Journal of Pakistan Administration
type: channel
description: Welcome to the Journal of Pakistan Administration (JPA), a distinguished platform committed to advancing knowledge, fostering intellectual growth, and catalyzing positive change in the field of public policy and administration. Founded by the National School of Public Policy (formerly Pakistan Administrative Staff College) in 1960, the Journal of Pakistan Administration is a premier peer-reviewed research publication. Originally launched as Pakistan Administration, the journal underwent a strategic rebranding in December 2023 to better reflect its evolving academic scope. Highlighting its commitment to scholarly excellence, the journal was formally accredited by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan in December 2024. Journal of Pakistan Administration promotes research on significant social, economic and governance issues and the ways public policies are made and implemented. Its articles deal with topics of concern to public policy scholars and practitioners nationwide and beyond. Aims and Objectives: Enhance the understanding about public policy formulation and implementation. Cultivate an environment of continuous learning about addressing the challenges of public policies and administration. Strengthening public service delivery through evidence-based policy research. Scope: The journal covers a broad spectrum of topics, addressing tactical, operational, and strategic levels of public administration, contributing to a comprehensive understanding and advancement of the field. Embark on this intellectual journey with JPA, where knowledge meets innovation, and together, let's shape the future of public policy and administration.
publisher: National School of Public Policy, Lahore, Pakistan
language: en
publication name: Journal of Pakistan Administration
issn: 1027-1023
items: Digital Payment: Adoption of Raast vs. Mobile Wallets (EasyPaisa / JazzCash): User Preference Analysis in the Informal Sector
items: Reimagining the Future of Electricity in Pakistan: An Analysis of IPP Agreements and Power Sector Reforms
items: Role of Social Protection in Mitigating Food Insecurity: a Proposed Policy Framework for Pakistan
items: Empowering Smallholder Farmers in KP: Market Linkages, Challenges, Opportunities, and Strategic Interventions
items: The Role of Crime Mapping and Predictive Policing in Modern Law Enforcement: Evidence from Sindh, Pakistan (2015–2025)
items: Assessing the Institutional, Technological, and Operational Challenges in the Implementation of Pakistan Single Window: A Mixed-Method Study of Trade Facilitation Reform in Pakistan
items: Every Child’s Right to Primary Education: Examining the Progress from MDG-2 to SDG-4 in Pakistan
items: Cyberbullying in Pakistan: Exploring Effects, Impacts and Strategies for Prevention
items: Micro-Finance in Pakistan: Institutional Practices, Challenges and Way Forward
items: Pak-Iran Oil Smuggling Impacts: Challenges and Strategies for Effective Solutions
items: International Climate Agreements and Pakistan's National Climate Policies: Implementation, Gaps and Coping Strategies
items: Ecosystem for Business Startup in Punjab: Issues, Challenges, and Way Forward
items: Analyzing The Effectiveness of Formal Dispute Resolution Mechanism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan: Issues, Challenges and Way Forward
items: Introduction of E-Buses in Pakistan’s Urban Centers: Progress, Challenges and Road Ahead
items: IMF Loan Programs and Pakistan: Impact and Way Forward (2013 to 2026)
items: Political Polarization in Pakistan: Implications for Governance and Social Cohesion
items: Building Control Regimes in Pakistan: Policies and Practices
items: Causes and Related issues of Encroachment: A Study of the State Land of Karachi Division
items: Effectiveness of Withholding Taxes in Expanding Pakistan’s Tax Base: A Focus on the informal and Undocumented Sectors
items: Transforming Public Procurement in Pakistan: The Role of E-Procurement and Artificial Intelligence for Enhanced Efficiency and Transparency
items: IT Industry Development In South Asia: Lessons For Pakistan
items: Politicization of Ethnic Identities in Pakistan: Implications for National Unity and Cohesion
items: Integrating Polio SIAs with other Health Interventions in Sindh, Pakistan: Challenges and Prospects
items: Child Abuse — Evaluating Government Measures in Punjab and KP: Issues, Challenges and Way Forward
items: Protection of Consumer Rights in Digital Marketplace in Pakistan: A Critical Review of Current Policies and Future Guidelines
items: Impact Assessment of Global Warming on the Economy of Pakistan From 2010 to 2022 Proposing Policy Recommendations for Future Resilience
items: Critical Analysis of Pakistan-UAE Bilateral Trade Since 2000: Challenges and Opportunities for Pakistan
items: Improving the Passengers' Facilitation: Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad Airports
items: Use of Technology to Fight Crimes in Lahore and Karachi
items: A Critical Analysis of Efficacy of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016: Irritants and Remedies
items: A Constructivist Analysis of Normative Transference in Indian Foreign Policy: Implications for Pakistan
items: Creating a Niche for Performance Auditing in the Public Sector: Utilizing Integrated Compliance, Efficiency and Effectiveness Reporting
items: Major Women Empowerment Initiatives in Balochistan: A Critical Review and Policy Recommendations
items: Hindutva Vs Islamophobia: Analysis and Way forward
items: Measuring Performance in Public Sector Organizations: Contemporary Trends and Avenues
items: Post FATF: TF Prosecutions and Investigations in Pakistan
items: High-Value Agriculture: Potential in Punjab Through Use of Climate Smart Technology
items: Capitalizing on Pakistan’s Public Diplomacy: Potential in Pursuit of Soft Power
items: Development Priorities in Punjab and KP: A Critical Analysis
items: Indo-Pakistan Trade Through Wagah Border: Situation Analysis and Future Prospects
items: Separation of East Pakistan: Public Policy and Governance Issues
items: Agriculture Income Tax in Punjab: Potential Impediments and Policy Suggestions
items: The Potential of the Blue Economy in Pakistan: Prospects and Challenges
items: Analyzing the Key Responsible Factors: Cyber Security in Pakistan
items: Critical analysis of data of Afghan transit through Pakistan since 2010: Trends, Issues, Challenges and Way Forward
items: Curbing Fiscal Deficit through Enhancing the Agriculture Income Tax Collection in Punjab, Pakistan
items: Critical Evaluation of Pakistan-China Free Trade Agreement: Policy Lessons
items: Prospects and Options for Upgrading NSPP and Constituent Units into a National University of Public Administration
items: Overcoming Punjab’s Energy Crisis: A Case Study of the Financial Close of the Punjab Thermal Power Limited (PTPL) Project
items: Internal Controls to Curb Corruption in the Police Department: Challenges and Way Forward

Digital Payment: Adoption of Raast vs. Mobile Wallets (EasyPaisa / JazzCash): User Preference Analysis in the Informal Sector
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Cashless Economy, Raast Payment System, Digital Financial Inclusion, Informal Economy, Mobile Wallet Adoption Despite the development of an electronic payment platform known as Raast by the government of Pakistan that facilitates free transactions, there is still a substantial percentage of the workforce in Pakistan who uses mobile wallet payment methods such as EasyPaisa and JazzCash in their businesses and transactions. This exploratory pilot study (n=60; 50 questionnaires and 10 interviews) examines key factors that affect the decision to adopt digital financial technology among informal workers in Pakistan. It reveals that availability of a free digital platform is not enough to foster adoption. Factors that play an important role in shaping the behavior of users include structural exclusions, low levels of digital literacy, dependence on nearby cash agents, and fears of fiscal monitoring. In particular, there was a high negative correlation between the fear of state supervision and use of Raast payments (r = -0.76, p < .001). Furthermore, the research also suggests that the zero MDR approach may generate a market gap that makes banks reluctant to onboard smaller businesses. Thus, this paper discusses a behavioral policy framework for the provision of liquidity, access, and value creation including digital safe harbors, open agency practices, and the public digital credit registry.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Cashless Economy
  topic: keywords
subject: Raast Payment System
  topic: keywords
subject: Digital Financial Inclusion
  topic: keywords
subject: Informal Economy
  topic: keywords
subject: Mobile Wallet Adoption
  topic: keywords
creator: Sanghaar Malik
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Sanghaar Malik (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-06-19
publication date: 2026-06-19
starting page: 285
ending page: 310
doi: 10.65755/jpa-20264701-131

Reimagining the Future of Electricity in Pakistan: An Analysis of IPP Agreements and Power Sector Reforms
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Purchase Power Agreements (PPA), Independent Power Producers (IPPs), PESTLE, DISCOs, Bilateral Contract Market (CTBCM) Pakistan’s power sector continues to face significant challenges despite substantial expansion in generation capacity over the past three decades through the induction of Independent Power Producers (IPPs) under Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). Persistent issues including financial instability, high electricity tariffs, and structural inefficiencies have constrained the sector’s overall performance. Contractual rigidities in IPP agreements, coupled with weaknesses in transmission and distribution infrastructure, have contributed to rising circular debt, increased fiscal pressure, and reduced affordability of electricity. This paper examines the evolution of IPP model in Pakistan since 1994 Power Policy and stresses upon contribution of dollar indexed capacity payments irrespective of actual utilization of energy, reliance on imported fuels and veil over contractual terms to the structural misalignment of cost and demand impacting affordable electricity. There is no caveat to the fact that initially these agreements attracted investment over USD 5 billion and added 4500 MW of capacity by late 1990s, however, they on the other hand led to entrenched financial liabilities accumulating overtime to make this unsustainable fiscal burden. An analysis of external and internal factors via PESTLE (Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal, Environmental) and TOE (Technological, Organizational, Environmental) frameworks indicates multifaceted challenges including political interference, inconsistent policy formulation, outdated grid infrastructure, weak regulatory oversight abetted by overall macroeconomic vulnerabilities straining negatively on the sectoral performance. Internal dynamics unearth the chronic governance failures of DISCOs, transmission and dispatch losses, and low-cost recovery eating the base of the sector.…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Purchase Power Agreements (PPA)
  topic: keywords
subject: Independent Power Producers (IPPs)
  topic: keywords
subject: PESTLE
  topic: keywords
subject: DISCOs, Bilateral Contract Market (CTBCM)
  topic: keywords
creator: Saad Waqas
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Saad Waqas (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-06-19
publication date: 2026-06-19
starting page: 157
ending page: 184
doi: 10.65755/jpa-20264701-129

Role of Social Protection in Mitigating Food Insecurity: a Proposed Policy Framework for Pakistan
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Social protection, food insecurity, social risk, risk management strategies Conceptual foundation of social protection has a rapid growth academically, but still can be observed as an evolving policy agenda in many countries. Operationally the concept of social protection encompasses elements of social assistance, social insurance, social injustice and exclusion. The fundamental purpose of social protection is to address and manage vulnerability. Food insecurity is directly connected to poverty and vulnerability, especially in low-income countries where income and food crops overlay one another; Pakistan is one of them. Food security in Pakistan is characterized by a variety of challenges. These challenges include not only insufficient economic resources and inconsequential policies; but also increasing extreme weather conditions. In changing scenario of geo-political and geo-economic circumstances, the magnitude of food security has broadened across communities and the globe; thus, showing increased social risk. The objective of this review-based policy paper is to propose a policy framework for Pakistan in mitigating food insecurity through the role of social protection. Review of literature shows close relationship between social protection and food security, and this policy paper will identify several synergies and linkages between them, through a proposed policy framework. Results deuced from available data propose risk management framework for food security in the country. Proposed policy framework revolves around a three-dimensional risk management strategy i.e. prevention, mitigation and coping strategies. By giving interventions in these strategies at informal (family) and formal (public interventions, labor market & non-profit sector) level, social protection can play a catalytic role in mitigating food insecurity in Pakistan.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Social protection
  topic: keywords
subject: food insecurity
  topic: keywords
subject: social risk
  topic: keywords
subject: risk management strategies
  topic: keywords
creator: Beenish Ijaz Butt
creator: Shajiah Qursam
creator: Muhammad Ibrahim
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Beenish Ijaz Butt (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-06-19
publication date: 2026-06-19
starting page: 141
ending page: 156
doi: 10.65755/jpa-20264701-127

Empowering Smallholder Farmers in KP: Market Linkages, Challenges, Opportunities, and Strategic Interventions
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Agents, Cold chain infrastructure, Extension services, Farm losses, farmer’s associations, IFAD, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa agriculture, Marketability, Policy reforms, Small landholder, Smart agriculture, Rural enablement Smallholder farmers making over 90% of the farming population in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, are commonly cultivating less than one acre of land. Regardless of playing a principal role in provincial food security and rural employment, these farmers remain side-lined in value chains due to limited access to markets, infrastructure, and institutional support. Based on field surveys conducted in August 2025 and supported by secondary data from KP Agriculture and Planning Departments, IFAD, and global research, this study discovered the key market-related challenges, identified effective case models, and recommended targeted interventions. The survey showed that 50% of farmers are dependent on middlemen to sell their produce, while only 10% use farmer’s organizations and 7% of them sell directly to consumers, drawing attention to the lack of organised market access. Post-harvest losses are common: 35% of respondents experience moderate losses (11-30%), and 20% face high losses (above 30%), mainly in fruits, vegetables, and dairy. Contact with public extension is also weak, as 40% of farmers have never received advisory facilities, while only 20% disclose regular contacts with extension workers. Familiarity with key support programs is low: only 34% are acquainted with the IFAD RETP program, and just 15% of them reported taking benefits from these. Notwithstanding these challenges, successful interventions offer effective solutions. For example, the Swat Apple Value Chain project increased farmer incomes through pack houses and branding, while AKRSP’s solar drying enterprise in Dir empowered women by providing livelihood opportunities at doorstep and reduced post-harvest losses. Digital tools remain underused-only 15% of farmers were aware o…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Agents
  topic: keywords
subject: Cold chain infrastructure
  topic: keywords
subject: Extension services
  topic: keywords
subject: Farm losses
  topic: keywords
subject: farmer’s associations
  topic: keywords
subject: IFAD
  topic: keywords
subject: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa agriculture
  topic: keywords
subject: Marketability
  topic: keywords
subject: Policy reforms
  topic: keywords
subject: Small landholder
  topic: keywords
subject: Smart agriculture
  topic: keywords
subject: Rural enablement
  topic: keywords
creator: Muhammad Tahir
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Muhammad Tahir (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-06-19
publication date: 2026-06-19
starting page: 61
ending page: 95
doi: 10.65755/jpa-20264701-124

The Role of Crime Mapping and Predictive Policing in Modern Law Enforcement: Evidence from Sindh, Pakistan (2015–2025)
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: crime mapping, digital governance, law enforcement technology, predictive policing, Sindh Police, smart surveillance, Pakistan Crime mapping and predictive policing represent two foundational pillars of data-driven public security delivery in the digital governance era. Crime mapping refers to the geographic identification and visualization of crime hotspots to enable place-based policing, while predictive policing employs data analytics and algorithms to forecast criminal activity and enable pre-emptive law enforcement intervention. This study examines whether policing in Sindh, Pakistan has meaningfully benefited from these modern law enforcement tools, and whether current capabilities are sufficient to meet future public safety demands. Employing a mixed-methods longitudinal design, integrating quantitative crime statistics, budget analysis, and qualitative Key Informant Interviews (KIIs), this research analyses eleven years of provincial crime data (2015–2025) alongside IT budget allocations across five financial years. The study reveals that despite incremental adoption of technology-based initiatives, Sindh Police's commitment to IT infrastructure remains critically underfunded, averaging merely 1.3% of total budget allocation, with procurement utilization falling well below sanctioned estimates in consecutive financial years. Findings confirm that systemic factors intrinsic to Sindh; including institutional inertia, elite capture, corruption, inadequate IT human resources, and poor data quality, have severely constrained the operational effectiveness of both crime mapping and predictive policing models. Eleven years of provincial crime data demonstrate no statistically significant reduction in any major crime category, indicating that existing tools have failed to produce the proactive, deterrence-oriented outcomes they are designed to deliver. Nevertheless, emerging platforms, notably the Karachi Safe City Project and the Sindh Sm…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: crime mapping
  topic: keywords
subject: digital governance
  topic: keywords
subject: law enforcement technology
  topic: keywords
subject: predictive policing
  topic: keywords
subject: Sindh Police
  topic: keywords
subject: smart surveillance
  topic: keywords
subject: Pakistan
  topic: keywords
creator: Samiullah Soomro
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Samiullah Soomro (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-06-19
publication date: 2026-06-19
starting page: 247
ending page: 284
doi: 10.65755/jpa-20264701-121

Assessing the Institutional, Technological, and Operational Challenges in the Implementation of Pakistan Single Window: A Mixed-Method Study of Trade Facilitation Reform in Pakistan
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Pakistan Single Window (PSW), operational gaps, World Bank, OECD Trade, TradeNet, uTradeHub. Pakistan’s cross-border trade has remained affected by lengthy documentation, manual procedures, weak inter-agency coordination, and delayed clearance processes. These problems have made it more expensive to do business and less competitive the Pakistani exporters and importers. To overcome these limitations, the Pakistan Single Window (PSW), created by the act known as the Pakistan Single Window Act, 2021 was introduced to facilitate these limitations through a single online platform to carry out importations, exportations, and transit-related documentation. The rationale of this study is anchored on the need to determine whether PSW has been able to effectively respond to the long-standing trade facilitation issues in Pakistan and what have been the institutional, technological and operational gaps that have continued to curb the effective implementation of PSW. The primary aim of the research is to investigate the necessity of PSW, evaluate the issues that impact its adoption, assess its initial role in enhancing trade in Pakistan, and finally recommend feasible solutions to increase its inclusion in the trade system of Pakistan. The study design is qualitative case study design which has been backed by descriptive quantitative data. Data were obtained based on secondary sources, such as the Pakistan Single Window Act, 2021, PSW (2024) and FBR (2024) reports, and World Bank Doing Business data, OECD Trade Facilitation Indicators, and UNESCAP report, and WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement documents, and international case information on TradeNet of Singapore and uTradeHub of Korea. Another source of information to gain the field level implementation experiences is brought by the stakeholder consultations with the Customs officials, the PSW related personnel, the traders and the logistics representatives. The results indicate that PSW has involved …
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Pakistan Single Window (PSW)
  topic: keywords
subject: operational gaps
  topic: keywords
subject: World Bank
  topic: keywords
subject: OECD Trade
  topic: keywords
subject: TradeNet, uTradeHub.
  topic: keywords
creator: Noor ul Ain Fatima
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Noor ul Ain Fatima (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-06-19
publication date: 2026-06-19
starting page: 96
ending page: 140
doi: 10.65755/jpa-20264701-125

Every Child’s Right to Primary Education: Examining the Progress from MDG-2 to SDG-4 in Pakistan
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Millennium Development Goal 2, Sustainable Development Goal 4, Public-Private Partnerships, Sustainable Development Framework, Constitution Article 25A of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan requires that the state will provide free and compulsory education to all children between the ages of five to sixteen. However, despite the passage of 14 years since the above article was introduced, Pakistan still has more than 10 million children of primary education age group that are out of school. Further the children who fortunately are enrolled in the schools are not getting quality education as is evident from the results of the proficiency tests that measure the learning outcomes of these children. Given this grim scenario, this paper attempts to analyze Pakistan’s progress with respect to Millennium Development Goal 2 and Sustainable Development Goal 4 which relates to education. While examining Pakistan’s progress the study focuses on the three main indicators relating to the above goal namely, proficiency of primary school children in subjects of English and Mathematics, the completion rates of primary education and out-of-school children of primary education age group. The paper using mainly qualitative research has identified important factors such as insufficient spending on the educational sector due to government budgetary constraints, sub-optimal teaching quality due to lack of good teachers and natural disruptions like Covid and floods that have hampered Pakistan’s quest for providing quality education to all primary school age children. The paper also suggests practical measures like Public-Private Partnerships, emphasis on the training of teachers and adopting digital means to achieve the goal of free quality primary education by the year 2030 as required under the Sustainable Development Framework.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Millennium Development Goal 2
  topic: keywords
subject: Sustainable Development Goal 4
  topic: keywords
subject: Public-Private Partnerships
  topic: keywords
subject: Sustainable Development Framework
  topic: keywords
subject: Constitution
  topic: keywords
creator: Waqas Ahmed Bajwa
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Waqas Ahmed Bajwa (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-06-19
publication date: 2026-06-19
starting page: 01
ending page: 30
doi: 10.65755/jpa-20264701-135

Cyberbullying in Pakistan: Exploring Effects, Impacts and Strategies for Prevention
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Cyberbullying, Online harassment, Digital evidence, Mental health stigma, Digital literacy The study addresses the growing issue of cyberbullying in Pakistan, particularly with the rise in internet and social media use. It explores the psychological and emotional consequences of cyberbullying on victims, including anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. The study also evaluates the effectiveness of Pakistan's legal frameworks, especially the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016, in combating online harassment. Despite PECA's existence, the study finds that its implementation faces challenges such as low conviction rates, difficulties in gathering digital evidence, and a lack of enforcement resources. Furthermore, cultural and societal factors, such as the stigma surrounding mental health, contribute to the underreporting of incidents. By comparing Pakistan’s situation with that of India and the United States, the research highlights the specific legal and societal challenges in Pakistan, offering recommendations for improving awareness, legal responses, and victim support systems. The study concludes that a more robust, adaptive legal framework, enhanced digital literacy programs, and greater cooperation among stakeholders are crucial to effectively tackle cyberbullying in Pakistan.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Cyberbullying
  topic: keywords
subject: Online harassment
  topic: keywords
subject: Digital evidence
  topic: keywords
subject: Mental health stigma
  topic: keywords
subject: Digital literacy
  topic: keywords
creator: Rab Nawaz Khan
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 RAB NAWAZ KHAN (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-06-19
publication date: 2026-06-19
starting page: 31
ending page: 60
doi: 10.65755/jpa-20264701-134

Micro-Finance in Pakistan: Institutional Practices, Challenges and Way Forward
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Bilateral Contract Market, financial sustainability, gross loan portfolio, Microfinance Banks During the last five years, size of Pakistan’s microfinance sector got double in terms of its gross loan portfolio (GLP) of PKR 703 billion. Despite the hundred percent increase in the GLP, the fact that serving only 12 million borrowers out of a potential 40 million transpires that a significant inclusion gap still persists. This research uses the qualitative and quantitative data to find the existing gaps between the supply and the demand sides. This research study utilizes Chi-square analysis to quantify the qualitative survey results. Comparative analysis of different institutional practices, lending methodologies and products guides the research to find out the challenges and to recommend the strategic interventions for improvement. The study, after the analysis, identifies several critical barriers including high operational costs, scarcity of inexpensive credit lines and stringent regulations which fail to reduce the existing gaps between both sides and thus threaten financial sustainability. Furthermore, Microfinance Banks (MFBs) provide microloans on high interest rates (25–30%), while the borrowers, particularly in agriculture, struggle with increased default risks due to climate-induced shocks. Other operational challenge like limited staff capacity and very low digital literacy among the borrowers further hinder growth. The study recommends that in order to reduce the gap between the demand and supply of MF services, the sector requires structural reforms, including the availability of inexpensive and low-cost equity, regulatory reform regarding deposit-taking licenses for MFIs and enhanced digital integration among the borrowers. Introduction of large-scale safety nets for the borrowing farmers besides training the relevant human resource in MF services are very important steps for shifting microfinance from a means of survival to a …
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Bilateral Contract Market
  topic: keywords
subject: financial sustainability
  topic: keywords
subject: gross loan portfolio
  topic: keywords
subject: Microfinance Banks
  topic: keywords
creator: Qurat-ul Ain Memon
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Qurat-ul ain Memon (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-06-19
publication date: 2026-06-19
starting page: 212
ending page: 252
doi: 10.65755/jpa-20264701-132

Pak-Iran Oil Smuggling Impacts: Challenges and Strategies for Effective Solutions
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Drugs and Crime, World Customs organization, Balochistan Liberation Army, Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan Pakistan-Iran oil smuggling is a decades long phenomenon. Smuggling is a transnational illegal entry of goods and people for financial gain, leading to violation of law. Oil smuggling from Iran to Pakistan is carried out through different land and sea routes; using different payment mechanisms. This research endeavor is undertaken to examine the economic impact of oil smuggling, the key challenges that hinder the efforts of different national stakeholders to tackle the alleged menace and delineate strategies to curb oil smuggling. This study used a mixed method approach: structured approach using a questionnaire as well as Key Informant Interviews (KII). The study also employed Stakeholder Analysis and PESTEL analysis. Oil smuggling has huge economic impact in terms of loss of revenue (tax and duties), distorting domestic fuel prices, reducing private sector appetite for investment in energy sector, environmental pollution, money laundering and terror financing. However, it has some positive externalities: availability of cheaper oil, saving of foreign exchange reserves, and creation of employment for local population. There are a number of challenges in way of curbing oil smuggling like deprivation of local population of Balochistan, complexity of different stakeholders involved, regional geostrategic tensions in the Middle East, Pakistan-Iran cross border skirmishes, fluctuating global oil prices, porous borders, outdated laws for prevention of smuggling, and US sanctions against Iran. Findings of the study indicate that various logistics are used in smuggling with involvement of transporters, local traders, LEA and politically influential people. Payment mechanism is both barter and monetary system. There is no seasonality in oil smuggling. Leading factors behind oil smuggling are competitive pric…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Drugs and Crime
  topic: keywords
subject: World Customs organization
  topic: keywords
subject: Balochistan Liberation Army
  topic: keywords
subject: Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association
  topic: keywords
subject: Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan
  topic: keywords
creator: Khalid Mehmood
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Capt. (R) Khalid Mehmood (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-12-15
publication date: 2025-12-15
starting page: 1
ending page: 40
doi: 10.65755/jpa-20254602-110

International Climate Agreements and Pakistan's National Climate Policies: Implementation, Gaps and Coping Strategies
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: climate, policies, gaps, coping strategies, UNFCCC This study examines Pakistan’s alignment with international climate agreements, especially the Paris Agreement and UNFCCC, and evaluates the effectiveness of its national climate policies. The study is guided by the following research questions: (1) a) What are the specific institutional, socio-cultural, and governance barriers affecting the implementation of international climate agreements in Pakistan? b) How do Pakistan’s national climate policies align with its commitments under agreements such as the Paris Agreement and UNFCCC? c) What policy and strategic reforms can bridge the gap between Pakistan’s climate commitments and ground-level action? The objective is to critically evaluate the effectiveness of national climate policies in aligning with international climate agreements. Despite active participation in global climate frameworks, Pakistan faces significant challenges in implementing climate commitments owing to institutional inefficiencies, fragmented governance, financial constraints, and technical limitations.The research employs a qualitative case study design. Primary data were collected through semi-structured interviews and focused group discussions with 10 policymakers and experts, while secondary data included national reports, peer-reviewed literature, and global climate databases. The study focuses on four main themes: (1) alignment with international commitments, (2) institutional and legislative challenges, (3) financial limitations, and (4) coping strategies (adaptation and mitigation).The study reveals that while Pakistan has been able to work on few weather-related projects, such as climate-smart agriculture and the Indus River Initiative, such programs are poorly financed, both in terms of technical expertise and funds. Various forms of inefficiency, governance fragmentation and financial hardship act as barriers in the scaling up of climate actions. Some of …
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: climate
  topic: keywords
subject: policies
  topic: keywords
subject: gaps
  topic: keywords
subject: coping strategies
  topic: keywords
subject: UNFCCC
  topic: keywords
creator: Rizwan Bashir
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 20
ending page: 56
doi: 10.65755/jpa-20254601-98

Ecosystem for Business Startup in Punjab: Issues, Challenges, and Way Forward
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Business Facilitation Centers; Entrepreneurial Ecosystem; Public Service Delivery; Punjab; Pakistan The study examined the business startup ecosystem in Punjab, Pakistan to explore the factors responsible for its growth as well as those that obstruct this growth. The key developments that took place in the past two years (2022 – 2024) with respect to, (i) Punjab Government’s initiatives, (ii) key facilitation issues experienced by the relevant organizations, and (iii) regulatory inefficiencies and infrastructure gaps faced by the clients and potential entrepreneurs and startups, were analyzed. Isenberg’s Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Model and Stam’s Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Framework were used to theorize Punjab’s startup ecosystem. The study used a convergent mixed methods research design and used convenience sampling to study four BFCs in Punjab. Survey method using both questionnaire and interviews was employed to gather information from public and private stakeholders in order to understand the startup ecosystem in Punjab. The study found that the business startup ecosystem in Punjab has experienced significant growth over the past two years due to government initiatives such as the BFCs, nevertheless, there were notable challenges that were reducing the potential of such initiatives. The study found that bureaucratic hurdles, regulatory complexities, and limited access to finance continue to delay entrepreneurial success in spite of Punjab’s improvement in global rankings and pro-business policies. The findings from quantitative and qualitative analyses revealed that awareness about BFCs was low, barriers in digital literacy were prominent, and deficiencies in infrastructure impeded the smooth and sustainable functioning of BFCs and other government initiatives. The regulatory overlaps and inconsistent service delivery continued to pose challenges despite efforts by the government to simplify business registration and compliance proce…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Business Facilitation Centers; Entrepreneurial Ecosystem; Public Service Delivery; Punjab; Pakistan
  topic: keywords
creator: Jawad Tariq Awan
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Jawad Tariq Awan (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-12-15
publication date: 2025-12-15
starting page: 41
ending page: 71
doi: 10.65755/jpa-20254602-109

Analyzing The Effectiveness of Formal Dispute Resolution Mechanism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan: Issues, Challenges and Way Forward
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Alternate Dispute Resolution Act, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Formal Dispute Resolution Mechanism, ADR Framework Dispute resolution mechanism (DRM) has primarily complemented the formal judicial system by providing quick and cost-effective solutions to the disputants. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province has a rich history of DRMs based on conventions and tribal traditions in the form of Jirga System. An effective DRM plays a crucial role in maintaining peace and order in the province. This study focuses on the formal DRM available in KP under the Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR) Act, 2020 because it has an overriding effect on all previous formal DRMs. This paper critically analyzes DRM under ADR Act. The study examines ADR Act from the theoretical and practical perspectives. Both Primary and secondary data have been used in the study. The primary data (qualitative and quantitative) collection techniques include interviews, documents analysis, observational insights and questionnaire. Moreover, analytical tools like legal framework analysis and SWOT are used. It is observed in this paper that people are not optimally relying on ADR, rather they are using other means (informal Jirgas or resorting to force). This policy paper finds that ADR mechanism in KP faces different legal, administrative and societal challenges. The issues include lack of awareness and weak implementation mechanism. The situation demands further refinement and transformation of the ADR Act. The study provides pragmatic steps to enhance effectiveness of ADR in the province. The improvements include both administrative actions and amendments in the ADR act to make it a more conducive DRM in KP.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Alternate Dispute Resolution Act
  topic: keywords
subject: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
  topic: keywords
subject: Formal Dispute Resolution Mechanism
  topic: keywords
subject: ADR Framework
  topic: keywords
creator: Amjad Meraj
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 1
ending page: 19
doi: 10.65755/jpa-20254601-97

Introduction of E-Buses in Pakistan’s Urban Centers: Progress, Challenges and Road Ahead
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Electric Vehicles (EVs), sustainable transport, public-private partnerships, renewable energy, local manufacturing, climate policy, charging infrastructure This paper explores the present status of electric bus adoption in Pakistan, focusing on Lahore’s electric bus project as a case study. Using a mixed-methods approach and drawing from regional experiences in China, India, and Bangladesh, it assesses the environmental impacts and strategic potential of electric mobility in the public sector. The study highlights existing regulatory and infrastructural challenges, emphasizing the need for a liberalized policy regime, greater public-private collaboration, and access to international development finance. Key frameworks such as the National Electric Vehicle Policy and Pakistan’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) are examined to understand their role in enabling green mobility. The case of Lahore provides practical insights into implementation barriers and policy coordination gaps. The study concludes with recommendations to expand renewable-powered charging infrastructure, promote local manufacturing to reduce import dependence, and leverage both federal development programs and global financing to scale electric bus deployment. Pakistan can learn lessons from the success of China’s large-scale adoption of EV public transport systems to India’s Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles (FAME) project. These steps are vital for achieving environmental sustainability, enhancing urban transport, and supporting Pakistan’s transition to a cleaner, more resilient economy.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Electric Vehicles (EVs)
  topic: keywords
subject: sustainable transport
  topic: keywords
subject: public-private partnerships
  topic: keywords
subject: renewable energy
  topic: keywords
subject: local manufacturing
  topic: keywords
subject: climate policy
  topic: keywords
subject: charging infrastructure
  topic: keywords
creator: Muhammad Ahmad
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 57
ending page: 88
doi: 10.65755/jpa-20254601-99

IMF Loan Programs and Pakistan: Impact and Way Forward (2013 to 2026)
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: IMF, Fiscal Deficit, Indicative Targets, Structural Benchmarks, Sustainable Development, Extended Fund Facility program This study is an exploration of frequent approach of Pakistan to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) with a lens on the efficacy of its Extended Fund Facility (EFF) loans. It includes historical background (1958-2013), with the constant economic difficulties and reliance on the IMF. A particular focus is paid to the EFF 2013-16, which can be regarded as the only successful program, though it cannot guarantee its long-term stability. In the core analysis, it looks at the current EFF 202426 and its agreed conditionalities, the performance benchmarks, and how it fits international best practices. The two fundamental questions asked in the research are: Why can Pakistan go back to the IMF after initial success? And how would this affect the economy, given that the current program is carried to its full extent? The research analyzes the feasibility of sustainable expansion of the 2024-26 program based on qualitative research and secondary information. It ends with recommendations to policy to enhance the governance of the economy, address fiscal deficit, and end the chain of external financial assistance.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: IMF
  topic: keywords
subject: Fiscal Deficit
  topic: keywords
subject: Indicative Targets
  topic: keywords
subject: Structural Benchmarks
  topic: keywords
subject: Sustainable Development
  topic: keywords
subject: Extended Fund Facility program
  topic: keywords
creator: Tariq Aziz
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 89
ending page: 111
doi: 10.65755/jpa-20254601-100

Political Polarization in Pakistan: Implications for Governance and Social Cohesion
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: polarization, democratic process, governance, intra-elite, media Political polarization in Pakistan has deepened over the past decade, leading to the hardening of ethnic, ideological, and political fault lines. This national fragmentation on several lines engenders profoundly adverse implications, resultantly impacting governance and social cohesion. The increasing erosion of public trust in institutions and lack of consensus have almost made the democratic process in Pakistan dysfunctional. This study examines how political polarization has had a profound impact on governance and social cohesion, particularly since 2013. It explores the underlying causes of political polarization coupled with deteriorating social cohesion, including an array of contributing factors such as media role, ethnic-cum-ideological schism, and economic inequality, and analyzes their consequences for governance and national integration. The research employs a mixed-method approach. It integrates qualitative insights with quantitative data, gathered via Google Forms. Diversity has been ensured by including respondents from different backgrounds—professionals, students, and officials. The study findings suggest that political polarization contributes to policy failure, fosters public alienation from state institutions, and exacerbates governance gaps and precipitates societal fragmentation. In this equation, media-driven narratives and intra-elite conflict act as a catalyst by creating a conducive environment for the thriving of disinformation and extremist discourses at the cost of civic engagement. In light of the study’s findings, the paper concludes with policy recommendations intended for reducing polarization and promoting social cohesion through institutional reforms, improving media literacy, encouraging inclusivity, and focusing on national dialogue. A policy recommendation matrix is provided to guide practical reforms in governance, media regulation, and …
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: polarization
  topic: keywords
subject: democratic process
  topic: keywords
subject: governance
  topic: keywords
subject: intra-elite
  topic: keywords
subject: media
  topic: keywords
creator: Iftikhar Alam
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 112
ending page: 154
doi: 10.65755/jpa-20254601-101

Building Control Regimes in Pakistan: Policies and Practices
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: cyber, security, technology Building control is a system to ensure the safety, structural soundness and stability, fitness and sustainability of buildings, through the enforcement of building regulations. Pakistan's building control system operates across federal, provincial, and local levels, emphasizing land-use and building regulations. The government and development authorities ensure adherence to zoning laws, master plans, and land-use policies for sustainable development. They enforce licensing and inspection processes to maintain safety and compliance. The rapid urban expansion and increasing commercialization of Lahore have introduced significant challenges in implementing effective building control measures. This research examines the performance of regulatory frameworks governing commercial structures in areas managed by the Lahore Development Authority (LDA), Metropolitan Corporation Lahore (MCL), and Lahore Cantonment Board (LCB). Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combines data from field surveys and interviews to assess adherence to regulations related to safety, accessibility, and sustainable development. The analysis reveals varying compliance levels across jurisdictions, with LDA leading at 70%, followed by LCB at 64%, and MCL at 58%. While LDA shows higher adherence, inconsistencies suggest uneven enforcement. Conversely, MCL exhibits consistent but inadequate implementation, while LCB demonstrates moderate outcomes. Indicators such as spatial allocation and pedestrian pathways are identified as pivotal to regulatory success. Institutional bottlenecks, including administrative inefficiencies, external pressures, and a lack of transparency, further impede enforcement. Feedback from stakeholders highlights procedural difficulties, inadequate support mechanisms, and unmet public expectations concerning infrastructure quality and safety. Benchmarking against cities like New York, Kuala Lumpur, and Mumbai, the study id…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: cyber
  topic: keywords
subject: security
  topic: keywords
subject: technology
  topic: keywords
creator: Samia Saleem
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 194
ending page: 224
doi: 10.65755/jpa-20254601-104

Causes and Related issues of Encroachment: A Study of the State Land of Karachi Division
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Encroachment, Urban Governance, Land Management, Karachi, Public Policy Encroachment on state-owned land in Karachi remains a persistent governance challenge that undermines planned development, environmental sustainability, and the rule of law. Despite the Sindh Public Property (Removal of Encroachment) Act, 2010, weak enforcement, institutional corruption, political interference, and a shortage of affordable housing have allowed illegal occupations to continue. Using a mixed-methods approach, this study surveyed 29 government officials and reviewed policy documents, legal judgments, and reports to assess the effectiveness of the existing framework. Findings show that 85% of respondents identified weak land management, 78% cited corruption, and 80% highlighted political interference as key drivers, while 70% considered the Anti-Encroachment Force ineffective due to resource constraints and poor coordination. The paper recommends legislative reforms, digitization of land records, stronger inter-agency coordination, judicial process reforms, and expansion of affordable housing to safeguard state land and improve urban governance in Karachi.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Encroachment
  topic: keywords
subject: Urban Governance
  topic: keywords
subject: Land Management
  topic: keywords
subject: Karachi
  topic: keywords
subject: Public Policy
  topic: keywords
creator: Arfan Salam
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 225
ending page: 249
doi: 10.65755/jpa-20254601-105

Effectiveness of Withholding Taxes in Expanding Pakistan’s Tax Base: A Focus on the informal and Undocumented Sectors
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Withholding Tax, Federal Board of Revenue, State Bank of Pakistan, Value Added Tax, Active Taxpayers List The study assesses Pakistan’s WHT policy regarding tax base expansion while analyzing its effect on informally operated economic sectors. The Federal Board of Revenue receives large notable contributions from WHTs, but they fail to successfully increase voluntary tax compliance while properly establishing economic formalization practices. The application of WHTs functions mainly as an indirect collection method for untaxed businesses, which does not encourage participation in formal tax registration. Extensive data from policies and research, along with fiscal and administrative information, evaluate both the structural elements and behavioral responses of WHTs. The current WHT system struggles because it contains several crucial problems, including its complicated nature and unhealthy impact on vulnerable populations, while also facing poor follow-up, missing available transaction details, and a lack of cooperation among tax departments. While WHTs successfully generate short-term revenues, they often perpetuate informality through treating withholding taxes as the final payment for most taxpayers.The paper discusses suggested reforms that aim to simplify tax compliance while changing the WHT rules and providing tax compliance reward systems, and leveraging big data analytics for tax administration. The implementation of Withholding Taxes requires supporting tax policy changes alongside better taxpayer involvement to build a sustainable tax foundation in Pakistan. The research advocates for implementing WHT systems within an advanced technology-based fiscal system, which will ensure fair taxation while fostering greater participation from every economic sector.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Withholding Tax
  topic: keywords
subject: Federal Board of Revenue
  topic: keywords
subject: State Bank of Pakistan
  topic: keywords
subject: Value Added Tax
  topic: keywords
subject: Active Taxpayers List
  topic: keywords
creator: Qurat Ul Ain Malik
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Qurat Ul Ain Malik (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-12-15
publication date: 2025-12-15
starting page: 104
ending page: 135
doi: 10.65755/jpa-20254602-111

Transforming Public Procurement in Pakistan: The Role of E-Procurement and Artificial Intelligence for Enhanced Efficiency and Transparency
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: E-Procurement, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Public Procurement, Transparency and Accountability, Digital Governance, e-PADS (Pakistan) This study investigates the transformative role of e-procurement and artificial intelligence (AI) in strengthening efficiency, transparency, and accountability within public procurement processes in Punjab, Pakistan. The primary objectives are to evaluate the performance of the e-Pakistan Acquisition and Disposal System (e-PADS), assess its conformity with international best practices, and identify opportunities for AI-enabled enhancement. A qualitative research design was employed, comprising semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders from PPRA, PITB, and LDA, supplemented by an extensive review of policy documents, government reports , and academic literature. The findings indicate that e-PADS has contributed to substantial improvements in procedural efficiency, cost reduction, and auditability; nonetheless, critical limitations persist, including partial automation, inadequate digital literacy, institutional resistance, and the absence of a regulatory framework for AI integration. Comparative analysis with leading global systems—such as KONEPS, e-GP, and AusTender—reveals notable gaps in cross-border procurement facilitation, grievance redressal mechanisms, SME inclusion, and comprehensive end-to-end digitalisation. The study concludes that AI integration holds significant potential to enhance risk management, fraud detection, supplier performance evaluation, and strategic decision-making. The paper offers targeted policy recommendations aimed at legal reform, institutional capacity strengthening, technological advancement, and broader stakeholder accessibility, contributing to ongoing efforts to modernise Pakistan’s public procurement ecosystem.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: E-Procurement, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Public Procurement, Transparency and Accountability, Digital Governance, e-PADS (Pakistan)
  topic: keywords
creator: Sana Ghous
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Sana Ghous (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-12-15
publication date: 2025-12-15
starting page: 136
ending page: 157
doi: 10.65755/jpa-20254602-112

IT Industry Development In South Asia: Lessons For Pakistan
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Business Process Outsourcing, Foreign Direct Investment, National Incubation Centres, Payment Service Providers The global IT industry is reshaping economies through digital services, innovation and cross-border integration. In South Asia, India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka have demonstrated notable advancement in this sector. In contrast, Pakistan’s IT sector and human capital remains underutilized. The absence of a clear value-based benchmark limits its competitive visibility. This study examines IT development patterns in South Asia and evaluates Pakistan’s position using qualitative, quantitative indicators and strategic frameworks. A mixed comparative approach was adopted based on secondary data. SWOT analysis was applied to assess Pakistan’s digital economy, while Porter’s Diamond Model was operationalized through a qualitative-to-quantitative scoring method to facilitate cross-country comparison. Findings indicated that India’s consistent policies, Bangladesh’s targeted digital initiatives and Sri Lanka’s sectoral specialization have strengthened their competitiveness. Pakistan, however, continues to face structural constraints, including skills shortages, low R&D spending, inadequate infrastructure along with fragmented policy execution. The paper concludes with short and long-term recommendations focused on developing a comprehensive IT export strategy enhancing digital skills, promoting venture capital investment and expanding regional digital cooperation to improve Pakistan’s global competitiveness.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Artificial Intelligence
  topic: keywords
subject: Business Process Outsourcing
  topic: keywords
subject: Foreign Direct Investment
  topic: keywords
subject: National Incubation Centres
  topic: keywords
subject: Payment Service Providers
  topic: keywords
creator: Saima Ali
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Saima Ali (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-12-15
publication date: 2025-12-15
starting page: 72
ending page: 103
doi: 10.65755/jpa-20254602-113

Politicization of Ethnic Identities in Pakistan: Implications for National Unity and Cohesion
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Ethnic identity politicization, National unity, Pakistan, Ethnic grievances, Political manipulation This study explores the factors that led to the politicisation of ethnic identities in Pakistan and the effects on the country's social and national cohesion. Ethnic Diversity has been characteristic of the demographic fabric of Pakistan; Punjabi, Sindhi, Baloch, and Pashtuns have contributed significantly to Pakistan's political, social, and cultural canvas. Given the path-dependent nature of the topic of politicisation of Pakistan's ethnic identities, the research paper identifies some critical movements like the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), the Baloch nationalist movement and rights movements like 'The Baloch Yakjehti Council' and Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM). The research paper elucidates how political elites exploit and hijack the grievances of the masses and give them an ethnic colour to strengthen their political positions. They exacerbate social-political cleavages. This study uses qualitative research approach based on quantitative data and recognises the limitations of relying on secondary data. It strengthens the conclusions presented in the research, informing mechanisms of ethnic identity mobilisation and policy recommendations for a more inclusive political climate. The study concludes that in tackling ethnic grievances, there needs to be an understanding of the structural causes, which include equitable resource mobilisation and distribution, solving the matrix of political, civil, and military representation, and fiscal and administrative decentralisation through local governments as fundamental in the quest of national integration in the long run.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Ethnic identity politicization
  topic: keywords
subject: National unity
  topic: keywords
subject: Pakistan
  topic: keywords
subject: Ethnic grievances
  topic: keywords
subject: Political manipulation
  topic: keywords
creator: Mian Saeed Ahmed
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-12-25
publication date: 2025-12-25
starting page: 158
ending page: 187
doi: 10.65755/jpa-20254602-116

Integrating Polio SIAs with other Health Interventions in Sindh, Pakistan: Challenges and Prospects
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Acute flaccid paralysis, Expanded Programme on Immunization, Global Polio Eradication Initiative, Lot quality assurance sampling, Oral polio vaccine, Routine (Essential) immunization, Social and behavior change communication, World Health Organization Polio eradication remains a critical global health goal, with Pakistan being one of the few countries where wild poliovirus transmission persists (WHO, 2021). Despite decades of interventions under the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI, 2024), progress is impeded by vaccine hesitancy, misinformation, and weak health infrastructure. Karachi, Sindh’s urban hub, faces persistent immunization gaps, particularly in high-risk union councils (UCs) (CDC, 2023). This study evaluates the feasibility and impact of integrating polio Supplementary Immunization Activities (SIAs) with other essential services—including maternal care, sanitation, nutrition, and routine immunization—in eight high-risk UCs of Karachi. Using a mixed-methods approach, including household surveys, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews, the research explores barriers and enablers to successful integration (GPEI, 2024b). It examines whether this model can reduce vaccine refusals, build community trust, and improve health access in resource-constrained settings (UNICEF, 2023). Findings inform scalable strategies that not only enhance polio coverage but also strengthen the broader healthcare system (GPEI, 2024a). The study contributes evidence toward the global eradication agenda by promoting equity-based, community-driven integration models applicable to other polio-endemic regions.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Acute flaccid paralysis
  topic: keywords
subject: Expanded Programme on Immunization
  topic: keywords
subject: Global Polio Eradication Initiative
  topic: keywords
subject: Lot quality assurance sampling
  topic: keywords
subject: Oral polio vaccine, Routine (Essential) immunization
  topic: keywords
subject: Social and behavior change communication
  topic: keywords
subject: World Health Organization
  topic: keywords
creator: Fuad Ghaffar
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 155
ending page: 191
doi: 10.65755/jpa-20254601-102

Child Abuse — Evaluating Government Measures in Punjab and KP: Issues, Challenges and Way Forward
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Child Sexual Abuse, Socio-economic Landscape, Judicial Challenges, Resource Allocation, Counselling This research paper examines Child Sexual Abuse (CSA) in Pakistan, focusing on the provinces of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). It explores the cultural complexities that hinder the reporting and prosecution of CSA cases. In Pakistan, cultural norms contribute significantly to under-reporting, with unique challenges in both provinces. KP’s conservative values and traditional tribal structures create societal barriers to reporting and legal actions. Punjab, with its urbanized and diverse socioeconomic landscape, faces issues like increased anonymity for perpetrators. The study emphasizes the need for effective policies and interventions to create a safer environment for children. It highlights gaps in the reporting and legal processing of CSA cases, calling for clear, efficient mechanisms. The research utilizes a systematic methodology, including literature reviews and a mixed-methods approach. Data from police departments, interviews, focus groups, and desk reviews provide qualitative insights into CSA trends and challenges in both provinces. Findings reveal a sharp increase in reported CSA cases over the past six years, yet conviction rates remain alarmingly low. This points to systemic legal and judicial challenges that demand urgent, multifaceted reforms. The study advocates a victim-centric approach, focusing on better training, resource allocation, and enhanced support services for victims. It stresses the need for collaborative efforts from policymakers, law enforcement, and communities. Key policy recommendations include improved reporting mechanisms, specialized units, streamlined legal procedures, and enhanced counselling and rehabilitation services to address CSA more effectively.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Child Sexual Abuse
  topic: keywords
subject: Socio-economic Landscape
  topic: keywords
subject: Judicial Challenges
  topic: keywords
subject: Resource Allocation
  topic: keywords
subject: Counselling
  topic: keywords
creator: Nabila Irfan
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2024-12-30
publication date: 2024-12-30
starting page: 208
ending page: 241

Protection of Consumer Rights in Digital Marketplace in Pakistan: A Critical Review of Current Policies and Future Guidelines
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: digital era, consumer protection, digital transformation, e-commerce The rapidly growing e-commerce sector of Pakistan faces significant challenges vis a vis consumer protection, including the absence of robust infrastructure for online payments, inconsistent enforcement of regulations, privacy issues and absence of consumer protection laws that specifically apply to online shopping. These challenges, coupled with rising incidents of online fraud such as identity theft and opaque service pricing, complicate the efforts of consumers in the digital marketplace. Existing consumer protection agencies usually lack the technical expertise required to address these emerging issues. Current regulations, which primarily address the safety of physical products, are inadequate for addressing critical issues such as false advertising, product warranties, and dispute resolution in digital commerce. Additionally, gaps in data protection, weak intellectual property laws, and limited secure shipping options further undermine consumer confidence in the sector. This paper, therefore, examines the current state of consumer protection in the digital era, analyzing key concerns and providing actionable recommendations to strengthen regulatory frameworks and enhance consumer rights. To enhance consumer safety in the digital age in Pakistan, this paper recommends modernizing and strengthening the existing legal framework, empowering regulatory bodies, establishing a national consumer protection statute, enhancing dispute resolution mechanisms, and fostering international cooperation to address cross-border trade challenges. We expect that implementation of these suggestions will help enhancing consumer protection in the digital era with increased reliance and assurance in online transactions, ultimately resulting in sustainable growth in the sector.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: digital era
  topic: keywords
subject: consumer protection
  topic: keywords
subject: digital transformation
  topic: keywords
subject: e-commerce
  topic: keywords
creator: Shahida Wahid
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2024-12-30
publication date: 2024-12-30
starting page: 196
ending page: 207

Impact Assessment of Global Warming on the Economy of Pakistan From 2010 to 2022 Proposing Policy Recommendations for Future Resilience
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Global Warming, Climate Change, Disaster Risk Management, Resilience, Disaster Mitigation Global warming is the biggest challenge faced by mankind in the current century. Green House Gases have significantly contributed towards the rising global temperatures. While, all countries of the world are affected by the resulting climate changes, Pakistan faces an existential threat. Ironically, Pakistan produces less than 1% of global emissions of GHG yet it is facing the extreme brunt of climate changes. As a developing country, Pakistan is predominantly an agrarian economy with 22% sectoral share in GDP of the national economy. Global warming has caused adverse impacts on the economy owing due to a plethora of issues and challenges. These include temperature variance, food insecurity, energy deficiency, agriculture degradation etc. The significant temperature variances caused by global warming have led to severe heatwaves and cold spells in Pakistan. These extreme weather conditions disrupt normal life and threatens the agricultural sector of Pakistan, causing crop failures and food insecurities. Furthermore, the unusual temperature variations have led to rising incidence of vector-borne diseases compromising health security. Additionally, global warming has exacerbated water scarcity issues, leading to conflicts over water resources and posing threats to national security. The agriculture and industrial sectors are grappling with these challenges, facing issues such as changing weather patterns, resource scarcity, and increased operational costs due to the need for climate change mitigation measures. The economic security of the country needs comprehensive investment in climate adaptation and climate resilience measures. All relevant stakeholders must work together to mitigate the adverse impacts of Global Warming and promote sustainable economic development.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Global Warming
  topic: keywords
subject: Climate Change
  topic: keywords
subject: Disaster Risk Management
  topic: keywords
subject: Resilience
  topic: keywords
subject: Disaster Mitigation
  topic: keywords
creator: Junaid Khan
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2024-12-30
publication date: 2024-12-30
starting page: 172
ending page: 195

Critical Analysis of Pakistan-UAE Bilateral Trade Since 2000: Challenges and Opportunities for Pakistan
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Pakistan, UAE, Trade, HS Code, Trade Deficit, Spot Purchase, Ports Fraternal relations between Pakistan and UAE have continued uninterrupted since the inception of both the countries. Over the years, this relationship has gained strategic interest for Pakistan due to a number of factors including presence of Pakistani labor force in the UAE, economic strength of the UAE and strong commercial linkages. This research provides an in-depth analysis of bilateral trade data since 2010 and provides highlights in certain sectors along with sectoral trends. The balance of payment has largely stayed in favor of the UAE with a heavy role played by the petroleum products. Pakistani export basket remained limited to few codes and mainly at the raw level of export specially in textiles and meat (halal) while a number of important products saw negative growth e.g., cereals and rags, worn cloth etc. A comparison of these trends with the traditional competitors shows that Pakistan has fared worse than India, Vietnam and Thailand in almost all sectors. A detailed comparison in various sectors of economy is undertaken to establish these facts.The market of UAE represents a vibrant, relatively developed and a regional hub model of economy. Its demographics include more migrants than its local population. The Government of UAE has tried to move towards a market trend whereby reliance of economy on oil and gas sector is reduced and further diversification of products takes place. Its quantum of international trade is vast and diverse. The bilateral trade, overall, remains to be of greater significance to Pakistan than for the UAE.In this backdrop, the challenges presented by the UAE economy and changing situation are of strategic economic importance to Pakistan. These challenges include Pakistan’s inability to exploit the existing potential, to follow rules-based regime that is extremely important for the UAE to continue to be seen as an important player in th…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Pakistan
  topic: keywords
subject: UAE
  topic: keywords
subject: Trade
  topic: keywords
subject: HS Code
  topic: keywords
subject: Trade Deficit
  topic: keywords
subject: Spot Purchase
  topic: keywords
subject: Ports
  topic: keywords
creator: Ismat Hassan Sial
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2024-12-30
publication date: 2024-12-30
starting page: 130
ending page: 171

Improving the Passengers' Facilitation: Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad Airports
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Lack of facilitation, Major Pakistani Airports, Role of stakeholder, Implementation of legal framework In 2023, out of 19.64 million passengers that travelled from Pakistani airports, 16.64 million passengers traveled from Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad airports. Despite accommodating more than 2/3rd air passengers, the standard of facilitation is deplorable. In 2014, Islamabad airport was declared world’s worst airport and in 2022, performance of Pakistani airports was marked 0.3 %. In recent surveys, 62% of passengers showed dissatisfaction with the amenities, 27 % found them satisfactory while only 10% declared them Good. 12.31% of passengers found the handling and treatment of airport functionaries as Good. 39.36 % were satisfied whereas 48.65 % passengers termed them unsatisfactory. Although, Pakistan has adopted legal frameworks in form of Air Navigation Order 2015- Air Passenger Rights and CAA Regulations 2018- Facilitation in line with ICAO (Annex A), however, it is the non-implementation of these that has led to poor passenger experiences. The major reason behind the non-implementation is the dual role of PCAA as service provider and regulator which is against the international practices and is conflict of interest. PCAA has badly neglected its role and task of being the Regulator. To address this important issue, Govt. of Pakistan passed two separate bills in 2023 to bifurcate PCAA as service provider and regulator. However, after a hiatus of one year in 2024, PCAA was merely announced to be split in service provider and regulator. Likewise, there is lack of monitoring and supervision of performance of staff of different agencies like Pakistan Customs, ANF, FIA and ASF, resultantly the staff concerned deal the passengers in discourteous and annoying manner. Keywords: , , ,
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Lack of facilitation
  topic: keywords
subject: Major Pakistani Airports
  topic: keywords
subject: Role of stakeholder
  topic: keywords
subject: Implementation of legal framework
  topic: keywords
creator: Faisal Ishfaq Baig
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2024-12-30
publication date: 2024-12-30
starting page: 114
ending page: 129

Use of Technology to Fight Crimes in Lahore and Karachi
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Safe City Project, Crime Prevention, Predictive Policing, Digital Surveillance, Urban Policing, AI in Policing, Facial Recognition Technology, Crime Mapping With rapidly growing urbanization, the cities are now becoming the major business and economic hubs. They house millions of people and industry and are central to the modern way of living. However, this growth also brings significant challenges for city administrators, particularly in ensuring safety and security. As technology advances, governments worldwide are adapting their processes to meet the evolving needs of urban centers. Safety and security are critical to maintaining a peaceful environment essential for business, economic growth, and other societal functions. Police organizations are increasingly turning to modern technologies to combat rising crime in urban areas, and Safe City projects have emerged as one of the most innovative solutions. These initiatives not only focus on crime control but also incorporate traffic management, secure communication, data analytics, and support for civic agencies. This paper explores the effectiveness of the Lahore Safe City project, highlighting its strengths and areas for improvement. As the Punjab government plans to expand this initiative to 18 additional cities and Sindh looks to establish a Safe City project in Karachi, the analysis of Lahore's experience offers valuable lessons. By examining the shortfalls that have hindered the full potential of the Lahore project, this paper aims to guide future efforts, ensuring these.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Safe City Project
  topic: keywords
subject: Crime Prevention
  topic: keywords
subject: Predictive Policing
  topic: keywords
subject: Digital Surveillance
  topic: keywords
subject: Urban Policing
  topic: keywords
subject: AI in Policing
  topic: keywords
subject: Facial Recognition Technology
  topic: keywords
subject: Crime Mapping
  topic: keywords
creator: Mustanzar Feroze
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2024-12-30
publication date: 2024-12-30
starting page: 92
ending page: 113

A Critical Analysis of Efficacy of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016: Irritants and Remedies
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: PECA, 2016, cybercrimes, digital rights Cyber technologies are rapidly proliferating in Pakistan manifesting their pros and cons on the Pakistani governance system and society necessitating a new social contract between the state and citizenry. Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA, 2016) is an attempt to define the contours of this new state-citizen relationship in the cyberworld. However, PECA’s purported relevance has been submerged under the civil society’s backlash at the controversial enforcement of PECA, 2016 and the unabated deluge of cybercrimes. A comparative analysis of India’s response mechanisms against the ever-evolving challenge of cybercrimes can help policy makers in Pakistan to tackle the issue effectively. Moving forward, Pakistan may have to rectify its policy orientation from being security centric to citizen centric by introducing humane amendments in PECA, 2016 and make prudent investments in capacity building of its citizens and state agencies.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: PECA
  topic: keywords
subject: 2016
  topic: keywords
subject: cybercrimes
  topic: keywords
subject: digital rights
  topic: keywords
creator: Syed Khizar Ali Shah
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2024-12-30
publication date: 2024-12-30
starting page: 66
ending page: 91

A Constructivist Analysis of Normative Transference in Indian Foreign Policy: Implications for Pakistan
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Normative Transference, Foreign Policy Analysis, Artificial construct, Territoriality, Normative Power This paper undertakes a constructivist analysis of the normative transference in Indian foreign policy. The paper essentially argues that with its growing global power status, India is attempting to position itself as a normative power and achieve its foreign policy goals by transferring its norms and values, based on British colonial legacies and Hindutva-inspired social construct, to other countries in particular its neighboring countries, with the aim of blunting their identities for creating an enabling environment for realization of India’s expansive vision of ‘Ram Rajya’. The paper suggests that the norms propounded by India are guided by British colonial legacies under which India perceives herself as vanguard of western colonial interests as well as Hindutva-inspired ideals. These norms pervade the entire Indian political spectrum irrespective of their seemingly secular or right-wing political inklings. The paper suggests that for India, its notion of “Akhand Bharat” or “Greater India” remains at the core of the propounded norms including inter alia “Panchsheel”, “Panchamrit”, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbukum” and “Vishwaguru”. Through these norms, India has been and continues to attempt making its so-called cooperation with other countries contingent upon on their acceptance of Indian supremacy at the cost of their own identities. The paper suggests that unlike the European Union, India begins by having a social construct of other countries before undertaking normative transference. Subsequently, India follows the approach of delicately nullifying the identity of target countries through normative transference, alongside threats of punishment in case of defiance of Indian interests and supremacy. In this way, India attempts to normalize and diffuse its norms in the target country. The paper also undertakes an analysis of Indian attempts o…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Normative Transference
  topic: keywords
subject: Foreign Policy Analysis
  topic: keywords
subject: Artificial construct
  topic: keywords
subject: Territoriality
  topic: keywords
subject: Normative Power
  topic: keywords
creator: Shakaib Rafique
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2024-12-30
publication date: 2024-12-30
starting page: 36
ending page: 65

Creating a Niche for Performance Auditing in the Public Sector: Utilizing Integrated Compliance, Efficiency and Effectiveness Reporting
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Compliance Audit, Integrated Audit, INTOSAI, Performance Audi, Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs), being public sector audit organizations, usually derive their mandate from the highest law of the land. They perform three broad types of audits- financial, compliance and performance audits. Each audit type has a specific purpose and its conduct is guided by the applicable legal framework, auditing principles and standards. In the context of Pakistan, while the SAI conducts all three types of audits, in terms of overall audit coverage, the share of performance audit is generally on the lower side compared with financial and compliance audits. One reason for this could be the practice of conducting performance audits as stand-alone audit assignments, separately, and distinct from financial and compliance audits. Performance audit cycle is entirely different from other types of audits and is generally more resource-intensive. While a significant number of entities get audited from financial and compliance perspective every year, not all get a chance to benefit from performance audits. Since the latter is generally considered to be more holistic and wide-ranging, compared with other audit types, there is a dire need to increase its coverage in the overall audit mix. Many strategies can be adopted to accomplish this task. This paper proposes that audit cycle for performance audits may be combined with that of compliance audits. Since the latter are the mainstay of public audits, their integration with performance audits, will give a boost to the coverage of the latter. The combined reports, covering compliance, efficiency and effectiveness aspects, will provide a more fulfilling and rich experience to the stakeholders, contributing to enhanced transparency and accountability for the entrusted resources.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Compliance Audit
  topic: keywords
subject: Integrated Audit
  topic: keywords
subject: INTOSAI
  topic: keywords
subject: Performance Audi
  topic: keywords
subject: Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs)
  topic: keywords
creator: Aamir Fayyaz
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2024-12-30
publication date: 2024-12-30
starting page: 22
ending page: 35

Major Women Empowerment Initiatives in Balochistan: A Critical Review and Policy Recommendations
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Women empowerment, Balochistan, gender disparity, economic marginalization, healthcare, education This policy paper critically reviews major initiatives undertaken in the province of Balochistan regarding women empowerment, focusing on both government and non-governmental interventions, specifically, aimed at the reduction of gender disparities in education, healthcare, and economic participation. Despite ongoing efforts such as the Balochistan Rural Support Program (BRSP), Balochistan Education Endowment Fund (BEEF), and the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP), women in Balochistan continue to face substantial socio-economic challenges due to high illiteracy rates, poverty, lack of access to quality healthcare, and limited political representation. This study identifies the key barriers to empowerment, including entrenched patriarchal norms, early marriage, and economic marginalization. The research highlights the need for a multidimensional approach to addressing these issues, emphasizing the importance of educational, economic, and health empowerment initiatives. Furthermore, the policy paper suggests a set of recommendations such as skill training programs, enhanced educational access, microfinancing initiatives, and healthcare facilities to foster women's participation in societal development. The implementation of these initiatives, however, requires robust legal frameworks and collaboration between government, NGOs, and community leaders.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Women empowerment
  topic: keywords
subject: Balochistan
  topic: keywords
subject: gender disparity
  topic: keywords
subject: economic marginalization
  topic: keywords
subject: healthcare
  topic: keywords
subject: education
  topic: keywords
creator: Asma Ijaz
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2024-12-30
publication date: 2024-12-30
starting page: 1
ending page: 21

Hindutva Vs Islamophobia: Analysis and Way forward
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Hindutva, Islamophobia, RSS, Interfaith, Hindu, Muslim The issue of Hindutva and Islamophobia is a complex and sensitive that requires careful analysis and a thoughtful approach to address the challenges it poses to communities. Islamophobia is a result of the increase in the momentum of Hindutva and its political and social reflections. Organizations like RSS, Shiv Sena, VHP have made every effort to malign Muslims past and present. The policies of the ruling Hindu elite have polarized the pluralistic society and exploited their voters and supporters for their political gains. Addressing the challenges posed by Hindutva and Islamophobia requires a comprehensive and multifaceted approach. This executive summary provides a concise overview of the analysis and proposes a way forward promoting education, interfaith dialogue, media responsibility, legal protection, grassroots initiatives, and government commitment, it is possible to foster an environment of understanding, respect, and harmony between Hindu and Muslim communities.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Hindutva
  topic: keywords
subject: Islamophobia
  topic: keywords
subject: RSS
  topic: keywords
subject: Interfaith
  topic: keywords
subject: Hindu
  topic: keywords
subject: Muslim
  topic: keywords
creator: Abdul Nabi Soomro
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2024-06-30
publication date: 2024-06-30
starting page: 289
ending page: 299

Measuring Performance in Public Sector Organizations: Contemporary Trends and Avenues
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Performance Agreement, Performance Evaluation Report, Performance Management, Artificial Intelligence This paper dilates upon the concepts of performance, performance measurement, performance management and performance management systems in the public sector. The conventional performance management systems in Pakistan’s context are based on the Performance Evaluation Reports. However, performance agreements were recently introduced between the Prime Minister and the Ministers, but unfortunately, the initiative was short-lived. The International practices in the conventional performance management systems are also mostly based on strategic plans and performance agreements, with some of the developed countries also legislating in the field. The issues with the conventional systems in Pakistan in include subjective evaluation criteria, lack of recognition and rewarding outstanding performers. The contemporary trends in performance measurement and management have shifted focus from individual performance parameters to good governance and effective and efficient service delivery through a citizen-centric approach. Governments increasingly use technology and digital platforms to introduce interventions focusing on citizens and businesses. The leading trend is E-Governance and use of artificial intelligence to ease the interface with the public organizations by the citizens. The paper concludes that improvement is needed on all accounts and recommends the way forward.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Performance Agreement
  topic: keywords
subject: Performance Evaluation Report
  topic: keywords
subject: Performance Management
  topic: keywords
subject: Artificial Intelligence
  topic: keywords
creator: Mariam Kayani
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2024-06-30
publication date: 2024-06-30
starting page: 259
ending page: 288

Post FATF: TF Prosecutions and Investigations in Pakistan
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Financial Action Task Force, Action Plan, Anti-Terrorism Court, Baluchistan, National Counter Terrorism Authority This research paper delves into Pakistan's efforts to enhance the effectiveness of its countering the financing of terrorism (CFT) regime in accordance with the FATF standards, with a specific focus on TF investigations and prosecutions. The study covers the post-FATF period i.e., August 2022 - May 2023, and analyzes the progress made in TF investigations and prosecutions as compared to the preceding four years. Primary and secondary sources were explored through qualitative and quantitative research methods. Unstructured interviews and focused discussion sessions were conducted with various stakeholders and experts at policy, strategy, and operational levels. The case study research method was employed by examining the ATCs' judgments in TF prosecutions. Analysis of data on TF investigations and prosecutions in the FATF Action Plan and post-FATF periods was done for situation analysis. Survey questionnaires responses from a targeted sample of TF investigators and prosecutors were analyzed to ascertain the operational level issues and gaps in TF investigations and prosecutions. A narrative and thematic analysis approach was adopted. While efforts were made during the FATF Action Plan period to adequately strengthen the legal, institutional, and coordination frameworks and build the capacity of LEAs to establish a sustainable CFT system as per the FATF CFT standards, the effectiveness of TF investigations and prosecutions in the post-FATF period remains a matter of concern. In the post-FATF period, there has been a significant decrease in the initiation of proactive, parallel, and wide-range TF investigations. The number of accused persons arrested and convicted has also gone down by 27% and 73% respectively. There was not a single accused person convicted in Sindh and Baluchistan in a TF prosecution. The progress on MLA reques…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Financial Action Task Force
  topic: keywords
subject: Action Plan
  topic: keywords
subject: Anti-Terrorism Court
  topic: keywords
subject: Baluchistan
  topic: keywords
subject: National Counter Terrorism Authority
  topic: keywords
creator: Muhammad Maroof Masood Safdar
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2024-06-30
publication date: 2024-06-30
starting page: 226
ending page: 258

High-Value Agriculture: Potential in Punjab Through Use of Climate Smart Technology
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Climate Smart Agriculture, Gross Domestic Product, Food and Agriculture Organization, Global Climate Risk Index, World Trade Organization This study explores the potential of high-value agriculture (HVA) in Punjab, Pakistan, specifically focusing on its development through climate-smart technology. The research aims to assess the adoption of climate-smart agriculture practices among farmers and investigate the impact of climate change on crop yields, with specific emphasis on high-value agriculture. Interviews with 49 farmers provide valuable insights into demographics, farming specifics, cropping patterns, and observed effects of climate change. The results show that middle-aged farmers having land ownership and significant experience are more convinced to adopt climate-smart practices. The agricultural landscape of Punjab is predominantly comprised of field crops like sugarcane, rice, and wheat. However, climate change events, like erratic rainfalls and heat waves, pose significant challenges for agriculture in general and for high-value agriculture in particular. This situation has resulted in reduced yields due to increased pest attacks. Similarly, compromised water availability has also posed threats to the livelihood of the farming community. This study draws attention towards the importance of implementing climate-smart practices for addressal of these challenges in Punjab's agriculture sector. This includes improved irrigation techniques like drip irrigation and precision water management which can optimize water use efficiency. Additionally, development and promotion of resilient crop varieties that can better withstand climate stressors and ensure sustainable agriculture in the face of changing climatic conditions. Moreover, the study emphasizes the dire need to enhance the intellectual capacity of farmers' knowledge through training programs and specialized extension services. The farmers need to be provided with access to real…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Climate Smart Agriculture
  topic: keywords
subject: Gross Domestic Product
  topic: keywords
subject: Food and Agriculture Organization
  topic: keywords
subject: Global Climate Risk Index
  topic: keywords
subject: World Trade Organization
  topic: keywords
creator: Sherin Naz
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2024-06-30
publication date: 2024-06-30
starting page: 183
ending page: 225

Capitalizing on Pakistan’s Public Diplomacy: Potential in Pursuit of Soft Power
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Public Diplomacy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Strategic Communication division, Artificial Intelligence, National Security Advisor This paper examines Pakistan's challenges in leveraging its soft power potential through effective public diplomacy (PD). It explores the root causes of Pakistan's negative image perception, primarily from domestic economic, political, and social conditions. The study highlights the need for strategic policy investments to promote a tolerant, liberal, and multicultural ethos essential for strengthening Pakistan's soft power toolkit. The research identifies several key obstacles, including the limited space for liberal arts in a conservative society, a lack of understanding of PD within policy circles and society, a prevailing mindset that views PD as tangential to core diplomatic functions, and insufficient expertise in executing PD activities among Foreign Ministry officers. The paper argues for a long-term, institutionalized approach to image-building, acknowledging that there are no quick fixes for long-held negative perceptions. It emphasizes the necessity of developing a comprehensive understanding of PD's importance and potential impact. Through critical evaluation of existing policies and practices, this study aims to chart a course forward for Pakistan to effectively utilize its soft power resources and improve its global image through strategic public diplomacy efforts.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Public Diplomacy
  topic: keywords
subject: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
  topic: keywords
subject: Strategic Communication division
  topic: keywords
subject: Artificial Intelligence
  topic: keywords
subject: National Security Advisor
  topic: keywords
creator: Iqra Ashraf
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2024-06-30
publication date: 2024-06-30
starting page: 150
ending page: 182

Development Priorities in Punjab and KP: A Critical Analysis
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Annual Development Program, Annual Status of Education, Khyber Pakthwonkhawan, Literacy, Punjab, School Education. Education is regarded as pivotal for transforming human capital and sustainable economic development. SDG-4 and Article 25-A of the 1973 Constitution put a binding constraint on the government to accord centrality to education. This research paper delves into exploring the critical pathways between development priorities demonstrated through public spending and the resultant impacts and outcomes in the school education sector of Punjab and KP. The scope of the study is limited to the timeframe of 2018-2022 and relies on triangulation of data of both qualitative and quantitative nature using a mixed-methods approach. The study alludes to interesting findings ranging from policy inadequacy to a skewed spending matrix projecting a predominant share of non-development expenditure. While overall spending has increased over the course of time, the overwhelming focus has been on infrastructural components, which paradoxically has not even led to resolving the chronic issues of access to education. The study, while acknowledging that there is no standard blueprint signifying an ideal sectoral mix, recommends an evidence-based and more nuanced approach with a greater focus on the qualitative aspects through soft interventions like teacher training, robust assessment framework and improved governance at the school level.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Annual Development Program
  topic: keywords
subject: Annual Status of Education
  topic: keywords
subject: Khyber Pakthwonkhawan
  topic: keywords
subject: Literacy, Punjab
  topic: keywords
subject: School Education.
  topic: keywords
creator: Kamran Khan
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2024-06-30
publication date: 2024-06-30
starting page: 118
ending page: 149

Indo-Pakistan Trade Through Wagah Border: Situation Analysis and Future Prospects
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: confidence-building measures, foreign direct investment, free trade agreement, line of control This research paper aims to study the trade dynamics of Pakistan and India, including an analysis of past and present trade patterns, the identification of obstacles and challenges, the exploration of prospective growth prospects, and the evaluation of potential returns and risks of expanded trade. Research methodology includes a review of current literature on the topic, comparison with international best practices, analysis of data and reports from government sources with relevant statistics, surveys and focus group interviews with traders on past commercial activity and reforms needed in the case of Wagah-Attari route revitalization. Historic tensions between Pakistan and India, particularly over the Kashmir issue, have hampered geo-economic cooperation between the two neighbors. India’s unilateral abrogation of Article 370 on August 5th, 2019, led to a complete trade ban through the Wagah-Attari border. Since the start of trade, the trade balance has remained negative for Pakistan, and Pakistan has imported goods worth Rs. 313,181 million and exported items of only Rs. 115,493 million to India through Wagah, Pakistan. Moreover, the government has collected overall a substantial amount of revenue, Rs. 16,096.3 million, through the imposition of taxes and import duty. Furthermore, Pakistan imported mainly Cotton Yarn and Plastic Granules in 2018-19 from India. Key export items were minerals, salt, dry dates, and cement. The Wagah-Attari route was also used for the Afghan Transit trade. The Afghan trade transported goods with having total worth is Rs. 173,394 million. The potential of India-Pakistan border trade through Wagah is huge. Both markets have comparative advantages that may bring mutual benefits. Given India’s rise as a major economic and trading heavyweight, Pakistan stands to gain from economic relationships. The resumption of trade…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: confidence-building measures
  topic: keywords
subject: foreign direct investment
  topic: keywords
subject: free trade agreement
  topic: keywords
subject: line of control
  topic: keywords
creator: Sumair Ahmed Syed
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2024-06-30
publication date: 2024-06-30
starting page: 84
ending page: 117

Separation of East Pakistan: Public Policy and Governance Issues
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: East Pakistan, Awami League, legal framework order, National Awami Party, Planning Commission East Pakistan's separation is both a complex and sensitive, and the sensitivity adds to the complexity. Whether and to what extent the governance and public policy contributed to the separation was the main question for this study. Both appear different and distinct, but the link appears pronounced as one starts disentangling the complexity. The main link between governance and separation has two sub-links: policy and politics and politics and violence. Both are products of public policies. The separatist movement did not sprout suddenly and out of nowhere. It took over two decades to make and evolve through various stages: assertiveness, disillusionment, deprivation, alienation, vacuum, and mobilization. Each stage was the product of a set of public policies.The starting point was an unstable hybrid governance model under an Administrative State. The administrative state responded the assertiveness on political and social fronts, with maneuvering and indifference. Language and culture were the main drivers of Bengali identity and were immediately threatened in the name of national integration. Economic and fiscal policies started shaping up too. The investments, public sector expenditures and trade policies became more and more skewed and the efforts at provincial autonomy were blocked with the creation of one-unit.The administrative State gave way to an Authoritarian State under Martial law (1958) with developmental governance, which was characterized by centralization, non-participation and foreign inflows. East Pakistan faced a vacuum in which grievances, deprivation and alienation took root and emerged as political mobilization as soon as the Authoritarian State weakened in 1968-69. Thus enters the third stage and the link between politics and violence. Political mobilization based on the grievance, deprivation and frustration borne out of p…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: East Pakistan
  topic: keywords
subject: Awami League
  topic: keywords
subject: legal framework order
  topic: keywords
subject: National Awami Party
  topic: keywords
subject: Planning Commission
  topic: keywords
creator: Umar Riaz
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-10-08
publication date: 2025-10-08
starting page: 54
ending page: 83

Agriculture Income Tax in Punjab: Potential Impediments and Policy Suggestions
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Agriculture income tax, Punjab Revenue Authority, board of Revenue Pakistan faces persistent fiscal deficits, with the federal government struggling to increase revenue. Taxing agricultural income is the responsibility of provincial governments. Despite the potential for substantial revenue, provinces have largely depended on their share of the Federal Consolidated Fund following the Eighteenth Amendment. In Punjab, agricultural income tax remains an underutilized resource. This research explores the barriers to enforcing the Agricultural Income Tax Act 2001 and improving tax collection. Using qualitative methods, including interviews and case studies, the study identifies socio-cultural norms and political influences as significant factors that hinder effective tax collection. These challenges contribute to administrative inefficiencies within revenue authorities. Legal amendments coupled with administrative reforms are crucial to fully realizing the revenue potential of agricultural income tax in Punjab… Pakistan faces fiscal deficits, and the federal government struggles to increase revenue. Agriculture income is taxable by the provincial governments. Post the Eighteenth Amendment, the provinces have mainly relied on their share from the Federal Consolidated Fund and have not diligently tried to increase agricultural income tax collection. There is a need to ascertain the impediments in enforcing the law for optimal tax collection in Punjab. This research is an attempt to fill this gap in the literature. Through a qualitative approach, this paper finds that the issues in the non-implementation of the Agricultural Income Tax Act 2001 in Punjab arise from socio-cultural and political considerations. These are then translated into administrative inefficiencies by the revenue authorities. Legal amendments, as well as administrative reforms, are needed to enhance the revenue collection according to its potential.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Agriculture income tax
  topic: keywords
subject: Punjab Revenue Authority
  topic: keywords
subject: board of Revenue
  topic: keywords
creator: Farooq Azmat Chatha
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2024-06-30
publication date: 2024-06-30
starting page: 30
ending page: 53

The Potential of the Blue Economy in Pakistan: Prospects and Challenges
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: blue economy, exclusive economic zone, maritime affairs The economy plays a vital role in the progress and prosperity of any nation. Economic growth is essential for executing any human development initiative, including education, health, skill and capacity building, food security, trade, industry, environment, and climate protection or for undertaking measures to ensure internal security and external defense. Pakistan has been facing economic challenges recently, with shrinking exports and increasing imports further complicating our financial and economic woes. Due to heavy reliance on imports of raw materials and higher business costs, our conventional industries are facing a competitive disadvantage. Given these tough situations, Pakistan must explore other avenues for economic turnaround. One such avenue is the blue economy, which remains underutilized in Pakistan despite its massive potential. The country has immense blue reserves in the form of fisheries, seafood, aqua tourism, long pristine beaches, water sports and adventures avenues, captivating islands, renewable power generation potential, offshore oil and gas reserves, shipbreaking and recycling, three seaports with road networks to connect with different regions like Central Asia as well as world’s two largest populations China and India. Besides the vast potential of economic dividends, the blue economy also has relevance due to growing concerns about the climate cost of brown growth. Blue growth is considered an effective model for sustainable growth. The UNO’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 2015) also underline the significance of oceanic reserves for development. SDG 14 is specifically about the sustainable use of blue reserves, while other SDGs, particularly 1, 7, 8, and 9, are also connected.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: blue economy
  topic: keywords
subject: exclusive economic zone
  topic: keywords
subject: maritime affairs
  topic: keywords
creator: Awais Ayub
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2024-06-30
publication date: 2024-06-30
starting page: 01
ending page: 27

Analyzing the Key Responsible Factors: Cyber Security in Pakistan
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Cyber Security, technology, Pakistan, Key Responsible Factors This policy paper provides a comprehensive examination of Pakistan's current cybersecurity landscape, highlighting the main hurdles confronting the nation in this realm. It reviews the existing cybersecurity framework, including the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016 (PECA) and the National Cybercrime Policy 2021, while also identifying shortcomings and vulnerabilities within the system. The paper offers suggestions to address the escalating dangers and difficulties in the online environment, aiming to maintain a protected and durable online realm for individuals universally. To implement these suggestions, specific tactics are proposed. Embracing these actions and tactics can strengthen Pakistan's cybersecurity framework, protect critical infrastructure, and establish a secure and resilient cyberspace. This effort is crucial for securing the country, promoting economic stability, and improving the welfare of its inhabitants amidst continually changing cyber risks. In addition to the above, the paper discusses the importance of public-private partnerships in enhancing cybersecurity measures. It emphasies the need for collaboration between government agencies, private sector entities, and civil society organizations to effectively combat cyber threats. Furthermore, the paper explores the role of international cooperation in cybersecurity. It highlights the significance of bilateral and multilateral agreements in sharing information, conducting joint cyber exercises, and developing common cybersecurity standards. Moreover, the paper addresses the issue of capacity building in cybersecurity. It stresses the importance of training programs and awareness campaigns to equip individuals and organizations with the necessary skills and knowledge to mitigate cyber risks. Overall, this policy paper provides a holistic view of Pakistan's cybersecurity challenges and proposes practica…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Cyber Security
  topic: keywords
subject: technology
  topic: keywords
subject: Pakistan
  topic: keywords
subject: Key Responsible Factors
  topic: keywords
creator: Muhammad Ahmad Usmani
rights: Copyright (c) 2023 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2023-12-30
publication date: 2023-12-30
starting page: 145
ending page: 161

Critical analysis of data of Afghan transit through Pakistan since 2010: Trends, Issues, Challenges and Way Forward
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Afghan, transit, transparency, agreement, 2010-2023 Pakistan extends the transit trade facility to Afghanistan under bilateral and international frameworks. British India extended this facility and so did Pakistan. But transit and trade has never been consistent. This research focuses on the trends of transit data, issues and challenges and the way forward for Afghan Transit and beyond. The study uses analytical and descriptive approaches. Qualitative data has been collected through interviews while quantitative data has been obtained from official records, research articles, websites, social and other media searches. The research concluded that the old transit trade agreement was not meeting the challenges of structured transit as per international best practices and a new treaty APTTA was signed in 2010 with the active collaboration of the international community and since then transit has passed through different phases. The paper explores the current legal and institutional transit trade regime and trends of transit trade since 2010 with specific focus on the last five years. It has passed through diverse phases due to mutual mistrust, weak institutional arrangement, smuggling, lack of proper infrastructure, transit trade security and data issues, The Paper also highlights the impact of international politics and the development of port infrastructure in Iran and Afghanistan by India. The paper advocates for a policy shift from geostrategic to geo-economic cooperation, focusing on mutual and transit trade. It emphasizes the need for regional connectivity, effective border controls, and breaking the transit smuggling nexus. Strengthening institutional arrangements, promoting transparency, and simplifying procedures are recommended to enhance transit trade and foster economic ties between the two countries.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Afghan
  topic: keywords
subject: transit
  topic: keywords
subject: transparency
  topic: keywords
subject: agreement
  topic: keywords
subject: 2010-2023
  topic: keywords
creator: Zubair Shah
rights: Copyright (c) 2023 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2023-12-30
publication date: 2023-12-30
starting page: 114
ending page: 144

Curbing Fiscal Deficit through Enhancing the Agriculture Income Tax Collection in Punjab, Pakistan
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: agriculture, fiscal deficit, income tax, tax base Effectiveness, Agriculture Income Tax, Punjab, Pakistan Pakistan faces fiscal deficits, and the federal government struggles to increase revenue. Agriculture income is taxable by the provincial governments. Post the Eighteenth Amendment, the provinces have mainly relied on their share from Federal Consolidated Fund and have not diligently tried to increase agricultural income tax collection. There is a need to ascertain the impediments in enforcing the law for optimal tax collection in Punjab. This research is an attempt to fill this gap in the literature. Through a qualitative approach, this paper finds that the issues in the non-implementation of the Agricultural Income Tax Act 2001 in Punjab arise from socio-cultural and political considerations. These are then translated into administrative inefficiencies by the revenue authorities. Legal amendments, as well as administrative reforms, are needed to enhance the revenue collection according to its potential. Based on the analysis, this paper recommends conducting a district-level study to determine the true potential of agricultural income tax in Punjab, possibly using proxies for income estimation. It suggests changing the land-based tax assessment to a minimum tax to eliminate the incentive for tax avoidance and introducing a minimal turnover tax on agriculture income to broaden the tax base and enhance collection efficiency.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: agriculture
  topic: keywords
subject: fiscal deficit
  topic: keywords
subject: income tax
  topic: keywords
subject: tax base Effectiveness
  topic: keywords
subject: Agriculture Income Tax
  topic: keywords
subject: Punjab
  topic: keywords
subject: Pakistan
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creator: Farooq Azmat Chata
rights: Copyright (c) 2023 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2023-12-30
publication date: 2023-12-30
starting page: 88
ending page: 113

Critical Evaluation of Pakistan-China Free Trade Agreement: Policy Lessons
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: Critical Evaluation, Pakistan-China, Free Trade Agreement, Policy Lessons The China Pakistan Free Trade Agreement (CPFTA), implemented on January 1st, 2007, has been a subject of contention due to concerns over its adverse impact on Pakistan's economy. On one hand, CPFTA is appreciated for increased trade with China, Chinese investment in infrastructure and energy-related projects and deepening of Pakistan's strategic ties with China, while on the other hand, challenges such as increased trade imbalance, erosion of domestic industry, limited exports diversification, increasing dependency on China and environmental challenges are viewed critically. The primary objective of this study is to conduct a quantitative analysis of import and export data, with the aim of assessing the economic impact of bilateral trade on Pakistan. This policy paper examines the FTA's effects on various aspects of Pakistan's trade. In this study, a quantitative approach has been utilized. Various secondary data sources, including the Economic Survey of Pakistan (from 2014-15 to 2022-23), Pakistan Revenue Automation Limited, World Bank indices, and World Trade Map, have been employed to calculate several indices. These indices are used to analyze the impacts of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on different aspects of international trade in Pakistan. Specifically, it analyzes the trade share, exports to GDP ratio, terms of trade, structure of imports and exports and trade imbalance between the two countries. By utilizing sample clearance data and evaluating the revenue concessions provided by China, the paper quantifies the trade-offs experienced by Pakistan. The findings aim to contribute to inform policy decision-making by offering insights into the overall impact of the FTA on Pakistan's economy and trade dynamics. The study highlights a rapidly growing trade imbalance, with Pakistan's trade deficit surging significantly against China. Increased reliance on foreign…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Critical Evaluation
  topic: keywords
subject: Pakistan-China
  topic: keywords
subject: Free Trade Agreement
  topic: keywords
subject: Policy Lessons
  topic: keywords
creator: Ali Mohtashim Minhas
rights: Copyright (c) 2023 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2023-12-30
publication date: 2023-12-30
starting page: 71
ending page: 87

Prospects and Options for Upgrading NSPP and Constituent Units into a National University of Public Administration
type: item
description: Section: Articles Keywords: university, public administration, bureaucracy, Constituent Units, Upgrading NSPP This study reconnoiters the avenues of awarding a degree by NSPP after the completion of training programmers for civil servants. The objective of this research is to explore different prospects and options for upgrading NSPP and its constituent units into a National University of Public Administration. Instead of going into philosophical discussions on historical background of trainings of civil servants and their evolution as per needs of different eras, this study remains focused on the training regimes of civil servants in Pakistan since establishment of NSPP in 2005 and identification of practical steps which are required for upgrading NSPP into a degree awarding institute. This study primarily uses mixed method approach in answering the research question. This research presents a series of recommendations and considerations for policymakers and the management of NSPP about necessary steps to be taken including preparation and approval of well-thought-out charter, revamping of syllabi of different trainings to synchronize them with the course-work requirements of HEC, recruitment of faculty members with requisite qualification etc.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: university
  topic: keywords
subject: public administration
  topic: keywords
subject: bureaucracy
  topic: keywords
subject: Constituent Units
  topic: keywords
subject: Upgrading NSPP
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creator: Imran Hamid
rights: Copyright (c) 2023 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2023-12-30
publication date: 2023-12-30
starting page: 22
ending page: 70

Overcoming Punjab’s Energy Crisis: A Case Study of the Financial Close of the Punjab Thermal Power Limited (PTPL) Project
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description: Section: Articles Keywords: energy, Punjab, finance, PTPL, Energy Crisis This case study explores the critical role played by the bureaucratic leadership of the Secretary of the Government of Punjab's Energy Department in driving the financial close of the 1263-megawatt Punjab Thermal Power Limited (PTPL) project valued at PKR 140 billion. The PTPL marked Pakistan's largest financing for a Re-gasified Liquefied Natural Gas (RLNG)-based power generation initiative with one of the world's highest designed efficiencies of 61.16%. The study demonstrates strategies adopted by the Secretary to overcome myriad challenges and bring this mega project's financing to fruition over a four-year period from 2018 to 2021. When assigned to lead the Energy Department in October 2018, the Secretary inherited the PTPL project in a catastrophic state. Construction had commenced hastily before fulfilling requirements like financial close, putting the provincial government's PKR 60 billion guarantees at risk of encashment. Lenders had abandoned the transaction due to unmet obligations. The case examines how the Secretary re-engaged stakeholders like lenders through consistent coordination, team motivation, and delegation based on capacity, and one-on-one relationship building. It analyzes his crisis management approach of prioritizing immediate targets like re-securing withdrawn lenders. The paper explores the bureaucratic leader's strategies for maintaining transparency and political ownership amidst disruptions like a change in regime and NAB investigations into power sector projects. It dissects the skills of the bureaucratic leaders in attracting new lenders by pitching the project as a secure investment given its 80% completion. The financing documents signed by six lending consortiums in early 2021 culminated in the celebrated financial close. The study derives key administrative and personal lessons on achieving mega project success via due diligence, political ownership, persiste…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: energy
  topic: keywords
subject: Punjab
  topic: keywords
subject: finance
  topic: keywords
subject: PTPL
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subject: Energy Crisis
  topic: keywords
creator: Muhammad Aamir Jan
rights: Copyright (c) 2023 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2023-12-30
publication date: 2023-12-30
starting page: 1
ending page: 21

Internal Controls to Curb Corruption in the Police Department: Challenges and Way Forward
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description: Section: Articles Keywords: corruption, gender, violence, police, Internal Controls In the developing countries like Pakistan the expectations from the systems are democratic but the basic structures are colonial. Historically speaking, the Police Act of 1861 did not provide much scope to police accountability which was later altered and amended in Article (8) of The Police Order 2002 (PO) that has put in place a system of police accountability based on public participation and community input. Article 155 of PO 2002 explains the penalty for certain types of misconduct. According to the Transparency International Corruption Perception Index 2021 (2022), Pakistan is at 140th number out of 180 countries. Keeping in view these statistics the study of the reasons of corruption and their remedies in police become imperative. In Pakistan where religious intolerance, sectarian, ethnic, and gender-based violence is on the rise and on the other hand there is stagnant economic growth coupled with high rates of inflation, unemployment, poverty, and income inequality, under such situations if the law enforcement department of the country itself faces the challenges like corruption and lack of integrity, then rule of law and writ of the state are the foremost casualties. Political, social, economic, and cultural factors are the main contributory factors in increasing corruption. Corruption in police is a reality but perception makes it the worst. Internal controls have been devised in the system however optimal results are not achieved. A well-coordinated reform regime is required to make Police corruption free.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: corruption
  topic: keywords
subject: gender
  topic: keywords
subject: violence
  topic: keywords
subject: police
  topic: keywords
subject: Internal Controls
  topic: keywords
creator: Syed Ali Raza
rights: Copyright (c) 2023 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2023-06-30
publication date: 2023-06-30
starting page: 179
ending page: 201