“Are Development Dollars in Pakistan Being Well Spent?”
http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1927018,00.html
See The NEWS Oct 31 issue article by Umer Cheema
“92 per cent of USAID projects go to US NGOs”
http://www.thenews.com.pk/daily_detail.asp?id=205974
Loyalty and friendship with the United States have cost Pakistan Billions. America can never make up for the stupendous losses. US Taxpayers and Pakistan have been ripped off for 50 years. Blissfully, President Obama, Secretary Clinton, Ambassador Holbrooke and Washington DC Lawmakers appear sincere about correcting the mistakes of the past. But they just have not figured out how. Some of us could help, if asked.
For 50 years, multi-million dollar annual economic and military assistance has been appropriated by the United States for Pakistan. Very little or none of this assistance has ever reached the people or the intended projects in Pakistan. It is only now that this is being talked about and people are asking where the huge amount of money has gone. And this wholesome change has come about only after the Pakistani Americans started coming together and connecting with lawmakers in Washington D.C.
See TIME Oct 1 issue article by Ken Stier
“Are Development Dollars in Pakistan Being Well Spent?”
http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1927018,00.html
See The NEWS Oct 31 issue article by Umer Cheema
“92 per cent of USAID projects go to US NGOs”
http://www.thenews.com.pk/daily_detail.asp?id=205974
Loyalty and friendship with the United States have cost Pakistan Billions. America can never make up for the stupendous losses. US Taxpayers and Pakistan have been ripped off for 50 years. Blissfully, President Obama, Secretary Clinton, Ambassador Holbrooke and Washington DC Lawmakers appear sincere about correcting the mistakes of the past. But they just have not figured out how. Some of us could help, if asked.
Sep 15, 2009
Is Pakistan’s Sovereignty and Land being sold off
Is Pakistan’s Sovereignty and Land being sold off in Bits and Pieces so that no one in Pakistan will notice until it is too late to do anything about it?
Aug 21, 2009
Ex-President Musharraf was the Worst President in the History of Pakistan. A List of his Failures.
• As President he had no right to behave like a Human Being.
• He had no right to have a Sense of Humor in a Nation that is always Sad, Crying, and Miserable.
• As President, he had no right to enjoy Music or Sing as ordinary people do.
• As President he failed to demonstrate a ‘Me First’ agenda that most Pakistanis unabashedly have.
• He wasted time in trying to mold Pakistan into Jinnah’s Pakistan. Instead, he should have spent his time in first breaking and destroying and then once again trying to rebuild like many leaders of the past.
• He did not embark on the destructive Vendetta Politics digging up Graves and pulling out old Skeletons.
• His singular fault was that he empowered women and allowed too many into the National Senate, the Parliament and the Provincial Governments.
• He empowered the media, made it bold and free, and allowed it to indulge in constructive criticism of Pakistan’s leadership.
• He and his immediate family forgot to borrow huge bank loans, transfer the loan money to other global hidden accounts, then default and seek to be forgiven.
• Whenever he appeared on the TV he had Jinnah’s picture visibly behind him.
• He encouraged arts, crafts, acting, singing in Pakistan.
• He forgot to buy properties and palaces around the world.
• He surrounded himself and listened to some bad advisors.
• He was too soft most of the time and allowed bad guys to benefit.
• For the first time in the history of the country, academics and scientists won the patronage of the Federal Government. They got better pay scales and special allowances. Higher education got a boost and the number of universities multiplied. So did R&D undertakings.
• It was Musharraf’s folly to introduce the local government system which gave a marked impetus to developmental activity. The face of the major industrial city dramatically changed. It appeared poised to look like any other modern city of the world.
• He promoted the “PAKISTAN FIRST” slogan.
• He had no right to have a Sense of Humor in a Nation that is always Sad, Crying, and Miserable.
• As President, he had no right to enjoy Music or Sing as ordinary people do.
• As President he failed to demonstrate a ‘Me First’ agenda that most Pakistanis unabashedly have.
• He wasted time in trying to mold Pakistan into Jinnah’s Pakistan. Instead, he should have spent his time in first breaking and destroying and then once again trying to rebuild like many leaders of the past.
• He did not embark on the destructive Vendetta Politics digging up Graves and pulling out old Skeletons.
• His singular fault was that he empowered women and allowed too many into the National Senate, the Parliament and the Provincial Governments.
• He empowered the media, made it bold and free, and allowed it to indulge in constructive criticism of Pakistan’s leadership.
• He and his immediate family forgot to borrow huge bank loans, transfer the loan money to other global hidden accounts, then default and seek to be forgiven.
• Whenever he appeared on the TV he had Jinnah’s picture visibly behind him.
• He encouraged arts, crafts, acting, singing in Pakistan.
• He forgot to buy properties and palaces around the world.
• He surrounded himself and listened to some bad advisors.
• He was too soft most of the time and allowed bad guys to benefit.
• For the first time in the history of the country, academics and scientists won the patronage of the Federal Government. They got better pay scales and special allowances. Higher education got a boost and the number of universities multiplied. So did R&D undertakings.
• It was Musharraf’s folly to introduce the local government system which gave a marked impetus to developmental activity. The face of the major industrial city dramatically changed. It appeared poised to look like any other modern city of the world.
• He promoted the “PAKISTAN FIRST” slogan.
Jul 18, 2009
National Commission for Human Development (NCHD) is now Embarking on the 2nd Phase of its Revolutionary work in all the 118 Districts of the 4 Provinc
Beginning in 2002 and till July 2008, NCHD made a major destiny-changing impact on the poorest villages of Pakistan. During its 1st phase, some NCHD achievements included:
• Helped enroll over 8 million children between ages 5 and 7 in village schools. Only $15 (Rs1250) per child per year compared to $39 (Rs 3200) in Govt. schools.
• Opened 22,000 community-based primary feeder schools in remote areas.
• Provided corrective vision glasses to over 45,000 children.
• Established 121,000 adult literacy centers with over 4 million women made literate especially in districts with lowest Literacy Rates. Cost only $6 (Rs500) per adult per year.
• Trained over 12 million women in how to make and administer home-made 'Oral Rehydration Solution' thereby impacting child mortality significantly.
• Mobilized and registered over 300,000 volunteers [one of the largest in the world] in all districts of Pakistan for community projects.
• Partnered with Microsoft to establish 16 Computer Learning Centers in remote districts such as Badin [Sind] and Pishin [ Baluchistan].
• Initiated projects in the North Western Frontier Province (NWFP) and the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) where development indices are lowest and rates of militancy highest.
• Trained over 1000 district Govt .officials and elected representatives in Planning and Management.
• Won UNESCO INTERNATIONAL LITERACY AWARD for "Best Literacy Program in World" in 2006.
• Won grants from Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, OPEC Fund, UNDP, UNICEF, World Bank, USAID, etc.
• Global Network of Pakistani Expatriates helped raise over $27 million for NCHD Projects to date.
To learn more on how you can be part of this social change in Pakistan, visit www.nchd.org.pk
President Asif Ali Zadari and Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gillani of the present Democratically elected government of Pakistan have now agreed to continue all NCHD programs on a bigger scale and reach with the help of PHDF, the Global Pakistani Diaspora, the global philanthropists and other Foundations. Thorough investigations on this unique Public-Private partnership were done during the last year. These investigations were carried out by MNA Mrs Faryal Talpur in her capacity as Chairperson of the “Special Committee for NCHD”. On July 1st, 2009 the President and the Prime Minister of Pakistan appointed MNA Ms Nafisa Shah as the new Chairperson of the National Commission fro Human Development (NCHD).
• Helped enroll over 8 million children between ages 5 and 7 in village schools. Only $15 (Rs1250) per child per year compared to $39 (Rs 3200) in Govt. schools.
• Opened 22,000 community-based primary feeder schools in remote areas.
• Provided corrective vision glasses to over 45,000 children.
• Established 121,000 adult literacy centers with over 4 million women made literate especially in districts with lowest Literacy Rates. Cost only $6 (Rs500) per adult per year.
• Trained over 12 million women in how to make and administer home-made 'Oral Rehydration Solution' thereby impacting child mortality significantly.
• Mobilized and registered over 300,000 volunteers [one of the largest in the world] in all districts of Pakistan for community projects.
• Partnered with Microsoft to establish 16 Computer Learning Centers in remote districts such as Badin [Sind] and Pishin [ Baluchistan].
• Initiated projects in the North Western Frontier Province (NWFP) and the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) where development indices are lowest and rates of militancy highest.
• Trained over 1000 district Govt .officials and elected representatives in Planning and Management.
• Won UNESCO INTERNATIONAL LITERACY AWARD for "Best Literacy Program in World" in 2006.
• Won grants from Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, OPEC Fund, UNDP, UNICEF, World Bank, USAID, etc.
• Global Network of Pakistani Expatriates helped raise over $27 million for NCHD Projects to date.
To learn more on how you can be part of this social change in Pakistan, visit www.nchd.org.pk
President Asif Ali Zadari and Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gillani of the present Democratically elected government of Pakistan have now agreed to continue all NCHD programs on a bigger scale and reach with the help of PHDF, the Global Pakistani Diaspora, the global philanthropists and other Foundations. Thorough investigations on this unique Public-Private partnership were done during the last year. These investigations were carried out by MNA Mrs Faryal Talpur in her capacity as Chairperson of the “Special Committee for NCHD”. On July 1st, 2009 the President and the Prime Minister of Pakistan appointed MNA Ms Nafisa Shah as the new Chairperson of the National Commission fro Human Development (NCHD).
Jun 1, 2009
Mr President Asif Ali Zardari It will take very little to make foreign investors from all over the world return to Pakistan & Pakistan’s Exports to In
Security problems are not the only reasons why foreign investors meant to go to Pakistan have been moving to many other countries. The necessary business and industry growth will come by attracting 1000’s of small and medium investors and companies. The established large foreign companies have learned to live with the good or bad system in Pakistan but for new small and medium investors there is no protection or speedy justice when they are cheated by local partners or managers or the investors rightful bill are not paid for years.
My IT/Call Center business started in year 2000 once started working was seized including my Karachi office set up for foreign customers by the Pakistani junior managing partner in 2005. Used to following the law I am still going to the courts in 2009 with multiple date cancellations by the courts. Overwhelming data of proof has been provided.
We are now in the new age of instant information and instant video sharing. All old historical data, good and bad, right or wrong, fabricated or true is now available to every person in the world. Google, YouTube, Blackberrys, Facebook will not allow anyone to forget the past and simply open new chapters. Once Pakistanis who have taken out much of their wealth and property outside Pakistan start setting an example by reinvesting their wealth back into Pakistan many others around the world will follow.
My IT/Call Center business started in year 2000 once started working was seized including my Karachi office set up for foreign customers by the Pakistani junior managing partner in 2005. Used to following the law I am still going to the courts in 2009 with multiple date cancellations by the courts. Overwhelming data of proof has been provided.
We are now in the new age of instant information and instant video sharing. All old historical data, good and bad, right or wrong, fabricated or true is now available to every person in the world. Google, YouTube, Blackberrys, Facebook will not allow anyone to forget the past and simply open new chapters. Once Pakistanis who have taken out much of their wealth and property outside Pakistan start setting an example by reinvesting their wealth back into Pakistan many others around the world will follow.
May 15, 2009
United States cannot win by military action in Pakistan or Afghanistan because
United States cannot win by military action in Pakistan or Afghanistan because it is seen as an invader and an occupation force trying to take over and control Muslim lands. Pakistan and Afghanistan cannot win as long as they are seen fighting America’s war.
Drone attacks are only providing successful recruitment to the bad guys by heavy collateral damage and deaths of civilians.
It will be far more effective if United States lets Pakistan and Afghanistan fight for their own survival but gives both countries latest tools, equipment and training to both military and the police.
In addition immediate massive economic assistance to Pakistan to repay the losses in billions Pakistan has been suffering for decades due to United States actions in the region.
Drone attacks are only providing successful recruitment to the bad guys by heavy collateral damage and deaths of civilians.
It will be far more effective if United States lets Pakistan and Afghanistan fight for their own survival but gives both countries latest tools, equipment and training to both military and the police.
In addition immediate massive economic assistance to Pakistan to repay the losses in billions Pakistan has been suffering for decades due to United States actions in the region.
Mar 27, 2009
US Should Grasp Pakistan's Potential in Global Economic Recovery
Pakistan has always been one of the most resource-rich countries of the world but it has paid a heavy price for being the most loyal ally of the United States for over 50 years. Instead of being ungrudgingly appreciated for its unflinching loyalty, it is constantly pressured to 'do more'. Pakistan's losses on this count have been phenomenal: the country has lost over 34 billion dollars and suffered colossal damage to its infrastructure, cities and peaceful way of life.
Twice the United States' failed policy and lopsided actions in Afghanistan have compounded Pakistan's problems. Yet, the refrain remains the same: 'Do more'! Many well-meaning initiatives on several developmental fronts - education, poverty alleviation, and industrial growth - have resultantly scuttled before they could gather momentum.
There are manifest indications that global economic recovery is to begin in South Asia and China where most US and European multinationals already own many companies. The 3 billion population of the region is mostly poor. But it can easily transform into 3 billion new consumers. With a stable and healthy Pakistan, South Asia and China could dramatically alter the world's fortunes turning current economic reverses into precipitous gains. It was time Pakistan's potential as a catalyst for wholesome global change is realized and Islamabad is given the same level of economic assistance as Egypt and Israel.
Twice the United States' failed policy and lopsided actions in Afghanistan have compounded Pakistan's problems. Yet, the refrain remains the same: 'Do more'! Many well-meaning initiatives on several developmental fronts - education, poverty alleviation, and industrial growth - have resultantly scuttled before they could gather momentum.
There are manifest indications that global economic recovery is to begin in South Asia and China where most US and European multinationals already own many companies. The 3 billion population of the region is mostly poor. But it can easily transform into 3 billion new consumers. With a stable and healthy Pakistan, South Asia and China could dramatically alter the world's fortunes turning current economic reverses into precipitous gains. It was time Pakistan's potential as a catalyst for wholesome global change is realized and Islamabad is given the same level of economic assistance as Egypt and Israel.
Mar 20, 2009
Heavy Price to Pay for Loyalty
Pakistan has always been one of the most resource rich countries in the world but it has paid a heavy price for being the most loyal ally of United States for over 50 years. The sad part is instead of being appreciated for this loyalty it is constantly asked to do more. It has cost Pakistan billions of dollars worth of looses and irreparable damage to its infrastructure, to its cities and to its peaceful way of life.
Twice United States failed policy and actions in Afghanistan have pushed the problems into Pakistan. Instead of Pakistan’s budget and resources going into education, poverty alleviation, industrial development, it has been forced to fight a war on terror which had nothing to do with Pakistan.
Next Global economic recovery will most likely start from South Asia and China The 3 billion population of the area is mostly poor. They can easily become 3 billion new consumers. With stable and healthy Pakistan South Asia and China can help turn the economic disaster around. It is time Pakistan gets the same level of economic assistance that is given to Egypt and Israel.
Twice United States failed policy and actions in Afghanistan have pushed the problems into Pakistan. Instead of Pakistan’s budget and resources going into education, poverty alleviation, industrial development, it has been forced to fight a war on terror which had nothing to do with Pakistan.
Next Global economic recovery will most likely start from South Asia and China The 3 billion population of the area is mostly poor. They can easily become 3 billion new consumers. With stable and healthy Pakistan South Asia and China can help turn the economic disaster around. It is time Pakistan gets the same level of economic assistance that is given to Egypt and Israel.
Feb 8, 2009
Is Pakistan next on the chopping block?
“Arms & Ammunition” is the biggest lobby and the largest industry. It thrives on continued conflicts around the world. With the Iraq war nearing end, focus may now shift to Pakistan and Iran as the next venue of adventurism.
This century “Energy” and “Food” will be the second biggest lobbies and industries and will distinguish successful countries from failed states. World class “Energy” and “Food” production requires the availability of educated citizens. The situation appears somewhat bleak for Pakistan in this respect. In July 2008, 100,000 Universal Primary Education Schools established by NCHD were abruptly shut down and 80,000 Teachers were sent home packing. Thus ended primary schooling for 500,000 rural village children. At the same time more than 184 schools were destroyed in the Tribal areas.
Only empty rhetoric and false promises are heard about rebuilding such schools and reinstating all NCHD teachers. Need one emphasize that you must have Primary Schools first for everyone before you decide to build Universities.
This century “Energy” and “Food” will be the second biggest lobbies and industries and will distinguish successful countries from failed states. World class “Energy” and “Food” production requires the availability of educated citizens. The situation appears somewhat bleak for Pakistan in this respect. In July 2008, 100,000 Universal Primary Education Schools established by NCHD were abruptly shut down and 80,000 Teachers were sent home packing. Thus ended primary schooling for 500,000 rural village children. At the same time more than 184 schools were destroyed in the Tribal areas.
Only empty rhetoric and false promises are heard about rebuilding such schools and reinstating all NCHD teachers. Need one emphasize that you must have Primary Schools first for everyone before you decide to build Universities.
Dec 30, 2008
Disintegration of Pakistan visible on the Horizon
Things are clearly getting from bad to worse. Ex-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif calls it a failed state. It won't be long before we see Information Minister Sherry Rehman in BURQA and President Zardari in Turban and long Beard. Number of bombings across Pakistan is on the increase. The beautiful valley of Swat, a major tourist location just a few years ago is now fully under Taliban control. See Dec 29th, 2008 news (http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20081230/ap_on_re_as/as_pakistan_valley_of_fear).
The capitol of Pakistan Islamabad is only 100 miles away. Before takeover, Peshawar is being softened by increased bombings inside the city to create fear. The government in Islamabad is routinely condemning the blasts and loss of life and goes back to hand shaking and photo opps.
Why would anyone invest in a failed state? Why would anyone set up factories in Pakistan when there is hourly load shedding?
The capitol of Pakistan Islamabad is only 100 miles away. Before takeover, Peshawar is being softened by increased bombings inside the city to create fear. The government in Islamabad is routinely condemning the blasts and loss of life and goes back to hand shaking and photo opps.
Why would anyone invest in a failed state? Why would anyone set up factories in Pakistan when there is hourly load shedding?
Dec 22, 2008
South Asia: Both Good News and Bad News
We all know that terrorism is a growing global curse that is plaguing the entire world. Most talk about the problem, which is getting worse by the day. I am here to talk about solutions to start winning the war against terror.
In the new world order, strength and power of countries will not be defined by military power or by how many bombs or missiles or nuclear warheads you have. It will be defined by the short and long-term economic health of the country, and by how many of its citizens go to sleep hungry.
We here in California are privileged to live in the most pioneering and innovative state in America! All recent technology-driven revolutions affecting the economic health of America and the world started here. But guess where most of the hard-working, intelligent, innovative, and pioneering brains and bodies come from? South Asia.
The new economic growth cycle will start from South Asia. South Asia is home to about one-third of the world’s population. South Asia will also produce hundreds of millions of new consumers as they move from below the poverty line to above the poverty line. This economic cycle from South Asia will affect the economy, wealth, and create jobs in the rest of the world. But this new cycle cannot start unless all of the South Asian countries work together in harmony and address common problems like terrorism, education, and health with collective intelligence and information sharing.
Unfortunately, South Asia is also home to hundreds of millions that live below the poverty line, and millions go to sleep hungry every night. It is where millions of women and children die due to absence of basic preventive health for the poor. South Asia may have world-class universities for the children of the rich, but hundreds of millions of poor children can’t even get basic education.
This hopelessness, hunger, and lack of education and health provides an ideal climate from which terrorist masterminds can recruit their soldiers of terrorism.
War on terror cannot be won by using excessive and indiscriminate “Hard Power” and very little “Soft Power”. Too much “Hard Power”, in the form of missiles from drones, is killing, injuring, and displacing hundreds of innocent people for every one terrorist killed. The use of Hard Power results in Collateral Damage, which is “unintentional” civilian causalities. The illiterate poor do not understand the term.
Soft Power, in the form of economic aid for the poor, never reaches the poor. Most of it is either used up in paying for bureaucracy or ends up in the pockets of the corrupt.
Let’s start winning the hearts and minds of the poor!
All South Asians live the same kind of life! All South Asians eat the same kind of food! All South Asians enjoy the same kinds of Indian movies. All South Asians arrive two hours late! And all South Asians suffer from the same kind of corruption!
Let’s make this South Asian Solidarity Forum the start of a pioneering effort from California! Let’s take the message of this South Asian Solidarity Forum to the United States Senate and Congress! Let’s take this message of the South Asian Solidarity Forum to the lawmakers in both Pakistan and India!
Pakistan and India have made great progress in coming closer to each other in recent years. The terrorists hate this. Let the Indian hit movies play in Pakistani cinemas! Let the cricket matches between India and Pakistan go on and show the terrorists that they cannot win!
We only have three choices: Keep pointing fingers at each other, let tensions rise to the point of nuclear war, or we can come together and bring peace and prosperity to our part of the world.
Our choice is clear. Let us help unite the South Asians!
In the new world order, strength and power of countries will not be defined by military power or by how many bombs or missiles or nuclear warheads you have. It will be defined by the short and long-term economic health of the country, and by how many of its citizens go to sleep hungry.
We here in California are privileged to live in the most pioneering and innovative state in America! All recent technology-driven revolutions affecting the economic health of America and the world started here. But guess where most of the hard-working, intelligent, innovative, and pioneering brains and bodies come from? South Asia.
The new economic growth cycle will start from South Asia. South Asia is home to about one-third of the world’s population. South Asia will also produce hundreds of millions of new consumers as they move from below the poverty line to above the poverty line. This economic cycle from South Asia will affect the economy, wealth, and create jobs in the rest of the world. But this new cycle cannot start unless all of the South Asian countries work together in harmony and address common problems like terrorism, education, and health with collective intelligence and information sharing.
Unfortunately, South Asia is also home to hundreds of millions that live below the poverty line, and millions go to sleep hungry every night. It is where millions of women and children die due to absence of basic preventive health for the poor. South Asia may have world-class universities for the children of the rich, but hundreds of millions of poor children can’t even get basic education.
This hopelessness, hunger, and lack of education and health provides an ideal climate from which terrorist masterminds can recruit their soldiers of terrorism.
War on terror cannot be won by using excessive and indiscriminate “Hard Power” and very little “Soft Power”. Too much “Hard Power”, in the form of missiles from drones, is killing, injuring, and displacing hundreds of innocent people for every one terrorist killed. The use of Hard Power results in Collateral Damage, which is “unintentional” civilian causalities. The illiterate poor do not understand the term.
Soft Power, in the form of economic aid for the poor, never reaches the poor. Most of it is either used up in paying for bureaucracy or ends up in the pockets of the corrupt.
Let’s start winning the hearts and minds of the poor!
All South Asians live the same kind of life! All South Asians eat the same kind of food! All South Asians enjoy the same kinds of Indian movies. All South Asians arrive two hours late! And all South Asians suffer from the same kind of corruption!
Let’s make this South Asian Solidarity Forum the start of a pioneering effort from California! Let’s take the message of this South Asian Solidarity Forum to the United States Senate and Congress! Let’s take this message of the South Asian Solidarity Forum to the lawmakers in both Pakistan and India!
Pakistan and India have made great progress in coming closer to each other in recent years. The terrorists hate this. Let the Indian hit movies play in Pakistani cinemas! Let the cricket matches between India and Pakistan go on and show the terrorists that they cannot win!
We only have three choices: Keep pointing fingers at each other, let tensions rise to the point of nuclear war, or we can come together and bring peace and prosperity to our part of the world.
Our choice is clear. Let us help unite the South Asians!
Dec 1, 2008
Very little “Soft Power” - Too much "Hard Power"
Very little “Soft Power” from United States is reaching the Poor Villagers in Pakistan but lots of “Hard Power” is reaching innocent Tribals and destroying them.
United States Continues to send 100’s of Millions of Dollars as Economic Assistance to Pakistan. Then why all this US Taxpayer money creating 1000’s more enemies instead of winning the Hearts and Minds of the Pakistanis?
Couple of simple reasons. Most US money for economic aid to Pakistan is being channeled into Pakistan through USAID. There is likelihood that no serious qualification; accountability or verification before and after the contract is awarded. USAID solicits bids for implementing poverty alleviation and education programs on the ground all over Pakistan. This has spawned a major new industry called the NGOs. I now hear that we now may have close to 60,000 NGOs and Companies operating in Pakistan that mainly rely on getting USAID contracts. Most are only on paper and fly by night operations. Possibly 90% of the USAID money with these NGOs goes into overhead, expenses, salaries. Maybe less than 10% goes to the project making no difference in the poor villager’s life in any way. The cycle of few becoming richer at the expense of village masses becoming poorer gets worse.
At the same time US bombings are killing very high percentage of tribal civilians and very small number of foreigners linked with terrorism. To US it is collateral damage but to the tribals it is plain murder. Tribals are not highly educated and don’t understand the word “Collateral Damage” . All they see is a foreign enemy in the sky preparing to take over their 1000’s year old land, destroy their livelihood and kill their friends and families. This has created more enemies and hatred against the West along the entire tribal belt. Pakistan is paying a heavy penalty for this US action.
The best way forward is for US to connect with the select and qualified Pakistani American Diaspora specially the Diaspora from the Tribal area in US to understand the tribal cultures and start winning hearts and minds of the people with the help of the diaspora.
United States Continues to send 100’s of Millions of Dollars as Economic Assistance to Pakistan. Then why all this US Taxpayer money creating 1000’s more enemies instead of winning the Hearts and Minds of the Pakistanis?
Couple of simple reasons. Most US money for economic aid to Pakistan is being channeled into Pakistan through USAID. There is likelihood that no serious qualification; accountability or verification before and after the contract is awarded. USAID solicits bids for implementing poverty alleviation and education programs on the ground all over Pakistan. This has spawned a major new industry called the NGOs. I now hear that we now may have close to 60,000 NGOs and Companies operating in Pakistan that mainly rely on getting USAID contracts. Most are only on paper and fly by night operations. Possibly 90% of the USAID money with these NGOs goes into overhead, expenses, salaries. Maybe less than 10% goes to the project making no difference in the poor villager’s life in any way. The cycle of few becoming richer at the expense of village masses becoming poorer gets worse.
At the same time US bombings are killing very high percentage of tribal civilians and very small number of foreigners linked with terrorism. To US it is collateral damage but to the tribals it is plain murder. Tribals are not highly educated and don’t understand the word “Collateral Damage” . All they see is a foreign enemy in the sky preparing to take over their 1000’s year old land, destroy their livelihood and kill their friends and families. This has created more enemies and hatred against the West along the entire tribal belt. Pakistan is paying a heavy penalty for this US action.
The best way forward is for US to connect with the select and qualified Pakistani American Diaspora specially the Diaspora from the Tribal area in US to understand the tribal cultures and start winning hearts and minds of the people with the help of the diaspora.
Nov 1, 2008
Musharraf regime pidgeons have all flown away
The pigeons that started coming back to Pakistan one at a time during the last eight-year Musharraf regime have all flown away. Using Instant Text Messaging, YouTube, emails, Internet, cell phones they spread the bad news about risks of investing in Pakistan.
In 2002 the Pakistan Government asked the international community to partner with Pakistan in creating 100% Universal Primary Education along with Adult Literacy, Basic Women’s Health in Pakistan’s Rural Villages. This well-meaning initiative was to meet the Millennium Development Goal (MDG) set by the United Nations. For every Dollar invested by the private sector locally and globally Pakistan promised to rightfully invest five times the amount. The Global Pakistani Diaspora joined and invested millions of dollars worth of time and money for six years. The program funding was controlled by the Pakistan Human Development Fund and the implementation on the ground was done by the National Commission for Human Development. The results were phenomenal, unprecedented in the history of Pakistan in so short a span of time. Eight Million village children were given primary education.
Now most of the NCHD schools remain closed due to lack of long-term funding by the new Pakistan Government laying off 1000’s of NCHD teachers. The Adult Literacy Program has been closed down. The preventive Basic Health program for infants and mothers in the NCHD areas has been stopped. The six-year foreign investment is going down the drain.
On Oct 17, 2008, a skeleton NCHD Universal Primary Education program was approved by the Pak Government. Out of 80,000 NCHD laid off village teachers 18,000 are back to work. At the same time, a Rs34 Billion Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) of Rs1000 per month cash handout to the 3.4million poorest village women has been launched to alleviate poverty. This cash will be handed out by the area MNA’s.
In 2002 the Pakistan Government asked the international community to partner with Pakistan in creating 100% Universal Primary Education along with Adult Literacy, Basic Women’s Health in Pakistan’s Rural Villages. This well-meaning initiative was to meet the Millennium Development Goal (MDG) set by the United Nations. For every Dollar invested by the private sector locally and globally Pakistan promised to rightfully invest five times the amount. The Global Pakistani Diaspora joined and invested millions of dollars worth of time and money for six years. The program funding was controlled by the Pakistan Human Development Fund and the implementation on the ground was done by the National Commission for Human Development. The results were phenomenal, unprecedented in the history of Pakistan in so short a span of time. Eight Million village children were given primary education.
Now most of the NCHD schools remain closed due to lack of long-term funding by the new Pakistan Government laying off 1000’s of NCHD teachers. The Adult Literacy Program has been closed down. The preventive Basic Health program for infants and mothers in the NCHD areas has been stopped. The six-year foreign investment is going down the drain.
On Oct 17, 2008, a skeleton NCHD Universal Primary Education program was approved by the Pak Government. Out of 80,000 NCHD laid off village teachers 18,000 are back to work. At the same time, a Rs34 Billion Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) of Rs1000 per month cash handout to the 3.4million poorest village women has been launched to alleviate poverty. This cash will be handed out by the area MNA’s.
Oct 2, 2008
If the current trend is not TIMELY arrested
If the current trend is not TIMELY arrested
Year after year Pakistan will trudge a messy course and continue to be a Beggar and a Failed State, because it uses the worst practices in all areas affecting and relating to Economy and Exports
Powerful resources to acquire best Global Practices are readily available at no cost by just connecting with the professional and successful Pakistani-American Diaspora settled in all 50 States and helping America in every conceivable field.
Year after year Pakistan will trudge a messy course and continue to be a Beggar and a Failed State, because it uses the worst practices in all areas affecting and relating to Economy and Exports
Powerful resources to acquire best Global Practices are readily available at no cost by just connecting with the professional and successful Pakistani-American Diaspora settled in all 50 States and helping America in every conceivable field.
Sep 22, 2008
Many countries would greatly benefit if Pakistan disintegrates
Many countries would greatly benefit if Pakistan disintegrates. They know it is only a matter of time. These countries may have already worked out contingency plans decades ago. They also know that Pakistanis are their own worst enemies and will lead the disintegration of Pakistan without outside help.
The process of disintegration of Pakistan may have already begun by following events
• Absence of Rule of Law and Accountability of past and present
• Country Assets slowly sold off to outsiders to meet expenses
• Heading back to high debt by borrowing from IMF and other lenders
• Efforts to weaken or break the country’s only most crucial and strongest most disciplined institution called the Pakistan Armed Forces.
• Breaking the most solid long standing relationship with real friend and neighbor China
• Increasing and unchecked cross border intrusions
• Increasing kidnappings for ransom in major cities
• Reducing or shutting down of Basic Education in villages
• Ever increasing number of population joining the hunger line
• Existing Foreign Investors insecure and leaving
• New Foreign Direct Investment now bypassing Pakistan
• All the fundamentals and basics necessary for economic growth missing and never fixed
The process of disintegration of Pakistan may have already begun by following events
• Absence of Rule of Law and Accountability of past and present
• Country Assets slowly sold off to outsiders to meet expenses
• Heading back to high debt by borrowing from IMF and other lenders
• Efforts to weaken or break the country’s only most crucial and strongest most disciplined institution called the Pakistan Armed Forces.
• Breaking the most solid long standing relationship with real friend and neighbor China
• Increasing and unchecked cross border intrusions
• Increasing kidnappings for ransom in major cities
• Reducing or shutting down of Basic Education in villages
• Ever increasing number of population joining the hunger line
• Existing Foreign Investors insecure and leaving
• New Foreign Direct Investment now bypassing Pakistan
• All the fundamentals and basics necessary for economic growth missing and never fixed
Aug 5, 2008
Progress in Pakistan 2008
Progress in Pakistan 2008
$17 Billion Foreign reserves now down to $10 Billion
KSE Index Drops from 15,000 to near 9000
Many Established Textile Factories closed
100,000 Rural Primary Schools with 8Million Village Children will be shut down Aug31st, 2008 UNLESS!
135+ Schools Burnt to ground in Tribal Areas
Foreign Investors holding back and turning away
Pak Government run from Dubai and London
Government focused on export of Mangoes to US
Value of Pak Rs per $ down from Rs60 to Rs77
New PTV Chairman Dr Shahid Masood paid Rs 850,000 monthly salary
What else will we see in the coming days?
$17 Billion Foreign reserves now down to $10 Billion
KSE Index Drops from 15,000 to near 9000
Many Established Textile Factories closed
100,000 Rural Primary Schools with 8Million Village Children will be shut down Aug31st, 2008 UNLESS!
135+ Schools Burnt to ground in Tribal Areas
Foreign Investors holding back and turning away
Pak Government run from Dubai and London
Government focused on export of Mangoes to US
Value of Pak Rs per $ down from Rs60 to Rs77
New PTV Chairman Dr Shahid Masood paid Rs 850,000 monthly salary
What else will we see in the coming days?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
