Any step, how small or meagre it may be, taken with the objective to save public money, means availability of more funds for public welfare. Therefore, the recent announcement of the Punjab CM Shahbaz Sharif to interdict foreign tours by MPAs at the cost of the Punjab government as well as disallowing purchase of new cars and other luxury goods should be fully welcomed and appreciated as it will help to save more funds for public welfare. In fact, this is a step which can lead to a social culture of austerity.
In fact, we should learn a lesson from our neighbour India where politicians and other government officials still use Indian made, not so comfortable, Maruti cars and live a simple life. On the other side, its pity to note that our prime minister and the president are enjoying a cozy lifestyle which is beyond the reach of Pakistanis and while millions of IDPs still need basic facilities including healthcare and education, both PM and the president continue visiting abroad without any explicit reasons.
It is said that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step; it’s hoped that this example will also pave the way for the setting up of a culture of austerity and simplicity.
QUDRATULLAH
Lahore
