Never being used to see thoughts translated into action, it came as a complete surprise when I actually saw young people from Balochistan pass out successfully as soldiers of the Pakistan Army with the aim to defend their nation and state.
A sudden burst of immense joy, to finally see them display a synchronized parade, overwhelmed me and a prayer escaped my lips for the well being of the courageous youth of our nation, the talent of whom had hitherto remained un-channelled and neglected by the rulers with feudal mindset.
Although, this small endeavour by the Chief of Army Staff may seem trivial, I see it as a first link which has been fastened and will become instrumental in extending itself further to form a complete chain.
The people of Pakistan have had more than their share of troubles along with the corruption rampant in the government machinery. But with such initiatives, the situation is bound to improve, albeit at a slow pace.
LUBNA UMAR
Islamabad
