Human Development Foundation (HDF) showed concerns over diminution of Pakistan in the human development index of United Nations. Pakistan ranked 145 in the human development index of 187 countries has dropped 20 points this year in an index that represents better livings conditions available to the citizens of a country. In the previous human development index, Pakistan was at the 120th number.
According to the UN report, income distribution has worsened, and environmental degradation threatens future prospects. Most people live longer, are more educated and have more access to goods and services than ever before.
Chief Executive Officer of Human Development Foundation (HDF) Azhar Saleem termed this declining trend of human development index a matter of great concern.
Explaining the situation, Azhar said that there are a number of non-government organisations working in different fields in Pakistan but the living conditions cannot only be achieved by education, health or economic development alone.
He said that a higher position in human development index, the government needs to work in tandem with NGOs.
In 2010, Pakistan was ranked 125th in the human development index rankings. According to the 2011 rankings, India ranks 134, Bangladesh 146, China 101 while Norway tops the group with Australia in 2nd place. Human development index is the comparative measure of life expectancy, literacy, education and standards of living for countries worldwide.
He further stated that HDF is based on the principles of the human development theory adopted by the UN and applies a holistic approach to development including education, health and economic development.
