The rise in poverty is a global phenomenon and developing countries like Pakistan seem to be the worst victims. Recession in the US and the European Union has increased the already high levels of poverty in many developing countries and there seems to be no solution to this problem. According to the latest World Bank Report, Pakistan is ranked at number 43 in the list of countries most exposed to poverty. As per bout 63 % of the people in the country earn less than $2 per day and around 23 % live on under $1 per day.
Unequal distribution of income in Pakistan is a major underlying cause of poverty in the country. About 10 % of the total population earns 27% of the total income of the country. Another World Bank report highlights the fact that 37.4% of the children in Pakistan below the age of five are underfed.
The Planning Commission has revealed that the poverty rate in Pakistan has increased by 14 % in the previous three years. In recent times, there has been a decrease in government spending for the society’s welfare which has reduced the standard of living for the people in the country. The high rates of inflation and the unavailability of consumer products does no good to pull the country out of this misery.
Although rising poverty levels in Pakistan is an alarming situation, it is not something which cannot be curtailed. The politicians need to stop fighting over their position in the government and should concentrate on solving the issues surrounding the country amongst which poverty is one. There is a need for considerable effort to increase jobs and employment opportunities for the people. The government should focus on investing in developing infrastructure which would automatically create jobs in the country.
Other than that, efforts should be made to improve the law and order situation in the country so that there is reinstatement of business activities so that poverty could be reduced and still there is question that how to control it or how to remove poverty from our beloved country.
ANITA FARID KHAN
Karachi