In this higly intense and provocative book, the author examines the scope, need and challenges of the socio-economic development of Pakistan in the context of myriads of problems and constraints. He focuses on federalism, governance and security as three pivotal issues which in large measure shape the political and economic milieu and momentum of the country. the author lays out a framwork for strengthening the federation and federalism, decentralization and devolution of power including provincial autonomy and effective local government. he debunks many myths and explodes the conspiracy theories, which in his view, has misguided public opinion and has kept the successive governments from taking the right decisions based on ground realities. he rejects the notion that fast economic growth can only be achieved by military regimes which in his view has given rise to boombust economic results and argues for a liberal and libertarian plurality and diversity along with stable and democratic governments and organized political parties. He argues for reforms in governance and economic policies, to foster faster growth in social sectors, improvements in quality and quantity of education and health infrastructure, achievement of Millennium Development Goals and reduction in military expenditure.
He argues that msot mineral rich countries of the world except the developed countries are the so-called failed states, having national incomes lower than Pakistan. Misplaced notions of mineral wealth, according to him create separaist tendencies and tribal feuds. He argues for a fair deal to similar provinces especially good share in natural resource income, transparency and autonomy while counseling the separatists and nationalists that their best interest and furture lies within Pakistan and that they are better off even now as compared to many mineral countries of Asia and Latin America. He draws the attention of the elite in particular and of people in genera to the deteriorating ratings and rankings of Pakistan on variouswell accepted scales and indices. Sadly on most good things Pakistan is at the bottom of the list, and in most bad things Pakistan is at the top. A host of dala from World Bank, Freedom House, Transparency International, World Economic Forum, Fund for new governance etc has been reproduced in readable form showing Pakistan's status vis-a-vis other Asian and Muslim countrie. although he has conceptual problems with the characterizations such as the notion of failed state. He also has interesting and useful suggestions in the area of broadening the industrial base, bridging he trade gap and boosting the productivity and competitiveness. The book also has chapters on energy, food and water, the areas in which Pakistan is either facing crises or may face one in near future. In may ways, this is not a typical book usually written by academicians. It has a high content of advocacy bordering on uneasiness, and discontentment and a natural bias towards and in favor of Pakistan's national interests, development and the prosperity of its people. Those looking for academic dispassion, remoteness and neutrality may be disappointed. However, those in search of solutions, breakthroughs, new ideas, change in status quo and passionate discourse would be pleased to read this book.
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