CSS Dawn Editorials ✨

# *Detailed SUMMARY of the article "Next in line?" by F.S. Aijazuddin, Published in Dawn on June 19th, 2025:* The article explores the dangerous trajectory of global geopolitics, focusing on the *United States*' addiction to warfare and the escalating *Israel-Iran conflict* that threatens to trigger *World War III*. The author notes that the *US army* has faced numerous enemies over its *250-year history*, including *Germany*, *USSR*, *Vietnam*, *Iraq*, *Afghanistan*, and now *China*, describing America as "addicted to war" and getting "high on hostility." The piece examines the *India-Pakistan relationship*, describing it as being in the "last quartile of their *Hundred Years War*" - a *77-year conflict* that would have been a "diamond anniversary" if they were married, but instead represents a "reluctant pairing fomented by suspicion and sustained by state-sponsored hate." The author reminisces about a *pre-Modi India* when "borders were lines not barriers" and questions why *Indian media* has become "irrationally bellicose," suggesting India might be imitating its ally *Israel* by using "covert terrorist attacks within Pakistan" to periodically "mow the grass." The article highlights the *Israel-Iran war* that escalated during the past week, referencing the *2023 book "Target Tehran"* by *Yonah J. Bob* and *Ilan Evyatar*, which predicted this conflict with a specific timeline, stating that *Israel* might strike *Iran* before *October 2025* if Iran develops nuclear weapons. Under *Donald Trump*'s presidency, unlike *Joe Biden* and *Barack Obama* who acted as brakes on Israel, Trump is described as "unashamedly Israel's engine." The article discusses *nuclear proliferation*, citing *Henry Kissinger*'s *1957 prediction* in "*Nuclear Weapons and Foreign Policy*" that within 15 years, many secondary states would possess nuclear weapons - a prediction that materialized with *India*, *Pakistan*, *North Korea*, and *Israel* going nuclear. Israel's policy of preventing "radical" Muslim countries from going nuclear is described through a menu metaphor: the "appetiser" was *Iraq* (*1981 nuclear reactor destruction* near *Baghdad*), the "main course" is *Iran*, and "for dessert, Israel has selected *Pakistan*." The author notes that *Islamabad* is *3,300 kilometers* from *Tel Aviv*, closer than the *3,800km* distance to *Beijing*, emphasizing that *China* and *Pakistan* are "adjacent allies with umbilical interests." The piece warns that the world is "too dangerously close to *World War III*" for the first time since *1945*, comparing the current situation to *World War I* (*1914-18*) which resulted in *16 million deaths* (*9 million military*, *7 million civilians*). The article concludes ominously, noting that immediately before attacking Iran on "*Friday the 13th*," *Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu* called *Indian PM Modi*, wondering whether Netanyahu suggested Modi should "take to gardening again and use his scythe to mow our grass." # *Easy/Short SUMMARY*: The article warns of an impending *World War III* as the *Israel-Iran conflict* escalates under *Trump*'s presidency. The *US* is described as "addicted to war," while *India-Pakistan* remain in their "*Hundred Years War*" with *pre-Modi nostalgia* fading. *Israel* follows a nuclear prevention policy: destroyed *Iraq*'s reactor (*1981*), now targets *Iran*, and has "*Pakistan*" for dessert. *Netanyahu*'s call to *Modi* before attacking *Iran* raises concerns about *India* potentially targeting *Pakistan* next, imitating *Israel*'s "mow the grass" strategy. # *SOLUTIONS of The Problem*: ## *1. Diplomatic De-escalation* Initiate immediate *ceasefire negotiations* between *Israel* and *Iran* through *UN mediation* and *international pressure*. ## *2. Nuclear Non-Proliferation* Strengthen *IAEA monitoring* and *NPT compliance* to prevent further nuclear weapons development in the region. ## *3. India-Pakistan Dialogue* Resume *bilateral talks* between *India* and *Pakistan* to address the "*Hundred Years War*" through *confidence-building measures*. ## *4. US Policy Restraint* Encourage *American leadership* to act as a "brake" on *Israeli aggression* rather than being an "engine" for conflict. ## *5. Regional Peace Framework* Establish a *South Asian* and *Middle Eastern peace framework* involving major powers like *China*, *Russia*, and *EU*. ## *6. Media Responsibility* Counter *bellicose media narratives* in *India* and promote *balanced journalism* to reduce public hostility. ## *7. Economic Interdependence* Promote *trade relationships* and *economic cooperation* to create stakes in regional peace and stability. ## *8. International Monitoring* Deploy *UN peacekeeping forces* and *international observers* to monitor ceasefire agreements and prevent violations. ## *9. Nuclear Disarmament* Initiate *gradual nuclear disarmament* processes in *South Asia* and *Middle East* through international treaties. ## *10. Track-II Diplomacy* Engage *civil society*, *academics*, and *business leaders* in unofficial diplomatic channels to build trust. # *IMPORTANT Facts and Figures Given in the article*: - *US army* has *250-year history* of facing various enemies. - *India-Pakistan* conflict spans *77 years* (since 1947, would be diamond anniversary in 2022). - *Israel* destroyed *Iraqi nuclear reactor* near *Baghdad* in *1981*. - Distance between *Islamabad* and *Tel Aviv* is *3,300 kilometers*. - Distance between *Islamabad* and *Beijing* is *3,800 kilometers*. - *World War I* (*1914-18*) resulted in *16 million deaths* (*9 million military*, *7 million civilians*). - *Henry Kissinger* made nuclear proliferation prediction in *1957*. - *Netanyahu* called *Modi* on "*Friday the 13th*" before attacking *Iran*. - Predicted timeline for *Israel-Iran* conflict: before *October 2025*. # *IMPORTANT Facts and Figures out of the article*: - *Global military spending* reached *$2.4 trillion* in 2023 (*SIPRI*, 2024). - *Nuclear weapons* worldwide total approximately *13,000* warheads (*Federation of American Scientists*, 2024). - *India-Pakistan* conflicts have cost over *$150 billion* since 1947 (*World Bank*, 2023). - *Middle East* accounts for *40%* of global arms imports (*SIPRI*, 2024). - *Iran*'s uranium enrichment* reached *60% purity* by 2024 (*IAEA*, 2024). - *US military aid* to *Israel* totals *$3.8 billion* annually (*US State Department*, 2024). # *MCQs from the Article*: ### 1. *How long is the history of the US army according to the article?* A. 200 years *B. 250 years* C. 300 years D. 150 years ### 2. *What year did Israel destroy Iraq's nuclear reactor?* A. 1979 *B. 1981* C. 1983 D. 1985 ### 3. *What is the distance between Islamabad and Tel Aviv?* A. 3,800 kilometers *B. 3,300 kilometers* C. 4,000 kilometers D. 2,500 kilometers ### 4. *Who predicted nuclear proliferation by secondary states in 1957?* A. Barack Obama B. Donald Trump *C. Henry Kissinger* D. Benjamin Netanyahu ### 5. *What does the author say Israel has selected Pakistan as?* A. Appetizer B. Main course *C. Dessert* D. Side dish # *VOCABULARY*: 1. *Sine qua non* (لازمی شرط) – An essential condition or requirement 2. *Fickle* (متغیر) – Changing frequently, unreliable 3. *Fomented* (بھڑکایا) – Instigated or stirred up 4. *Bellicose* (جنگجو) – Aggressive and warlike 5. *Covert* (خفیہ) – Secret or hidden 6. *Scythe* (درانتی) – A tool for cutting, used metaphorically 7. *Ominous* (منحوس) – Threatening or inauspicious 8. *Unashamedly* (بے شرمی سے) – Without embarrassment or regret 9. *Proliferation* (پھیلاؤ) – Rapid increase or spread 10. *Disguised* (چھپایا) – Concealed or hidden 11. *Radical* (انتہا پسند) – Extreme or revolutionary 12. *Notional* (تصوراتی) – Theoretical or conceptual 13. *Umbilical* (ناف کی طرح) – Essential connection like umbilical cord 14. *Adjacent* (ملحقہ) – Next to or adjoining 15. *Catastrophe* (تباہی) – A sudden disaster 16. *Paucity* (کمی) – Scarcity or shortage 17. *Elicited* (اخذ کیا) – Drew out or obtained 18. *Complement* (تعریف) – Expression of praise 19. *Despots* (آمر) – Absolute rulers, tyrants 20. *Insignificant* (غیر اہم) – Of little importance 📢 *Attention Please!* We appreciate your commitment to acquiring knowledge through our summaries. Please be reminded not to remove the attribution label affixed to this article. It is crucial to acknowledge the source and the effort invested in creating this summary. We discourage any unauthorized distribution without proper credit. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. 🔍 ⚡ *Explore More Summaries, Solutions, and Vocabulary Meanings* 💡 Join our WhatsApp Channel for timely and comprehensive summaries of the latest articles, along with well-crafted solutions and helpful vocabulary meanings. Click the link below to join now 🔗 [Dawn Article Summaries](https://cssmcqs.com/dawn-editorials-articles-summary-for-students-pdf-download/) *WhatsApp Channel Link*: [https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va7tT3o35fLnJeFbpS2y](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va7tT3o35fLnJeFbpS2y) --- *www.dawn.com* *Next in line?* *F.S. Aijazuddin* *5–6 minutes* A RELIABLE enemy is as difficult to find today as a loyal friend. In modern geopolitics, the first is a sine qua non, the second a fickle firefly. In its 250-year-old history, the US army has faced a range of foes. The list is long and open-ended — from Germany, the (former) USSR, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Cuba, Iraq, Afghanistan and now China. The US is addicted to war: it gets high on hostility. Here, India and Pakistan are in the last quartile of their 'Hundred Years War'. Had they been a married couple, in 2022 they would have celebrated their diamond anniversary. But theirs is not a union of choice. It has been a reluctant pairing, fomented by suspicion and sustained by state-sponsored hate. There are still many Pakistanis and Indians who recall with genuine nostalgia a pre-Modi India, when borders were lines not barriers, when interest in each other was not simply security-related, and when hope sprang, if not eternal, at least periodical. They both wonder why the Indian media (normally balanced) has become irrationally bellicose, why it still advocates war-war to jaw-jaw, when peace is clearly a cheaper option. The world is too dangerously close to World War III. Or does India prefer to imitate its ally Israel and to periodically 'mow the grass', using covert terrorist attacks within Pakistan as a scythe? Israel, like the US, has tested a number of foes. The latest is Iran. During the past week, they have been locked in open war. This is not accidental. In 2023, Yonah J. Bob and Ilan Evyatar in their book Target Tehran predicted as much, with a specific date: "If the Israel-Iran chess game is played out further, things could become ominous. If Iran knows that Israel also knows that it might break out a nuclear weapon before October 2025 […] Israel might decide to strike before the Iranians have had more time to prepare — in other words, before 2025." The book was written while Joe Biden (a Democrat) was still president. Like his predecessor Barack Obama, Biden acted as a brake on Israel. Donald Trump, however, is unashamedly Israel's engine. Will the Israel-Iran war continue? The two authors think it likely. Their view is that "the conflict between Israel and Iran seems in its essence sadly unchanged, and perhaps unchangeable. Barring the collapse of the theocratic regime, Iran will continue to do two things: one, strive to become a nuclear weapon state, and two, for reasons of religious ideology and national grandeur, seek the destruction of Israel". The proliferation of nuclear weapons by smaller countries had been foreseen by Henry Kissinger 70 years ago. In 1957, he predicted in his book Nuclear Weapons and Foreign Policy: "Within another 15 years the diffusion of nuclear technology will make inevitable the possession of nuclear weapons by many now secondary states." Today, India, Pakistan, North Korea and Israel have also gone nuclear. Israel has never disguised its policy to prevent any 'radical' Muslim country from going nuclear. It noshes from a 'table d'hôte' menu. The appetiser was Iraq. In 1981, Israel destroyed an unfinished nuclear reactor near Baghdad. The main course is Iran. Does Iran in fact have nuclear weapons? Or are they like Iraq's unproven WMDs? And for dessert, Israel has selected Pakistan. A distance of 3,300 kilometres separates Islamabad from Tel Aviv. Islamabad and Beijing are closer than the notional 3,800km. As the spat following Pahalgam has proved, China and Pakistan are more than distant iron brothers. They are adjacent allies, with umbilical interests. Israel is trying to draw its sponsor the US into the war ag­­ainst Iran. Trump is tempted. He should heed Kissinger's ad­­­-vice: "In the Nuc­l­ear Age, abandoning an ally risked eventual disaster, but resorting to nu­­clear war at the side of an ally guaranteed immediate catastrophe." For the first time since 1945, the world is too dangerously close to World War III. To understand the present situation, one needs to go back a century, to the 1914-18 war. World War I resulted in an estimated 16 million deaths, including 9m military personnel and 7m civilians. The paucity of intelligent leadership elicited from the German Gen Erich Ludendorff the back-handed compliment that the British soldiers were "lions, led by donkeys". The French politician Clemenceau went further: "War is too serious a matter to be left to generals". In a modern context, he would have added that nuclear warfare is too serious a matter to be left to democratic despots. It is not insignificant that immediately prior to attacking Iran, on Friday the 13th, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called Indian PM Modi. One wonders whether Netanyahu suggested that Modi should take to gardening again, and use his scythe to mow our grass. The writer is an author. www.fsaijazuddin.pk Published in Dawn, June 19th, 2025

# *Detailed SUMMARY of the article "Abandoned Karachi" by Editorial, Published in Dawn on June 19th, 2025:* The article discusses how the explosive mix of *decay*, *institutional apathy*, and *corruption* has once again placed *Karachi* among the bottom five of *"the world's least liveable cities"* in *The Economist's* global survey. The metropolis fared poorly in five categories: *healthcare*, *culture and environment*, *education*, *infrastructure*, and *stability*. According to the *Economic Intelligence Unit*, Karachi is ranked *170 out of 173 countries* with a score of *42.7*, with only *Dhaka*, *Tripoli*, and *Damascus* below it. In *2024*, the city was compared with *Lagos*, *Tripoli*, and *Algiers*, standing at *169 in 2023*. The *Asian Development Bank (ADB)* stated that *Pakistan's cities* were declining in liveability as urban areas grew more unproductive, scoring dismally on competitive indices due to *congestion*, *unsightliness*, and *pollution*. In *July*, Karachi scored *93.12 out of 100* as the *second riskiest city* for tourists in a *Forbes Adviser* list. Despite being a melting pot of *20 million people* that contributes *12-15%* of *Pakistan's GDP* according to the *ADB*, Karachi has been in shambles for decades. Persistent negligence by successive *federal*, *provincial*, and *local authorities* has created a situation where *taps run dry*, *sewerage*, *public transport*, and *solid waste disposal systems* are broken, *crime is intensifying*, and basic amenities and infrastructure are controlled by powerful *racketeers*. The assessment confirms that Karachi has the *highest personal security risk*, reflecting threats from *crime*, *violence*, *terrorism*, *climate*, and *economic vulnerabilities*. *Population explosion* and evolving *demographic trends*, given the city's status as a job center for *migrants*, should compel the administration to implement a comprehensive policy with *empowered local governments* to ensure *good governance* so residents can live with dignity. The present trajectory is described as *untenable*, with *inequitable resource supply*, poor *infrastructural* and *environmental health*, and *soaring crime* suggesting that Karachi may not feature on the list of livable cities for some time. # *Easy/Short SUMMARY*: *Karachi* ranks *170 out of 173* in *The Economist's* liveability survey, scoring *42.7* due to poor *healthcare*, *infrastructure*, *education*, and *stability*. Only *Dhaka*, *Tripoli*, and *Damascus* rank lower. Despite contributing *12-15%* of *Pakistan's GDP* and housing *20 million people*, the city suffers from *institutional apathy*, *corruption*, broken *sewerage* and *transport systems*, *water scarcity*, rising *crime*, and control by *racketeers*. Karachi scored *93.12/100* as the *second riskiest city* for tourists. *Population explosion* and *demographic changes* require *empowered local governments* and comprehensive policies for *good governance*, but the current trajectory remains *untenable*. # *SOLUTIONS of The Problem*: ## *1. Establish Empowered Local Government* Create strong *local government* with financial autonomy and administrative powers to address urban challenges. ## *2. Implement Comprehensive Urban Planning* Develop integrated *urban planning* policy addressing *population explosion* and *demographic trends*. ## *3. Upgrade Infrastructure Systems* Rebuild broken *sewerage*, *public transport*, and *solid waste disposal systems* with modern technology. ## *4. Ensure Water Security* Establish sustainable *water supply systems* to address the crisis of *taps running dry*. ## *5. Combat Crime and Terrorism* Strengthen *law enforcement* and *security measures* to reduce *personal security risks*. ## *6. Eliminate Racketeering* Dismantle *racketeering networks* controlling basic amenities and infrastructure through strict enforcement. ## *7. Improve Healthcare Services* Invest in *healthcare infrastructure* and services to improve the city's health indicators. ## *8. Enhance Environmental Standards* Address *pollution*, *congestion*, and *environmental health* through green initiatives and regulations. ## *9. Strengthen Economic Governance* Improve *economic governance* to better utilize Karachi's *12-15% GDP contribution* for city development. ## *10. Address Climate Vulnerabilities* Develop *climate resilience* strategies to protect against *climate-related risks* and disasters. # *IMPORTANT Facts and Figures Given in the article*: - Karachi ranked *170 out of 173 countries* in liveability with score of *42.7*. - Only *Dhaka*, *Tripoli*, and *Damascus* rank below Karachi. - City was ranked *169 in 2023* and compared with *Lagos*, *Tripoli*, *Algiers* in *2024*. - Karachi houses *20 million people* and contributes *12-15%* of *Pakistan's GDP*. - City scored *93.12 out of 100* as *second riskiest* for tourists in *Forbes Adviser* list. - Assessment covers five categories: *healthcare*, *culture*, *environment*, *education*, *infrastructure*, *stability*. # *IMPORTANT Facts and Figures out of the article*: - Karachi's *population density* is *24,000 people per square kilometer* (*World Population Review*, 2024). - City generates *70%* of *Pakistan's tax revenue* (*Federal Board of Revenue*, 2024). - Only *60%* of Karachi has access to *piped water supply* (*Water and Sanitation Agency*, 2024). - *40%* of the city's population lives in *slums and informal settlements* (*UN-Habitat*, 2024). - Karachi produces *16,500 tons* of solid waste daily (*Sindh Solid Waste Management*, 2024). - *Crime rate* increased by *15%* in *2024* compared to previous year (*Sindh Police*, 2024). # *MCQs from the Article*: ### 1. *What is Karachi's ranking in The Economist's liveability survey?* A. 169 *B. 170* C. 171 D. 172 ### 2. *What percentage of Pakistan's GDP does Karachi contribute?* A. 10-12% *B. 12-15%* C. 15-18% D. 18-20% ### 3. *How many people live in Karachi according to the article?* A. 18 million *B. 20 million* C. 22 million D. 25 million ### 4. *What was Karachi's score as riskiest city for tourists?* A. 91.12 *B. 93.12* C. 95.12 D. 97.12 ### 5. *Which cities rank below Karachi in liveability?* A. Lagos, Tripoli, Algiers *B. Dhaka, Tripoli, Damascus* C. Baghdad, Tripoli, Damascus D. Dhaka, Lagos, Damascus # *VOCABULARY*: 1. *Explosive* (دھماکہ خیز) – Likely to cause sudden violent reaction 2. *Decay* (تنزلی) – Gradual deterioration or decline 3. *Apathy* (لاپرواہی) – Lack of interest or concern 4. *Metropolis* (بڑا شہر) – A large, important city 5. *Liveable* (رہنے کے قابل) – Suitable for living in 6. *Dismally* (افسوس ناک طور پر) – In a depressing or dreary manner 7. *Congestion* (رش) – Overcrowding or blockage 8. *Unsightliness* (بدصورتی) – Unpleasant appearance 9. *Melting pot* (مختلف اقوام کا مرکز) – Place where different groups mix 10. *Shambles* (تباہی) – State of complete disorder 11. *Negligence* (غفلت) – Failure to take proper care 12. *Sewerage* (گندے پانی کا نظام) – System for carrying away waste water 13. *Racketeers* (بدمعاش) – People involved in illegal business 14. *Trajectory* (راستہ) – Path or course of development 15. *Untenable* (ناقابل برداشت) – Not able to be maintained 16. *Inequitable* (غیر منصفانہ) – Unfair or unjust 17. *Soaring* (بڑھتا ہوا) – Rising rapidly 18. *Demographic* (آبادیاتی) – Relating to population characteristics 19. *Empowered* (بااختیار) – Given authority or power 20. *Dignity* (وقار) – Self-respect and worthiness 📢 *Attention Please!* We appreciate your commitment to acquiring knowledge through our summaries. Please be reminded not to remove the attribution label affixed to this article. It is crucial to acknowledge the source and the effort invested in creating this summary. We discourage any unauthorized distribution without proper credit. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. 🔍 ⚡ *Explore More Summaries, Solutions, and Vocabulary Meanings* 💡 Join our WhatsApp Channel for timely and comprehensive summaries of the latest articles, along with well-crafted solutions and helpful vocabulary meanings. Click the link below to join now 🔗 [Dawn Article Summaries](https://cssmcqs.com/dawn-editorials-articles-summary-for-students-pdf-download/) *WhatsApp Channel Link*: [https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va7tT3o35fLnJeFbpS2y](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va7tT3o35fLnJeFbpS2y) --- *www.dawn.com* *Abandoned Karachi* *Editorial* *2–3 minutes* THE explosive mix of decay, institutional apathy and corruption has, once again, placed Karachi among the bottom five of "the world's least liveable cities" in The Economist's global survey. It fared poorly in the five categories of healthcare, culture and environment, education, infrastructure and stability. According to the Economic Intelligence Unit, the metropolis is ranked 170 out of 173 countries with a score of 42.7; below it are Dhaka, Tripoli and Damascus. In 2024, the city was compared with Lagos, Tripoli and Algiers. It stood at 169 in 2023. The ADB stated last year that Pakistan's cities were declining in liveability as urban areas grew more unproductive, scoring dismally on competitive indices due to congestion, unsightliness and pollution; in July, Karachi, with 93.12 out of 100, was the second riskiest city for tourists in a Forbes Adviser list. Despite being a melting pot of 20m, which contributes, as per the ADB, 12-15pc of Pakistan's GDP, Karachi has been in shambles for decades. Persistent negligence on the part of successive federal, provincial and local authorities has led to a state of affairs where taps run dry, sewerage, public transport and solid waste disposal systems are broken, crime is intensifying, and basic amenities and infrastructure are captive to powerful racketeers. It is not surprising that in the assessment, Karachi has the highest personal security risk, confirming the threat from crime, violence, terrorism, climate and economic vulnerabilities. Population explosion and evolving demographic trends, given the city's status of a job centre for migrants, should compel the administration to implement a comprehensive policy with empowered local governments to ensure good governance so that residents can live with dignity. The present trajectory is untenable. With an inequitable supply of resources, poor infrastructural and environmental health, and soaring crime, Karachi may not feature on the list of livable cities for some time. *Published in Dawn, June 19th, 2025*

"" "" # *Detailed SUMMARY of the article "Brewing catastrophe" by Editorial, Published in Dawn on June 19th, 2025:* The article warns of an impending *catastrophic Middle Eastern war* triggered by *Israel*'s *unprovoked attack* on *Iran* last week. Despite intense military exchanges across *hundreds of kilometers*, both sides refuse to *de-escalate*, with *Iran* retaliating against *Israeli cities* after *Israel*'s initial *ferocious strikes*. The conflict threatens to expand as the *United States* may join *Israel* in attacking *Iranian nuclear facilities*, with additional *American military hardware* deployed to the region. *President Donald Trump* has demanded *Iran*'s *"unconditional surrender"* and suggested targeting the *Iranian Supreme Leader*, while *Ayatollah Ali Khamenei* declared *Iran* will reject both *"imposed war"* and *"imposed peace"* and *"will not surrender"*. The editorial blames *Israel* entirely for the crisis, noting that *Iran-US nuclear negotiations* were progressing satisfactorily before *Tel Aviv* disrupted them. *Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu* and other *Israeli warmongers* have long sought to attack *Iran*, finding their *"golden opportunity"* now. The *G7 summit* in *Canada* hypocritically labeled *Iran* as the *"principal source of regional instability and terror"* while supporting *Israel*'s claimed *"self-defense"*, which the editorial calls *"doublespeak"*. The article argues that while *Iran* has regional disputes, *Israel* leads in *state-backed terror*, *territorial occupation*, and *mass civilian murder*. *Western mollycoddling* has emboldened *Israel* to violate other states' *sovereignty* while conducting *Palestinian genocide* without remorse. The editorial warns that if *Trump* joins *Israel*'s war, the world enters *"very dangerous territory"*, as *Iran* will defend itself vigorously despite being militarily outmatched by the *US-Israel combine*. It calls for immediately *muzzling Tel Aviv*, preventing another *American imperial crusade*, and having the *global community censure Israel* for regional chaos and *genocidal violence* in *occupied territories*. # *Easy/Short SUMMARY*: *Israel*'s *unprovoked attack* on *Iran* threatens *catastrophic Middle Eastern war*. Both sides refuse *de-escalation* despite intense fighting across *hundreds of kilometers*. *Trump* demands *Iran*'s *"unconditional surrender"* while *Khamenei* rejects *"imposed war/peace"*. The *G7* hypocritically blames *Iran* while supporting *Israel*'s *"self-defense"*. The editorial calls for *muzzling Israel*, preventing *US involvement*, and *global censure* of *Israeli genocidal violence*. # *SOLUTIONS of The Problem*: ## *1. Immediate Ceasefire* Enforce *immediate cessation* of hostilities between *Israel* and *Iran* through *international mediation*. ## *2. Restrain US Involvement* Prevent *President Trump* from joining *Israel*'s military campaign against *Iran*. ## *3. International Pressure on Israel* *Global community* must *censure Israel* and demand end to *aggressive actions*. ## *4. Resume Nuclear Negotiations* Restart *Iran-US nuclear talks* that were disrupted by *Israeli interference*. ## *5. Deploy UN Peacekeepers* Station *United Nations peacekeeping forces* to monitor *regional de-escalation*. ## *6. Economic Sanctions on Israel* Impose *international sanctions* on *Israel* for *unprovoked aggression*. ## *7. European Mediation* *European allies* must pressure *Israel* to end *warmongering* activities. ## *8. Protect Iranian Sovereignty* *International community* must defend *Iran*'s right to *territorial integrity*. ## *9. Address Palestinian Issue* Resolve *Palestinian occupation* to remove *root cause* of *regional instability*. ## *10. Establish Regional Security Framework* Create *Middle Eastern security architecture* for *conflict prevention*. # *IMPORTANT Facts and Figures Given in the article*: - *Israel* launched *unprovoked attack* against *Iran* last week. - Military exchanges occurred across *hundreds of kilometers*. - *US* has moved more *military hardware* to the region. - *Trump* demanded *"unconditional surrender"* from *Iran*. - *Khamenei* stated *Iran* will not surrender on Wednesday. - Recent *G7 summit* held in *Canada*. - *G7* labeled *Iran* as *"principal source of regional instability and terror"*. # *IMPORTANT Facts and Figures out of the article*: - *Middle East* military spending reached *$200 billion* in *2024* (*SIPRI*, 2024). - *Iran*'s military budget is *$25 billion* vs *Israel*'s *$24 billion* (*Global Firepower*, 2024). - *US* has *40,000 troops* deployed in *Middle East* (*Pentagon*, 2024). - *Iran* has *500,000 active military personnel* (*IISS*, 2024). - *Israel* conducts *200+ airstrikes* annually in *region* (*UN*, 2024). - *Palestinian casualties* exceeded *45,000* in *2024* (*Gaza Health Ministry*, 2024). # *MCQs from the Article*: ### 1. *What triggered the current Middle East crisis according to the article?* A. Iranian nuclear program *B. Israel's unprovoked attack against Iran* C. US military deployment D. G7 summit decisions ### 2. *What did President Trump demand from Iran?* A. Nuclear disarmament *B. Unconditional surrender* C. Withdrawal from Syria D. Peace negotiations ### 3. *Where was the recent G7 summit held?* A. France B. Italy *C. Canada* D. Germany ### 4. *What did Ayatollah Khamenei reject according to the article?* A. Nuclear negotiations *B. Imposed war and imposed peace* C. International mediation D. Military assistance ### 5. *What does the editorial call Israel's actions in Palestinian territories?* A. Self-defense B. Counter-terrorism *C. Genocidal violence* D. Security operations # *VOCABULARY*: 1. *Hurtling* (تیزی سے بڑھنا) – Moving rapidly towards something 2. *Catastrophic* (تباہ کن) – Extremely damaging or destructive 3. *Unprovoked* (بلا اشتعال) – Without justification or cause 4. *Ferocity* (شدت) – Extreme fierceness or intensity 5. *Off-ramps* (نکلنے کے راستے) – Ways to exit a difficult situation 6. *De-escalation* (کشیدگی میں کمی) – Reduction in tension or conflict 7. *Behest* (حکم) – Command or urgent request 8. *Spanner in the works* (کام میں خلل) – Something that disrupts plans 9. *Warmongers* (جنگ بازی کرنے والے) – People who encourage war 10. *Recklessness* (لاپرواہی) – Lack of regard for consequences 11. *Sanctimonious* (ریاکارانہ) – Making a show of being morally superior 12. *Shibboleth* (پرانا نعرہ) – A widely held but outdated belief 13. *Doublespeak* (دوغلا پن) – Deliberately ambiguous language 14. *Mollycoddling* (لاڈ پیار) – Treating someone very indulgently 15. *Sovereignty* (خودمختاری) – Supreme power or authority 16. *Remorse* (پچھتاوا) – Deep regret or guilt 17. *Muzzled* (منہ بند کرنا) – Prevented from speaking or acting 18. *Existential* (وجودی) – Relating to existence or survival 19. *Imperial* (سامراجی) – Related to empire or domination 20. *Crusade* (مہم) – A vigorous campaign for a cause 📢 *Attention Please!* We appreciate your commitment to acquiring knowledge through our summaries. Please be reminded not to remove the attribution label affixed to this article. It is crucial to acknowledge the source and the effort invested in creating this summary. We discourage any unauthorized distribution without proper credit. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. 🔍 ⚡ *Explore More Summaries, Solutions, and Vocabulary Meanings* 💡 Join our WhatsApp Channel for timely and comprehensive summaries of the latest articles, along with well-crafted solutions and helpful vocabulary meanings. Click the link below to join now 🔗 [Dawn Article Summaries](https://cssmcqs.com/dawn-editorials-articles-summary-for-students-pdf-download/) *WhatsApp Channel Link*: [https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va7tT3o35fLnJeFbpS2y](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va7tT3o35fLnJeFbpS2y) --- *dawn.com* *Brewing catastrophe* *Editorial* *3–4 minutes* THE Middle East may be hurtling towards a catastrophic war not seen in decades, sparked by Israel's unprovoked attack against Iran last week. While the Israelis struck with great ferocity initially, Iran has fought back, causing major damage to Israeli cities. Yet despite the intense exchange of fire across hundreds of kilometres, neither side is ready to back down, and no off-ramps are visible for de-escalation. In fact, the threat of regional war has grown with signs that the US may get involved in attacking more Iranian nuclear facilities at Tel Aviv's behest. More American military hardware has been moved to the region while President Donald Trump has said he may or may not get involved militarily. He has demanded "unconditional surrender" from Iran, suggesting that the Iranian supreme leader could be targeted. In response, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said on Wednesday that Iran will reject "an imposed war" and "an imposed peace", and that his nation "will not surrender". This crisis is entirely of Israel's own making. Iran and the US were making satisfactory progress on the nuclear issue when Tel Aviv threw a spanner in the works. In fact, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other warmongers in Israel have dreamt of attacking Iran for decades; this was their golden opportunity. Israel's recklessness has brought the world to the edge of a disaster that could ignite the entire Middle East, and send shockwaves across the global economy. In a sanctimonious statement after the recent G7 summit in Canada, the grouping termed Iran as "the principal source of regional instability and terror", while mouthing the tired shibboleth about Israel's 'self-defence'. This is doublespeak at its finest. While Iran indeed has issues with many of its Arab neighbours, when it comes to state-backed terror, occupation of territory and the mass murder of civilians, Israel is in a class of its own. It is because of this mollycoddling by its Western patrons that Israel today feels it can violate the sovereignty of other states at will, while butchering the Palestinian people without remorse. The only way to stop the march towards an expanded war is for Tel Aviv to be muzzled immediately. If Mr Trump makes the mistake of plunging into the fight on Israel's behalf, the world will enter very dangerous territory. Iran may be no match for the US-Israel combine militarily, but it will defend itself vigorously in the face of an existential threat. Instead of launching another imperial regime change/nation-building crusade, the US and its European allies must prevail on Israel to end the war now. Washington must not join Tel Aviv's war party, while the global community must censure Israel for sowing chaos in the region, while unleashing genocidal violence in the occupied territories. *Published in Dawn, June 19th, 2025*

# *Detailed SUMMARY of the article "Taxman's powers of arrest" by Khurram Husain, Published in Dawn on June 19th, 2025:* The article examines the *Pakistani government's budget proposal* for *2025*, particularly focusing on controversial *tax enforcement measures* and the *Federal Board of Revenue (FBR)*'s expanded *powers of arrest*. The government seeks to raise *Rs600 billion* in incremental tax revenue, with *Rs400 billion* (*two-thirds*) coming from *enforcement measures* targeting already compliant taxpayers rather than broadening the tax base—a strategy the author calls a *"hit job"* rather than a proper plan. The *Finance Act 2025* modifies existing arrest powers under *Section 37A* of the *Sales Tax Act*, which were previously restricted by a *2013 Lahore High Court (LHC) judgment* by justices *Mansoor Ali Shah* and *Mamoon Rashid Sheikh*. The court ruled that *criminal prosecution* for tax fraud could only proceed after proper *tax assessment* under *Section 11* if the purpose included *tax recovery*, not just *deterrence*. The case involved *134 individuals* accused of running a *fake sales tax invoice racket* using *144 dummy suppliers*, causing *Rs7.5 billion* in state losses. The new *Finance Act 2025* introduces modified language allowing *Inland Revenue officers* to arrest individuals during investigations with *Commissioner approval* if they have *"reason to believe"* tax fraud occurred, potentially circumventing previous court-imposed restraints. The *Supreme Court* dismissed the *FBR's appeal* in *2024*, though detailed reasoning is pending. The article criticizes several regressive tax measures, including a *tax on solar panels* that disproportionately affects the poor and *off-grid users*, and the withdrawal of *tax rebates* for *school teachers* and *university professors*, despite government commitments to the *National Assembly's finance committee* in *May 2025* to preserve these rebates. The author argues that lawmakers are justified in scrutinizing these measures and should ensure constitutional protections, including the *right to fair trial*, are maintained in the new arrest powers framework. # *Easy/Short SUMMARY*: *Pakistan's 2025 budget* proposes *Rs600 billion* new taxes, with *Rs400 billion* from *enforcement* targeting compliant taxpayers. The *FBR* seeks expanded *arrest powers* despite *2013 court restrictions* requiring proper *tax assessment* before *criminal prosecution*. New measures include regressive *solar panel taxes* and *teacher rebate withdrawals*, prompting justified *parliamentary pushback* over constitutional concerns and *fair trial rights*. # *SOLUTIONS of The Problem*: ## *1. Broaden Tax Base* Focus on bringing *non-filers* into the tax net instead of squeezing existing *compliant taxpayers*. ## *2. Respect Court Guidelines* Ensure new *arrest powers* comply with *2013 LHC judgment* requiring *tax assessment* before *criminal proceedings*. ## *3. Protect Constitutional Rights* Maintain *fair trial* protections and judicial oversight for *tax-related arrests*. ## *4. Exempt Essential Services* Remove *solar panel taxes* for *off-grid* and *poor communities* to protect vulnerable populations. ## *5. Honor Government Commitments* Uphold the *May 2025* promise to maintain *tax rebates* for *teachers* and *professors*. ## *6. Strengthen Judicial Review* Require *special judge approval* within *24 hours* for all *tax-related arrests*. ## *7. Implement Progressive Taxation* Design tax measures that target *wealthy non-compliant* taxpayers rather than *middle-class professionals*. ## *8. Enhance Transparency* Publish clear guidelines on *tax enforcement* procedures and *arrest criteria*. ## *9. Parliamentary Oversight* Strengthen *National Assembly* and *Senate committee* scrutiny of *FBR powers*. ## *10. Focus on Tax Reform* Develop comprehensive *tax policy* rather than relying on *enforcement-heavy* revenue collection. # *IMPORTANT Facts and Figures Given in the article*: - Government seeks *Rs600 billion* in incremental tax revenue for *2025*. - *Rs400 billion* (*two-thirds*) will come from *enforcement measures*. - *2013 LHC judgment* involved *134 people* in *fake invoice case*. - *144 dummy suppliers* caused *Rs7.5 billion* loss to the state. - *Supreme Court* dismissed *FBR appeal* in *2024*. - *Finance Act 2025* modifies *Section 37A* of *Sales Tax Act*. - Government promised *National Assembly* in *May 2025* to preserve *teacher rebates*. # *IMPORTANT Facts and Figures out of the article*: - *Pakistan's tax-to-GDP ratio* is *10.1%*, among the lowest globally (*IMF*, 2024). - Only *3.2 million* people file tax returns in *Pakistan* (*FBR*, 2024). - *Solar panel imports* increased *400%* in *Pakistan* during *2023-24* (*NEPRA*, 2024). - *Teacher salaries* in *Pakistan* are *40%* below regional average (*UNESCO*, 2024). - *FBR* collected *Rs7.1 trillion* in *2023-24* (*Ministry of Finance*, 2024). - *Pakistan* has *220 million* population but only *1% pay income tax* (*World Bank*, 2024). # *MCQs from the Article*: ### 1. *How much incremental tax revenue does the government seek to raise?* A. Rs400 billion *B. Rs600 billion* C. Rs500 billion D. Rs700 billion ### 2. *What percentage of new revenue will come from enforcement measures?* A. Half *B. Two-thirds* C. Three-quarters D. One-third ### 3. *Which court issued the 2013 judgment on tax arrest powers?* A. Supreme Court *B. Lahore High Court* C. Islamabad High Court D. Sindh High Court ### 4. *How many people were involved in the fake invoice case?* A. 144 *B. 134* C. 124 D. 154 ### 5. *What was the total loss caused by dummy suppliers?* A. Rs6.5 billion *B. Rs7.5 billion* C. Rs8.5 billion D. Rs9.5 billion # *VOCABULARY*: 1. *Incremental* (اضافی) – Additional or increasing gradually 2. *Compliance* (تعمیل) – Acting in accordance with rules or laws 3. *Mobilisation* (متحرک کرنا) – Organizing resources for a particular purpose 4. *Pushback* (مخالفت) – Resistance or opposition to something 5. *Circumscribed* (محدود) – Restricted or limited in scope 6. *Quantum* (مقدار) – Amount or quantity 7. *Retribution* (سزا) – Punishment for wrongdoing 8. *Deterrence* (روک تھام) – Prevention through fear of consequences 9. *Grievous* (سنگین) – Serious or severe 10. *Rebate* (رعایت) – Partial refund or reduction 11. *Regressive* (رجعت پسند) – Becoming less advanced or fair 12. *Net-metering* (نیٹ میٹرنگ) – Billing mechanism for solar energy 13. *Off-users* (غیر صارفین) – People not using main grid electricity 14. *Underserved* (کم خدمات) – Inadequately provided with services 15. *Justifiable* (جائز) – Able to be shown to be right 16. *Clumped* (جمع) – Grouped together 17. *Irrespective* (قطع نظر) – Regardless of 18. *Allegedly* (مبینہ طور پر) – Said to be true but not proven 19. *Uphold* (برقرار رکھنا) – Maintain or support 20. *Fraud* (دھوکہ دہی) – Wrongful deception for financial gain 📢 *Attention Please!* We appreciate your commitment to acquiring knowledge through our summaries. Please be reminded not to remove the attribution label affixed to this article. It is crucial to acknowledge the source and the effort invested in creating this summary. We discourage any unauthorized distribution without proper credit. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. 🔍 ⚡ *Explore More Summaries, Solutions, and Vocabulary Meanings* 💡 Join our WhatsApp Channel for timely and comprehensive summaries of the latest articles, along with well-crafted solutions and helpful vocabulary meanings. Click the link below to join now 🔗 [Dawn Article Summaries](https://cssmcqs.com/dawn-editorials-articles-summary-for-students-pdf-download/) *WhatsApp Channel Link*: [https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va7tT3o35fLnJeFbpS2y](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va7tT3o35fLnJeFbpS2y) --- *www.dawn.com* *Taxman's powers of arrest* *Khurram Husain* *6–7 minutes* TODAY it will be the third day of a line-by-line deliberation over the budget in both the National Assembly and the Senate committees, and the revenue plan brought by the government is sparking a justifiable pushback by the lawmakers. Nobody likes taxes, so any plan to raise taxes anywhere will raise objections. But some objections carry more merit than others. In this budget, the government is seeking to raise incremental tax revenues of Rs600 billion via new measures, and the finance minister has proudly told us that Rs400bn of that will come from "enforcement measures". That's two-thirds of the new revenue mobilisation that is going to be squeezed out of those who are already compliant and paying their taxes. That's not a plan. That's a hit job. In response, the lawmakers have started questioning the powers the tax authorities are demanding. Chief among these are powers to arrest being given to the FBR. And herein lies an interesting story. To be fair, these powers always existed and the new Finance Act is only seeking to modify them. The real question is the nature of the modifications being sought. The earlier powers were contained in Section 37A of the Sales Tax Act. Back in 2013, the Lahore High Court (LHC), in a judgement authored by justices Mansoor Ali Shah and Mamoon Rashid Sheikh found that "Section 37A of the Sales Tax Act, 1990, could be employed to select or pick a taxpayer out of the pool of self-assessed taxpayers to undergo criminal prosecution without first carrying out an objective selection process of audit followed by assessment of tax under S. 11 of the Sales Tax Act, 1990". The legislators are right to look at how regressive the new tax measures are. That judgement was issued in a case in which 134 people had criminal prosecution opened against them on the charge of selling fake sales tax invoices against which people could claim input tax adjustment. The FBR claimed that these individuals ran a racket using 144 dummy suppliers that caused a loss of Rs7.5bn to the state. FIRs were cut, arrests were made. The tax authority also argued that "civil proceedings leading to assessment of tax and penalties followed by the recovery procedure under section 48 has not proved successful over the years" according to the judgement, and using criminal prosecution to deter such practices and enable proper tax recovery was essential. However, the court found a problem. If the purpose of the criminal proceedings is only to deter criminal behaviour, then the law is fine. But if the purpose includes recovery of dues, or imposition of a fine the amount of which is linked with the recovery of dues, then it is necessary to first determine the quantum of the tax due before criminal proceedings can be initiated. And that quantum must be determined in accordance with Section 11 of the Sales Tax Act which lays down the procedures through which assessment and recovery of tax evaded is to be computed. In the words of the judgement, the "civil and criminal proceedings can run independently and simultaneously or otherwise. The purpose and objective of criminalising tax fraud and tax evasion is retribution and deterrence which is achieved through punishment or fine or both. If the law, however, goes further and criminalises recovery of tax in addition to retribution and deterrence, then tax assessment has to take place first under the provisions of the Act." The 2025 Finance Act brings in new language however: "The officer of Inland Revenue, during the investigation, having reason to believe on the basis of evidence that actions of any person may have caused or attempted to cause tax fraud or any other offence warranting prosecution under this Act, may cause arrest of such person with prior approval of the Commissioner". The legislators should examine this language to see how it impacts the restraints the courts have demanded in the construct of these powers. Over the years, a number of other such cases surfaced, and a large number of them were clumped under a single appeal filed in the Supreme Court by the FBR. That appeal was dismissed quickly last year, though the longer order with detailed reasoning is still awaited. The courts had already interpreted the powers of arrest and overall criminalisation of tax recoveries after allegations of tax fraud. And they had circumscribed these powers. The tax authority had to first determine the quantum of tax allegedly defrauded, via the collection of material evidence in accordance with defined law. An individual thus arrested had to be produced within a day before a special judge, who could order release. But now these powers are being changed fundamentally, and the legislators should look to see how the restraints applied by the courts in the past will be maintained in the new wording, given that the LHC found that serious constitutional issues are at stake, including the right to a fair trial. The legislators are right to look at how regressive the new tax measures are. A tax on solar panels, for example, aims to collect tax primarily from those who are off-users of electricity since they are the largest buyers of solar panels. If this tax falls on net-metering consumers, or industry, then it's fine. But the poor, those underserved by the grid, should be protected. It is not clear how this will be possible since a full and final tax is usually collected at the import stage, irrespective of who the panels are sold on to. The most grievous of the tax measures include the withdrawal of a rebate for school teachers and university professors. This is coming up for discussion in the committees soon, and committee members should stand firm that this cannot be withdrawn. A commitment had already been given by the government to the National Assembly's finance committee in a hearing at the end of May that this rebate will not be withdrawn. That commitment must be upheld. The writer is a business and economy journalist. Published in Dawn, June 19th, 2025

# *Detailed SUMMARY of the article "Climate economy survey" by Ali Tauqeer Sheikh, Published in Dawn on June 19th, 2025:* The article critiques the *Pakistan Economic Survey 2024-25* for failing to address the nation's most pressing existential challenge: *climate change*. Despite Pakistan being among the world's most *climate-vulnerable* and *least-prepared countries*, facing threats that could reduce *GDP by 20%* by *2050*, the Survey treats *climate change* as a peripheral concern rather than the central organizing principle of economic policy. The author argues that the Survey should be a *'Barometer of change'* and integrate *climate considerations* across all *17 chapters* instead of having a stand-alone *Chapter 17* on climate. The current framework represents *climate-blind economic analysis* by isolating climate change as a separate section detached from primary economic analysis, rendering the Survey's conclusions unreliable for long-term planning. While documenting *GDP growth of 2.68%* and fiscal improvements, it ignores that the *2022 floods* costing *$30 billion* exceeded the entire annual development budget by *five to six times*. The Survey's treatment of *agriculture* illustrates this climate blindness, reporting major declines of *cotton*, *wheat*, and *maize* as statistical anomalies rather than manifestations of climate vulnerability. The author identifies multiple *climate integration deficiencies* across chapters: *'Growth and Investment'* lacks climate-adjusted GDP calculations; *'Agriculture'* excludes climate variables like temperature, precipitation, and glacial melt trends; *'Manufacturing and mining'* lacks industrial climate risk assessment; *'Fiscal development'* excludes climate budget analyses despite implementing a *climate budget tagging system* across *5,000 federal cost centres*; *'Energy'* lacks restructuring around renewable energy development; *'Trade and payments'* lacks analysis of export vulnerability to climate policies; *'Population, Labour Force and Employment'* excludes women's vulnerability to climate impacts; *'Health and nutrition'* lacks climate health impact assessment; and *'Social protection'* lacks climate vulnerability assessment for existing programmes. The exclusion of climate considerations reflects institutional capacity gaps. The author proposes *enhanced climate integration* to eliminate artificial separation between environmental and economic analyses, requiring standardized risk assessment methodologies and impact quantification protocols across government departments. The Survey is released too late to inform the annual finance bill debate and suffers from persistent data reliability issues, particularly provisional agricultural estimates published before harvest completion. The author suggests releasing the Survey on a *quarterly basis* with enhanced data collection infrastructure integrating climate monitoring with economic analyses to transform it from a retrospective document into a dynamic policy tool for evidence-based climate governance. # *Easy/Short SUMMARY*: The *Pakistan Economic Survey 2024-25* fails to integrate *climate change* considerations across its *17 chapters*, treating it as peripheral despite Pakistan being highly *climate-vulnerable* with potential *20% GDP reduction* by *2050*. The *2022 floods* cost *$30 billion*, exceeding the development budget by *5-6 times*, yet climate remains marginalized. The Survey exhibits *climate-blind analysis* in agriculture, manufacturing, energy, trade, and social sectors. The author proposes transforming the Survey into a *climate-integrated* document with *quarterly releases* and real-time monitoring to serve as a foundation for evidence-based climate governance rather than treating climate as an isolated *Chapter 17* issue. # *SOLUTIONS of The Problem*: ## *1. Integrate Climate Across All Chapters* Embed *climate considerations* in all *17 chapters* instead of isolating them in a separate climate chapter. ## *2. Develop Climate-Adjusted GDP Metrics* Create *climate-adjusted GDP calculations* that account for climate damage and resilience investment needs. ## *3. Implement Real-Time Climate Monitoring* Establish enhanced *data collection infrastructure* integrating climate monitoring with economic analyses. ## *4. Create Climate Budget Framework* Expand the existing *climate budget tagging system* across all government departments and analyze effectiveness. ## *5. Establish Climate Risk Assessment* Develop standardized *climate risk assessment methodologies* for all sectors and infrastructure projects. ## *6. Release Quarterly Climate-Economy Reports* Transform the Survey from annual to *quarterly releases* for timely policy guidance. ## *7. Integrate Climate-Agriculture Analysis* Include *temperature*, *precipitation*, and *glacial melt trends* in agricultural sector analysis. ## *8. Assess Industrial Climate Vulnerabilities* Conduct comprehensive *industrial climate risk assessments* including supply chain vulnerabilities. ## *9. Develop Climate-Health Integration* Create *climate health impact assessments* and early warning systems for disease surveillance. ## *10. Build Climate-Social Protection Links* Integrate *climate vulnerability assessments* into social protection programme design and targeting. # *IMPORTANT Facts and Figures Given in the article*: - Pakistan faces potential *GDP reduction of 20%* by *2050* due to climate change. - *Pakistan Economic Survey 2024-25* documented *GDP growth of 2.68%*. - *2022 floods* cost *$30 billion*, exceeding annual development budget by *5-6 times*. - Survey has *17 chapters* with climate change isolated in *Chapter 17*. - Government implements *climate budget tagging system* across *5,000 federal cost centres*. - Major declines reported in *cotton*, *wheat*, and *maize* production. # *IMPORTANT Facts and Figures out of the article*: - Pakistan ranks *8th* among most climate-vulnerable countries globally (*Climate Risk Index*, 2024). - *Indus River* flow may decrease by *30-40%* by *2050* (*World Bank*, 2024). - Climate change could affect *43 million* people in Pakistan by *2050* (*UNDP*, 2024). - Pakistan's *climate finance gap* is estimated at *$7-14 billion* annually (*Green Climate Fund*, 2024). - *Agricultural sector* contributes *22.9%* to GDP and employs *37.4%* of workforce (*PBS*, 2024). - Pakistan emits only *0.9%* of global greenhouse gases (*UNFCCC*, 2024). # *MCQs from the Article*: ### 1. *What percentage of GDP could climate change reduce by 2050?* A. 15% *B. 20%* C. 25% D. 30% ### 2. *How much did the 2022 floods cost Pakistan?* A. $20 billion *B. $30 billion* C. $40 billion D. $50 billion ### 3. *In which chapter is climate change currently isolated in the Survey?* A. Chapter 15 *B. Chapter 17* C. Chapter 16 D. Chapter 18 ### 4. *How many federal cost centres have climate budget tagging system?* A. 3,000 *B. 5,000* C. 7,000 D. 10,000 ### 5. *What GDP growth rate did the Survey document for 2024-25?* A. 2.58% *B. 2.68%* C. 2.78% D. 2.88% # *VOCABULARY*: 1. *Existential* (وجودی) – Relating to existence or survival 2. *Vulnerable* (کمزور) – Susceptible to harm or damage 3. *Peripheral* (حاشیہ پر) – On the edge or margin; not central 4. *Paradigm* (نمونہ) – A typical example or pattern 5. *Barometer* (پیمائشی آلہ) – An instrument for measuring; indicator 6. *Manifestations* (مظاہر) – Signs or evidence of something 7. *Econometrics* (اقتصادی پیمائش) – Statistical analysis of economic data 8. *Multiplier* (ضارب) – Factor that amplifies an effect 9. *Resilience* (لچک) – Ability to recover from difficulties 10. *Liabilities* (ذمہ داریاں) – Debts or obligations 11. *Hydrological* (آب شناسی) – Related to water systems 12. *Taxonomy* (درجہ بندی) – Classification system 13. *Surveillance* (نگرانی) – Close observation or monitoring 14. *Provisional* (عارضی) – Temporary or preliminary 15. *Retrospective* (ماضی کی طرف) – Looking back at past events 16. *Dynamic* (متحرک) – Constantly changing or active 17. *Infrastructure* (بنیادی ڈھانچہ) – Basic physical structures 18. *Protocols* (طریقہ کار) – Formal procedures or rules 19. *Institutional* (ادارہ جاتی) – Related to institutions or organizations 20. *Integration* (انضمام) – Combining parts into a whole 📢 *Attention Please!* We appreciate your commitment to acquiring knowledge through our summaries. Please be reminded not to remove the attribution label affixed to this article. It is crucial to acknowledge the source and the effort invested in creating this summary. We discourage any unauthorized distribution without proper credit. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. 🔍 ⚡ *Explore More Summaries, Solutions, and Vocabulary Meanings* 💡 Join our WhatsApp Channel for timely and comprehensive summaries of the latest articles, along with well-crafted solutions and helpful vocabulary meanings. Click the link below to join now 🔗 [Dawn Article Summaries](https://cssmcqs.com/dawn-editorials-articles-summary-for-students-pdf-download/) *WhatsApp Channel Link*: [https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va7tT3o35fLnJeFbpS2y](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va7tT3o35fLnJeFbpS2y) --- *www.dawn.com* *Climate economy survey* *Ali Tauqeer Sheikh* *7–9 minutes* THE Pakistan Economic Survey 2024-25 has failed to address our most pressing existential challenge: climate change. Despite this nation's inclusion among the world's most climate-vulnerable and least-prepared countries, and one that is facing threats that could reduce GDP by 20 per cent by 2050, the Survey treats climate change as a peripheral concern rather than the central organising principle of economic policy. I have argued previously on these pages that the Survey can be a 'Barometer of change' and integrate climate considerations across all 17 chapters instead of having a stand-alone chapter on the climate. This transformation would represent a paradigm shift towards climate-informed economic governance. Climate-blind economic analysis: The current framework isolates climate change in Chapter 17 as a separate section detached from primary economic analysis, rendering the Survey's conclusions unreliable for long-term planning. The Survey exemplifies the dangerous disconnect between economic analysis and climate reality. While documenting a GDP growth of 2.68pc and fiscal improvements, it ignores that the 2022 floods costing $30 billion exceeded our entire annual development budget by five to six times, yet climate considerations remain marginal. Its treatment of agriculture illustrates this climate blindness, reporting major declines of cotton, wheat and maize as statistical anomalies rather than manifestations of climate vulnerability. This analytical failure prevents policymakers from understanding the fact that traditional econometrics become meaningless when climatic stability assumptions no longer hold. Climate integration can eliminate the separation between environmental and economic analyses. Climate integration deficiencies: The Survey excludes climate analyses across all chapters, reducing its utility for evidence-based policymaking. The current structure does not treat climate change as an economic multiplier affecting all sectors. The 'Growth and Investment' chapter lacks climate-adjusted GDP calculations that account for climate-triggered damage and resilience investment needs. Traditional growth metrics fail to distinguish between growth that builds long-term resilience versus growth that creates climate liabilities. Investment analyses exclude climate risk assessment for major infrastructure projects, with climate-proofing costs absent from evaluation criteria. Incorporating climate-resilient investment frameworks would provide more accurate assessments. 'Agriculture' excludes the integration of climate variables including temperature, precipitation and glacial melt trends on irrigation water availability. The Indus basin irrigation system is facing rapid disruption from hydrological changes that receive inadequate monitoring. Crop yield analyses do not incorporate climate projections for assessing food security implications. Future surveys should address these gaps. 'Manufacturing and mining' lacks industrial climate risk assessment covering supply chain vulnerabilities and adaptation costs for industrial infrastructure. Export competitiveness analyses exclude looming carbon border mechanisms, and green technology adoption needs. The industrial productivity analysis does not incorporate climate-related disruptions, including yearly heatwaves. Including these components would improve industrial policy relevance. 'Fiscal development' excludes climate budget analyses despite the government implementing a climate budget tagging system across 5,000 federal cost centres, mentioned only superficially in the climate chapter. It lacks green taxonomy frameworks and provides no evaluation of climate-informed taxation effectiveness in promoting adaptation investments. Disaster risk financing mechanisms are inadequately analysed. Public debt sustainability narrative excludes climate stress scenarios, limiting fiscal policy effectiveness. The chapter on 'Energy' lacks restructuring around renewable energy development and grid modernisation analyses and overlooks hydro energy security considerations under changing climate scenarios. Carbon footprint assessment and reduction strategies to meet NDC commitments receive inadequate analysis. Comprehensive energy-climate analyses can enhance policy relevance. 'Trade and payments' lacks analysis of export vulnerability to climate policies and excludes identification of climate-resilient value chain development opportunities. Green trade and sustainable export possibilities are not evaluated for enhancing our competitive position in carbon-constrained global markets. 'Population, Labour Force and Employment' excludes women's vulnerability to climate impacts and green economy opportunities, climate-induced migration patterns and labour market impact analyses. The gender dimensions of climate change and economic participation are not assessed. Youth employment in climate sectors receives no serious analysis. Addressing employment-climate linkages can enhance labour policy effectiveness. 'Health and nutrition' lacks a climate health impact assessment and excludes an analysis of disease surveillance and climate-health early warning systems effectiveness. Nutrition security under climate stress receives inadequate evaluation. Healthcare system resilience and emergency preparedness capabilities remain unassessed. Health-climate integration could improve public health policy formulation. 'Social protection' lacks a climate vulnerability assessment for existing programmes while excluding an analysis of programme effectiveness in building household resilience to climate shocks. Targeting mechanisms are not evaluated for reaching climate-vulnerable populations. Programme design modifications to address climate-induced poverty have invited no analysis. Climate-social protection integration can enhance programme effectiveness. The exclusion of climate considerations across the Survey reflects institutional capacity gaps. Climate integration can eliminate the artificial separation between environmental and economic analyses while providing a comprehensive assessment of climate-economy interactions. Climate integration requires standardised risk assessment methodologies and impact quantification protocols across government departments. Enhanced climate integration: The Survey is released too late to inform the debate on the annual finance bill. Its persistent data reliability issues, particularly provisional agricultural estimates published before harvest completion, exemplify the need for real-time climate monitoring capabilities. Ideally, the Survey should be released on a quarterly basis. Enhanced data collection infrastructure integrating climate monitoring with economic analyses can transform the Survey from a retrospective document into a dynamic policy tool. Such a transformation will represent an essential evolution for a nation facing existential climate threats, positioning Pakistan's flagship publication as a foundation for evidence-based climate governance. The writer is a climate change and sustainable development expert. Published in Dawn, June 19th, 2025

"" "" # *Detailed SUMMARY of the article "Pension bill" by Editorial, Published in Dawn on June 19th, 2025:* The article highlights *Pakistan*'s critical *pension crisis*, where the *federal government*'s annual *pension burden* now exceeds its *fiscal space* for *national development*. The government spends more on *retired civil servants* and *armed forces personnel* than on *physical infrastructure*, *social development*, *basic services*, and *public utilities*. *Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb* described this as a *"fundamental question of macroeconomic sustainability"* and emphasized the need to *"stop the bleeding"*. The government introduced the *Defined Contribution Pension Scheme* at the start of the current *fiscal year* and banned *double-dipping* (drawing both *salaries* and *pensions*) for *rehired ex-civil servants* in *April*. However, *armed forces personnel* remain exempt from both reforms, despite their *pensions* accounting for *three-fourths* of the total *pension bill*. The *contributory pension scheme* for *armed forces* was supposed to begin in *July* but has been *delayed without explanation*. *Military personnel* retire at *earlier ages* than *civil servants*, meaning they draw *pensions* for *longer periods* while often finding *gainful employment elsewhere*. The *finance minister* acknowledged this *significant burden* on the *federal budget* during a *Senate Standing Committee* meeting. The article criticizes that *pension reforms* only apply to *new hires* rather than existing pensioners, limiting their effectiveness. Additionally, there are *discrepancies* between the *finance minister*'s statements about *tax exemptions* for *pensioners above 70* and the actual provisions in the *Finance Bill 2025*. The editorial calls for *clarity* and *comprehensive reforms* to address the *pension crisis* that threatens *Pakistan*'s *economic growth* and *development prospects*. # *Easy/Short SUMMARY*: *Pakistan*'s *pension bill* exceeds *national development spending*, creating a *fiscal crisis*. *Finance Minister Aurangzeb* introduced *pension reforms* including *Defined Contribution Scheme* and *double-dipping* ban for *civil servants*. However, *armed forces personnel* (accounting for *75%* of pension costs) remain exempt despite *early retirement* and *longer pension periods*. Reforms only apply to *new hires*, and *discrepancies* exist in *Finance Bill 2025* regarding *tax exemptions*. # *SOLUTIONS of The Problem*: ## *1. Apply Reforms to Armed Forces* Implement *contributory pension scheme* for *military personnel* without further delays. ## *2. Extend Reforms to Existing Pensioners* Apply *pension reforms* to current retirees, not just *new hires*. ## *3. Standardize Retirement Ages* Align *military retirement age* with *civil service* to reduce *pension duration*. ## *4. Means Testing for Pensions* Assess *financial need* before paying pensions to *employed retirees*. ## *5. Clarify Finance Bill Provisions* Resolve *discrepancies* between *ministerial statements* and *Finance Bill 2025*. ## *6. Gradual Implementation* Phase in *pension reforms* over time to minimize *resistance* and *disruption*. ## *7. Increase Retirement Age* Raise *retirement age* across all sectors to reduce *pension burden*. ## *8. Cap Maximum Pensions* Set *upper limits* on *pension amounts* to control *fiscal costs*. ## *9. Alternative Investment Options* Provide *voluntary pension schemes* with *private sector* participation. ## *10. Regular Pension Audits* Conduct *annual reviews* of *pension eligibility* and *payment accuracy*. # *IMPORTANT Facts and Figures Given in the article*: - *Federal government*'s *pension burden* exceeds *fiscal space* for *national development*. - *Armed forces pensions* account for *three-fourths* of total *pension bill*. - *Defined Contribution Pension Scheme* took effect at start of current *fiscal year*. - *Double-dipping* ban implemented in *April 2025*. - *Contributory pension scheme* for *armed forces* was scheduled for *July 2025*. - *Military personnel* retire at *earlier ages* than *civil servants*. - *Finance Bill 2025* contains *discrepancies* regarding *tax exemptions*. # *IMPORTANT Facts and Figures out of the article*: - *Pakistan*'s *pension liability* is approximately *Rs. 8 trillion* (*Ministry of Finance*, 2024). - *Pension payments* consume *2.5%* of *GDP* annually (*World Bank*, 2024). - *Average military retirement age* is *45-50 years* vs *60 years* for *civil servants* (*PILDAT*, 2024). - *Pakistan* spends *3.2%* of budget on *pensions* vs *2.1%* on *development* (*IMF*, 2024). - *Pension costs* increased *400%* over last *decade* (*State Bank of Pakistan*, 2024). - *OECD average* for *pension spending* is *7.7%* of *GDP* (*OECD*, 2024). # *MCQs from the Article*: ### 1. *What portion of the pension bill do armed forces account for?* A. Half B. Two-thirds *C. Three-fourths* D. Four-fifths ### 2. *When was the double-dipping ban implemented?* A. March 2025 *B. April 2025* C. May 2025 D. June 2025 ### 3. *Who described pension reforms as a "fundamental question of macroeconomic sustainability"?* A. Prime Minister *B. Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb* C. Senate Chairman D. Planning Minister ### 4. *When was the contributory pension scheme for armed forces supposed to begin?* A. June 2025 *B. July 2025* C. August 2025 D. September 2025 ### 5. *What age group did the finance minister mention for pension tax exemption?* A. Above 65 B. Above 68 *C. Above 70* D. Above 75 # *VOCABULARY*: 1. *Conundrum* (پیچیدہ مسئلہ) – A difficult problem with no clear solution 2. *Fiscal space* (مالی گنجائش) – Government's budgetary capacity for spending 3. *Tangible* (ٹھوس) – Clear and definite; real and concrete 4. *Macroeconomic* (کلان اقتصادی) – Relating to the overall economy 5. *Sustainability* (پائیداری) – Ability to maintain over time 6. *Contributory* (شراکتی) – Involving contributions from participants 7. *Double-dipping* (دوہرا فائدہ) – Receiving two benefits simultaneously 8. *Notification* (اطلاع) – Official announcement or order 9. *Gainful* (منافع بخش) – Profitable or beneficial employment 10. *Extensively* (وسیع پیمانے پر) – Over a wide area or range 11. *Exempted* (مستثنیٰ) – Freed from an obligation or requirement 12. *Defects* (خرابیاں) – Faults or imperfections 13. *Provisions* (شقوں) – Clauses or terms in legal documents 14. *Burden* (بوجھ) – Heavy load or responsibility 15. *Infrastructure* (بنیادی ڈھانچہ) – Basic physical structures and facilities 16. *Uplift* (بہتری) – Improvement or development 17. *Prospects* (امکانات) – Chances or possibilities for success 18. *Tightening noose* (تنگ ہوتا پھندا) – Increasingly restrictive situation 19. *Hurdles* (رکاوٹیں) – Obstacles or barriers 20. *Clarity* (وضاحت) – Clear and precise explanation 📢 *Attention Please!* We appreciate your commitment to acquiring knowledge through our summaries. Please be reminded not to remove the attribution label affixed to this article. It is crucial to acknowledge the source and the effort invested in creating this summary. We discourage any unauthorized distribution without proper credit. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. 🔍 ⚡ *Explore More Summaries, Solutions, and Vocabulary Meanings* 💡 Join our WhatsApp Channel for timely and comprehensive summaries of the latest articles, along with well-crafted solutions and helpful vocabulary meanings. Click the link below to join now 🔗 [Dawn Article Summaries](https://cssmcqs.com/dawn-editorials-articles-summary-for-students-pdf-download/) *WhatsApp Channel Link*: [https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va7tT3o35fLnJeFbpS2y](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va7tT3o35fLnJeFbpS2y) --- *dawn.com* *Pension bill* *Editorial* *~3 minutes* IT is, indeed, a worrying conundrum. The federal government's annual pension burden now exceeds its fiscal space for national development. In other words, Pakistan is paying out more to retired civil servants and armed forces personnel than it is spending on developing its physical and social infrastructure, basic services and public utilities. Pensions have become a tightening noose around our prospects for economic growth, human development and social uplift, which is why, after many years, we are finally seeing tangible measures to contain the pension bill. "We had to stop the bleeding," Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb explained at a seminar on Tuesday as he spoke about the new Defined Contribution Pension Scheme that took effect at the start of the outgoing fiscal year. He seemed clear about the urgency for reforms, describing them as a "fundamental question of macroeconomic sustainability". In April, the government had also put an end to ex-civil servants drawing both salaries and pensions in case they were rehired after retirement. However, some key hurdles remain. The contributory pension scheme and rules preventing 'double-dipping' still do not apply to retired armed forces personnel, whose pensions account for around three-fourths of the total bill. Despite an earlier notification stating that the contributory pension scheme would apply to armed forces personnel from July this year, the measure has been delayed without explanation. Many armed forces personnel also retire at an earlier age than civil servants, meaning they draw pensions for a much longer period of their life. As pointed out by the finance minister last Saturday to the Senate Standing Committee on Finance, this represents a significant burden on the federal budget. Such retirees can often find gainful employment elsewhere, yet the government continues to pay out pensions without assessing their need. It is also questionable why the introduced pension reforms have not been made applicable more extensively instead of just on new hires. Surely, better results could be expected if more pensioners were subject to them. Similarly, defects have been pointed out in the latest steps regarding pensions. For example, though Mr Aurangzeb in his speech exempted pensioners above the age of 70 from being taxed on large pensions, it has been pointed out that the Finance Bill 2025 provides for no such exemption. The finance minister must address these points with clarity. *Published in Dawn, June 19th, 2025*

Let me share my some personal experience with you all. I was once sitting an exam when the examiner came over to check for cheating. With a calm smile, I said, *'If you find even a hint of cheating, feel free to cancel my paper.'* He smirked and replied, *'Aren’t you a bit too confident?'* I leaned in and whispered, *'I’m more than that.'* Actually when you prepare for CSS, every other exam in Pakistan becomes a warm-up round. That’s what happens when you’ve been through CSS prep sincerely then every other exam feels like child’s play. I’ve already completed three Master’s degrees, and trust me, if you make me sit in any university exam today, I won’t fail. Now I'm eyeing my fourth degree… maybe even an MPhil this time. Because when your fiancée already has her MPhil. the competition becomes personal. 😎🎯 Time to rise beyond that too. 😉

Hey, *do We Have Any Future CSP Here?* 🎓✍️

"" "" # *Detailed SUMMARY of the article "TB after Global Fund" by Naseem Salahuddin, Published in Dawn on June 19th, 2025:* The article examines *Pakistan*'s critical *tuberculosis (TB)* crisis, ranking *fifth globally* after *India*, *China*, *Indonesia*, and the *Philippines*. *Pakistan* faces a severe *infectious disease* burden including *hepatitis*, *HIV/AIDS*, *malaria*, *dengue*, and various preventable diseases, with *TB* being the deadliest. At *Indus Hospital Karachi*'s TB clinic, patient numbers have *tripled over 12 years*, with *100+ daily visits* and complications including *meningitis*, *perforated intestines*, and *adrenal crisis*. *One in four* outpatients has *TB* affecting multiple organs. Random screening revealed *10%* of minimally symptomatic patients had *TB*, including *drug-resistant cases*. The *health ministry* reported a massive increase from *11,050 cases in 2002* to *608,000 in 2024*, with *1,500 drug-resistant cases*. The *National TB Programme (NTP)*, supported by the *Global Fund (GF)*, provides free treatment through *1,500 facilities* nationwide. *Eighty-two percent* of *NTP*'s budget comes from *GF*, primarily funded by *USAID*. *India* supplies *sensitive TB drugs*, while *resistant TB medications* and *diagnostics* from *Japan/Europe* are *prohibitively expensive*. Experts like *Dr. G.N. Kazi* and *Dr. Shifa Habib* warn of *America*'s potential foreign aid cuts threatening *TB*, *AIDS*, and *malaria programs*. The article emphasizes *Pakistan*'s overdependence on *donor funding*, noting that *three local pharmaceutical companies* ceased *TB drug production* due to *GF competition*. It advocates for *domestic financing*, *local manufacturing* of *first-line drugs*, and warns that without access to *diagnostics* and *medicines*, *drug-resistant TB* will become *untreatable*, affecting both *rich and poor*. # *Easy/Short SUMMARY*: *Pakistan* ranks *5th globally* in *TB cases* with *608,000 new cases in 2024*. *Indus Hospital* sees *100+ daily TB patients* with severe complications. *82%* of *National TB Programme* budget depends on *Global Fund* (*USAID*-funded). Experts warn of *foreign aid cuts* threatening *TB control*. *Pakistan* needs *domestic financing* and *local drug manufacturing* to reduce *donor dependency* and prevent *untreatable drug-resistant TB*. # *SOLUTIONS of The Problem*: ## *1. Increase Domestic Financing* Reduce *82%* dependency on *Global Fund* by increasing *government healthcare budget* allocation. ## *2. Develop Local Manufacturing* Establish *domestic pharmaceutical production* of *first-line TB drugs* to reduce import dependency. ## *3. Strengthen Healthcare Infrastructure* Expand *TB treatment facilities* beyond current *1,500 centers* to improve access. ## *4. Improve Living Conditions* Address *overcrowding*, *poor ventilation*, and *malnutrition* that fuel *TB transmission*. ## *5. Enhanced Screening Programs* Implement *mass screening* in *schools*, *factories*, *restaurants*, and *healthcare facilities*. ## *6. Combat Drug Resistance* Invest in *second-line TB drugs* and *advanced diagnostics* for *drug-resistant cases*. ## *7. Nutrition Programs* Launch *malnutrition prevention* initiatives to strengthen *immune systems* against *TB*. ## *8. Healthcare Worker Protection* Provide *proper ventilation* and *protective equipment* for *healthcare workers*. ## *9. Public Awareness Campaigns* Educate communities about *TB symptoms*, *transmission*, and *treatment compliance*. ## *10. International Partnerships* Diversify *funding sources* beyond *USAID* to ensure *sustainable TB control*. # *IMPORTANT Facts and Figures Given in the article*: - *Pakistan* ranks *5th globally* in *TB cases* after *India*, *China*, *Indonesia*, *Philippines*. - *TB patients* at *Indus Hospital* have *tripled over 12 years*. - *100+* new and follow-up *TB patients* visit daily at *TB clinic*. - *One in four* outpatients has *TB* affecting multiple organs. - *10%* of randomly screened patients diagnosed with *TB*. - *TB cases* increased from *11,050 in 2002* to *608,000 in 2024*. - *1,500 drug-resistant TB cases* reported in *2024*. - *National TB Programme* operates through *1,500 facilities*. - *82%* of *NTP budget* funded by *Global Fund*. # *IMPORTANT Facts and Figures out of the article*: - *WHO* estimates *Pakistan* has *610,000 TB cases* annually (*WHO Global TB Report*, 2024). - *TB* causes *70,000 deaths* annually in *Pakistan* (*WHO*, 2024). - *Drug-resistant TB* treatment costs *$10,000-15,000* per patient (*MSF*, 2024). - *Pakistan*'s *TB mortality rate* is *40 per 100,000* population (*WHO*, 2024). - *Global Fund* provided *$180 million* to *Pakistan* for *TB* (2020-2023). - *USAID* contributes *33%* of *Global Fund* total budget (*Global Fund*, 2024). # *MCQs from the Article*: ### 1. *What is Pakistan's global ranking in TB cases?* A. Third B. Fourth *C. Fifth* D. Sixth ### 2. *How much of NTP's budget is funded by Global Fund?* A. 75% B. 80% *C. 82%* D. 85% ### 3. *How many TB cases were reported in Pakistan in 2024?* A. 500,000 *B. 608,000* C. 650,000 D. 700,000 ### 4. *Which country primarily supplies TB drugs to Pakistan?* *A. India* B. China C. Japan D. USA ### 5. *How many facilities does the National TB Programme operate through?* A. 1,200 B. 1,300 *C. 1,500* D. 1,800 # *VOCABULARY*: 1. *Cauldron* (کڑاہی) – A large container; metaphorically, a place of intense activity 2. *Zoonotic* (حیوانی) – Diseases transmitted from animals to humans 3. *Corroborates* (تصدیق کرتا ہے) – Confirms or supports with evidence 4. *Abject* (انتہائی) – Extremely bad or severe 5. *Paucity* (کمی) – Scarcity or lack of something 6. *Procurement* (خریداری) – The process of obtaining goods or services 7. *Prohibitively* (ممنوع حد تک) – So expensive as to prevent purchase 8. *Seismic* (زلزلہ خیز) – Having a very great effect; earthquake-related 9. *Impending* (آنے والا) – About to happen; approaching 10. *Depletion* (ختم ہونا) – Reduction in the quantity of something 11. *Dire* (خطرناک) – Extremely serious or urgent 12. *Inevitable* (ناگزیر) – Certain to happen; unavoidable 13. *Prudent* (دانشمندانہ) – Acting with care and thought for the future 14. *Transmissible* (منتقل کرنے والا) – Capable of being transmitted 15. *Wracked* (تباہ) – Severely damaged or affected 16. *Frail* (کمزور) – Weak and delicate 17. *Vulnerability* (کمزوری) – The state of being exposed to harm 18. *Mitigating* (کم کرنا) – Making less severe or serious 19. *Incidence* (واقعات) – The occurrence or rate of occurrence 20. *Diagnostics* (تشخیص) – The practice of identifying diseases 📢 *Attention Please!* We appreciate your commitment to acquiring knowledge through our summaries. Please be reminded not to remove the attribution label affixed to this article. It is crucial to acknowledge the source and the effort invested in creating this summary. We discourage any unauthorized distribution without proper credit. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. 🔍 ⚡ *Explore More Summaries, Solutions, and Vocabulary Meanings* 💡 Join our WhatsApp Channel for timely and comprehensive summaries of the latest articles, along with well-crafted solutions and helpful vocabulary meanings. Click the link below to join now 🔗 [Dawn Article Summaries](https://cssmcqs.com/dawn-editorials-articles-summary-for-students-pdf-download/) *WhatsApp Channel Link*: [https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va7tT3o35fLnJeFbpS2y](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va7tT3o35fLnJeFbpS2y) --- *www.dawn.com* *TB after Global Fund* *Naseem Salahuddin* *5–6 minutes* PAKISTAN is a cauldron of infectious diseases, including a wide range of hepatitis, HIV/AIDS, malaria, dengue, chikungunya, diarrhoea and dysentery, as well as older diseases like rabies and various zoo­notic illnesses, all of which could be prevented with effective local governance. No disease inflicts more suffering and death than tuberculosis (TB). We rank fifth globally, trailing only India, China, Indonesia and the Philippines, primarily due to poverty, overcrowding and malnutrition. At the daily TB clinic in Indus Hospital, Karachi, the number of patients diagnosed with TB has tripled over the past 12 years. Patients of all ages arrive with severe complications of TB, including meningitis, perforated intestines, adrenal crisis and sho­ck. One in four patients in a routine medical outpatient clinic has TB affecting the lungs and glands of the neck, breast, skin, bones, joints, kidneys, ovaries and uterus. At the purpose-built TB clinic, over 100 new patients and those seeking follow-up care visit daily. Apparently healthy individuals in the outpatient waiting area were randomly screened for symptoms such as fever, persistent cough or weight loss. Ten per cent of those with minimal sy­­­m­ptoms were diagnosed with TB, incl­uding one with drug-resistant TB. Among those randomly tested, three girls from a government school were found to have TB, and we are now conducting contact screening for all students and teachers. Many of our patients with TB who work in factories, restaurants, banks or schools, or are children studying in schools or madressahs, breathe the same air for hours in unventilated spaces. One infected person coughing up TB bacteria will transmit it to many. More alarmingly, several healthcare workers have contracted TB. Indi­viduals with few or mixed symptoms who remain undiagnosed and hence untreated spread the disease in communities. On World TB Day in March 2024, the he­­alth ministry announced grim statistics: newly notified cases increased from 11,050 in 2002 to 608,000 in 2024, with 1,500 being resistant to conventional drugs. This escalation corroborates our experience. Are we prepared for the challenge? As Pakistan's population explodes, living space diminishes, forcing large families to crowd into poorly ventilated spaces. Nutritious meals are out of reach for most. TB does not spare children — the frail bodies of infants and adolescents are wracked by it. Rising diabetes, malnutrition and HIV/AIDS weaken immunity, rendering them more vulnerable to TB; abject poverty and paucity of funds present enormous challenges to TB control. The National TB Programme, supported by the Global Fund, provides free treatment services through 1,500 facilities across Pakistan via provincial TB programmes, guaranteeing access to trained personnel, diagnostics and treatment. GF is primarily funded by USAID, while contributions from other countries and private donors are relatively small. Eighty-two per cent of the NTP's budget is funded by GF, with the remainder expected to come from Pakistan. GF procures anti-TB drugs and diagnostics from countries that comply with good manufacturing practices and meet global standards. India is the world's third largest pharmaceutical producer, primarily supplying drugs for sensitive TB. Drugs for resistant TB are prohibitively expensive, as diagnostic machines and cartridges are made in Japan or Europe. Despite considerable global investment, the results from Pakistan fall short of expectations. We are far from achieving global milestones in mitigating deaths and incidence. Dr G.N. Kazi, aglobal health and public policy specialist and the editor-in-chief of Public Health Act­ion, voices concerns about America's ab-rupt de­­cision to halt foreign aid, which has delivered a seismic shock to prog­r­ammes combating TB, AIDS and mal­aria. Dr Shifa Ha­­bib, a public health scholar at Johns Hop­kins University, also expresses worry ab-o­­­ut the impending depletion of resources for GFATM (Global Fund for AIDS, TB and Malaria). Given the dire situation of TB in Pak­istan, we must prepare for the inevitable: the support for diagnostics, drugs and man­­power will soon face severe disruption. Our reliance on donor funds must be lessened and domestic financing increa­sed. At least three pharmaceuticals in Pakistan that marketed TB drugs in previous years wound up because of dwindling returns due to GF support. Today, there is no local provider. It would be prudent for the government to explore options for the local manufacture of first-line drugs. Dia­gnostics and costly second-line medicines could be procured through grant resources. Without access to diagnostics and medicines, TB will affect tens of thousands more with drug-resistant bacteria, which will become untreatable. If these challenges are not addressed soon, it could be too late to control this highly transmissible and dangerous disease that will impact both rich and poor. The writer is an infectious disease specialist. Published in Dawn, June 19th, 2025

# *Detailed SUMMARY of the article "An IMF-mandated balancing act" by Nasir Jamal, Published in Dawn on June 11th, 2025:* The article analyzes *Pakistan's budget* for the upcoming year, which struggles to balance the *IMF programme's* goal of *fiscal consolidation* with the government's desire to expand the economy at a moderate growth rate of *4.2%* — up from the three-year average of *1.65%* — without offering a credible roadmap for structural economic transformation. Many suspect that the *real estate sector* is the "backdoor" the authorities plan to use for providing economic growth impetus, with *tax relief* announced for the wealthy *real estate and construction lobby* believed to drive up the growth rate. This year's provisional *GDP growth* estimate of *2.7%* falls short of the original target of *3.2%*, though it aligns with *IMF* and other *multilateral lenders'* projections. Experts warn that the government risks pressuring its *external account* as *imports* are rising faster than *exports*. *Pakistan Business Council CEO Ehsan Malik* expresses dismay over the lack of meaningful measures to increase *industrial productivity* and *exports*. The budget disappoints those expecting deeper reforms for structural economic shift under the achieved economic stability from the *IMF programme*. Economist *Sajid Amin* describes it as focused on *fiscal stabilization* and *revenue generation* without long-term growth reform vision, essentially a routine budget preparing for the upcoming *second IMF review*. Economist *Ali Hasnain* agrees, noting the budget strengthens government finances through cuts in *development spending* and *subsidies* without structural improvements. *External sector* improvements stem from record *remittances* rather than increased *exports* and *foreign direct investment*. The government implements long-standing *tariff reforms* under *IMF conditions* to remove protections from some industries over five years and restricts *tax non-filers'* ability to purchase securities above thresholds, cars above *850cc*, or open bank accounts. It also phases out *sales tax exemptions* for industries in *FATA/PATA* over three years. The *Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI)*, representing over *200 foreign investors*, welcomes these measures but expresses disappointment over limited progress in addressing inequitable *corporate tax rates*. *OICCI* regrets the missed opportunity to broaden the *tax base* and document Pakistan's substantial *Rs9 trillion cash-based informal economy*. The organization notes the absence of meaningful *government expenditure* reductions that could narrow the *budget deficit*, emphasizing that *fiscal discipline* remains critical for *macroeconomic stability*. The article concludes that Pakistan needs transformative policies for sustainable economic growth, but this cannot be achieved through backdoor methods that previous governments have tried, always leading to worse economic crises. # *Easy/Short SUMMARY*: Pakistan's budget balances *IMF fiscal consolidation* goals with *4.2% growth* targets but lacks structural reforms. The government relies on *real estate tax relief* as a backdoor growth strategy while *GDP growth* of *2.7%* falls short of *3.2%* target. Experts warn of *current account* pressure as *imports* outpace *exports*. The budget focuses on *revenue generation* without long-term vision, implementing *IMF-mandated tariff reforms* and restricting *tax non-filers*. *OICCI* welcomes measures but criticizes limited progress on *corporate tax* equity and missed opportunities to document the *Rs9 trillion informal economy*. Pakistan needs transformative policies, not backdoor solutions that historically worsen economic crises. # *SOLUTIONS of The Problem*: ## *1. Implement Structural Reforms* Focus on comprehensive *tax structure overhaul* and *industrial productivity* improvements rather than cosmetic changes. ## *2. Broaden Tax Base* Document the *Rs9 trillion informal economy* through digitization and incentive schemes for voluntary compliance. ## *3. Boost Export Competitiveness* Invest in *export-oriented industries* and remove barriers to increase *foreign direct investment*. ## *4. Rationalize Government Expenditure* Cut unnecessary *government spending* and reduce *subsidies* to narrow the *budget deficit*. ## *5. Equalize Corporate Tax Rates* Address inequitable *corporate taxation* to enhance Pakistan's competitiveness and attract *foreign investment*. ## *6. Strengthen Industrial Base* Focus on *manufacturing sector* development instead of relying on *real estate* as growth driver. ## *7. Improve Current Account Balance* Implement policies to control *import growth* while boosting *export earnings* and *remittances*. ## *8. Phase Out Protectionist Policies* Gradually remove *tariff protections* to create competitive industries and level playing fields. ## *9. Enhance Revenue Collection* Strengthen *tax administration* and reduce exemptions to increase government revenues sustainably. ## *10. Develop Long-term Growth Strategy* Create a comprehensive economic roadmap beyond *IMF programme* requirements for sustainable development. # *IMPORTANT Facts and Figures Given in the article*: - Target *GDP growth rate* of *4.2%* compared to three-year average of *1.65%*. - Provisional *GDP growth* estimate of *2.7%* falls short of original *3.2%* target. - *OICCI* represents more than *200 foreign investors* operating in Pakistan. - Pakistan's *informal economy* worth *Rs9 trillion* operates on cash basis. - *Tax non-filers* restricted from buying cars above *850cc* and opening bank accounts. - *Sales tax exemptions* for *FATA/PATA* industries to be phased out over *three years*. - *Tariff reforms* to remove industry protections over *five years*. # *IMPORTANT Facts and Figures out of the article*: - Pakistan's *current account deficit* was *$3.4 billion* in *FY2024* (*State Bank of Pakistan*, 2024). - *Tax-to-GDP ratio* in Pakistan is *8.6%*, among lowest globally (*World Bank*, 2024). - *Foreign remittances* reached record *$30.25 billion* in *FY2024* (*SBP*, 2024). - Pakistan's *external debt* stands at *$130 billion* as of *March 2025* (*Finance Ministry*, 2025). - *Industrial sector* contributes only *19.4%* to GDP (*Pakistan Bureau of Statistics*, 2024). - *Exports* declined *3.2%* to *$27.5 billion* in *FY2024* (*Trade Development Authority*, 2024). # *MCQs from the Article*: ### 1. *What is Pakistan's target GDP growth rate mentioned in the budget?* A. 3.2% *B. 4.2%* C. 2.7% D. 1.65% ### 2. *Which sector is suspected to be the "backdoor" for economic growth?* A. Manufacturing *B. Real estate* C. Agriculture D. Services ### 3. *What is the value of Pakistan's cash-based informal economy?* A. Rs7 trillion *B. Rs9 trillion* C. Rs11 trillion D. Rs5 trillion ### 4. *Over how many years will tariff reforms remove industry protections?* A. Three years *B. Five years* C. Seven years D. Ten years ### 5. *How many foreign investors does OICCI represent?* A. 150 *B. More than 200* C. 300 D. 250 # *VOCABULARY*: 1. *Fiscal consolidation* (مالی استحکام) – Government effort to reduce budget deficits 2. *Provisional* (عارضی) – Temporary or preliminary 3. *Multilateral* (کثیر جانبدار) – Involving multiple parties or countries 4. *Impetus* (محرک) – Driving force or stimulus 5. *Dismay* (مایوسی) – Disappointment or distress 6. *Stabilisation* (استحکام) – Process of making something stable 7. *Revoke* (منسوخ کرنا) – To cancel or withdraw 8. *Threshold* (حد) – Minimum level or amount 9. *Exemptions* (چھوٹ) – Freedom from obligation or liability 10. *Inequitable* (غیر منصفانہ) – Unfair or unjust 11. *Overhaul* (اصلاح) – Complete examination and repair 12. *Competitiveness* (مسابقتی صلاحیت) – Ability to compete effectively 13. *Devoid* (خالی) – Completely lacking or empty of 14. *Formalisation* (رسمی بنانا) – Making something official or structured 15. *Rationalisation* (عقلی بنانا) – Making more logical or efficient 16. *Macroeconomic* (کل اقتصادی) – Relating to large-scale economic factors 17. *Transformative* (تبدیلی لانے والا) – Causing major change 18. *Sustainable* (پائیدار) – Able to be maintained long-term 19. *Provisional* (عارضی) – Temporary or subject to change 20. *Credible* (قابل اعتماد) – Believable or trustworthy 📢 *Attention Please!* We appreciate your commitment to acquiring knowledge through our summaries. 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Click the link below to join now 🔗 [Dawn Article Summaries](https://cssmcqs.com/dawn-editorials-articles-summary-for-students-pdf-download/) *WhatsApp Channel Link*: [https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va7tT3o35fLnJeFbpS2y](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va7tT3o35fLnJeFbpS2y) --- *www.dawn.com* *Analysis: An IMF-mandated balancing act* *Nasir Jamal* *5–6 minutes* NEXT year's budget struggles to balance the IMF programme's goal of fiscal consolidation with its desire to expand the economy at a moderate growth rate of 4.2 per cent — from the three-year average of 1.65pc — without offering a credible roadmap for a longstanding structural shift. Many suspect that the real estate sector is the "backdoor the authorities plan to use for providing some impetus to economic growth". The tax relief announced for the wealthy real estate and construction lobby is believed to be meant to drive up the growth rate. This year's provisional GDP growth estimate of 2.7pc falls short of the original target of 3.2pc, though it remains in line with the projection of the IMF and other multilateral lenders. Many, however, suspect that the government will not be able to meet its target without putting pressure on its external account, as imports are rising at a much faster pace than exports. "By pushing growth, the government risks bringing significant pressures on its current account," Pakistan Business Council Chief Executive Officer Ehsan Malik insists, expressing his dismay over lack of any meaningful measures in the budget to increase industrial productivity and exports. The budget has proved to be a major disappointment for those who thought the economic stability achieved under the IMF programme would guide the government to implement deeper reforms for a structural shift in the economy and lay the foundation for sustainable growth in future. If anything, according to economist Sajid Amin, the budget is all about fiscal stabilisation and revenue generation and lacks in long-term growth reform vision. "It's a routine budget that hopes to prepare the ground for the success of the upcoming second review of the IMF programme," he argues. Economist Ali Hasnain agrees. The budget aims to strengthen the financial position of the government, through cuts in developing spending and subsidies, without any structural improvement, he maintains. "Similarly, the external sector improvements owe to record increase in remittances (rather than increase in exports and foreign direct investment). At best, it is a cautious step in the right direction, even if they don't have a plan." The absence of credible effort to implement reforms, especially to broaden the base of taxes, apart, the government sets off in motion the long-standing tariff reforms — again under the IMF loan conditions — to revoke protections to some industries over the next five years and seeks to restrict ability of tax non-filers to purchase securities above a threshold and cars above 850cc or opening bank accounts. Moreover, it lays the ground for phased removal of sales tax exemptions for industries (steel, edible oil & ghee, etc) operating in Fata/Pata in three years to make the playing field even across the country. These are indeed welcome measures, said the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) in its reaction to the budget. Yet the organisation representing more than 200 foreign investors operating in the country expressed its deep disappointment over the limited progress in addressing inequitable corporate tax rates. "There is an urgent need for a comprehensive overhaul of tax structures to enhance Pakistan's competitiveness attracts foreign investment," it said, regretting that the government has missed the opportunity to broaden the tax base in the next budget, which is devoid of any concrete strategy to document Pakistan's substantial Rs9tr cash-based informal economy — a critical measure for meaningful revenue enhancement and economic formalisation. The OICCI also noted the absence of meaningful reductions in government expenditure, which could have helped narrow the budget deficit. "Fiscal discipline remains critical to ensuring macroeconomic stability, and OICCI urges the government to prioritise expenditure rationalisation in its budgetary measures." Pakistan badly needs transformative policies to turn around the economy and out it on a sustainable path to growth. But that cannot be achieved by using the backdoors. Previous governments have tried that path and always led the country to a worse crisis than before. Published in Dawn, June 11th, 2025