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Content Copyright © jWorldTimes.com
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Jahangir World Times
Published: February, 2012
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“Foreign Office was not Privy to what was
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Happening among the President Musharaf, US
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officials and the GHQ”
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Riaz Hussain Khokar – Former Foreign Secretary
Year 2011 At A Glance
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Wednesday, February 01, 2012
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Jahangir's World Times (JWT): What were the main foreign policy challenges when you took
over as foreign secretary?
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Riaz Hussain Khokhar (RHK): Well, I took the charge as foreign secretary in August 2002 and
remained on this prestigious post till 2005. It was quite an intensive experience. I was appointed by
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General Musharraf who assigned me mainly three tasks:
Restoration of Indo-Pak composite dialogue; Pak-US relations and Pakistan's role in the war against
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terror; and Enhancement of Pakistan's economic relations with the rest of the world because trade is
more important than economic aid. So, this was my mandate. At that time, I suggested General
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Musharraf that we should broaden the base of our foreign relations and instead of looking only
toward the West and Middle East; we should adopt a “Look East Policy” which means looking
towards Southeast Asia i.e. the ASEAN region. In fact, ASEAN countries have set a new model of
regional cooperation. They were making a rapid growth and all major countries were focusing on
them. So, the suggestion I put forward was that we should also follow the suit. Moreover, good
relations with neighbouring countries like Iran, Afghanistan along with the Muslim world and EU
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too carry importance.
JWT: What is the exact role of a 'foreign secretary' in the formulation and implementation of
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foreign policy?
RHK: Well, foreign secretary's job is very important, substantive and delicate. For instance, if there
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arises any problem in foreign relations, he has to give an honest and objective advice keeping in
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mind the vital interests of Pakistan. Furthermore, in case a problem or crisis occurs, the role of a
foreign secretary is to develop the institutional view. For this, we collect information from our
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ambassadors, concerned ministries, intelligence agencies, GHQ and from all important
stakeholders. In fact, we study the problem thoroughly from the section officer level up to the
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foreign secretary and all are engaged in the process of studying; then we present our
recommendations to the government. One thing must be clear to everyone, 'Foreign Secretary'
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does not make the foreign policy, he only develops options for the leadership to consider no
matter it is military or political; our job is to inform the leadership. We say this is the problem,
these are the pros and cons and these are our suggestions. Then, it is up to the competent authority
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to decide. Once an option is chosen, then our job to get it implemented starts.
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JWT: Do you think that you were bypassed at the time of Saarc summit 2004 held in Islamabad,
when joint declaration was issued in which the “President Musharraf reassured the Indian premier
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that he will not permit any territory under Pakistan's control to be used to support terrorism in any
manner in India”?
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RHK: It is partially correct because I was not formally consulted. Actually, this document was
being negotiated from the backchannel under Mr Tariq Aziz. So, this document was the result of
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consultations which were going on between PM Vajpayee and President Musharraf. However, I was
informed nearly 24 hours before the issuance of joint statement. I received a fax from the
presidency in which I was asked to go through it. So, when I examined it, I was surprised at first
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and then we (foreign office) sent them (Presidency) a counter draft which I thought was in the best
interest of Pakistan. But I was feeling that the president wasn't happy with our draft and I was being
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seen as an impediment. Hence, I would not say that I was bypassed but I was not certainly
consulted.
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JWT: What would you say about out of the box proposals of Kashmir dispute coined by the
President Musharraf?
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RHK: Well, in fact, my principal objection to General Musharraf was that we have a principled
position on Kashmir which rests entirely on the UN resolutions. If you remember, India took the
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Kashmir issue to the United Nations. Moreover, if you study the UN resolutions on Kashmir, it
would be clear that these were not imposed either on India or on Pakistan but were accepted
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voluntarily. Therefore, these have a different sanctity. First, President Musharraf was taking a
position which actually undermined the UN resolutions. Secondly, the out of the box proposals for
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solving the Kashmir dispute given by him were actually meeting the requirements of Indians.
General Musharraf once even said that UN resolutions on Kashmir are very old, in fact, he was
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badly mistaken because if we say that these are useless then we are not in any position to become a
party in this dispute. Thus, my argument was that UN resolutions on Kashmir are fundamental.
These resolutions make us a party and also Kashmiris in the dispute vis-à-vis India. So, if we turn
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away from the UN resolutions then the Indians will not accept us a party to be taken seriously.
Hence, President Musharraf was handing over Kashmir to India on a silver platter that is why he
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was very popular in India. Had Indians ever been happy with any Army Chief of Pakistan except
Musharraf? I do give him credit of ceasefire agreement which is even maintained today on the line
of control (LoC) but his out of the box solutions of Kashmir dispute were only a recognition of the
existing realities. You can say that these were the acceptance of LoC as international border whereas
it is not.
'Foreign Secretary' does not make the foreign policy, he only develops options for the leadership to
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consider no matter it is military or political; our job is to inform the leadership.
JWT: Do you think that there was any understanding for covert operations between General
Musharraf and the United States.
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RHK: It is very important matter and I would like to mention it in particular. There was certainly an
understanding between the United States and Pakistan about the covert operations inside Pakistan
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and Afghanistan and this issue is also in the limelight now-a-days. I can tell you that the foreign
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office was not privy to what was happening among the president Musharraf, US officials and the
GHQ. Had we (foreign office) been consulted, perhaps we would have taken a very different stance.
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JWT: How do you see the foreign policy adopted by the present government and is it better than
the approach adopted by Gen Musharraf?
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RHK: Well, the present government is following the same approach or policy what Musharraf did,
perhaps with more vigour. First of all, we have to see that why did Musharraf agree to all what the
United States demanded? Actually, we had very little choice because United States was a furious
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elephant at that time. Anything could have happened at that time. Secondly, Musharraf thought it
was a great opportunity for him personally to legitimise himself in the eyes the United States and
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the rest of western world. So, in my opinion, he took into account the interests of Pakistan and his
own vested interests as well. Now, as far as this government is concerned, I would say it is very
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pathetic as they are acting more like stooges of the United States.
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JWT: Another crisis also occurred during your tenure i.e. 'Dr A.Q. Khan episode' please comment.
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RHK: As far as Dr A. Q. Khan is concerned, I would say that he is an outstanding son of Pakistan
and his contribution to Pakistan owes him enormous respect. When the whole world is focusing on
you, there is no way to avoid responsibility as an important member of international community.
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Actually, in this case, the evidence against Pakistan was quite overwhelming and the best option
was to remove him from the programme. But there was no question of humiliating a man of that
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stature. I think he was treated very unfairly by President Musharraf. Let me assure one thing here,
“It was not foreign office's recommendation that Dr A.Q. Khan should be humiliated by compelling
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him to tender an apology on state TV.”
JWT: We condemn drone attacks but do not react while in case of attack on our armed forces, we
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react strongly. Why we have such double standards?

RHK: Any attack either it is the 'drone attack' or it is ground attack on our forces is the violation of
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our sovereignty. But in case of drone attacks, there was a tacit approval but in the case of 'Salala
Attack' there was none. That's why we witnessed a strong reaction. It is not the question of double
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standards. I think we should equally, sincerely and seriously protest against 'drone attacks' as well as
other ground attacks. In fact, there were few drone attacks during Musharraf's reign but he used to
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call it “Yeh Hum nay kia Hey” (it is done by us). For instance, Dama Dolla attack shows
Musharraf's double standards. Furthermore, if you just look at the 'WikiLeaks' it says that drones
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attack within the Pakistani territory with a certain amount of tacit approval by the present
government. In 'WikiLeaks', certain cables written by ambassador Peterson show that Prime
Minister of Pakistan said that you (US) can continue the attacks and we will condemn it in the
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parliament. Therefore, whatever we saw in the parliament was just Crocodile tears. So, the
Americans just took the advantage of that.
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"UN resolutions on Kashmir are fundamental. These resolutions make us a party and also Kashmiris
in the dispute vis-à-vis India."
JWT: Don't you think that the 'visa issue for Americans' consolidated the argument that our foreign
policy is determined by the US or by the Presidency?
RHK: Well, it is an extremely serious issue and has been very badly handled. It is against Pakistan's
interests. Why should Pakistan allow scores and scores of American intelligence agents and
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contractors for operating openly in Pakistan? Here rises a counter question do you think that will
the US allow China or Russia to send their agents all over the United States to do whatever they
want to? In fact, they will not allow one single man and if they find an American collaborating with
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the foreign powers, they would make minced meat out of him. Then why has Pakistan accepted
them all. Actually, they were not here only for searching Osama Bin Laden instead they were
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looking about everything. They are also trying to identify where Pakistan's 'Nuclear Assets' are
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placed; indeed they are in pursuit of certain targets. Suppose, tomorrow the United States attacks
Pakistan then what are their priority targets. In addition, they are also active in undermining the
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society of Pakistan. People of Pakistan must know that the United States is spending almost 45
million dollars helping the 'Civil Society of Pakistan' to stand up on its legs and the media too. I am
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not giving any hidden knowledge, they say this openly. Now again here question arises, “What kind
of civil society will it be if it is going to stand up on funds provided by the US, and I am not talking
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about everybody. Please do not misunderstand me. Obviously, they are creating a lobby in Pakistan
which would serve their interests, this is the real purpose behind their funding.
Waqas Iqbal
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Kashmir The Primary India-Pakistan Conflict
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To retrieve the agreement on Kashmir does not mean mindlessly adhering to

every period and comma in it; it does not exclude taking cognizance jointly of
the changes that have occurred and making suitable amendments by mutual
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acceptance.
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Mr. Chairman, Fellow Panelists: First of all, I wish to express my deep appreciation to the
conveners of this Forum for selecting its theme and inviting me to speak on it. Though diverse
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conferences are being held with diverse orientations and from diverse motives on the subject we are
dealing with, I still regard it a great misfortune for the country and people known as Kashmir that
they should still be so little understood, their plight heard about with apathy and their story easily
forgotten or subsumed under other topics. Ruled as the world is by certain dominant elements and
the policies and postures issuing from their entanglements, it is hard to keep international attention
focused on a people and their situation in the light, not of power strategies but of undying
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principles of peace and justice, the principles that were enshrined in the United Nations Charter. In
the present case, people were first turned into a dispute and then the dispute was consigned to
oblivion.
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Why do I say that Kashmir is so little understood? Well, it is painful to notice that many
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commentators on the subject, some with good intentions, do not know, or do not care to bear in
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mind, the vital distinction between “Kashmir” and the “State of Jammu and Kashmir”. The former
is an entity, known as the Vale of Kashmir or the Kashmir Valley and by its own inhabitants as
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“Kasheer”, which has sustained an independent existence and settled continuity over centuries and
whose individuality as defined by its terrain, its customs, its language, its literature and its memory
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has been historically established and recognised. The latter, by contrast, was a product of the
accident of a sale deed conducted by British colonialism in mid-19th century which, by sheer logic,
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should have disappeared with the end of that colonialism. The fact that, even though the erstwhile
State has now decomposed, the Indian government still feels compelled to retain that outmoded
term exposes some of the artificial contrivance in its attempted inclusion of the territory involved.
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What was called the State is a conglomeration of at least six different ethnic zones, not all of which
feel, or could possibly feel, the same pull towards either affiliation with Pakistan or India or
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independence. No sane Pakistani has ever envisioned one of these zones, say Kathua as part of
Pakistan; by the same token, no sane Indian would wish to include several others of these alien
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zones, say Gilgit, in India, unless it were for the insane design of gobbling Pakistan. It follows that
what is being talked about as the “Kashmir dispute” has never had any existence in reality for large
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parts of the State of Jammu and Kashmir as it stood in 1947. What, however, has not been settled,
what is very much the heart of the matter, what is, indeed, the cause of the death and depredation of
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the last more than six decades. is the conflict over the status and future of Kashmir as historically
known, i.e. the Kashmir Valley and its adjacent Kashmiri-speaking areas.
Why do I say that Kashmir is so little understood? Well, it is painful to notice that many
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commentators on the subject, some with good intentions, do not know, or do not care to bear in
mind, the vital distinction between “Kashmir” and the “State of Jammu and Kashmir.
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This point may strike some as either academic or elementary. It is neither. In fact, ignoring it would
doom any effort to resolve the tragic conflict on a basis of just principle. Some consequences of
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disregarding it, although only in thinking, have already become apparent. One of these is the
suggestion of partitioning the State of Jammu and Kashmir between India and Pakistan along the
Line of Control as the basis of a settlement of the dispute. This suggestion may have some
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attraction for the ignorant and the unwary as well as for those who wish to settle the dispute on
India's terms in a disguised form. But few others can possibly lend any weight to it. First, as the
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Line of Control does not run through Kashmir---the Vale falls entirely on one side of it---the
suggestion seeks to gift the territory in dispute in one fell sweep to one party-- India--and to dismiss
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the respective claims of the other two parties — Pakistan and Kashmir while assuming an air of
impartiality. Second, it purports to partition a mythical entity, the State of Jammu and Kashmir,
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while it seals the fate of an actual living people, the people of Kashmir. Third, it is obviously
mistaken about the Line of Control. This Line does not represent any kind of provisional border
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negotiated at any point between India and Pakistan. On the contrary, it is but a glorified term
conferred on the line demarcated in 1949. That line, truthfully described as what it -- a cease-fire
line-- was drawn under the aegis of the United Nations Commission, preparatory to the withdrawal
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of forces by the parties and the holding of the plebiscite jointly agreed by them. It was meant to
keep the fighting stopped while the parties proceeded to further steps towards conclusive peace.
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Pakistan accepted the revised, pretentious and patently misleading term--the Line of Control--when,
having suffered a shattering military defeat in 1971, it sought to obtain the evacuation by India of
some newly occupied territory and the release of some 80,000 war prisoners. Despite this change,
not in substance but in nomenclature accepted under huge duress, the accompanying agreement did
not even by faint implication foreclose a definitive settlement or grant a permanence to the newly
described line. I remember a distinguished Kashmiri leader, the late Abdul Gani Lone, remarking
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that the first thing a liberated Kashmir would do would be to efface this line of iniquity which has
erected a wall between parent and offspring, sibling and sibling. Most people in the Valley look
upon the Line of Control as the line of conflict; few can imagine that any peace-loving person or
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group or state would wish to perpetuate it.
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In any biography of the Kashmir dispute, one of the milestones mentioned must be the
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recommendation made by the Security Council for a settlement on the basis of the will of the people
as impartially ascertained through a plebiscite under the control of the United Nations. This is, of
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course, as it should be but there is constant danger of the fact being obscured that the Security
Council did not pull this recommendation out of thin air nor was it inspired by the idealistic
promptings of either the Council or the leadership of the world powers. If it were so, India would
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have been within her rights to question why the formula should be held to be sacrosanct and
immune from repudiation. But the proposition was squarely based on what the contestants
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themselves --both of them-- demanded separately; the only thing the Council supplied was the
mechanism of setting the stage for, and organising, the required plebiscite. It is a unique
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characteristic of the Kashmir dispute that it is one on which the parties have recorded their
voluntary agreement on the principle as well as the lines of the desired settlement . This happened
more than once, first, spontaneously in official exchanges between the parties; second, when India
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approached the Security Council and Pakistan followed; third, when the Council appointed a
Commission which adopted two resolutions and the parties conveyed their acceptance of them in
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writing. The dispute erupted into a major conflict only when one of the parties, India, reneged on
that agreement.
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The official exchanges, I mentioned, are categorical, not twisted by if's and but's on either side.
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The assurances solemnly given by India are numerous. I may cite just three of them here.
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One, on the same day that India marched its troops into Kashmir, 27 October 1947, Jawaharlal
Nehru, the prime minister of India and the originator of her Kashmir project, sent this message to
the prime minister of Pakistan:
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No sane Pakistani has ever envisioned one of these zones, say Kathua as part of Pakistan; by the
same token, no sane Indian would wish to include several others of these alien zones, say Gilgit, in
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India, unless it were for the insane design of gobbling Pakistan.

“I should like to make it clear that (the) question of aiding Kashmir in this emergency is not
designed in any way to influence the State to accede to India. Our view which we have repeatedly
made public is that the question of accession in any disputed territory or State must be decided in
accordance with (the) wishes of the people and we adhere to this view.”
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Four days later, he sent the following telegram to the same addressee:
“Our assurance that we shall withdraw our troops from Kashmir as soon as peace and order is
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restored and leave the decision regarding the future of this State to the people of the State is not
merely a promise to your government but also to the people of Kashmir and to the world.”
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That these messages to Pakistan did not merely reflect a stance adopted for foreign consumption
was made clear by the broadcast to the nation Mr. Nehru made on November 2, 1947:
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“We have declared the fate of Kash mir is ultimately to be decided by the people. That pledge we
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have given not only to the people of Kashmir but to the world. We will not and cannot back out of
it.”
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Yes, sixty-four tumultuous years have passed since these words were spoken. But however distant,
even surrealistic, they may sound to some in the different foreign offices today, they remain
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indelibly inscribed on Kashmiri consciousness. Furthermore, consciences are not extinct in a
country as intellectually alive as India which are deeply touched by these promises.
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Yes, more than six decades have elapsed, since a detailed agreement was formulated. But
international agreements do not lapse with the passage of time anymore than do national
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constitutions or laws; if they did, all life would be quicksand. Nor do they become obsolete because
they have been dishonoured. If the agreement on Kashmir looks to have been lost in a welter of
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current preoccupations, it is not beyond retrieval. The key to dependable peace in South Asia, to
ending the untold suffering — directly or indirectly — caused by the Kashmir conflict in that most
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populous region, lies in retrieving it. This is so because nothing will serve as a substitute for the
principle it embodied: the decision of people's status and future in accordance with their will
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impartially ascertained. A note both of caution and clarity is necessary here. To retrieve the
agreement on Kashmir does not mean mindlessly adhering to every period and comma in it; it does
not exclude taking cognizance jointly of the changes that have occurred and making suitable
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amendments by mutual acceptance. The resolutions of the Security Council and the United Nations
Commission for India and Pakistan were based on the concept of Jammu and Kashmir as an
internally homogenous entity. It was not a concept the Council or the Commission itself invented;
it was one that both India and Pakistan had adopted implicitly, though some half-expressed ideas of
parts of the State splitting off from it were in the air. Time has disclosed that the concept had little
correspondence to reality. Instead of a single plebiscite deciding the future of all the ethnic zones
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on a 'one-size-suits-all' basis, a way has to be found to enable each zone to express its will
independently of other zones. This is not as complicated as it may sound to those unacquainted
with the composition of the disputed territory; the eventual result of the plan will be as simple as
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that of the course of action envisioned in 1949. But it will be sounder in popular acceptance.
To retrieve the agreement on Kashmir does not mean mindlessly adhering to every period and
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comma in it; it does not exclude taking cognizance jointly of the changes that have occurred and
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making suitable amendments by mutual acceptance.
A plan exists with this revised orientation but its success, as that of any alternative, requires six
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conditions, all easily obtainable. One, it should transparently adhere to the fundamental principle of
self-determination. Two, it should not rest on unstated understandings which any party can claim
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not to have shared and hence repudiate. Three, it should take utmost care not to admit the influence
or domination of any zone over another. Four, by itself, it should neither foreclose nor promote any
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particular prefer ence by any zone. Five, rather than trying to finesse the issue of sovereignty as the
effort by General Musharraf did which ended in smoke, it should recognise that the fundamental
question is the right of any party or of none to station a single soldier in the territory of the former
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State without the invitation or consent of its inhabitants. Six, it should not try to take advantage of
Pakistan's present difficulties and try to read her out of the Kashmir equation.
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In this context, a few necessary considerations seem to be at present confused or lost sight of.
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Pakistan's relationship with Kashmir, deeply rooted in history and culture and social relations, has
been consecrated by the blood of thousands and the sacrifice of vast treasure. It seems to be
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forgotten that the society that is Pakistan was deeply involved in Kashmir long before the state that
is Pakistan came into being. Indeed, it was only some sordid intrigue under the last British
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viceroyalty that Kashmir was split from Pakistan; had matters been allowed to take a natural course,
Kashmir would have been as much a part of Pakistan as Punjab or Sindh. In this respect, looked at
from one angle, Kashmir's cause is Pakistan's own cause. But, viewed from another angle, if the
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cause of Kashmir's freedom figures on the international agenda today, it is due to Pakistan's devoted
endeavours in the face of opposition from India and apathy from others. However, it is an
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unwarranted inference, implying an extremely short-sighted view, that Kashmir's cause depends
totally on Pakistan; should pressure be brought on Pakistan to cease her advocacy and support, the
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Kashmir issue will not evaporate but become matter for unpredictable non-state actors to handle.
Instead of a single plebiscite deciding the future of all the ethnic zones on a 'one-size-suits-all' basis,
a way has to be found to enable each zone to express its will independently of other zones.
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At the present stage, whatever may be the real impulse and intent of the US policy, the prevailing
public impression is that it is governed by the strategic partnership between the US and India, with
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the latter envisioned as a counterweight to China. If this relationship is, as President Obama has
lyrically called it, “the defining partnership of the 21st century”, then those in charge of its conduct
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on either side cannot remain heedless of the voices of sanity and reason emanating from India
itself. Let me quote a few:
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“If we are the largest democracy on the planet then how can we hang on to a people who have no
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desire to be part of India? Why are we still hanging on to Kashmir if the Kashmiris don't want to
have anything to do with us? The answer is machismo. .. Is the future of India to be held hostage to
a population less than half the size of the population of Delhi?.....If you believe in democracy, then
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giving Kashmiris the right to self-determination is the correct thing to do. And even if you don't,
surely we will be better off being rid of this constant, painful strain on our resources, our lives and
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our honour as a nation.”

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Mr. Vir Sanghevi in Hindustan Times, August 16, 2008.
“On August 15, India celebrated independence from the British Raj. But Kashmir staged a bandh
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demanding independence from India. A day symbolising the end of colonialism in India became a
day symbolising Indian colonialism in the Valley....After six decades of effort, Kashmiri alienation
looks greater than ever.” ht
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Mr. S. S. Aiyer in Times of India August 17, 2006.
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“The people of Kashmir have shrugged off the terror of living their lives in the gun-sights of half a
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million heavily armed soldiers in the most densely-militarised zone in the world...(Their) non-
violent mass protest against military occupation is nourished by people's memory of years of
repression, in which tens of thousands have been killed, thousands have been 'disappeared',
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hundreds of thousands tortured, injured and humiliated....The Indian military occupation of

Kashmir makes monsters of us all..... India needs azaadi from Kashmir as much as, if not more
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than, Kashmir needs azaadi from India.”

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Arundhati Roy in The Guardian August 22, 2008
“...Kashmiri Muslims suffer every day the misery and degradation of a full-fledged military
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occupation...A new generation of politicised Kashmiris has now risen; the world is again likely to
ignore them--until some of them turn into terrorists with Qaida links ....A survey by Doctors
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Without Borders in 2005 found Muslim women in Kashmir, prey to the Indian troops and param-
ilitaries, suffered some of the most pervasive sexual violence in the world.” Pankaj Mishra in the
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New York Times, August 8, 2008.

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It is painful but necessary for retaining a sense of reality to get a glimpse or two into the school for
unrelenting sadism that is maintained by the Indian military occupation in Kashmir. Here is one we
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get from an account prepared by an Indian humanist of distinction (I am abbreviating it):
“A mother, (when) reportedly asked to watch her daughter's rape by army personnel, begged for her
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release. They refused. She pleaded that she could not watch, asking to be sent out of the room or be
killed. We were told that the soldier pointed a gun to her forehead, stating he would grant her wish
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and shot her before they proceeded to rape her daughter.”
Dr. Angana Chatterji in daily Etalaat November 7, 2000.

Reportedly, the State Department has labelled the violence and repression as “an internal Indian
matter.” A knowledgeable American analyst, Robert Grenier in Al Jazeera of July 14, 2010, calls
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the posture “craven”. When one contrasts it with the legitimate interest with human rights in Arab
States evinced and acted upon by the US, then one loses all faith in protestations of moral concern
underlying American policies and attitudes. Then, as a Kashmir-born, I feel acutely distressed. As
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an American, I feel simply outraged. That it should happen during the presidency of Barrack
Obama beggars belief.
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Ambassador M. Yusuf Buch is the former Senior Advisor to the United Nations secretary-general.
This paper was presented at the 'Carnegie Endowment for International Peace' Washington, D.C. at
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a seminar, entitled, “Kashmir and the Regional Jigsaw Puzzle for Peace” organised by AMA
Foundation.
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M. Yusuf Buch
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Kashmir: Still a Long Walk Ahead ht
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The new generation of Kashmiri freedom fighters have put this struggle to a new
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level. They have dropped weapons and opted for offering their young blood and
one obvious thing about the blood is that it cannot go unnoticed.
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Kashmir, the oldest unre-solved dispute in the world, a nuclear flashpoint and a cause of three wars
between India and Pakistan, is still looming large at the world canvas as an unfinished agenda of
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1947 subcontinent partition.

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Kashmiri freedom fighters' earlier peaceful struggle intensified in 1989 and changed into an armed
one but since the middle of 2010 the next generation of Kashmiri freedom fighters have put this
struggle to a new level. Now, it is peaceful yet firm and taxing but consistent. Now, they have
dropped weapons and have opted for offering their young blood and one obvious thing about
innocent blood is that it cannot go unnoticed as it has moved the world all and sundry. Kashmir is
bleeding and so is India, at least economically. Arundhti Roy, a famous Indian human rights activist
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and a big critic of Indian army's hostilities in Kashmir openly says, “it's high time that India be
liberated from Kashmir.”
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For a nation to get freedom in the power plays of contemporary world-is one way or the other —
attached to the interests of superpowers. Recent history of the world is replete with such examples.
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For instance, if we start with our own case the struggle lasted for about a century. Also the United
im
Kingdom itself was no more in a position, especially after the World War-II, to keep in control a
country which had already become a baggage because of its enormous size and changing
dT
environment.
orl
Americans, on the other hand, had taken over the control from the British and liberation of colonial
states was a priority on their world agenda. That's why, many states got liberated one after another
jW
in that era. There are, however, some cases in which results appeared premature than the movement
merited. For example, East Timor's liberation from Indonesia. Different war groups are still in
fighting out there and United Nations peace keeping missions are required right since independence
©
to keep the situation in control.
ht
As far as the freedom of Kashmir is concerned, it will happen. It has to because the movement is
just, the sacrifices are large and the spirit is indomitable. But in my perception the movement has
rig
still not covered the 'enough' distance, it is just a little ahead of the middle stage of its journey.
py
Also, the success of the Kashmiris struggle has less to do with the direct support of Pakistan or the
Muslim world because we all know their role but it has a lot to do with the emergence of China as
Co
superpower and taking control from the US.
China has a principled stand in this regard. It does not accept Kashmir as a part of India and that's
nt
why, Kashmiri people get their Chinese visas on a separate paper attached to their Indian passport.
nte
This balance shifts may take some time, but the Kashmiris will have to keep the flame of liberation
alight.
Co
Faisal Faraz
pk
m.
co
Belief in Youm-al-Qaymah or Resurrection

m.
oru
SF
CS
If it is supposed that there is no concept of eternal reward and punishment then
it implies that those great people who devoted their lives for some noble cause
and faced impediments in the way and those who embarrassed martyrdom in
om
the pursuit of their goals have wasted their lives. But this is something that is
completely illogical and irrational, which cannot be accepted by a normal
s.c
human mind. So the faith in resurrection is imperative for the welfare of
humanity
e
im
dT
orl
jW
©
ht
rig
py
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The faith in Youm-al-Qaymah or Resurrection is one of the most cardinal and fundamental part of
Islam. According to this belief, this worldly life is temporary and mortal and after this life another
permanent and never-ending life is waiting for us. Our position/condition in that everlasting life will
nt
dependent upon our performance in this worldly life. If we adhere to the injunctions of Islam and
lead a life for the betterment of humanity, then the Allah Almighty would bestow His countless
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blessings upon us by granting us paradise in the life after death which is place of perfect pleasures.
On the contrary, if we flout the tenets of Islam and lead a sinful life then He would
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punish/reprimand us by sending us to hell, which is a place of extreme annoyance and molestation.
The belief in Resurrection implies that each and every object of the world has to vanish on a fixed
pk
moment prescribed by the Allah Almighty, i.e. on doomsday. An angel, namely Hazrat Israfeel has
been assigned a special responsibility in this regard by the Allah Almighty. On Doomsday he would
m.
blow trumpet that would bring to an end the process of life on earth and all the living beings would
die instantly. After a prescribed time, he would again blow the trumpet at the command of Allah
co
Almighty that would give another eternal life to the human beings for thorough and foolproof
accountability. All the human beings would be gathered by the Allah Almighty and they would be
m.
rewarded and punished as per their deeds in this worldly mortal life. There would be no fragment of
injustice on that
oru
"On Doomsday he would blow trumpet that would bring to an end the process of life on earth and
all the living beings would die instantly. After a prescribed time, he would again blow the trumpet at
the command of Allah Almighty that would give another eternal life to the human beings for
SF
thorough and foolproof accountability."

day.
CS
This whole process has been summarised and elaborated by the Allah Almighty in Surah Al-
Qaria/Chapter the Calamity when He says :-
“ The Calamity!
What is the Calamity?
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And what do you know what the Calamity is?
On that Day human beings shall be like scattered moths,
and the mountains shall be like fluffs of carded wool in varying colours.
s.c
Then he whose scales weigh heavier (whose good deeds are more than bad deeds)
shall have a blissful life;
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but he whose scales weigh lighter,
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his shall be the deep pit for a dwelling.
And what do you know what that is?
dT
A blazing fire!”
orl
jW
©
ht
rig
py
Death is the end of this life and the commencement of the life after death. Like life, death is also a
Co
fact that cannot be denied. Whether we like it or not, we have to confront and taste it. In this regard
the Allah Almighty says in verse No. 8 of Surah Al Juma/Chapter the Friday:-
nt
“Tell them: The death from which you flee will certainly overtake you. Then you will be returned to
nte
Him Who fully knows what is hidden and what is manifest. Thereupon He will let you know all that
you used to do.”
Co
So this is a crystal clear sign for those who think and it should make us realise that this life is not a
lasting one. Furthermore, the teachings of Islam tells us that the taste of death is not some thing
pk
pleasant and especially it is a dreadful forced end for those who lead a sinful life. That's why the
Holy Prophet (PBUH) stated,
m.
“If the animals had been so conversant with the knowledge of death as the human beings, no fat
animal would have been available for eating.”
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He further stated,
m.
“I am leaving among you two preachers—first the quiet preacher, i.e. death and the second the
talking preacher, i.e. the Holy Quran.”
oru
"The belief in resurrection is imperative for perfect justice as human beings cannot disseminate
perfect and comprehensive justice owing to the limited nature of this worldly life."
SF
Therefore, death itself is the most important traditional and rational proof of resurrection.
The belief in resurrection is imperative for perfect justice as human beings cannot disseminate
CS
perfect and comprehensive justice owing to the limited nature of this worldly life. For example, if a
person kills one hundred persons, we cannot kill him/her one hundred times. Similarly, if it is
supposed that there is no concept of eternal reward and punishment then it implies that those great
people who devoted their lives for some noble cause and faced impediments in the way and those
who embarrassed martyrdom in the pursuit of their goals have wasted their lives. But this is
something that is completely illogical and irrational, which cannot be accepted by a normal human
om
mind. So the faith in resurrection is imperative for the welfare of humanity.
Sleep also reminds us about the hereafter. During sleep, we remain cut off from worldly life and
s.c
some time we experience immense pleasure or severe pain or tragic grief in dreams. But when we
get up we find an entirely different life. So this common practice of human life is another proof of
e
hereafter that is very easy to understand.
im
The belief in Resurrection has enduring and lasting effects on the human society and goes a long
dT
way in its reformation. This belief creates a sense of responsibility among the human beings.
Through this belief the human beings get rid of despair and frustration because the hope of eternal
orl
reward enables them to face worldly problems with grace and courage, which in turn makes them
patient, steadfast and brave who are always ready to sacrifice their bodily and other worldly
jW
pleasures for the sake of triumph in the life to come. They prefer the lasting life of hereafter on this
mortal worldly life. This belief creates piety and spirituality in the human beings. This belief
curtails the fear of death and the tendency of hot pursuit of desires among the believers.
©
Atta ur Rehman Khilji
ht
rig
Pakistan-Iran the Reluctant Neighbours
py
Co
Pakistan and Iran, despite of international pressure and criticism have

maintained cordial relationship. However, the differences and divergence of
interests in some areas, including periodic border security tension remain a
nt
cause of concern. Maintaining a friendly equation is a necessity for both the

nte
countries.
Co

pk
m.
co
m.
oru
SF
CS
The year 2012 began with a continuity in political upheavals, drastic changes and chaos in many
states that touched a height last year. Among these developments, an incident that took place at Pak-
Iran border, highlighted a factor that has been a source of constant friction between Pakistan and
Iran over past few years—the vulnerable cross-border security apparatus.
om
The most recent event in this regard took place in Sistan-Balochistan border region. Iranian security
Guards crossed into Pakistani territory and shot to death one person, wounded two and took two
with them allegedly involved in some illegal activity. Pakistani security officials chased and
s.c
detained them. Later, Iranian officials reportedly arrested a number of Pakistani fishermen from
Gwadar Bay area and threatened to seal the border with Pakistan. In fact, the incident was not first
e
of its kind. Similar incidents have taken place in the past as well and have been a cause of concern
im
on part of both the governments. However, for countries like Pakistan and Iran which have a history
of cordial relations; divergences on some policy issues, including security, territorial integrity and
dT
foreign policy interests, stimulate an intellectual inquiry into existing state of Pakistan-Iran
relations.
orl
In October 2009, Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) were attacked in Sistan-
jW
Balochistan border region. In this suicide attack some 37 people and six commanders of IRGC were
killed. The Iranian government and officials accused Pakistan of involvement in the incident.
Pakistan denied any involvement and strongly condemned the attacks. Following the incident, some
©
11 Iranian security officials were released which were detained earlier on charges of illegally
crossing into Pakistan. Iran closed its border with Pakistan. A meeting was held between President
ht
Asif Ali Zardari and Iranian Interior Minister Mostafa Mohammed Najjar in Islamabad a week
following the incident, during which President Zardari pledged to cooperate with Iran in the capture
rig
of the attackers. In February 2010, the Speaker National Assembly, Fehmida Mirza visited Iran and
called for expansion of ties between Pakistan and Iran in political, economic and socio-cultural
py
domains. Later on, the Iranian government reopened the border in March 2010 after receiving
assurances by Pakistan to improve security in the border region.
Co
Earlier, foreign ministers of Pakistan, Iran and Afghanistan met in Islamabad in January 2010 and
pledged to coordinate efforts to combating terrorism, illicit weapon trade and drug smuggling across
nt
the borders shared by Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iran. Prior to this, in 2009, Iran donated some
250,000 dollars in aid for reconstruction and rehabilitation in conflict-stricken Swat.
nte
Pakistan attaches great importance to its relations with Iran. Historically, the two countries share
Co
peaceful border and frontiers which has further complimented by economic and socio-cultural ties.
Iran was the first country to recognize Pakistan after its independence and since then the country
has supported Pakistan on a number of occasions. In early years, following the independence of
pk
Pakistan, Iran had provided Pakistan with military assistance and also supported during Pakistan's
wars with India in 1965 and 1971. Pakistan, on the other hand, was the first country to recognize the
m.
Islamic Government in Iran following the Islamic Revolution. The country also tacitly supported
Iran during Iraq-Iran war. Apart from the areas of cooperation, there has been a clear shift in Iran's
co
policy of unequivocally supporting Pakistan in its stance on Kashmir in decades following

independence of Pakistan to depriving Pakistan of its vote in favour of its stated policy on Kashmir.
m.
Also, Iran never approved of Pakistan government supporting the Taliban in Afghanistan.
oru
The two countries share strong economic ties as well. Both Pakistan and Iran along with Turkey
founded Regional Cooperation for Development (RCD) in 1964 to promote and strengthen
economic cooperation and development among the member states which later was revived and
SF
restructured with the name Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) in 1985. Iran holds observer
status in South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and both Iran and Pakistan
CS
are 'observers' in Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).
Trade between Pakistan and Iran has reached a significant level over the years. There are about 300
tradable items for trading between Pakistan and Iran. Essentially, cooperation in energy sector
remains to be the most vital and significant aspect of economic relations between Pakistan and Iran.
The two countries have long discussed the export of gas from South Pars Field in Iran to Pakistan.
om
The project, Iran-Pakistan-India (IPI) gas pipeline, which is now also called as peace pipeline, was
first put forward in early 1990s since then there have been several rounds of talks on the feasibility
and mechanism of the project. The project aims at constructing a 2,700 km long gas pipeline from
s.c
South Pars to Karachi and then to New Delhi. The project was formally announced in 2002 and
feasibility studies were conducted by 2005. India attaches security concerns to the route of the gas
e
pipeline as the land-based pipeline will cross from Balochistan, the trilateral talks have been
im
boycotted by the country since 2007. Therefore, Pakistan and Iran have been pursuing the project
bilaterally. The project was formally signed between Pakistan and Iran in 2009 and a deal for the
dT
construction of the pipeline was signed in March 2010. The same month, India proposed Iran to
resume the dialogue on the IPI project. The project is expected to be completed by2015.
orl
"There has been a clear shift in Iran's policy of unequivocally supporting Pakistan in its stance on
Kashmir in decades following independence of Pakistan to depriving Pakistan of its vote in favour
jW
of its stated policy on Kashmir."
For past few years, Iran has been under stringent international scrutiny and criticism by the West
regarding its nuclear program. The country not only faced criticism but sanctions also. However,
©
Pakistan unequivocally supported Iran for its right to access nuclear technology.
ht
Keeping in view the traditional socio-cultural similarities and commonality of interests in many
spheres, Pakistan and Iran seem to retain friendly relations in future. Despite international pressure
rig
and criticism the two countries have maintained cordial relationship. However, the differences and
divergence of interests in some areas, including periodic border security tension remain a cause of
py
concern. Maintaining a friendly equation is a necessity for both the countries. For this, both the
countries are required to foster their partnership in all possible spheres.
Co
Nabiha Gul is a Cooperative Lecturer at the Department of International Relations, University of

Nabiha Gul
nt
nte
Co
Highlights 2011
pk
The year 2011 witnessed political uncertainty, corruption, and lawlessness in

m.
Pakistan. Assassination of the Punjab Governor Salmaan Taseer and world's

'most wanted' man Osama bin Laden, the Memo scandal and abduction of
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Salmaan Taseer's son were among the prominent incidents.

m.

oru

The year 2011 witnessed political uncertainty, corruption, and lawlessness in Pakistan.
Assassination of the Punjab Governor Salmaan Taseer and world’s ‘most wanted’ man Osama bin
SF
Laden, the Memo scandal and abduction of Salmaan Taseer’s son were among the prominent
incidents.
CS
om
e s.c
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dT
orl
jW
January:
01: Drone strikes kill 17.
02: Pakistan PM loses vital partner
©
04: Governor Taseer assassinated. There has been international condemnation of the assassination
of one of Pakistan’s best-known liberal politicians, governor of Punjab province.
09: Rally in support of blasphemy law. ht
rig
18: Major quake hits southwestern Pakistan.
23: 32 killed after bus crashes into oil tanker.
py
24: Suspect in governor’s death lauded.

27: An American Official Raymond Davis killed two Pakistanis at Qartaba Chowk in Lahore.
Co
nt
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Co
pk
m.
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m.
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February
SF
05: Long bans for Pakistani cricketers.

09: Teen bomber kills 20 at army base in Mardan.
CS
12: Pakistan seeks Musharraf’s arrest.
March
01: The Minister for Minority Affairs, Shahbaz Bhatti, a Christian, dies after gunmen opened fire on
his car in Islamabad.
17: Suspected drone strike kills up to 30 in Pakistan remote tribal areas.
om
18: Calls for revenge after US drones kill 40. Tribal leaders in the Pakistani region have vowed
revenge against the US after drones killed more than 40 people near the Afghan border.
19: Pakistan and Australia’s World Cup record run.
s.c
22: 43 bodies recovered after mine explosion in a southwest Pakistan mine.
23: Pakistan eases into semi-finals and Pakistan car bombing kills five in Quetta.
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30: Pakistan PM in India for cricket clash and India beat Pakistan to make final. Also the prime
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ministers of India and Pakistan meet to watch a cricket match, an occasion seen as a chance for the
two nations to repair relations.
dT
April
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03: Pakistan Sakhi Sarwar shrine attack ‘kills 41’
04: Cameron to renew links with Pakistan.
jW
14: Pakistan condemns US drone strike.
21: Sixteen die in Pakistan blast and Pakistan drone attacks ‘kills 12’.
22: US exits Pakistan drone base.
©
May
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01: The founder of al-Qaeda, Osama bin Laden, is killed by American special forces in Abbottabad.
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04: Pakistan reacts angrily to US comments.
09: US needs permission to interview UBL wives and Pakistan starts Bin Laden inquiry.
py
12: Three of Osama bin Laden’s wives have been interrogated by US intelligence officers under the
supervision of Pakistani’s intelligence services.
Co
13: Pakistan’s parliament has called for a review of the country’s relationship with the US over the
American commando raid.
14: US charges six Pakistani over Taliban aid.
nt
15: Fatal Karachi attack on Saudi car.

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19: Bail denied in US Pakistani Taliban case.

20: Deadly Pakistan Nato tanker blast in northwest Pakistan kills at least 15 people.
22: Militants attack naval air base in Karachi killing at least 16 people.
Co
26: Suicide blast kills 25 in a funeral service in the lower region of Dir in Pakistan. The CIA team
searches Bin Laden compound.
pk
m.
co
m.
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June
01: 23 Pakistani troops die in border attack near Peshawar.
04: Key Pakistani militant ‘killed by US drone. ‘Deadly bomb strikes near Peshawar.
SF
08: Militants hit Pakistan checkpoint near Peshawar.

09: Pakistan probes videoed killing got a young man by paramilitary troops in Karachi.
CS
11: At least 34 people have been killed and 90 wounded after two explosions ripped through a
market in the north-western Pakistani city.
15: CIA informants who led to Bin Laden arrested.
24: Hum group denies al-Qaeda link.
July
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09: At least 100 killed from ethnic violence in Karachi.
10: US halting millions in aid to Pakistan.
s.c
18: Taliban video: Execution of Pakistani men.
19: Hina Rabbani Khar became the first female and the youngest person to over head Pakistani’s
Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
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20: Infant killings on the rise in Pakistan.
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August
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09: US drone attack kills 21 ‘militants’.
13: American kidnapped in Pakistan.
orl
14: Bomb flattens hotel on Independence Day in southwest Pakistan killing at least 12 people.
19: 100 wounded in a blast during Friday prayers at a mosque in Pakistan’s Khyber Agency. The
jW
mosque had about 300 people.
25: Flood victims stranded as a river bank overflowed during recent heavy rains.
27: Pakistan border raid ‘kills 25.’
©
Son of Slain governor abducted from the Gulberg areas of Lahore.
Al Qaeda’s No. 2 Atiya Abd al-Rehman has been killed.
September ht
rig
05: The Pakistani Intelligence service has arrested a senior al-Qaeda leader who sought to attack
targets in the United States, Europe and Australia.
py
06: Ten killed in Pakistan explosion in Quetta.

11: Flooding kills 200, damages one million homes.
Co
19: Dengue fever strikes thousands in Lahore.

20: Polio strain spreads to China from Pakistan.
22: Pakistan ‘supported’ US Kabul embassy attack according to US senior officials.
nt
24: Pakistanis strike back at US accusations.

nte
29: Pakistan PM rejects US pressure.

30: A Pakistani court has found guilty and sentenced to death the police bodyguard who killed
Punjab governor Salman Taseer in January.
Co
October
pk
02: Afghan officials stepped up accusations that the assassination of the country’s peace council
chairman began with a plot in Pakistan.
21: Hilary Clinton has led a US delegation to Islamabad in an attempt to prod Pakistan into action
m.
against the Haqqani network.

23: Pakistan: Indian copter violated airspace. Also Begum Nusrat Bhutto died after a prolong
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illness.
m.
November
oru
01: Cricketers guilty of betting scam, ‘sport fixing’ after a trial at South work Crown Court.
05: Seven men, including two senior police officers, were indicted for conspiracy to commit murder
in the killing of former Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto.
SF
08: Pakistan hit by flood cash crisis in Sindh province.

20: Trucks carrying fuel for Nato torched in Pakistan’s Southwestern Balochistan province.
CS
22: Pakistan’s prime minister asked the ambassador to resign because an offer to Washington by
Pakistan’s president to cut down the military leadership.
23: Pakistan appointed a former information minister and human rights campaigner Sherry Rehman
as its ambassador to the United States on, moving quickly to fill a post left vacant after Hussain
Haqqani’s resignation.
25: Woman suspected of cooking husband.
om
Pakistani officials have accused Nato helicopters of firing on a military checkpoint near Afghan
border, killing at least 12 soldiers.
26: Nato admits Pakistan troop deaths.
s.c
28: Prime minister issues a warning to US.
e
December
im
01: Al-Qaeda says it has 70-year-old aid expert Warren Weinstein, who was kidnapped by armed
men in the Pakistani city nearly four months ago.
dT
02: US talked with Pakistan before fatal strike.
07: President Zardari undergoes treatment in Dubai for a heart condition. His spokesman dismisses
orl
media speculation about an imminent resignation.
11: US troops leave the Shamsi air base in Balochistan in the wake of the November border attack,
jW
and Pakistan blocks US convoys entering Afghanistan.\
19: Pakistan’s Supreme Court opened hearings into a secret memo sent to Washington that has
sharply raised tensions between the powerful military and the civilian government.
©
21: The Supreme Court has ordered the Election Commission to prepare voters lists by December
31, 2011 in any case.
Leading sports deaths of the year ht

rig
Leading sportspeople who died this year:
py
BOXING
Sir Henry Cooper: Much-loved British heavyweight champion who died two days before his 77th
Co
birthday on May 1. Best known for his 1963 non-title bout with Muhammad Ali when he landed
‘Enry’s Hammer’ felling his opponent. Some gamesmanship by Ali’s trainer Angelo Dundee
probably saved his young star from defeat. Cooper retired in 1971 and went on to do an enormous
nt
amount for charity as well as a kitsch series of adverts alongside Kevin Keegan for an aftershave.
nte
Joe Frazier: World heavyweight champion known as ‘Smokin Joe’ died of liver cancer aged 67 on
November 8. The former farm-worker from South Carolina fought a legendary triology of title
fights with Muhammad Ali in the 1970’s - Frazier won the first but lost the next two, Ali describing
Co
the final bout ‘The Thrilla in Manila’ as “the closest thing to dying that I know of”. Outside the ring
the two never made up as Frazier felt slighted by Ali’s taunts of ‘Uncle Tom and gorilla’. Eventually
Frazier did forgive his old rival in 2009 and a frail Ali turned up for his funeral.
pk
CRICKET
m.
Mansur Ali Khan Tiger’ Pataudi: Former Indian cricket captain died aged 70 of lung disease on
September 22. The Nawab of Pataudi nicknamed ‘Tiger’ because of his excellent catching and
co
throwing in the outfield. He played most of his career without his right eye, which he lost in a car
accident in England shortly before he became the first Indian to captain Oxford University. Pataudi
m.
became India’s captain at the age of 21 and led them in 40 of his 46 Tests - retiring from test cricket
in 1976 - winning nine and securing the country’s first series win abroad on the 1967/68 tour of
oru
New Zealand.
FOOTBALL
SF
Florian Albert: Hungary’s only ever footballer to be awarded the ‘Ballon d’Or’ prize as the
European Footballer of the Year died on October 31 aged 70 following heart bypass surgery.
CS
Outstanding striker who won the Ballon d’Or in 1967 beating Manchester United and England star
Bobby Charlton into second place by 68 votes to 40. Albert scored 31 international goals between
1959 and 1974 and 255 goals in 351 league matches for his sole club Ferencvaros.
Nat Lofthouse: English international striker known as the ‘Lion of Vienna’ died aged 85 on January
15. Earned his nickname for his performance in England’s 3-2 win over Austria in 1952 and ended
his international career with 30 goals in 33 appearances. He was voted Bolton’s greatest ever player
om
four years ago as he made more than 450 appearances for the Trotters, scoring 285 goals for the
club between 1946 and 1960.
Socrates: Brazilian football icon died on Dec 4 aged 57 of an intestinal infection. Captained the
s.c
great 1982 Brazilian side which was widely-regarded as the finest team never to win a World Cup
and also played in 1986 edition but was not fully fit and missed a penalty in the quarter-final defeat
e
by France. Rare among Brazilian football stars in coming from a middle class background and
im
qualified as a doctor. Was a self-confirmed bon viveur and he later admitted his failing health was
linked to his love of alcohol.
dT
GOLF
orl
Severiano Ballesteros: Charismatic Spanish golfer ‘Seve’ died on May 7 aged 54 after years of ill
health following a brain tumour operation. Led the surge in European golfers challenging the
jW
supremacy of the Americans and won five majors with his play littered by audacious strokes from
impossible lies. Name forever associated with Europe turning the tables on previously unbeatable
Americans in Ryder Cup. Despite retiring in 2007 and his subsequent health problems his influence
©
never waned and his phone call last year roused the European team and they went onto edge the
Americans in Wales to regain the Ryder Cup.
HORSE RACING ht
rig
Donald ‘Ginger’ McCain: English four-time Grand National winning trainer died two days before
his 81st birthday on September 19 after a long illness. a former taxi driver and car salesman, his
py
fortunes were to change inexorably once he took on an average flat horse Red Rum and guided him
to three Grand National wins. Was to go on and win another with Amberleigh House in 2004.
Co
MOTORCYCLING
Marco Simoncelli: Fast rising daredevil MotoGp rider died as a result of injuries suffered in a crash
nt
in the Malaysian MotoGp on October 23 aged 24. Ironically it was at the same Sepang track the
mop-haired Italian rider had enjoyed his sweetest moment finishing third in the 2008 250cc race to
nte
take the world title. His devil may care tactics did get him into trouble such as when he was
involved in a controversial crash with Dani Pedrosa at the French GP in May which left Pedrosa
Co
requiring surgery on a shoulder fracture. He achieved his best result in MotoGP with a second place
to world champion Casey Stoner in Australia the week before his death.
pk
WEIGHTLIFTING
Vasily Alekseyev: Two-time Soviet Union Olympic super heavyweight champion died of heart
m.
disease aged 69 on Nov 25 in a clinic in Munich, where he had won the first of his two Olympic
titles. While gold also followed in Montreal sadly he was unable to make it a threepeat in his
co
“home” Olympics the Moscow edition in 1980. One of the true greats of a sport usually tainted by
doping he also won eight world crowns and set 80 world records.
m.
A sad year for art world

oru
Though the outgoing year was a relatively better year in terms of peace, stability and positive
activities, it also proved to be a sad and quite troublesome one for the artist community as many
towering figures in the performing arts left this world for their heavenly abode, leaving behind a
SF
glorious legacy and a sense of irreparable loss for their families, friends and fans.
CS
In this year, the renowned stage, film and TV artist Jamil Fakhri could not survive a heartbreaking
personal tragedy and finally succumbed to the tragedy of his young son's tragic murder. Liaqat
Soldier, a famous comedian, died of a heart attack. Immediately after Liaqat deserted his fans,
Buboo Braal and comedian Mustana bid farewell to this temporary abode for the heavenly one. The
world of humor had not come out of these shocks when the king of comedy, the master of highly
civilized and sophisticated humor and wit Moeen Akhtar left his fans, family and friends forever in
om
Karachi, leaving behind a vacuum not to be filled for many years to come. Moeen died of a sudden
heart attack despite the fact that he had been scheduled to see his doctor on the fateful day for the
checkup of his poor heart. Moeen's death saddened everyone around the world who loved clean and
s.c
highly enjoyable style of comedy.
e
It can be rightly assumed that the year 2011 was the most unfortunate year for the world of stage
im
and television due to the untimely demises of these highly admired and adored men.
dT
The stage world also went through yet another great loss in the form of the renowned stage artist
Anjuman Shehzadi, who has been a super star in her own right for the dance lovers and stage plays
orl
fans. Million of art-lovers were left high and dry after Anjuman Shehzadi's untimely and mysterious
exit from the world stage.
jW
After Anjuman Shehzadi, another shock was waiting in the wings for the fans of the small screen
plays: Rauf Khalid, the creator of the plays like 'Ahan' Angar Wadi' and many others, died in a road
accident while he was on his way to Islamabad at the tail end of the year 2011.This again snatched
©
smiles from thousands faces and left them in a state of mourning for long. The brilliant and highly
professional Rauf Khalid's untimely death is considered as one of the greatest blows to Pakistani
performing and literary world.
ht
rig
However, it was not only the Pakistani showbiz and performing arts world which had the bitter taste
of morbidity and great losses. On the other side of the border in neighboring Indian also , many
py
great stars left a trail of tears and millions of fans around the world in 2011.
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The iconic figure in Ghazal singing and a highly popular showbiz personality across the globe,
Jagjeet Singh, died. The man who gave the film world a unique style and was a heartthrob in his
prime, Dev Anand, left this world for heavenly abode while Shami Kapoor, the great Indian film
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star who had earned world-wide fame for his electrifying dancing style and his 'wild movements' on
the silver screen bade farewell to this world in the year passing by. Another Indian, again a world
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famous personality and an artist of unique talents, M.F.Hussain, also passed away.
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However, the out-going year was not all tragedies and tears as it also had some moments of joy and
jubilation too. The most joyful moments in this year passing by were collected by the world of fine
arts. This year, the art galleries had a gala year since at least three dozen paintings, sculpture,
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photography and calligraphy exhibitions were held in the provincial metropolis. The art galleries –
including the Ejaz Galleries, the Coopera Art Galleries, the Ocean Art Galleries, the Native Art
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Galleries, Alhamra Art Gallery, Revivers Art gallery, Royat Art Galleries, the Hamail Art Galleries,
the Collectors Galleria, Rohtas2 Art Gallery, the Drawing Room Art Galleries and the Nairang Art
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Galleries – had a swell year by displaying the art works of the brilliant Pakistani artists - young and
old, new and established ones. The art scene in the city remained quite vibrant and had the biggest
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share in bringing back the long lost colorful life of this cultural hub of the country.
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The filmdom remained under the clouds of stagnancy and neglect as a very few new movies could
see the light of the day and yet most of them could not do much. On the other hand, the Indian
movies remained quite a success in the Pakistani cinemas throughout the year. The most successful
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movie of the year 2011 remained Geo Films/Shoaib Mansoor joint flick "BOL" which again proved
to be a thundering success in monetary as well as creative terms. Syed Noor, a towering name in
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Pakistani film world did bring in a few good flicks but one man alone can not change the fate of the
chronically sick film industry of Pakistan. 'BOL' brought back the lost glory of Pakistani cinema
industry for some time and again this unfortunate film industry was once again pushed to the
oblivion of uncertainty and misfortune. ÑPTR
Adeel Niaz
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The 18th Constitutional Amendment: A
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Paradigm Shift
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If we fail to recognise constitutionally the rights of the people of Pakistan and do
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not develop a constitutional system wherein provinces feel that they are part of
the Federation and citizens feel that they have some stakes in Pakistan, it would
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be very difficult to keep the Federation as a cohesive body.
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pk
m.
After the introduction of the 18th Amendment in the constitution, it is being asked to what extent
the amendment has addressed the diversity in the country and has provided representation to these
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diversities in state institutions. In view of colonial mindset we found ourselves in the state of denial
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regarding our cultural diversities. We should not be fearful of diversity rather we should use it to
strengthen cohesion and solidarity of the Federation.
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Senator Mian Raza Rabbani served as the chairman Parliamentary Committee on Constitutional
Reforms which proposed the bill that translated into 18th constitutional amendment. He also served
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as the chairman of implementation commission established to oversee the process of

implementation of the amendment. This article has been developed from an interview of Senator
Raza Rabbani given to Mr Zafarullah Khan, Centre of Civil Education Pakistan, Islamabad.
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So far as the 18th constitutional amendment is concerned, it is an endeavour to strengthen, empower

and expand the jurisdiction of the constitutional institutions of the country. The Council of Common
Interests (CCI) was already present as a constitutional institution but with a limited role in conflict
resolution among provinces and between the Federation. Now, any of the provinces can take up the
issues particularly issues regarding water distribution which can also be brought to the institution.
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We have expanded its role. Constitution of the CCI in 1973 was a great leap forward and foresight
of those who framed the 1973 constitution but, you would surprised to hear that since 1973 to
perhaps up till 2008, only 11 meetings of CCI were held. Now we have made it mandatory to have a
s.c
meeting of CCI within 90 days. Besides that, the dispute resolution and the joint management of
resources among provinces and the Federation have also been made a part of it. Earlier, the natural
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resource like oil, gas and other minerals were the properties of the Federation solely but now, in the
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light of the Article 172 of the constitution, 50 per cent of these resources would be owned by the
provinces and 50 per cent would be owned by the Federation. Now, the joint management of these
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and other such resources is the responsibility of the CCI. The CCI now onwards is also the policy
making institution for those ministries and departments which fall in the Federal Legislative List
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(Part 2), i.e. shared provincial and federal responsibilities.
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Here, I would like to address the fears being expressed by some quarters about possibility of
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conflict or tensions emerging between the CCI and the federal cabinet, I think it is not possible. If
we strictly follow the constitution, no such thing would happen as the constitution clearly defines
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the jurisdiction and role of both the CCI and the federal cabinet. The Principles of Policy clearly
mentions that quota for backward areas, already specified in the constitution should be implemented
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strictly to bring the remote areas at par with the developed ones. Eighteenth Amendment tries to
meet the multitudinous diversity of the country. However, the constitution is a growing organ and
future parliaments would advance it beyond the 18th Amendment. Moreover, it has happened for
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the first time in the history of the country that minorities have been given representation in the
Senate of Pakistan. One seat from each province has been reserved for minorities in the Senate and
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in March 2012 Senate elections the minorities' members would be elected.

Earlier, the natural resource like oil, gas and other minerals were the properties of the federation
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solely but now, in the light of the Article 172 of the constitution, 50 per cent of these resources
would be owned by the provinces and 50 per cent would be owned by the Federation.
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If we fail to recognise constitutionally the rights of the people of Pakistan and do not develop a
constitutional system wherein provinces feel that they are part of the Federation and citizens feel
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that they have some stakes in Pakistan, it would be very difficult to keep the Federation as a
cohesive body. In fact, provincial autonomy and the Council of Common Interests were present in
the 1973 constitution but it was held in abeyance deliberately and was not implemented. Some
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articles of the constitution were circumvented and interpreted in a way to strengthen the centrist
forces and to fortify Islamabad. This led to intensify the tension among provinces and between the
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Federation and the provinces. Such a situation emerged in Musharraf's dictatorial era and was
prevailing when the incumbent parliament came into existence when all the powers had been
centralised. Musharraf's devolution is much talked about but his devaluation plan, if analysed and
understood in depth both in historical perspective and with reference to its effects, actually gave
birth to the centralism and strengthened the centralisation. Musharraf's devolution plan ignored
provinces and strengthened the districts by funding them directly. The districts started looking
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towards Islamabad, the centre. The middle cadre of the provincial governments and provinces was
eliminated and made redundant to give impetus to centralisation that led to increased inter-
provincial friction and resentment between provinces and the Federation.
s.c
There may be flaws in the 18th Amendment but, if it is not implemented fully at this point of time,
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it would send a very dangerous message. I see the 18th Amendment from different perspective and I
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think it has political aspect also. Baloch nationalist parties were not only on board in the process of
18th and 19th amendments and their implementation but were also the signatories of the
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amendments and they voted for it.
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The questions are being raised that if the curriculum is handed down to the provinces it would
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divide one nation into four. Moreover, the capacity of the provinces to shoulder the responsibility of
new ministries and departments in terms of finance, administration and manpower, is also being
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questioned. I see this situation as just a part of negative propaganda unleashed by the centrist forces.
It is my personal perception developed during past two years that at the early stage many people
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particularly the centrist forces were not expecting that the 18th Amendment would even actually
take place. Disappointing views were being expressed that so many parties would not reach a
consensus on the solutions of tricky issues and the committee would stuck up on issues like
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quantum of the autonomy to provinces and renaming of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, etc. But the
committee and the parliament proved that the political leaders and politicians understood the current
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political situation and had the cognition of the critical time. They understood very well that if the
18th Amendment failed in terms of legislation then we could undergo a movement similar to what
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we are witnessing in the Arab countries. All the germs for such a movement were present here in
Pakistan. I think the l8th Amendment has built a huge dam against such a movement in Pakistan.
"One seat from each province has been reserved for minorities in the Senate and in March 2012
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Senate elections the minorities' members would be elected."

m.
After the 18th Amendment was passed by the parliament the centrist forces believed it would not be
implemented that is why opposition of the I8th Amendment started in the middle of the second
phase. In my view, it was because of two reasons: first, some centrist forces realised that the
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amendment is going to be implemented anyhow hence they started creating hurdles like hype on the
issue of education and devolution of Higher Education Commission and by raising the issue of
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capacity of the provinces to handle it.
I fail to understand why we think that only Islamabad has the certificate of being patriot; aren't
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provinces patriots or they are less patriotic than the centralist? I am not ready to buy this argument.
If any province wants to teach its regional history besides the national history by making it a part of
curricula what is wrong with it. If the students of Punjab are taught about the role of Ranjit Singh or
Bhagat Singh, what is a wrong with it? Very frankly, I want to say that we have distorted our
history; we have tried to adapt our history into a particular paradigm to make the country a security
state. Therefore, I do not think that shifting the curriculum to the provinces would pose any threats
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to the Federation.
So for as the issue of capacity of provinces is concerned, federating units have the required capacity
s.c
as most of the ministries which have been transferred to provinces already had line departments in
the provinces. Secondly, these ministries and departments were being run by the Federation for the
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last 63 years. What kind of international benchmarks the Federation has achieved that we argue that
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the Federation has capacity but provinces lack that capacity. Granted that some lack of expertise
might be there but when they would shoulder the responsibility they definitely would deliver. I do
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not think there are any tangible arguments that devolution should be stopped. Most of the centrist
forces confuse the devolution, provincial autonomy and independence. These are different concepts,
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but remember in cooperative federations all these matters are provincial subjects.
jW
The constitution defines economic and linguistic rights of every citizen and provides protection
against discrimination of every sort either in the name of gender, religion, region or ethnicity.
Constitution protects equal religious rights for minorities and also it is the constitution that protects
©
all these constitutional provisions. If the constitution is put aside the country would be like an
emperor without clothes. If anyone wants to trivialise the constitution it means he / she does not
want to respect the law and abide it.
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pk
What should be done to highlight its importance, I think media has to play a very significant role.
Media have to inform the people and educate them about the significance of the constitution and
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benefits of respecting and abiding the constitution. Secondly, the ruling class has to implement and
enforce the rule of law on itself. If the ruling class would not impose the rule of law on it and would
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expect that its enforcement should take place down the line, it is not possible. If constitutional
provisions are not implementable on me then they are not implementable on anyone else and no one
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would respect them. Thirdly, we will have to say goodbye to the culture of flouting the law. We
think if we flout the law, we have some status. We need to understand that no matter how big or
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powerful positions we are occupying we are subservient to the law of the land. Earlier, there was a
subject of civics in the syllabus which has now perhaps been removed from the curricula. It taught
us the duties, rights and responsibilities of a citizen. I think the subject should he revived in the
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syllabus and expanded ever, further to teach fundamental principles of the constitution and how
constitution interacts in individual's life in schools and universities.
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I am very much optimistic about this. I think the people of Pakistan have shown resilience on every
occasion. I do not want to dig deep in the history but limit myself to the processes of 18th and 19th
amendments and their implementation. In prevailing situation, emerging from the political
polarisation, confrontation, and tension among the political parties, terrorism and extremism, and
because of external pressures interacting with Pakistan in the form of drone attacks and threats to
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the sovereignty of Pakistan, we have been successful in incorporating such a huge structural change
in federal and provincial structures and have negated the foreign propaganda that Pakistan, God
forbid, is a failed state. I am hopeful that if the l8th Amendment is implemented in real sense and
s.c
with the help of people of Pakistan terrorism and extremism are checked and brought under control,
Pakistan will emerge as the best federation. We have all the elements and ingredients. The only
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thing we need is that the nation has to make these changes work for their betterment. [Pakistan
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Perspectives]
The writer is a renowned columnist.
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Email: qayyumnizami@gmail.com
Qayyum Nizami
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Remaking Pakistan
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In today's context, what is important for Pakistan is the need to be stable
politically and strong economically so as to be self-reliant and immune to
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external constraints and exploitation. This requires a holistic systemic change in

our governance patterns.
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nt

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pk
m.
Indeed, history never looks like history when you are living through it. Within less than quarter of a
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century of our independent statehood, we lost half the country. Some blamed it on our physically
being a house divided not against itself but by sitting astride more than one thousand miles of a
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hostile India's territory. The reality however was that as a newly independent nation, we just could
not cope with the challenges of freedom inherent in our geo-political and structural fault lines.
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Language became our first bête noire. We are still possessed by the same ghosts in the name of
culture, ethnicity and history.
SF
Instead of removing our systemic weaknesses and reinforcing the unifying elements of our
nationhood, our power-hungry politicians have always succumbed to narrowly-based self-serving
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temptations. They rejected the popular will freely expressed in the December 1970 elections, and
instead of exploring political remedies to the resultant crisis went along a military solution. It was
the height of political opportunism and a humiliating military debacle leaving Pakistan physically
amputated; the worst that could happen to any country in the world. The real Pakistan disappeared
with its tragic dismemberment.
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The very reasons that precipitated the 1971 tragedy remained unaddressed in the new constitution
which was adopted in 1973 under pressures emanating in the aftermath of the breakup tragedy
rather than on merits of the document itself
s.c
The political government formed in 1973, soon had problems with two provinces, the NWFP (now
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KP) and Baluchistan, dissolving their governments and imposing governor's rule in these provinces.
im
This was followed by an armed uprising in some parts of Baluchistan. The then prime minister,
Zulfikar Ali Bhutto then realised the need for systemic changes in the country. He went into early
dT
elections in the hope of two-third majority in the parliament to be able to amend the constitution.
His plans were preempted by a military take-over.
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Since then, the 1973 constitution has been amended eighteen times but no government has ever
jW
attempted to correct the systemic anachronisms in our federal structure or to redress provincial
grievances. The so called 'devolution' under the eighteenth amendment provides no solution to the
core issue of inter-provincial disparities. The problem is that the overbearing feudal and tribal
©
power structure in Pakistan has been too deeply entrenched to let any systemic change take place. It
doesn't suit them. They have always resisted reform in the country which they fear will erode their
vested power and influence base.
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In the process, the country has failed to develop a sustainable democratic system based on
constitutional supremacy and institutional integrity. The main casualties have been the state
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institutions and the process of national integration. The country has also been engaged in a
precarious struggle to define a national identity and evolve a political system needed for its
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ethnically and linguistically diverse population. We, like most developing countries, are perhaps not
yet fit for the parliamentary system. Britain struggled for centuries to reach its current parliamentary
status. For us, it would be too long and too arduous a journey to be indefinitely chasing illusory
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goals.
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Temperamentally, we are a 'presidential' nation. It is time we abandoned the system that we have
never been able to practice, and explored an adult franchise-based 'presidential system' suitably
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designed for and tailored to Pakistan's needs. We must also adopt the system of 'proportional
representation' that ensures representation of political parties in national legislature proportionate to
the percentage of popular vote they receive. It will provide greater access to non-feudal, non-elitist
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educated middle class people in elected assemblies. Also needed is rationalization of our federal
system by revisiting our current 'provincial architecture' looking for a pragmatic solution to the
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problems of regional disparities.

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We find our provincial system not only fueling misrule and corruption but also aggravating sense of
inequality and deprivation among different parts of the country. There is already a strong veritable
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resentment in Balochistan and in other smaller provinces against what is seen as 'continued Punjabi
dominance' and inequitable distribution of power and resources. In the former East Pakistan too, a
ht
similar deep-rooted sense of deprivation and a feeling of political and economic alienation became a
politico-constitutional crisis culminating into demand for larger autonomy and leading eventually to
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the dismemberment of the country.
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While large unequal provinces are always prone to breed and fuel secessionist mindsets, smaller
provinces serve as a safety valve against such tendencies. Pakistan remains a unique example of a
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federation with almost no parallel anywhere in the world. No country, roughly equal to Pakistan's
geographical and population size has so few and so large provinces with such a large number of
legislators, ministers, advisors, chief ministers, governors etc
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"It is time we abandoned the system that we have never been able to practice, and explored an adult
franchise-based 'presidential system' suitably designed for and tailored to Pakistan's needs."
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The need for drastic change in our present anachronistic set up is urgent to get rid of the same old
usurpers of the country's politics, outmoded social and political structures and elitist-led status quo
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in our country.
At this time in our history, we need greater societal cohesion, not fragmentation. We cannot afford
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new controversies reviving the old ethnic and linguistic chasms. But if inter-provincial disparities
are to be removed, we can't simply wish them away. We need surgical remedies to root out the
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causes of instability. Papering of cracks will just not do.

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We must remove the inherent flaws in our body politic by recasting our federal architecture and
replacing the present four provinces with thirty or more administratively-determined provinces with
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some balance in their geographical expanse and population size, free of ethnic and parochial labels
but still constitutionally keeping their 'ethnic and historical identities' intact.
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To avoid any large-scale fresh re-demarcation of land boundaries and re-channeling of irrigations
canals and tributaries, the best solution will be to convert the existing divisional commissionaries
SF
into new provinces headed by governors but with no provincial assemblies, cabinets, or secretariats
at the provincial level making huge savings directly available for the wellbeing of the people. A
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Sindhi will remain a Sindhi even as part of Hyderabad, Karachi, Larkana, Mirpur Khas or Sukkur
Province and so would be other nationalities.
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The new 'provinces' should be headed by 'governors' appointed as at present by the Central
Government. There should be no provincial assemblies, cabinets, or secretariats at the provincial
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level eliminating at least one tier of known redundancy that has thrived on dirty politics of greed
and power with huge savings to be available for the wellbeing of the people. The basic unit of
governance should be the present districts, each headed by an elected person with prescribed
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eligibility criteria, leaving for the recast provinces only an oversight role providing support to the
district governments and maintaining liaison with the central government in terms of administrative,
judicial, and financial matters.
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The federal government should retain only ten to twelve ministries responsible to formulate and
implement national policies in important areas notably defence, economy, education, foreign affairs,
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national security, law & justice, water & power, trade and communication. The sanctity of
'separation of powers' should be the basis of the federal system with three organs of the State
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functioning independently with usual checks and balances.
We must remember that Pakistan of 1947 could not survive even for twenty five years. Despite the
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1973 Constitution, the remaining Pakistan continues to face threat of further disintegration mainly
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due to unaddressed concerns of different regions. To avert the vicious cycle of known tragedies, we
need a serious and purposeful “national effort” involving a holistic review of our governmental
system and a parallel discourse among major political stakeholders and key civil society segments
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including the media and lawyer's community to explore and evolve a national 'remedial and
recovery' plan before it is too late. Elections alone will not make any difference. The system itself
must change.
pk
Sometimes, when the gravest of problems stare us in the face, we choose to ignore it just because
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we find that we can't do anything about it. And in most cases, we just ignore it and carry on with
life, at times ridiculing those who speak of the need to set things right. As a country and as a nation,
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at this critical phase in our history, we cannot just leave ourselves to the vagaries of time or at the
mercy of our corrupt and incompetent rulers. We can't even innocently continue to believe that
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everything will be alright, magically or providentially.

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In today's context, what is important for Pakistan is the need to be stable politically and strong
economically so as to be self-reliant and immune to external constraints and exploitation. This
SF
requires a holistic systemic change in our governance patterns. Our present rulers have been amply
tested and inspire no hope. The nation desperately looks for an alternative, someone with integrity
and credibility and a governance and economic recovery plan with an able team to remake the State
CS
of Pakistan like Korea's Park Chung- hee, Malaysia's Mahathir and Singapore's Lee Kuan Yew.
The writer is a
former foreign secretary
Shamshad Ahmad
The writer is a former foreign secretary.
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“We should be clear about our short and long
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term objectives and how we can achieve them”
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Dr. Pervaiz Iqbal Cheema Dean Faculty of Contemporary Studies National
Defence University (NDU), Islamabad
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Dr. Pervaiz Iqbal Cheema is a prominent scholar of international repute and his main area of
specialisation is 'Foreign Policy'. His articles regularly appear in both national and international
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academic journals, popular magazines and daily newspapers. He has published more than 130
research articles and over 650 other general articles/ columns, etc. He has authoured many books
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and monographs and co-authoured some books with international writers like Stephen P. Kohan.
Currently, he is Dean, Faculty of Contemporary Sciences at National Defence University (NDU)
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Islamabad since 2009. Interview Conducted By: WAQAS IQBAL

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Jahangir's World Times(JWT): What are the determinants of a foreign policy?

Dr. Pervaiz Iqbal Cheema: Well we can divide them into two categories. the permanent and non-
SF
permanent determinants. 'Geostrategic' and 'Geopolitical situation tops the permanent determinants
of a foreign policy which means where you are located, who are your neighbours and which kind of
relationship you have with them. The second, determinant included in this category is the 'History',
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but its importance varies from case to case. In Pakistan's case history has a significant role, for
instance, if we see the 'Pakistan Movement' and the opposition from the Indian National Congress.
The third important, particularly in Pakistan's case is 'Ideology'. Since Pakistan is an ideological
state, therefore the significance of 'idealogy' cannot be neglected. The fourth one is the 'National
Interest'. In fact, states make foreign policy for the safeguard of their national interests in the world.
All nations are engaged for securing and advancing of their national interest across the world. Thus,
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national interest is the cardinal principle of any foreign policy. Now there are some variables or you
can say the non-permanent determinants of a foreign policy. First one is the 'Public Opinion'. It
means how public opinion of a country can influence its foreign policy. Now in some countries the
s.c
role of public opinion is very assertive but in some countries public opinion has a minor role. For
instance, here in Pakistan public is not so much conscious about the policy making therefore, they
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do not write or suggest any thing to their elected representatives that what should be the policy but
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now some people on the electronic media are seen discussing the foreign policy issues of Pakistan.
The 'Foreign Office' also do make some inputs if somebody is willing to listen them. In fact, the
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role of the 'Foreign Office' is to give their input to the government or policy makers and to
implement the policy made by the government. So, I would say in Pakistan role of public opinion is
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much assertive in the internal policies of Pakistan as compare to the foreign policy, e.g. in the
restoration of chief justice of Pakistan the public opinion had significant part. Actually, our public is
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too much emotional and can be invoked easily. Now role of individuals or personality is the second
variable of foreign policy. In Pakistan, we have 'personalised politics'. Here we cannot find
democracy within the political parties. So, whoever personality is dominating the party similarly, he
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or she dominates all the policies and other affairs of the government when comes in power. Thus,
the role of personality does affect the directions of foreign policy. In addition, I would say this role
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of personality is not a distinctive feature of third world country, it can be seen in the developed
countries. Only, a strong personality can change the direction of foreign policy while a weak
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personality would be swept away with any crisis. For instance, Eisenhower was the American
president whereas — John Faster Delis was the secretary of state. One can easily find the imprints
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of John Faster on the American foreign policy. Third non-permanent determinant of foreign policy
is the economic factor. It is extremely important for the developing countries as far as transfer of
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technology, trade and foreign aid is concerned. It is also an important factor for the developed
countries but from a different angle. So, it is the important variable of foreign policy but its
intensity changes time to time. Thus, these are some permanent and non-permanent determinants of
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a foreign policy and cannot be neglected.

Only, a strong personality can change the direction of foreign policy while a weak personality
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would be swept away with any crisis.

JWT: How do you define the role of academia and think tanks in the making of foreign policy?
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Dr. PIC: In our country and particularly in the developed countries think tanks do play an important
role practically. They do it by holding conferences and seminars on particular issues related to the
foreign policy. They also conduct research-based studies, publish articles in their journals and
pk
launch opinion polls. Then, they put their policy suggestions to the government whether they are
considered or not but they do. This is how they play an important role in the making of foreign
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policy. But in the third world countries and especially in Pakistan I do not think that the due
attention is being paid to these think tanks. Actually, in Pakistan the think tanks are not properly
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utilised in the making of foreign policy by any government. In fact, on one hand government is
financing these think tanks but on the other government is not taking any benefit from them. For
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instance, recently the 'Envoys or Ambassadors Conference' was held at Foreign Office and it is said
that government is going to review the Pak-US relations. Perhaps it would have been better if the
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government had contacted the representatives from the think tanks but it didn't. Even I would go to
the extent that some people in the media are very good, they should also be approached. In fact, the
Foreign Office does not have any continuous or regular interaction with these think tanks like ISSI,
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IPRI etc. When I was president of IPRI (Islamabad Policy Research Institute) at that time a policy
review on India was going on so. Jaleel Abbas Jillani the DG South Asia desk used to call me and
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other members from different think tanks in order to have our input, this is the only example which
I can give throughout my stay in IPRI. In my opinion there is no harm in associating academia and
think tanks in the foreign policy making process of Pakistan. It would not be counter-productive
because academia or think tanks are not the-decision makers, government is the ultimate authority
to take decisions. However, in India the academia and think tanks have greater say in their foreign
policy formulation as compare to us. In Pakistan, academia and think tanks contributes indirectly in
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the making of foreign policy through their journals, research-based studies and by holding seminars
and conferences.
s.c
JWT: What is the major dilemma of our foreign policy in your opinion and to which extent our
Foreign Office is responsible for it?
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Dr. PIC: Well in my opinion “Pakistan's foreign policy is basically reactive rather than innovative”.
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To me it is the major dilemma of our foreign policy. We should be clear about our short-and long-
term objectives and how we can achieve them. I don't think so we are clear about it. Actually, we
dT
are lacking a constructive and long-term approach for a balanced foreign policy. We have brilliant
minds in our Foreign Office but may be they are not allowed to utilise their skills. I must say we
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must follow our national interests even in a cold-blooded way.
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JWT: Is 'Track-2 Diplomacy' is effective in case of India-Pakistan relations?
Dr. PIC: Yes, it is effective as well as productive in case of India and Pakistan. For instance,
'Nimrana Dialogue'. It was started in 1992 and I am also member of this dialogue. Normally, it
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holds two meetings annually — one in Dehli and the other one in Islamabad and the second meeting
of 'Nimrana Dialogue' was held recently in Islamabad in November 2011. In fact, this dialogue is
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contributing number of CBMs (confidence building measures) and the both sides understand each
other thinking very well and we exchange our ideas. So, we propose some CBMs which are sent to
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the governments then it's up to the respective governments of two countries to take necessary
measures for suggested CBMs. Thus, in my opinion 'Track-2 Diplomacy' and especially the
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'Nimrana Dialogue' is very effective in case of Indo-Pak relations.

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JWT: Do you think that our 'Foreign Office' should establish a separate wing for cultural
diplomacy?
Dr. PIC: Yes, I agree they should establish a separate wing for cultural diplomacy because we are
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very weak in it. I would say, “There is hardly any cultural diplomacy”. But for this I do not blame to
the Foreign Office. In fact, it is the domain of ministry of culture. They should come forward and
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enhance their liaison with the Foreign Office. We have very good singers, actors and our own
culture is very rich and full of diversity even by doing this we can project our softer image in the
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world. We could have utilised our 'TV Drama' as 'Cultural Leverage' which is normally called soft
power but we didn't. On the other hand, Indians fully utilised their soft power, i.e. Bollywood. We
see their movies and in some movies they try to convey message. Moreover, we see their channels
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in Pakistan but our channels are banned in India because it will have a cultural impact. Now it is up
to our government to make agreements on reciprocal basis in order to get similar facilities in India.
m.
Waqas Iqbal
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m.
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The Shameful Exit

SF
CS
Although the United States won the war in Iraq, it lost its world wide credibility
as a responsible nation respecting international law, besides earning widespread
hatred among Muslims all over the world, who view it as an abominable
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aggressor, thirsty for the blood and oil of Muslims.
s.c
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When during the final days of December 2011, the last US troops stationed in Iraq crossed the
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border into Kuwait, American officials hailed it as a triumphant accomplishment of a glorious

mission that toppled the tyrannical regime of Saddam Hussein and ushered in a new age of
democracy and freedom in Iraq. Such tall claims might have been meant for domestic consumption,
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but the fact remains that all independent analysts unanimously agree that by all means and
standards, US military adventures in Iraq have been an embarrassing failure, without any tangible
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achievement, doing more damage than good. Now that the Iraq conflict that began with Operation
Shock and Awe in March 2003, is finally over, let us have an analytical assessment of the
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legitimacy and efficacy of this whole campaign, that claimed the lives of four and a half thousand
Americans and hundreds of thousands of Iraqis, besides costing billions of dollars. To arrive at
some final conclusion, we have to decide as to whether the United States was really justified in
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unleashing its massive military power against Iraq.

m.
The US invasion of Iraq was prompted by a matter of choice rather than necessity. Previously, the
United States was drawn into military conflicts when it or some of its closest allies came under
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direct aggressive assault from some other country. The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbour, Korean
War and the US-led invasion of Iraq in 1991; in all such instances the swift US military response
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was justified as a legitimate act of self-defence or an obligation to assist the victims of aggression,
as enshrined in the UN Charter. But this was not the case in 2003, when Iraq had neither attacked
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the United States or any of its allies, nor had it the power and potential to do so. The Iraqi army of
2003 was only a pale shadow of its former size and strength. Twelve years of rigorous economic
sanctions imposed by the United Nations and frequent attacks by US and British aircraft to enforce
SF
no-fly zone over Southern Iraq had significantly damaged Iraq's air defences, communications, and
command and control systems and substantially reduced its combat capabilities, making it almost
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impossible to initiate hostilities against any other nation. Under these circumstances, the United
States could comfortably wait for some more time, allowing the sanctions and other forms of
pressure to hasten the complete collapse of Saddam's regime and his military might. While the UN
weapons, inspectors deployed throughout Iraq were repeatedly reporting back that they had failed to
find any credible evidence of the presence of chemical, biological and nuclear weapons
(collectively known as weapons of mass destruction or WMD), the Bush administration chose to
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initiate war without the backing of the UN Security Council, on the pretext that Saddam's relentless
pursuit of WMD posed a serious threat to the US national security and, therefore, demanded a
preemptive strike, before it was too late.
s.c
The founding fathers of America like George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and Thomas
Jefferson believed that freedom and democracy were noble ideals that had to be nurtured in the
e
minds of people through education, persuasion, and an appeal to reason.
im
When it was evident beyond any doubt that there was no concerted Iraqi effort at that time aimed at
invading any other country by means of WMD or even conventional weapons, the US
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administration asserted that even if Iraq was unable at that time to launch an immediate assault, it
was secretly developing a potent WMD programme, which would be ready at some point in future
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and in such a case, any Iraqi military strike would cause horrifying levels of death and destruction;
and, therefore, an immediate preventive attack on Iraq was indispensable to avoid future
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devastation.
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nt
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Unlike preemptive attacks, such so-called preventive attacks based on assumptions and hypotheses
have never been considered legitimate under any international law. But to justify its invasion, the
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White House reiterated that it had substantial evidence to suggest that within one to five years, Iraqi
WMD would be capable of hitting American skies and cities. In his State of the Union Address on
January 28, 2003, Bush referred to the British intelligence reports, according to which Iraq had only
pk
recently purchased significant quantities of uranium from Africa. But subsequent investigation by
US weapons, specialists revealed that all such claims were based on fraudulent documents or on the
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unsubstantiated assertions of unreliable Iraqi defectors. After the occupation of Iraq, the CIA set up
an Iraq Survey Group (ISG) to provide some evidence that Iraq was pursuing WMD and sent
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hundreds of weapons specialists. But after scouring every inch of Iraqi territory for over one and a
half year, the ISG came back empty-handed.
m.
The number of people killed in this so-called democratization process is believed to be much higher
than the number of those who died during Saddam's rule.
In yet another attempt to justify its invasion, the US administration charged that Saddam Hussein's
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regime was systematically assisting, arming and training al-Qaeda and other terrorist organisations
and thus, posed a severe threat to the US security. But this claim too proved false, fictitious and
SF
baseless, as the staff of the 9/11 Commission while investigating September 11 attacks concluded
that there was no “collaborative relationship” between Saddam and terrorist organisations. As a
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matter of fact, the argument that the war in Iraq was a part of the global war on terror proved
counterproductive because, within few months of the invasion, Iraq became a haven for hundreds
and possibly thousands of extremists, terrorists and al-Qaeda sympathisers who flooded into the
country from the Middle East and elsewhere, to take part in a Jihad against American aggressors
and their Iraqi collaborators. The number of US casualties in this armed insurgency was much
higher than the number of those who were killed in the regular combat during the initial stages of
the war. Although with the passage of time, as the number of US troops rose considerably, the
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guerilla insurgency was suppressed, there are still genuine fears in the West that those who were
trained during the Iraqi insurgency may at any time, use their deadly skills anywhere in the world,
as was the case with those who received training in Afghanistan.
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Bush further argued that by overthrowing the authoritarian rule of Saddam Hussein, he was paving
the way for freedom and democracy in Iraq and the whole of Middle East. But one may ask as to
whether it is wise, justified and permissible to impose democracy on some country by means of
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crippling economic sanctions, sustained aerial bombardment, carpet bombing, cluster bombs and
other such lethal weapons. The founding fathers of America like George Washington, Benjamin
nt
Franklin, and Thomas Jefferson believed that freedom and democracy were noble ideals that had to
be nurtured in the minds of people through education, persuasion, and an appeal to reason. While
nte
they certainly believed that people inspired by these ideals were justified in using force to eliminate
the yoke of tyranny, they would be horrified at the thought of using force first and then seeking to
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inspire a belief in democracy. The abuses committed by American troops in Abu Ghraib and other
prison camps would also look appalling and shameful to those great leaders. The number of people
killed in this so-called democratisation process is believed to be much higher than the number of
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those who died during Saddam's rule. In October 2006, a study published in a British medical
journal, The Lancet, by a team of US epidemiologists and Iraqi physicians estimated that about
m.
655,000 people had died in Iraq as a result of the war that had started three years earlier, with about
600,000 deaths directly attributable to violence. The researchers based at Johns Hopkins University
defended their results. They said the study was based on a widely accepted scientific method known
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as cluster sampling and that a majority of the deaths in the sample were substantiated by death
m.
certificates. Moreover, the fragile democratic government installed in Iraq through elections held
under the shadow of US guns, seems to be making no progress in ending the deep-rooted rifts and
animosities among Shi’ites, Sunnis and Kurds.
oru
"If the billions of dollars lost in this futile conflict were spent on human welfare programs, the
United States could easily have won the hearts of the people."
SF
If the billions of dollars lost in this futile conflict were spent on human welfare programmes, the
United States could easily have won the hearts of the people. Although it won the war in Iraq, it lost
its world wide credibility as a responsible nation respecting international law, besides earning
CS
widespread hatred among Muslims all over the world, who view it as an abominable aggressor,
thirsty for the blood and oil of Muslims. In this whole perspective, we are justified to ask that how
the US officials are describing their exit from Iraq as a great success. If Saddam could be tried in
the court and executed for his alleged crimes, why is the international community still reluctant to
hold the trial of Bush and company for bringing about so much death, destruction and misery, only
to satisfy their brutal, barbaric and fanatical war mania.
om
Professor Abdul Rauf
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The New Great Game and Pakistan's Foreign
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Policy
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Outline
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Introduction
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• Need of oil and gas

• Concept of regionalism
m.
• Importance for Muslim countries

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Background
• Breakdown of the Soviet Union
m.
• Caspian region
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Monopoly of the OPEC

US's interests in the Region
• Oil dependency
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• Countering influence of China

• Application for SCO membership
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Chinese Interests
• Enormous need for oil
• Xinjiang under the threat of terrorism
Pakistan's Interests
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• Need of oil and gas
• Pakistan's dire need of SCO membership
• Turkmenistan- Afghanistan- Pakistan- India gas pipeline
s.c
The New Great Game and Pakistan's Foreign Policy
e
The interdependency of the states to meet the oil and gas needs reaches at the apogee with the
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industrial revolution. This provides impetus to the regionalism. Big nations combine to form big
blocs in order to enhance the economic and political activities. Thus, Caspian region, fulfils the
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above statement..This region is enormously rich in oil and gas reserves. Its geography and Muslim
ideology is distinct on its place. Let us see how this region is affecting world oil politics and future
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perspective for Pakistan.
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In 1991, after dissolution of Soviet Union, Caspian and Caucasus region came into being. The
former became the part of New Great Game. This term was coined by a journalist, Rashid Ahmad in
order to emphasis on the importance of the region. Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkme-nistan,
©
Tajikistan and Uzbekistan are also called central Asian republics or CARs . The region shares its
boundaries with Russia, China, Afghanistan, Iran, and Caspian Sea and also with Pakistan which is
ht
a narrow strip of Wakhan away from the borders of Tajikistan.
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In 1960, OPEC was established to provide the protection to the oil exporting countries. Saudi
Arabia, Venezuela, Kuwait, Iraq and Iran formed this organisation. Presently, they constitute 70% of
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the world oil export so these countries have a huge monopoly on the oil production. However, the
central Asian republics are expected to have 200 billion barrels of oil and 463 trillion m3 of gas.
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Hence, this region has a potential to neutralise the effect of OPEC.
United States is the only country in the world which constitutes just 4% to the world population but
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consumes 25% of the world energy reserves. Her oil consumption is over 11 million barrels per day
which is largest in the world. US energy reserves are depleting very fast. That is why, US is
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importing oil from the Middle East, Venezuela and Canada. It is said that Saudi Arabia would
exhaust her oil reserves in next 75 years as her daily oil production is over 10 million barrels per
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day. US wants good relations with CARs. US established her military base in Kyrgyzstan in 2001
in order to have a check on Russia as well as on China. Afghanistan invasion also strengthen the
importance of CARs for the US as Afghanistan shares boundaries with Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and
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Turkmenistan. This is the reason behind that US applied for the Shanghai Corporation Organization
(SCO) membership in 2005 which was denied by China.
m.
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m.
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SF
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China is an emerging power in the world. China is enormously needing oil and gas to fulfil her
domestic needs. In this regard, CARs are the natural allies of China. This was the rational of
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constituting Shanghai 5 to Shanghai Corporation Organisation. China is facing terrorism problem in
her country in Xinjiang province which is one-sixth of the total country area. It is allegedly said that
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these terrorist activities are controlled from Turkmenistan. Therefore, SCO can provide a forum to
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curb these activities.
Pakistan too enjoys a considerable importance in the region. Its geo-political significance creates a
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remarkable prestige in the region. Wakhan in Afghanistan divides Pakistan from Tajikistan. CARs
are Muslim countries, thus have common ideology. Pakistan's total oil production capacity is 349
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million barrels which is very low indeed. Therefore, she has to rely on external sources. Recently,
Pakistan signed a gas pipeline deal with Turkmenistan, Afghanistan and India. This means that this
nt
region is having an enormous potential to change the world politics.

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Currently, Pakistan is having an observatory status in the SCO. But, the latter is in dire need of
having permanent membership in SCO. The need is justified on these grounds. Firstly, Pakistan is a
natural ally of the member countries. China and Tajikistan (crossing Wakhan strip) shares border
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with Pakistan. Secondly, Pakistan satisfies the objectives of SCO, i.e. to eradicate terrorism from
the region. Thus, Pakistan fulfils the needs of the organisation.
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China is an emerging power in the world. China is enormously needing oil and gas to fulfil her
domestic needs. In this regard, CARs are the natural allies of China. This was the rational of
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constituting Shanghai Five to Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.

Thirdly, Pakistan is the only country which gives a sea route to the CARs throughout the year. Thus,
no one can deny the geo-strategic importance of Pakistan. Therefore, Pakistan and the member
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states can also enhance the bilateral trade between them.

m.
In doing so, Pakistan should keep in mind the sensitivity of China in Xinjiang province. It is
allegedly said that the wrongdoings in region is controlled from Pakistan. The terrorists have some
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connection from Pakistan. Therefore, Pakistan has negated such elements of involvement in the
province.
SF
In a nutshell, CARs have a great potential in the economic as well as political domain. These states
must utilise their power to accomplish their goals with sagacious will. The US, China and Russia
CS
are tilting their heads with full commitment. Pakistan in this regard should come one step forward
to join their hands. If Pakistan could curb the militancy in the country, it would have deep impact on
the SCO members also. Pakistan's geo-strategic location, Islamic ideology, and common interests
are the manifestation of their future consideration for CARs.
Haseeb Gohar
om
s.c
Will Obama Strategy Succeed?
e
im
The success of the American strategy would depend upon the regional support
for any solution to be sustainable and permanent. The US needs to align the
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regional countries for an Afghan solution which is possible due to engagement
with these countries. Other key factors include the ability of the Afghan
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government to improve its governance and building up capacity of Afghan
security forces to take over the overall security responsibility after the 2014
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withdrawal.
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nt
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While both Pakistan and the US seem to grapple with the diplomatic impasse in their bilateral
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relations that arose out of the NATO's aerial strike on a military check post in Mohmand Agency
and which forced Pakistan to block NATO's supplies and review the terms of engagement with the
US, developments on the Afghan situation indicate significant shift in the US approach. Though the
m.
Bonn Conference II held in December 2011 failed to get representation either from Pakistan or
Taliban---two important players in the Afghan conflict following last minute intervention by
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President Hamid Karzai, the officials of the US administration did not lose heart and continued to
engage with the Taliban at some level.
m.
Hardly had one month passed since the Bonn II that the US Vice President Joe Biden made a
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sterling statement, saying, “Taliban per se is not the enemy of the United States.” He also referred to
President Obama who never declared Taliban as the direct enemies of the US. The statement won an
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immediate support from Afghan President Hamid Karzai who dubbed it as a significant move
forward towards peace in his war-torn country.
CS
Coming on the heels of US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's bold speech in February 2010 in
which she said that cessation of contacts with Al-Qaeda, renunciation of violence and acceptance of
the Afghan Constitution were not the pre-conditions but the outcome of talks with the Taliban, the
assertion by the US Vice President signal an important policy shift in the US Afghanistan strategy.
It may be mentioned that Joe Biden was opposed to the policy of 'fight, talk and build' advocated by
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Pentagon and made no bones about his preference for political strategy marked by increased drone
strikes, and limited military engagement during the policy review on Afghanistan. It was because of
strong stance taken by him that President Obama refused to give what Pentagon and powerful
s.c
generals wanted from him i.e. counterterrorism operations and announcement of fresh troop surgeas
demanded by US Commander in Afghanistan General Stanley McChristal.
e
im
The second major development in this respect is the Taliban's opening of contact office in Qatar to
accelerate the process of dialogue with the US. The Taliban leadership has also admitted to being in
dT
touch with the US and opening of an office in Qatar. This would allow both sides an opportunity to
engage directly and the US would not have to engage with multiple channels and shades of the
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Taliban thought. The Afghan High Peace Council, a bipartisan body established under slain Afghan
leader Prof Bhurhan-ud-Din Rabbani with a mandate to pursue peace and reconciliation with the
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Taliban, has also welcomed the move. The third shift in the US approach is the plan for a faster and
steeper handover of security to the Afghan authorities. The transition from direct combat to 'aid and
assist' format is part of the larger US strategy to prepare for a full-scale pullout till 2014.
©
Do these developments indicate a discernible shift in the US 'Exit and Surge Strategy'? The answer
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to this question would depend on how the Obama administration follows up on these basics. The
consistency of policy would be tested when President Obama tries to align discordant elements
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within his administration in a bid to craft a national consensus first between his civilian and military
aides represented by Vice President Joe Biden and the American military and later on between the
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Democrats and the Republicans both in and out of Congress.

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However, this policy characterized by political accommodation and dialogue provides a feasible
way out of the grave and complex situation, which has continued to deteriorate by the day despite
injection of huge sums of money and employment of the state of the art military hard power. Given
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the economic recession and the high cost of the military engagement where victory remains elusive,
the war is simply not sustainable with the war-wary public. 2012 being the election year, President
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Obama has to roll out a credible plan in the upcoming Chicago moot in July this year if he has to
have any prospect of reelection.
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The success of the American strategy would depend upon a few critical and external factors which
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at the moment promise little hope.

m.
The first factor is the regional support for any solution to be sustainable and permanent. The
cooperation between the US, Pakistan, Iran and India on the minimum acceptable formula is a sine
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qua non. The situation, on the other hand, is quite grim.

m.
While the Obama administration has put fresh sanctions on Iran, its relations with Pakistan have hit
an all-time low. India has been involved in efforts to undercut Pakistan's role and legitimate
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interests in Afghanistan. The Strategic Declaration inked between India and Afghanistan last year
has been interpreted as such. Pakistan has also complained of the Indian involvement in the
subversive activities in restive Balochistan province by misusing the Afghan soil.
SF
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The US needs to align the regional countries for an Afghan solution which is possible due to
engagement with these countries. Other key factors include the ability of the Afghan government to
improve its governance and deliver modicum of the basic services to the Afghan citizens and
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building up capacity of Afghan security forces to take over the overall security responsibility after
the 2014 withdrawal.
©
US insistence on concluding a post-withdrawal agreement by which it would retain some forces and
access to bases in Afghanistan can force the Taliban to withdraw from the peace process. Both Iran
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and Pakistan would also be justified in raising an eyebrow over the US intentions.
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In the light of these facts, forming a conclusive opinion on the endgame in Afghanistan remains a
risky venture because there are many a slip between a cup and lip. It would be advisable if the
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Obama administration overcomes the policy contradictions and resolves the challenges that threaten
to derail the nascent peace process.
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Amanat Ali Chaudhry

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Stability in Afghanistan: Beyond the Bonn

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Conference I
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A critical analysis of what Bonn Conference decided and how the decisions could
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be implemented in future course of developments inside Afghanistan as well as

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in the region.
m.

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The Bonn Conference, chaired by Afghanistan, hosted by Germany and attended by 85 countries
and 15 international organizations, on the December renewed the mutual commitment to a stable,
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democratic and prosperous future for the Afghan people. Ironically, the most relevant country
erstwhile considered being indispensable for peace, reconciliation and satiability in Afghanistan was
not part of the `renewed commitment' courtesy NATO/US attacks on Salala Check posts killing 24
CS
Pakistani and consequently forcing Pakistan to boycott Bonn Conference. However, Pakistan was
missed by all especially the US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton who said that presence of
Pakistan should have benefited us all. A critical analysis of what Bonn Conference decided and how
the decisions could be implemented is imperative for future course of developments inside
Afghanistan as well as in the region.
om
The Bonn conference discussed future perspectives of political, security, economic and
development perspectives of Afghanistan. The foreign ministers attending the Bonn conference like
every one else were conscious of the real challenge inside Afghanistan i.e security problem. The
s.c
Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) are supposed to take charge of more areas of the country
thereby taking security responsibility of 50 per of Afghan population by the end of February 2012
e
and all over the country by 2014. Obviously, Afghanistan needed full-fledged military and police
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forces with capacity and training at the international standards and even better because of the
persistent terror threats the country has been facing. Presently, the estimates are to bring the ANSF
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at a total strength of 3, 52,000.
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The current strength of ANSF is over 306000 (over 170,500 Afghan National Army and over
135500 Afghan National Police). The US/NATO has already agreed to make an increase of the
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Afghan National Army growth target to 195000 by November 2012 and for the Afghan National
Police to 157000 by Nov. 2012. There is no doubt that the international community pledged at Bonn
conference “to support their (ANSF) training and equipping, financing and development of
©
capabilities beyond the end of transition period (2014)”. The real challenge for Afghanistan as well
as the international community is to make ANSF a sustainable force with required financial chunks
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for salaries and concurrent expenditures. On financing for salaries etc., the Bonn conference also
made it clear that “international community declares its intent to continue to assist in their
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financing, with the understanding that over the coming years, this share will be gradually reduced
commensurate with Afghanistan's needs and its increasing domestic revenues generation capacity”.
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So, the real challenge is how to bridge a huge gap between Afghan revenue and security spending
after 2014. A high-level European official maintained that the allies are spending around $12 billion
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on the said account where the total Afghan revenue for the last fiscal year stood at $1.5 billion.
"Peace talks will be held only with those whose home address is known in Afghanistan and the
address can easily be verified."
nt
A smooth functioning of political process under the arms of ongoing peace and political
reconciliation process can be one answer from avoiding huge spending or break down of the `infant'
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modern state of Afghanistan. The Bonn conference defined the bottom lines in this direction making
certain responsibilities on the Afghan people, Afghan government and the region. It asked the
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Afghan government to lead and own this process and make it inclusive representing the legitimate
interests of all the people of Afghanistan regardless of gender or social status. The Bonn conference
enjoined upon the people of Afghanistan to renounce violence, breaking ties to international
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terrorism and respecting the Afghan constitution including its human rights provisions. Similarly,
the Bonn conference asked the region to respect and support the peace process and its outcome. “An
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outcome of the peace process respecting these principles will receive the full support of the
international community”, the Bonn conference said.
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Contrary to the principles outlines by the Bonn Conference, the subsequent events do not seem
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moving to the envisioned principles. There are inbuilt hurdles in moving towards a genuine
reconciliation. The Afghan Jirga held in Kabul before the Bonn conference on the question of
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relations with the United States after 2014 withdrawals from Afghanistan, laid down a strange
condition for reconciliation within Afghanistan. Section 68 of the recommendation of the Jirga
made it mandatory that peace talks will be held only with those whose home address is known in
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Afghanistan and the address can easily be verified. Secondly, if reconciliation is to the Afghan-
owned, then President Hamid Karzai himself did not know as to how Afghan Talibaan are opening
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their office in Qatar? The United States seem bypassing Afghan government and the region in its
pursuits to have direct talks with Talibaan, a glaring violation of the principles set by Bonn
Conference.
The question of relevance of Pakistan and its paradoxical absence in the Bonn Conference is
necessary to explain here. Pakistan boycotted the Bonn Conference to protest not against the hosts
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i.e Germany but primarily against the United States. Pakistan is crucial for Afghan settlement not
only because it provides crucial supply routes to Afghans, NATO and allies but also it has stakes for
stability inside Afghanistan. Due to NATO attacks on Salala, Joint Commission between Pakistan
s.c
and Afghanistan in reconciliation still remains suspended; Pakistan and the United States
cooperation is put off and even the US Special Representative for AF-Pak Mark Grossman was
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denied a visit to Islamabad in January. Now the parliament in Pakistan is to define new terms of
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engagement with the United States. However, the international community did compensate absence
of Pakistan by saying that Istanbul Conference (held before Bonn) had ensured building regional
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block for cooperation for Afghan scenario.
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Despite certain inherent weaknesses including absence of Pakistan, the Bonn conference had
substantial achievements. After 10 years of war and violence in Afghanistan, the international
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community still expressed its commitment for their partnership from a Decade of Transition to a
Decade of Transformation (2015-2025) in Afghanistan. The Bonn Conference agreed on a future
course of action this year for ensuring security and economic/financial needs of Afghanistan. The
©
international community will define a clear vision and appropriately funded plan for the ANSF in
the forthcoming NATO Summit in May this year in Chicago. Similarly, an international ministerial
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conference in July this year in Tokyo will coordinate international economic assistance through the
Transition period and address Afghanistan's strategy for sustainable development and regional
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economic coopration.
The writer is eye witness of
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Bonn Conference.
Shaukat Piracha
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COSTS OF WAR ON TERROR IN

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PAKISTAN
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This article explores the psychological, social, political and economic costs of
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war on terror waged by Pakistan on behalf of US. Since terrorist acts are goal-
oriented and based on reason, they can't be eradicated merely by military
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means. In view of this challenging reality this article evokes a human security
compatible fight against terrorism.
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m.

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Rational choice theory is a framework for conceptualising and formally modelling social, economic,
philosophical, and political behaviours. The fundamental idea of this theory is that individuals,
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groups and states arrange their behaviours in society in order to maximise their benefits and
minimise costs. Applying this theory for analysing the cost-benefit analysis of war on terror being
ht
waged by Pakistan since 2001, it can be concluded that this war is versus the theory of rational
choice. Results of unending war on terror reveal that when war was started by Pakistan either the
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cost-benefit calculation was not contemplated clearly or it was left over to the unforeseen future
with hope for the best.
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As regard to psycho-social costs of the war, the first and foremost exposed curse is rise in militancy
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and extremism, which narrows the circle of common people's lives. When government of Pakistan
participated in the US-led war on terrorism it was to work against its old policy of islamisation and
increasing extremism in Pakistan. It was a challenge to crack down on madaris and religious groups
nt
which were preaching and teaching militant Islam. Initially, Musharraf administration policed some
militant groups within Pakistan and Kashmir through banning the organisations and their activities.
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However, since there was lack of coordination among government, military and intelligence groups
on the matter of eradication of these religious groups in view of their Kashmir policy, India factor,
Co
and very old roots of the madaris (cropped up through Saudi finance), therefore, this double policy
encouraged the militant figures and fostered militancy as well as religious extremism within country
and beyond the borders. At present, even with government's claims to triumph over extremist
pk
symptoms and militancy within state the reality shows that this curse is still upsetting and un-
abating.
m.
Along with suicide bombing, drone attack is also one of the mortal causalities inflicted upon
co
common people since 2004 by CIA's Special Activities Division. The series of attacks takes place in
the Tribal Areas and Afghan border of Khaibar Pakhtunkhwa aiming at to defeat Taliban and al-
m.
Qaeda militants. This US intervention and infringement of Pakistan's sovereignty, and the civilian
deaths as a result of the drone attacks has been cause of increasing extremism and intensifying
oru
suicide attacks.
As a result of this prolonged war another heavy social repercussion is the issue of internal
SF
displacement. Factual figures declare that around more than 5 million people from northern areas
migrated to different parts of country during military operations. The dark side of this internal
CS
displacement is not only psychological, material and personal sufferings of the IDPs but a long
lasting social implication in the form of various upsetting issues such as irregular management in
case of registration and placement of these IDPs, migration of terrorists from tribal areas to the
urban domains of other provinces, opposition against influx of IDPs in those provinces and
dilemma of identity.
om
Such major loopholes in this fight have created many doubts and raised a number of questions as to
the political strength and sovereign status of the state. In addition, the extended nature of war and
safe havens for militants has been cause of some crucial political issues on internal and international
s.c
level. In this regard, one of the most tragic instances is lack of concentration and proper redress of
the problems of insurgency-hit region of Balochistan. During Musharraf era Balochistan was
e
dominated by JUI (Pashtun dominated fundamentalist and pro-Taliban party) through rigged
im
elections. Later on, assassination of Nawab Akbar Bugti added fuel to the flames. The situation was
depicted by a Baloch political figure in these words “US assistance against Taliban is redeployed
dT
against Balochs.”
orl
With regard to Pakistan's position in international community, the assassination of Osama bin
Laden, the head of militant group of al-Qaeda in Abbotabad by United States Special Sources
jW
Military Unit staged a whole new ball game for Pakistan by reason of backing on the wrong horse.
Pakistan was to face immediate questions and criticism by international community as to the safe
residence of the world's most wanted individual in Pakistan close to Pakistan Military Academy.
©
Factual information verifies the economic
costs as the heavy loss of this war as a
result of prolonged war and deficiency of ht
rig
proper directives. According to estimation
Pakistan has spent around $ 35-40 billion
py
since 2001. Together with direct financial

cost Pakistan is paying huge economic
Co
price; such as, setback to foreign direct

investment in Pakistan, lower domestic
consumption, cut on development
nt
expenditures, suspension of revenues from

sports activities, affect on tourism, in case
nte
of trust-deficit hard visa policies by several

countries for Pakistani traders, students and
Co
professionals.
All the above stated costs are heavy challenges for human security and prosperity. These costs have
pk
created a wide gap between state and society. Majority of people consider it US war by Pakistan for
the achievement of US interests.
m.
In order to meet the challenges of terrorism and reducing the threats for human security, we need to
co
review the root causes of terrorism within theoretical frame work. Three sociological hypotheses of
terrorism like: (i) The frustration-aggression hypothesis (ii) the relative deprivation hypothesis (iii)
m.
the negative identity hypothesis provide a better understanding about terrorism in Pakistan.
oru
In view of these theoretical assumptions it is suggested that for fair and square fight against
terrorism government should try to curb the root causes of this nuisance alleviating sufferings of
common people by providing them equal opportunities to all the land resources and basic human
SF
rights regardless their national identity and political affiliation.

CS
The writer is Assistant Professor

of International Relations at
University of Sindh, Jamshoro.
Ishrat Abbasi
om
Peace Talks with TTP: Challenges and
s.c
Opportunities I
e
im
It is high times for Pakistan to capitalise the situation and chalk-out an objective
dT
plan to bring the splinters to mainstream society by offering them incentives and
jobs after a thorough process of de-radicalisation.
orl
jW
©
ht
rig
py
Co
nt
nte
Co
After fighting an unwinnable and unpopular war in Afghanistan, the United States has finally come
to the conclusion that the only military solution of the Afghan quagmire will never be possible and
pk
now is finding ways and means to bring Taliban to negotiation table, especially after Obama's
announcement of withdrawal by 2014. Pakistan government, keeping in view this shift in US
m.
strategy, has realised the fact that if US and its allied forces can have talks with their 'worst enemies'
why cannot Pakistan. Salalah tragedy proved to be a catalyst and in an All Parties Conference
co
(APC), Pakistan's political and military leadership unanimously decided to give this approach a
practical shape.
m.
Albeit, both sides have confirmed the secret process of talks, still many analysts and observers
oru
doubt the sincerity of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) leadership to surrender just for the sake of
peace, as many similar peace deals were signed with TTP in past but the militants renege those
SF
deals so peace could not be restored in FATA. Do the militants really want to give peace a chance
this time or is it a tactic to buy time? Even if the better sense has prevailed over some of these
radicals, what will be the agenda of the talks between them? Peace at the stake of what? What
CS
could be the different dimensions of this deal, possible challenges and opportunities for the state of
Pakistan? What could be the ways to come out of this imbroglio?
"The actual reason of this skepticism is the radical/extremist ideology which is one of their major
sources of motivation behind this whole play of blood and death."
The challenges the state will have to face in this whole process of talks will be complex and
manifold. How can one expect longlasting peace from the ruthless warriors who have wreaked
om
havoc to the mosques, shrines, schools, hospitals, and numerous other installations of the country,
slaughtering hundreds of innocent civilians, including men, women and even children? The actual
reason of this skepticism is the radical/extremist ideology which is one of their major sources of
s.c
motivation behind this whole play of blood and death. TTP keeps ideological compatibility with al-
Qaeda. It will be greatest challenge to reconcile with the ones having such fanatic ideology. It is
e
known to everybody that these people in their writings and sermons vociferously declare the people,
im
government, armed forces, and all of the state's institutions as “Taghoot” (i.e. un-Islamic of worst
category which must be destroyed or replaced by the use of brutal force), let alone accepting the
dT
writ of the state. So question arises, is there any abrupt change has occurred in their viewpoint that
they are now ready to reconcile? This point needs serious considerations.
orl
Then we need to assess TTP's
jW
possible demands for
reconciliation and their cherished
outcome of these talks. Their
©
terms and conditions could be as
following:
Ceasefire and withdrawal of
troops from the area; ht
rig
Enforcement of their version of
“Islamic Sharia” in the FATA;
py
Release of their leadership and

cronies who are in Pakistan's
Co
custody;
They will demand the
government to keep its eyes
nt
closed on their free movement across the border to fight against allied forces.
nte
Everyone of these anticipated demands is in itself a challenge and is out of acceptability.

Co
Firstly, the withdrawal of forces even if TTP agrees to surrender would mean giving a free hand to
these elements to regroup and resurface at a larger scale. It will also result in uninterrupted massive
intrusion of external elements which actually help in recruitment, and then they finance, train, equip
pk
and identify the soft targets for these terrorists. It is an undeniable fact that unless the logistic supply
or financial assistance is not crippled, no insurgency can be eliminated.
m.
The enforcement of their Takfeeri ideology means to implement a system of brutality in which their
co
own interpretation of Islam and “Islamic laws” will make the people suffer even more than from
what they have been suffering since last many years due to the unceasing inhuman and dreadful acts
m.
of this outfit. Imagine the plight of the people in a system in which there will be no schools for
girls, where English language would be considered as Haram (strictly forbidden), women even if
oru
would come out of their houses at extreme necessity would shot dead and people would be
beheaded frequently for committing some “Kufr”, and where al-Qaeda fighters would be considered
as “sacred guests”. This system will not only blow yet again a severe damage to the already
SF
tarnished reputation of Pakistan in the comity of nations but also become a safest epicenter on the
surface of the earth for international terrorists. Then the permission to promulgate this system in one
CS
specific area will not keep them confined to that particular area but this will have domino effects
and they will struggle hard to spread their “great cause” to mainstream Pakistani society and for that
very “divine” objective they can again resort for violent means if any power would dare resisted
that.
Then giving green signal to them to fight against Nato-Isaf forces in Afghanistan would also have
om
serious repercussions for Pakistan. First of all it will bring Pak-US already perilous ties to a level of
hostility and antagonism. The unbridled movements of these fighters will also means more drone
attacks, more collateral damage, resultantly higher level of resentment among masses, thus more
s.c
recruitment of this “Jihad”. So, while negotiations with TTP all these dimensions should be kept in
perspective.
e
im
Again the release of those fanatics who are actually pioneers of this cold-blooded and merciless
group would also have irreversible implications. Who is going to control all of them after they
dT
would be set free to trap the youth for their personal objectives? There has to be a very well
established mechanism for their surveillance and to make them agreed to the terms and conditions
orl
of the state.
jW
Despite all the above-mentioned challenges there are some opportunities and positivists for the state
in talks with TTP. First, it should be kept in view that military means can never solve any conflict,
especially in guerilla warfare and insurgencies like this. Use of force, if inevitable, can be one of the
©
tiers of the grand strategy to curb insurgencies but not the only option because violence only breeds
violence.
ht
rig
py
Co
nt
nte
Co
pk
m.
co
As it is a fact that in the successful selective operations by Pakistan's highly professional armed
m.
forces the TTP mainstream leadership has been eliminated and that still managed to survive is on
run. Top brass alive has moved to Afghanistan. The reports emanating from an authentic source
oru
have revealed that there have occurred deflections in TTP and many of its foot-soldiers have joined
the pro-Pakistan militants who are against launching terror campaign against Pakistan. Similarly, in
the history of TTP it is for the first time that one of its top commanders, Maulvi Waliur Rehman
SF
Mehsud has made assurances that he has strictly ordered to halt the training of suicide bombers and
publicly vowed not to launch further attacks on Pakistan. So it is high times for Pakistan to
CS
capitalise the situation and chalkout an objective plan to bring the splinters to mainstream society
by offering them incentives and jobs after a thorough process of de-radicalisation.
Moreover, as it was witnessed that on December 18, 2011, in the aftermath of Slalah carnage a
massive gathering was organised under the banner of Difa-e-Pakistan Council in which religious
parties of all schools of thought expressed their loyalties for state and pledged to render all sorts of
om
sacrifices for the defence of Pakistan along with Pakistan armed forces at the time of any critical
eventuality. As some of these religious parties have somewhat ideological association with TTP-,
being followers of Deobandi version of Islam, can play a crucial role of inter-lockers and mediators
s.c
between state and TTP.
e
Likewise, after the announcement of withdrawal of troops by Obama, this is talk of the town that as
im
Afghan Taliban will eventually be the rulers of Afghanistan and it will mean no or minimum
presence of Indians there. It is now an open secret that concrete evidences have been unearthed
dT
according to which Indians are major source of finance for TTP. This is also one of the reasons that
TTP has now proactively aspiring for ceasefire as they know that once aid and abet of India ceased,
orl
they will no more be capable enough to continue their lethal war against Pakistanis. So this factor
should be kept in mind that TTP is badly need of reconciliation and should be brought to talks on
jW
state's own proviso.
It is real time for Pakistan to play its cards wisely to curb this malady once for all. Pragmatic and
©
well-nit strategy should be made and all the stake-holders especially the common people should be
brought on board before these talks reach to some decisive point. Workable policies and long-term
ht
planning should be state's very first priority to address the grievances of the people of FATA and
proper education and development of the area can help to turn the dream of 'giving peace a chance'
rig
into reality.
py
Writer is a defence and security analyst: mustansardss@hotmail.com

Mustansar Hussain Tasir
Co
nt
MILITARY, Non-Military CBMs Between

nte
India-Pakistan
Co
CBMs are not a substitute for progress on dispute resolution and cannot thrive
pk
until efforts are made by both sides to improve relations.

m.

co
m.
oru
SF
CS
Confidence building measures (CBMs) are as old as conflict itself. They provide a measure of
reassurance to belligerents so as to prevent conflict from breaking out. And in the process, allow
time and space for the initiation of talks, to resolve differences. In some cases the momentum is
driven by internal forces seeking change, and in other cases propelled by external actors who for
om
reasons of their own do not wish to see conflict breaking out.
Modern CBMs in the international context are associated with the cold war setting and are often
s.c
cited as the basis for implementation within the India-Pakistan context. While many lessons can be
learnt from that experience, the India-Pakistan confrontation has a dimension that merits address in
e
its own way. The nuclear status of the two countries introduces an altogether different dynamic to
im
any earlier equation.
dT
CBMs in the cold war confrontation managed to achieve some benefits. Because, firstly, there was
much interaction between various actors on both sides which even if it did not always lead to
orl
solutions or agreements, afforded opportunities for understanding one another's points of view and
quite often revealed convergence of positions. Secondly, there was occasion for introspection and
jW
review of one's own positions, assumptions and strategic goals. And thirdly, there was an increased
awareness that the other side's security was in many ways linked to one's own.
©
Military CBMs
Agreement on the Prohibition of Attack against Nuclear Installations and Facilities – signed in
1998.
ht
Agreement on Advance Notification on Military Exercises, Maneuvers and Troop Movements –
rig
brought into effect in 1991.
Formal ceasefire along the international border as also the actual ground position brought into
py
effect at midnight of November 25, 2003.

Biannual meetings between Indian Border Security Force and Pakistani Rangers has been in
Co
effect since 2004.

Modern CBMs in the international context are associated with the cold war setting and are often
cited as the basis for implementation within the India-Pakistan context.
nt
Agreement on Advance Notification of Ballistic Missile Tests – brought into effect in 2005 and
required both parties to inform the other 72 hours in advance before testing any ballistic missiles
nte
within a 40km radius of the international border and the Line of Control.
Establishment of a communication link between Pakistan Mari time Security Agency and Indian
Co
Coast Guard – brought into effect in 2005.

A Hotline between Director General Military Operations of both countries in effect since
1965, and was most recently used in an unscheduled exchange to discuss troop movements and
pk
allay tensions, in the aftermath of the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai.

m.
co
m.
oru
SF
CS
om
e s.c
im
dT
orl
jW
Non-military CBMs
The predominant confidence-building measures in the non-military domain have been
©
travel measures to increase people-to-people interaction.
2003. ht
Delhi-Lahore bus service was started in 1999, ceased after Kargil conflict and resumed in
rig
Passenger and freight rail services between Attari and Lahore, and air linkages between
the two countries were resumed in 2004.
py
The Samjhauta Express, which runs between Delhi and Lahore, resumed service in 2005,
Co
and despite the 2007 blasts, has continued to run since.

The first bus service between Srinagar and Muzaffarbad was started in 2005. From
Lahore to Amritsar, Amritsar to Nankana Sahib and train links between Munnabao in Rajasthan and
nt
Khokhrapar in Sindh were started in 2006.

nte
The first overland truck route was opened at the Wagaha border in 2007.
Air links were increased from 12 to 28 flights weekly, triple-entry permit for cross-LoC
Co
travel introduced and the frequency of the Srinagar-Muzaffarabad bus service increased from
fortnightly to weekly, in 2008. Trade routes on the Wagaha-Atari, Srinagar-Muzaffarabad and
Poonch-Rawalkot road links, as also the Munnabao-Khokhrapar rail link were also opened up the
pk
same year.
m.
Humanitarian aid in terms of food, medicine and the akin to extend by India and accepted
by Pakistan, in the aftermath of the earthquake in Pakistan in 2005.
co
An agreement facilitating regular contact between state-run think tanks, Institute of

Defence Studies and Analyses (New Delhi), and Institute of Strategic Studies (Islamabad) was
m.
brought into being in 2008.

Government representatives of both countries have continued to meet over the years,
oru
despite troubling circumstances.

By looking above measures Military and Non–military CBMs taken by both states following
SF
commendation can be functional:

Short-term
CS
The composite dialogue process should be restarted.

Regular meetings between local commanders of the BSF and the Rangers would help
resolve matters concerning infiltration, particularly with regard to the ceasefire violations.
In consultation with Kashmiri stakeholders, additional CBMs need to be identified and
active Kashmiri participation be ensured in the dialogue process.
om
Medium-term
s.c
The agreement proscribing attacks on each others' nuclear facilities should be extended to
identified populations and economic targets.
e
The agreement requiring notification on military exercises et al should be extended to
im
associating military observers with major field exercises.
Civil society and track II initiatives should be taken into active consideration.
dT
Long-term
orl
The redeployment of troops from the region has been debated by both governments and
should be examined in full practicality.
jW
The dichotomy between the maintenance of J&K's independence via Article 370 of the
Indian Constitution and the requirement to further include the state in the mainstream of Indian
politics and society would need to be addressed comprehensively. While Kashmir's need to be
©
included in the dialogue process, they also need to be made to understand the valid national security
concerns of India and Pakistan.
ht
The reality defining this important process, in which diplomats and military officers sit together in
rig
civilised dialogue, is that CBMs are not a substitute for progress on dispute resolution and cannot
thrive until efforts are made by both sides to improve relations.
py
Moazam Bashir Tarar

Co
nt
nte
Institutional Confrontation in Pakistan

Co
The only way out of this confronting situation prevailing among the institutions
pk
of the Country is that there should be rule of law and all the institutions should
obey the Constitution. This demands maturity from all actors involved in this
m.
crisis and the supreme responsibility is that of government, as much depends on

its performance.
co

m.

oru
SF
CS
om
e s.c
im
dT
A smooth relation among the various institutions of a state is a sine qua non for its effective
functioning. When institutions act arbitrarily, the end result is chaos and turmoil. Pakistan is facing
the same because the relations between judiciary and executive are getting worse day by day. The
orl
present rift is continuation of the row that started with the stand taken by the CJ, Iftikhar
Mohammad Chaudhary, against the dictatorial regime of Pervez Musharraf and the subsequent
jW
sacking of the judges of the higher judiciary when they declined to take oath on PCO. The present
regime of the PPP-led coalition government inherited this problem and it had to reinstate these
judges in wake of the movement led by the legal community and civil society. The verdict of
©
Supreme Court on NRO and the subsequent perusal of the case and pushing the government on
multiple occasions to take concrete steps to improve good governance set the tone for the growing
assertive judiciary and the willy-nilly obeying government.
ht
rig
If we examine these instances, the root-cause seems to be the absence of conventions —— the
unwritten part of the constitution—— which ensure the smooth functioning of the institutions
py
within their respective spheres. Unfortunately, in Pakistan positive conventions could not evolve.
Pakistan follows the Parliamentary system of governance which has universally acknowledged
Co
conventions. But in Pakistan deviation from the standard principles has always been the norm. One
example in this regard is the concept of troika which means that there should be a balance among
the offices of the President, the Prime Minister and the Army Chief. The very notion of having such
nt
a balance is against the settled conventions of a Parliamentary democracy. Similarly, notions like
nte
“controlled democracy”, “restrained judiciary”, and “docile Parliament” are essentially against the
spirit of democracy.
Co
A system of trichotomy of power enshrines maintenance of harmony and balance between the three
pillars of the State, namely, Legislature, Executive and Judiciary. The idea is to ensure that the state
organs perform their respective functions within the stipulated limits and constraints. But
pk
unfortunately, we have rarely had such sort of relations existing between these institutions. Largely
owing to the internal weaknesses of our political class and their tendency to seek help from outside
m.
to legitimize or prolong their rule have rendered their position quite weak.
co
A glance over the history of institutional confrontations in Pakistan in past two decades shows that
the executive has on occasions come into clash with the other two powers – the judiciary, and the
m.
army. Basis of this clash has always been an encroachment by the latter two institutions into the
executive’s sphere – though mostly on pretext of maladministration. Traditionally, the top brass of
oru
the military played a key role in the making and un-making of political governments. Now the
superior judiciary is expanding its domain of power and stepping into what has traditionally been
SF
the sphere of the executive or legislature.
We have seen reactions from political forces against judiciary in past in their own style.
CS
Governments and Judiciary in Pakistan have had both extremes of relationships. Where we have
witnessed connivances of the two institutions for major part of our history, we have also seen
conflicting situations.
In 1997, when the Supreme Court took up contempt case against the then Prime Minister Nawaz
Sharif, some political workers stormed the court. On March 13, 2007, Chief Justice of Pakistan was
om
manhandled by police and administration under directions from the government. And the most
recent incident was the strike in Sind in protest against the verdict against Justice (R) Shah’s
appointment as NAB Chairman.
s.c
Now coming to the present institutional tussle between the Executive and the Judiciary, we see that
e
although Prime Minister and other members of the coalition government have been saying that there
im
are smooth relations existing among various institutions of the state but summoning of the Prime
Minister this month by the apex court in a contempt case betrayed the fact. For a week, nation was
dT
kept hostage by the television anchor-persons who had developed an atmosphere as if PM would
come out of court handcuffed heading towards jail. Sanity prevailed though when government
orl
appointed seasoned lawyer barrister Aetezaz Ahsan as its consul. The hype created by the media
began to subside and somehow government became successful in disappointing those pundits who
jW
had been prophesying its ouster since its inception. Government itself, though, has been quite
generous in providing them with enough substance to base their prophecies on. The only losers in
all this grapple of institutions are the common people whose real problems have largely been
©
ignored.
ht
rig
py
Co
nt
nte
Co
Roots of this most recent episode of institutional clash are embedded in two issues. One is the NRO
pk
case which has been a cause of friction between the SCP and the Government. The other one is the
issue of an anonymous letter alleged to be written by Hussain Haqqani, the Pakistani Ambassador to
m.
U.S. at the instigation of President Zardari, asking for their help against a feared coup by the top
military commanders. Termed by the Pakistani media as ‘Memogate’ scandal, it emerged in the
co
aftermath of the killing of Osama Bin Laden which had embarrassed the government and military
alike.
m.
NRO has become a popular slogan in opposition politics. Ironically, the ongoing political discourse
oru
is focused on one person, although the SC judgment has reopened the cases of 8,041 persons. The
popular demand of the opposition that the SC judgment should be implemented is in fact a code
phrase for demanding the initiation of court proceedings against President Zardari on the basis of
SF
the revived cases. The whole focus has been on the issue of writing a letter to the Swiss authorities
to reopen investigations against President Zardari.
CS
Speaking of rule of law, sadly no opposition leader has talked of initiating impeachment
proceedings in Parliament against Zardari on the basis of corruption charges. The issue is being
raised outside Parliament as there are little hopes of getting success through constitutional channel.
Hopes are that the SC would suspend or disqualify him or direct the government to start court
proceedings against him. Another hope is that the army top brass would force him to quit. These
om
two issues, coupled with some irresponsible statements by some leaders, have provided an excellent
atmosphere for either of these two unconstitutional methods of removing the President. But who
cares if the political purpose is being served. This attitude is the main cause of a weakened political
s.c
executive and ingresses from other institutions as our political leadership doesn’t believe in
developing institutional (parliamentary) conventions.
e
im
Opposition and the army regard Memogate as a conspiracy against our national security whereas the
government takes it as a non-issue. On NRO as well, opposition would demand upholding and
dT
implementation of SC decisions.
orl
SC, on the other hand, seems annoyed with the persistent non-compliant attitude of government and
has decided to fix those who do not comply with the decisions. Recent summoning of the PM is to
jW
be viewed in this background. The court also doesn’t agree to the allegations that executive’s
domain is being ingressed by a judicial activism. Instead it takes a stance that as a guardian of the
Constitution, the Court is required to “preserve, protect and defend" this document.
©
ht
rig
py
Co
nt
nte
Co
Another key factor of this scuffle is the media –hype. A flamboyant segment of our media seems
pk
more interested in a drop scène of this drama. Judicial remarks passed during the proceedings are
presented in a sensational manner to build up an intense atmosphere.
m.
The government seems assured that no regime change be possible through a constitutional way. But
co
as far as the history of power change in Pakistan is concerned, the constitutional provisions may not
be seen as an assured guarantee of remaining in key political offices.
m.
So far government has avoided taking any stance against judiciary. Whenever any confronting
oru
situation arose, the government shied away even from its principled stances. One should hope that
sanity would prevail and the government would act sensibly this time.
SF
But as mentioned there are a few examples of hostile reactions to the Court’s decisions from the
governments. Already in this case we have witnessed Sind-card being played. This does not present
CS
good omens for democracy in Pakistan. Pakistan has been facing a political turmoil for some years
now. Our frail economy cannot bear up such confrontations. Although our Prime Minister keeps on
denying any conflict between the state institutions, he also demands that no institution should
interfere in other’s domain.
Then what is the way out of this confronting situation? One simple argument is that there should be
om
rule of law and all the institutions should obey the Constitution.
This demands maturity from all actors involved in this crisis and the supreme responsibility is that
s.c
of government as much depends on its performance and it is only the political elite that can deliver
in this scenario by implementing the Constitution in its true letter and spirit.
e
Dr Waheed Asghar (CSP)
im
dT
orl
Test Your Vocabulary II
jW
Here is a very familiar vocabulary test. It is the first question in the CSS
comprehension paper.
©
ht
rig
Directions: In each of the following sentences one word has been italicised. Under each sentence
four alternative words, marked a-d, are given. Select from these alternatives, the word which
py
conveys more or less same meaning as the italicised word in the sentence. Answers are given at the
end.
Co
1. The book has been hyped up far beyond its worth.

a) priced b) circulated
nt
c) publicised d) praised
nte
2. The police has succeeded in busting the gang of robbers.

a) to arrest b) to break
Co
c) to kill d) to disarm
3. He saw his role in the organisation as proactive.

pk
a) effective b) ineffective
c) motivator
m.
d) taking the initiative

co
4.The investment scheme had been a scam all along.

a) swindle b) plain
m.
c) failure d) successful
oru
5. Another theory postulates that the yogic treatment relaxes the mind and body.
a) highlights
b) assumes to be true
SF
c) makes doubtful
d) discard
CS
6. Omar has a propensity for getting into debt.

a) liking b) aptitude
c) will d) natural tendency
7. The Bosnian force had no artillery and was completely annihilated.
om
a) disarmed b) tired of fighting
c) destroyed d) inefficient
s.c
8. No one welcomes him to a party for he is so garrulous.
a) behaves indecently
e
b) too proud
im
c) to have ego
d) talks too much
dT
9. Illnesses prevalent in ageing population.
orl
a) incurable
b) commonly occurring
jW
c) infectious d) curable
10. It is a scandal that the accused was set free.
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a) bad news
b) disgraceful action
c) rumour d) harmful
ht
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11. I beseech you to speak frankly about my performance.
a) to ask earnestly
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b) to be sure
c) expect d) to hope
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12. Incensed by his rude behaviour the employer sacked him.

a) excited b) enraged
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c) to get tired d) due to

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13. Homeopathic drugs may be used to complement allopathic treatment.

a) replace
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b) to make complete
c) to discontinue d) supersede
pk
14. The fact threw an odious light on the incident.

a) foul smelling b) hateful
m.
c) dirty d) open
co
15. Sajid's vocation is both paying and pleasant.

a) holidays b) occupation
m.
c) business d) attitude
oru
16. She had already narrated the adventure.

a) intimated b) let down
c) summarised d) told
SF
17. Her voice was perfectly audible even without a loudspeaker.

CS
a) pleasant b) praiseworthy
c) hearable d) sweet
18. Amjad garnered the largest advance for his novel 'A Suitable Boy'.
a) refused to accept b) won
c) demanded d) threw away
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19. Among all forms of blunders prophecy is the most gratuitous.
a) indecent b) unjustified
s.c
c) dangerous d) justified
e
20. Qasim's antipathy to Reshma did not spring from the jealousy of a frustrated husband.
im
a) affection b) hostility
c) love d) divorce
dT
21. Of course, she knew pretty well that there was no innuendo in his remark.
orl
a) implication
b) sincerity
jW
c) sly implication
d) frankness
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22. Mr. Aslam had circumvented Mr. Jamil and his driver to railway station.
a) evaded b) deceived
c) followed d)watched secretly
ht
rig
23. It is my candid advice to you.
a) frank b) well thought
py
c) humble d) simple
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24. They were adamant to harm him.

a) bent upon b) afraid
c) reluctant d) not convinced
nt
25. Why are you so tetchy with your wife?

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a) emotional b) jealous
c) irritable d) unfriendly
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26. Fatigue would make him passive.

a) sick b) weak
pk
c) irritating
d) not active/submissive
m.
27. Parveen's lacerating words forced him to commit suicide.

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a) abusive b) severely critical

c) painful d) lasting anger
m.
28. He was neophyte to enter the test match.

oru
a) eligible b) novice
c) not eligible d) useless
SF
29. The doctor said that his heart was palpitating violently.
a) damaging b) deteriorating
CS
c) enlarging
d) throbbing , beating rapidly
30. The doctor prescribed a therapeutic diet.
a) light b) balanced
c) with low fat d) curative
om
31. These tribes normally have a nomadic way of life.
a) military b) simple
s.c
c) wandering d) warlike
e
32. The excessive use of pocket calculator can stultify your capacity to do mental calculations.
im
a) improve upon b) destroy
c) strengthen d) aid in
dT
33. Mr. Akram's tactful behaviour melded many different people into his group.
orl
a) repelled b) united
c) frustrated d) disunited
jW
34. Munir flexed his arm, showing his well-built muscles.
a) removed cover b) bended
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c) strengthened d) raised
a) to avoid b) to suppress ht
35. It had been easier ever since to quell emotion than to incur the consequences of venting it.
rig
c) to exaggerate d) to retreat
py
36. The metamorphosis of caterpillar into a butterfly.

a) sudden change b) slow change
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c) transformation d) imitation
37. Several people buy a lottery tickets but only a few lucky ones hit the jackpot.
nt
a) consolation prize
b) a large container
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c) victory
d) win the prize
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38. His surgeon recommended an analgesic for his fractured leg.

a) stimulant b) pain reliever
pk
c) stretching mechanism
d) fixing screw
m.
39. The recent immigrants realised they were consanguineous.

co
a) cheated b) badly treated

c) mistaken
m.
d) having same ancestor

oru
40. The manager had in vain attempted an act of restitution.

a) to make compromise
b) to settle a dispute
SF
c) to restore d) to sort out

CS
41. Your behaviour is not congruous with your personality.

a) appropriate b) excellent
c) unsuitable d) acceptable
42. Iraq attempted to annex Kuwait.
a) destroy b) add to
om
c) cross the border
d) burn
s.c
43. The government rescinded its treaty with America.
a) revoked b) came into action
e
c) finalised d) strengthened
im
44. She realised her position to be too precarious for active aggression.
dT
a) strong b) insecure
c) useful d) dangerous
orl
45. They have put an embargo on all imports.
jW
a) suspension of trade
b) imposition of duty
c) relaxation of duty
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d) punishment
46. Usman was also accessory to the crime.

a) victim b) accomplice ht
rig
c) instrumental d) witness
py
47. She saw me but evinced no great surprise to see my health.

a) cared b) showed
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c) regretted d) expressed
48. She couched her request in an amusing way.

nt
a) put forward b) put into words

c) neatly typed
nte
d) wrote artistically
Co
49. Sajid and Majid were conspicuous by their absence in the film festival.
a) deprived of b) easily noticed
c) remembered d) looked at
pk
50. She was quiet oblivious of the crowd.

m.
a) nervous b) unaware
c) familiar d) irritated
co
ANSWERS:
m.
1- c 2-b 3-d 4-a 5-b

6-d 7-c 8-d 9-b 10-b
oru
11-a 12-b 13-b 14-b 15-b

16-d 17-c 18-b 19-b 20-b
21- c 22- a 23-a 24-a 25-c
SF
26-d 27-b 28-b 29-d 30-d

31-c 32-b 33-b 34-b 35-b
CS
36-c 37-d 38-b 39-d 40-c

41-a 42-b 43-a 44-b 45-a
46-b 47-b 48-b 49-b 50-b
Prof Muzaffar Bokhari (Retd)
om
s.c
“Be Clear about your Goal with High Morale”
e
im
Sardar Mavarhan Khan PSP, 39th Common
dT
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jW
©
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rig
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Co
nt
Jahangir's world times (JWT): Please tell us about your-self, educational background and
nte
achievements in detail.
Sardar Mavarhan khan (SMK): Well, I belong to district Kkhanewal; I am a simple person who
believes in egalitarianism, equity and altruism. I took my primary and secondary education from
Co
Kkhanewal and I did my masters in International Relations from Quaid-e-Azam University

Islamabad. Apart from this I studied Philosophy and literature throughout conscious hood span of
pk
my life. Now as far as achievements are concerned frankly speaking, I could never estimate my
achievements in life for worth mentioning. Anyhow during my school and college days I remained
m.
president of literary society at school as well as college levels. Moreover, I vibrantly participated in
student politics during my stay in the university and I remained chairman of Saraiki Students
Council as well as Quaid-e-Azam Students Federation (QSF).
co
m.
JWT: What types of guidance one should seek?

SMK: Prior guidance, I would say that first one should go for understanding of collective wisdom
through the critical observation of social norms and societal progress; as well as through voracious
oru
reading not only for the CSS exam but for every thing whatever your goal is. Furthermore, getting
inspiration from learned and intellectual persons is also necessary for the mature approach.
SF
JWT: Did you prefer books or notes; what should be prepared and how?
SMK: Undoubtedly good books related to the discipline or subjects should be consulted but
CS
through skimming not through cramming. I have done the same I never made notes but it does not
mean that one should not make notes. If one feels comfortable with notes instead of books then
there is no harm in it.
"I would say that first one should go for understanding of collective wisdom through the critical
observation of social norms and societal progress."
JWT: What are the prerequisites for the CSS examination? For instance a new student appearing
om
for CSS, what type of ability and talent should he possess?
SMK: First of all one must have deep interest, inclination and tendency towards the civil services.
Secondly, an overall intellectual passion along with smart work is necessary to qualify the CSS
s.c
exam. Furthermore, one should go through CSS related stuff for instance, syllabus, compulsory &
optional subjects, past papers etc. Indeed, candidates ought to consult subject specialists as well as
e
senior candidates who gone through the whole process of CSS.
im
JWT: What are the steps for the preparation especially English essay and composition paper?
dT
SMK: well for Essay, one has to understand the basic concept of English Essay i.e. how to build a
thesis of the topic and how to prove it with substantial arguments. Whereas, for the paper of English
orl
composition and grammar is purely a test of a language; and extensive practice is the only panacea
in my opinion.
jW
JWT: What sort of combination candidates should opt for the optional subjects?
SMK: Actually, it's totally a matter of anyone's self interest in some particular field e.g. a candidate
©
who has a background of social sciences must opt subjects like international relations, history,
sociology, languages, psychology, political science and philosophy etc. However, on the other hand
ht
if one belongs to natural sciences then must go for biology, physics, chemistry ,etc. I must say
candidates do not go for the scoring trends or subjects if they have not any interest in them.
rig
JWT: What are the ways to get higher marks in written and interview?
py
SMK: No doubt, smart and intelligent work along with comprehensive study is the only tool to get
higher marks in the CSS exam. In fact, candidates should write to the point they should not bother
Co
about the length of the answers. Whereas, for interview intellectual depth with height of confidence
is the key for ultimate success; one must not take things on his or her nerves.
nt
nte
Co
pk
m.
co
m.
oru
JWT: How many months and daily hours are required for CSS preparation?
SMK: If someone starts from scratch then almost 9 to 10 months are required with a sufficient
study period of 6 to 8 hours daily. However, if a candidate has a good know how of the things
SF
related to the CSS exam like English language & composition, writing skills and general knowledge
then it takes almost 6 months to achieve the desired group.
CS
JWT: What are the general problems of CSS candidates in southern Punjab?
SMK: Lack of proper awareness about the CSS exam, absence of competitive atmosphere and
supportive institutions are the biggest problems. While, cognitive dissonance and over awe
impression of the CSS exam is also an important problem of the candidates from Southern Punjab
in my opinion.
om
JWT: What are the key steps to get good marks in Urdu?
SMK: Well for Urdu I would say, first of all one should have deep interest in Urdu literature and
s.c
language. Secondly, the well articulated answers touching the core of the question can give good
marks in Urdu.
e
im
JWT: Why you opted for Police as your top choice?
SMK: Police is the only department which is directly facing the monster of terrorism, suicide
dT
bombing etc. I always welcome the challenges in my life that is why I opted for Police.
orl
Any Message
Be clear about your goal with high morale.
jW
Broad your vision and unlearn in order to learn more.
Remember failure is not your fault but low aim is crime
Waqas Iqbal
©
ht
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Scoring Good Marks in Islamiat Compulsory
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Paper
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The paper of Islamiat compulsory may be termed as a mix of Islamic studies and
current affairs. Therefore, the candidates are required to have good command
nt
over the topics of Islamiat prescribed in syllabus as well as current affairs. For
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this purpose it is imperative to remain in touch with newspapers and magazines,

especially with religious issues which are in limelight.
Co

pk
m.
co
m.
oru
SF
CS
The 100 marks paper of Islamiat compulsory is of tremendous importance in improving the
aggregate of the total marks in CSS examination. A systematic study and technical approach is
required for scoring good marks in this paper. During the last few years, the pattern of Islamiat
paper has changed and study of contemporary religions and current affairs has assumed important
om
role in the this paper. At present, the paper of Islamiat compulsory may be termed as a mix of
Islamic studies and current affairs. Therefore, the candidates are required to have good command
over the topics of Islamiat prescribed in syllabus as well as current affairs. For this purpose it is
s.c
imperative to remain in touch with newspapers and magazines, especially with religious issues
which are in limelight. For example, the issue of women rights in the backdrop of the bill passed
e
recently by Parliament about punishment for offences of throwing acid on women and for depriving
im
women from their share in inheritance or the Blasphemy Law in the context of murder of Salmaan
Taseer.
dT
For having adequate knowledge about contemporary religions it is instructive to develop
orl
understanding of their important tenets, philosphies and rituals. The candidates must be able to
distinguish between tenets and philosophies of Islam and those of other religions. The lectures of
jW
eminent Muslim scholars like Dr. Zakir Naik and Dr. Israr Ahmed are very useful for study of
comparative religions.
©
The paper of Islamiat Compulsory is the only paper of CSS where the candidates are given the
option of attempting it in Urdu or English. In my opinion English is a better choice. The candidates
ht
who opt for solving it in Urdu take it for granted which results in dismal show in the paper. Reading
English books on the various aspects of Islam requires more concentration and interest which in
rig
turn develops better understanding of the subject.
py
Reading translation and explanation of the Holy Quran is inevitable for better understanding of
Islamiat. It not only helps the candidates to solve Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) but subjective
Co
questions also. Those candidates who are having reasonable knowledge of the Holy Quran can
solve the Islamiat paper in a manner better than that of those candidates who are not well versed in
the Holy Quran. The candidates must be highly careful while writing verses of the Holy Quran and
nt
sayings of the Holy Prophet (PBUH). Mentioning the number of the verse and name of Surah gives
a good impression about the level of preparation. The views about Islamic issues must be supported
nte
by relevant verses of the Holy Quran and authentic sayings of the Holy Prophet (PBUH). Inverted
comas for verses of the Holy Quran and sayings of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) have to be used only
Co
when one is sure about its wording.
Time management is also necessary for all papers of CSS, especially for the paper of Islamiat as the
pk
candidates are required to give answers of five questions in addition to MCQs in this paper.
Whereas in other papers the candidates are required to attempt five questions in all. Proper and
m.
reasonable time should be allocated for each question.

Reading English books on the various aspects of Islam requires more concentration and interest
co
which in turn develops better understanding of the subject.

Indulging unnecessarily in sectarian or controversial issues and writing irrelevant and out of context
m.
material has to be avoided. The answer of each question should be precise but perfect and to the
point. One should not express self-made unrealistic theories and statements. Liberal and secular
oru
approach about fundamental dogmas

and rituals of Islam is highly
unwarranted and Islamic laws should be
SF
expressed in clear and unequivocal

terms without any compromise or
CS
consideration.
Recommended Books:-
1. Towards understanding the Quran by Zafar Ishaq Ansari or Translation of the Holy Quran by
Molana Ashraf Ali Thanvi or by Molana Muhammad Jonaghari.
2. Introduction to Islam by Md. Hameedullah or Towards Islamiat or Islamiat for CSS/PCS by
om
Farkhanda Noor Muhammad.
3. Emergence of Islam by Md. Hameedullah
s.c
Expected questions of Islamiat Compulsory for CSS-2012.
1. Differentiating between Deen and Mudhab. Elaborate the role of Islam in giving lasting
e
solution to basic human problems.
im
2. Explaining the role of the Holy Quran as the fundamental and most important source of Islam.
How can we claim that it is in the same shape in which it was revealed and is free from tampering?
dT
3. “Islam is not complete without the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (PBUH).” Elaborate.
4. How can we claim that the teachings of Islam are free from stagnation and are for eternity?
orl
5. Delineate the role of Zakat with special reference to the solution of economic problems of
Pakistan.
jW
6. Examine the modern concept of Equal Rights in the light of the teaching of Islam.
7. The application of Islamic Shariah is equal to men and women; however some injunctions are
only related to women. Explain.
©
8. Can we declare Pakistan an Islamic State in the light of essential features that are inevitable for
an Islamic State?
ht
9. Non-adherence to the guidelines prescribed by Islam for the rulers of Islamic state has led to
the present Arab uprising. Analyse.
rig
10. Differentiate between Islamic and Western concepts of Human Rights.
11. Whether clash of civilisation is imminent or there is a way to avoid it according to the
py
teachings of Islam?
Atta ur Rehman Khilji
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nt
nte
A model Paper for Every Day Science

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First attempt part- l which is compulsory.

pk

m.

co
m.
oru
SF
CS
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s.c
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dT
orl
jW
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Part – l
Q. No.1. Select the best option/answer

ht
1. ….isn't a worm at all - it's the name for a type of fungal skin infection.
rig
a. Roundworm b. Ringworm
c. Tapeworm d. Flatworm
py
2. …….. is a disease that results in dramatic mortality worldwide

Co
a. Epidemic b. Endemic
c. Pandemic d. Globedemic
nt
3. Ammeter is used to measure electric current through the circuit and is always connected in
……………. to a circuit.
nte
a. Series b. Parallel
c. Perpendicular d. Adjacent
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4. An ……… is a device for measuring wind speed

a. Wind Vane b. Anemometer
pk
c. Speedometer d. Tachometer
m.
5. Focal length of Human eye is……

a. 17mm b. 30mm
co
c. 45mm d. 73mm
m.
6. Human eye has …………………

a. Convex Lens
oru
b. Concave Lens
c. Plano Convex Lens
d. Plano Concave Lens
SF
7. Which of the following is not an inorganic compound?

CS
a. Ammonia
b. Calcium Carbonate
c. Plastic
d. Ceramic
8. Which of the following is not an alkali
om
a. CH3COOH b. NaOH
c. CaCO3 d. KOH
s.c
9. Which of the following has highest electrical conductivity?
a. Aluminum b. Copper
e
c. Gold d. Silver
im
10. Which of the following has shortest wavelength
dT
a. Gamma Rays b. X Rays
c. Microwaves d. Radio Waves
orl
11. ………. Is the branch of science concerned with formation of annual rings?
jW
a. Dendrochronology b. Palecology
c. Dendrology d. Taxonomy
©
12. Mitral valve is present between………
a. Left & Right Atrium
b. Left & Right Ventricle
c. Right Atrioventricle ht
rig
d. Left Atrioventricle
py
13. Banaspati ghee is formed by the addition of………… in oil

a. Hydrogen b. Fats
Co
c. Potatoes d. Nickel
14. Bluetooth uses……………. For communication.

nt
a. IR Rays
b. Radio Waves
nte
c. Ultrasonic waves
d. Infrasonic waves
Co
15. An element is determined by the number of:

a. Electron b. Protons
pk
c. Neutron
d. Proton & Neutrons
m.
16. Which of the following is a social insect?

co
a. Cockroach b. Fly
c. Spider d. Honey Bee
m.
17. Milk is white due to the presence of protein…………..

oru
a. Casein b. Whey
c. Keratin d. Lactose
SF
18. Why do fish dies out of water?

a. Overdose Of Oxygen
CS
b. Overdose Of CO2
c. Change In Temperature
d. Low Moisture
19. Bacteria belong to kingdom…
a. Monera b. Protista
om
c. Animalia d. Plantae
20. Which of the following planet has no moon?
s.c
a. Neptune b. Venus
c. Mars d. Uranus
e
im
21. Which of the planet has lowest density?
a. Mercury b. Venus
dT
c. Saturn d. Mars
orl
22.Age of this universe is… Years
a. 4.5 bn b. 5.5bn
jW
c. 10.5bn d. 13.5bn
23. Clouds are present in………… atmospheric layer
©
a. Troposphere b. Mesosphere
c. Stratosphere d. Thermosphere
24. Man belongs to order ……… ht

rig
a. Chordate b. Primate
c. Homonidae d. Homo
py
25. Which of the following is not a plant but have eukaryotic body and is heterotrophic?
Co
a. Bacteria b. Algae
c. Bryophytes d. Fungi
nt
nte
Co
pk
m.
co
m.
oru
26. ………… turns litmus paper red

SF
a. Alkali b. Salts
c. Buffers d. Acids
CS
27. A membranous layer outside the lungs is called

a. Pericardium b. Pleurae
c. Menings d. Diaphragm
28. …… is the largest body organ
om
a. Femur b. Stomach
c. Liver d. Skin
s.c
29. Earth is …… largest planet in solar system.
a. 4th b. 5th c. 6th d. 7th
e
im
30. Nearest star to our sun is………
a. Andromeda
dT
b. Pistol Star
c. Proxima Centauri
orl
d. Hydra
jW
31. Magnesium is an important constituent of ……………
a. Haemoglobin b. Neuron
c. Chlorophyll d. Bones
©
32. DNA produces a molecule like itself through…
a. Translation b. Transcription
c. Replication d. Transformation ht
rig
33. In DNA, adenine will always pair with
py
a. Guanine b. Cytosine
c. Thiamine d. Uracil
Co
34. Human body contains….. bones

a. 206 b. 216 c. 226 d. 266
nt
35. Anthrax is a ………… disease.

nte
a. Viral b. Fungal
c. Bacterial d. Deficiency
Co
36. Chitin is a ……………… Found in cell wall of fungi

a. Lipid b. Protein
pk
c. Carbohydrate
d. Inorganic Compound
m.
37. Plants convert light energy into…………

co
a. Mechanical b. Potential
c. Chemical d. Nuclear
m.
38. 1 metric ton is equal to…………

oru
a. 100kg b. 1000kg
c. 10,000kg d. 1,000,000kg
SF
39. Calorie is the unit of …………….

a. Work b. Mass
CS
c. Power d. Energy
40.First man to travel in space was...

a. Neil Armstrong
b. Yuri Gagarin
c. Edwin Aldrin
om
d. Valencia Tereshkova
41. …………. Was the inventor of steam engine
s.c
a. Einstien b. Thomas Edison
c. Michael Faraday
e
d. James Watt
im
42. ……….. discovered blood circulation
dT
a. Leeuwenhoek b. Edward Jenner
c. William Harvey d. Gregor Mendel
orl
43. Meteorology is the study of…
jW
a. Weather b. Measurement
c. Meteors d. Asteroids
©
44. An object moving in a circle is moving with...
a. Uniform Velocity
b. Uniform Speed
c. Variable Velocity ht
rig
d. Variable Speed
py
45. A transformer is used to…

a. Increase AC Voltage
Co
b. Increase DC Voltage
c. Increase Or Decrease AC Voltage d. Increase Or Decrease DC Voltage
nt
46.Escape velocity of the Earth is …

a. 9.2km/s b. 10.2km/s
nte
c. 11.2km/s d. 12.2km/s
Co
47. Tibia is the bone found in…

a. Skull b. Arm c. Face d. Leg
pk
48. Anthropogenic emissions are caused by

a. People b. Animals
m.
c. Climate d. Volcanoes
co
49. Which natural material seems to be first used by hominines to make tools
a. Stones b. Wood
m.
c. Feather d. Hair
oru
50. A narrow strip of land connecting tow large land areas and separating two water bodies
is called
a. Isthmus b. Strait
SF
c. Atoll d. Archipelago
CS
Answers
1. B 2. C 3. A 4. B 5. A
6. A 7. C 8. A 9. D 10. A
11. A 12. D 13. A 14. B 15. B
16. D 17. A 18. A 19. A 20. B
21. C 22. D 23. A 24. B 25. D
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26. D 27. B 28. D 29. A 30. C
31. C 32. C 33. C 34. A 35. C
36. C 37. C 38. B 39. D 40. B
s.c
41. D 42. C 43. A 44. C 45. C
46. C 47. D 48. A 49. D 50. A
e
im
Part – ll
dT
Note : Attempt Only Five Questions From Part – ll. All Questions Carry Equal Marks
orl
Q. No. 2 Write a short on the following giving their exact life span and contributions to the
field of science. (5x2)
jW
(a) samar Mubarak mand
(b) ibn – al – Haitham
©
Q. No. 3 Write briefly about Any Five the following. (Answer in three or four sentences)
1. Fiber Optics 2. Solstice
3. Quasar 4. Quarks
5. Gravity 6. Density ht
rig
7. Genes
py
Q. No. 4 (a) What is the name of moon of earth? Write down its features. (5)
(b) What do you know about solar and lunar eclipse? (5)
Co
Q. No. 5 Differentiate Any Five Of The Following Pairs.

1. Acids and bases
nt
2. Mass and weight

3. Xylem and phloem
nte
4. Mixture and compound

5. Convex lens and concave lens
Co
6. Blood and lymph

7. Hormone and enzyme
pk
Q. No. 6 (a) what is the function of the following in the human body (Answer in one sentence)
(1 x 5)
m.
1. Nephron 2. Neuron
3. Skin 4. Alveoli
co
5. Ribs(b) Write a brief note how Human Heart works (5)

m.
Q. No. 7 (a) what are ceramics? What are its applications in everyday life? (2 + 4)
oru
(B) What do the following scientific abbreviations stand for? (1/2 each)
I. RMS II. GLC
III. HPLC IV. EMG
SF
V. POL VI. NASA

VII. MAF VIII. AMUQ. No. 8 writes a short note on the following (5 x 2)
CS
1. Antibiotic 2. Vaccine
3. Microscope 4. Laser
5. Cell phoneQ. No. 9 (a) what are p type and n type semiconductors. Clearly explain them. (5)
(B) What is work power and energy clearly differentiate among these. (5)
Mian Shafiq
om
e s.c
How to Get Good Score in Mercantile Law
im
Paper
dT
orl
The paper of Mercantile Law comprising of 100 marks is having remarkable
significance in the context of its scoring image, among all the optional subjects.
jW
©
ht
rig
py
Co
nt
nte
Co
pk
But a methodical pattern of study along with purpose meant approach is requisite for scoring good
marks in this paper. In the last few years, the pattern of this paper has been oscillating between
m.
theoretical and scenario-based questions but in the last two years it has been a combination of both
these. So in order to attempt the paper it is essential for the students to understand how to handle the
co
scenario-based questions. It has always been a hard nut to crack for the students to handle a scenario
question. In this regard the following steps can become helpful:
m.
Steps to Solve the Situation-based Question:

oru
Write the exact law point concerned with the situation of the question, according to your
assessment.
Write the definition of the law point you have finalised in step one.
SF
Now relate the definition of the same law point with the situation given in question, in order to
prove that you have rightly picked the law point.
CS
Give some illustration or example of case law in this regard.

Relate the illustration / case law with the situation.
Now give your concrete decision in crystal clear words without any ambiguity that what should
be the decision of the given scenario, by fully concentrating on the aspect “REQUIRED” in the
question.
om
A general tip for the candidates
It is a very interesting phenomenon that at whatsoever level of examination the students are
appearing, but as soon as the question paper comes in front of a student, it is immediately divided
s.c
into two parts within the mind of almost every student. One part is that which is known to him and
the other one is that which is not known to him. Unfortunately that particular part of the paper
e
which is not known to him is having such a huge impact on his nerves that the part well-known to
im
him start vanishing from his mind. So it is highly suggested that the questions a student doesn't
know, he should forget about those and fully concentrate on the questions about which he is having
dT
some knowledge. It's a game of holding your nerves.
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Expected Questions of Mercantile Law for CSS-2012.
1. All the contracts are agreements but all the agreements are not contract. Discuss.
jW
2. Define Consideration. No consideration, no binding of performance, give exceptions to the
rule.
3. What is meant by a Void Agreement? What makes it different from a Void Contract? Write in
©
detail the situations where an agreement is considered void abinitio.
4. What is meant by contractual capacity? Discuss fully the status of the agreements made with a
minor.
ht
5. Write the various modes in which a contract can be discharged. What remedies are available to
rig
an aggrieved party?
6. Define Bailment? What are the rights and duties of bailor and bailee? How a contract of
py
bailment is terminated?
7. Distinguish between a contract of Indemnity and Guarantee. The discharge of principal debtor
Co
is the discharge of surety. Explain with illustrations.

8. Define agency. How an agency is created? Write the duties of an agent and when his agency is
terminated.
nt
9. Define Partnership. Explain the position of a minor in a partnership in detail.

10. Differentiate between sale and an agreement to sell. What is meant by unpaid seller? Write in
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detail the rights of an unpaid seller.

11. Define negotiable Instruments. Differentiate between a Cheque and a Bill of Exchange.
Co
12. Define Prospectus. Write the contents of a prospectus and what liabilities this document
creates for the issuing authority.
13. What is an Article of Association? How this document can be altered?
pk
Recommended Books:
m.
Element of Mercantile Law by N. D. Kapoor

Mercantile Law by M. C. Kuchhel
co
Mercantile Law by M. C. Shukla

Top 20 Questions of Mercantile Law, Exam Cram Series of JBD
m.
oru
Expected Questions for CSS 2012 Examination

SF
CS
Expected English Essays

om
e s.c
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jW
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1.''Crisis of Governance in Pakistan'' OR ''Good Governance in Pakistan: A far cry'’
ht
2.''Education is a catalyst of change'' OR ''Education determines the stature of the country in the
comity of nations'’
rig
3.''Information explosion'' OR ''Media as the watchdog of the rights of the people'' OR ''Media as the
fourth estate of the realm'’
py
4.''The culture of intolerance in Pakistan'' OR ''Extremism is a monster that is wrecking havoc to the
fabric of our society'’
Co
5.''Even a maimed and crippled democracy is better than the most benign martial law'' OR
''Democracy is the only viable form of government in the world today'’
6.''Women Empowerment in Pakistan'’
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7.''Global Warming or warning / Climate Change ''

nte
Co
pk
m.
co
m.
oru
SF
Current Affairs
CS
1.Arab Spring & Oil

2.SCO: Moving again to multi-polar world
3.SAARC & Regional Development
4.Balochistan Imbroglio
5.Corruption
6.Global Warming or Warning
om
7.Internal & External Challenges faced by Pakistan
8.The failure of UNO
9.US unilateralism & the response of Muslim World
s.c
10.Floods of Biblical proportions in Pakistan
11.OIC: A toothless Tiger
e
12.Pakistan-US Strategic dialogue
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13.Economic meltdown in Pakistan: Challenges ahead & the way out (Gloomy Economic
Prospects)
dT
14.Energy Crunch/Crisis
15.National Education Policy of Pakistan,2010
orl
16.Pakistan-India Relations: From hostility to thaw
17.Pakistan-Afghan Relations: Convergences & Divergences
jW
18.Sino-Pakistan Relations
19.War on Terror & Repercussions for Pakistan
20.Memo-gate (Civil-Military balance in Pakistan)
©
21.Operation Odyssey Dawn (Libyan Crisis)
22.Fragile Democracy of Pakistan: Performance & Prospects
Current Affairs ht
rig
By Salman Kazmi
kazmialishan@hotmail.com
py
Co
nt
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Co
pk
m.
co
m.
1. Do you feel that the trade of Pakistan will be enhanced, if it is encouraged with the Central Asian
States?
oru
2. At present Pakistan seems to be in the clutches of Terrorism which has been coming through
Taliban. Suggest measures
3. The menace of corruption has really driven the country at a place from where everything seems
SF
to be blocked. Make a feasible strategy to eliminate the evil. Your answer should not be based upon
impractical measures.
CS
4. Economic debacle of the country looks very evident. Suggest practical measures.
5. In order to get rid of the American influence, Pakistan will have to strengthen its friendship with
China. Discuss.
6. Who is responsible for the disaster of the National Institutions? What steps you would
recommend in order com bating the situation.
7. The rapidly growing population has become a threat for the prosperity of Pakistan. Discuss
om
8. Discuss the Indo-Pak relationship in the context of the recent developments.
9. The element of gender discrimination has been still a haunting issue for the civilized world.
Pakistan is also suffering from the same. The present government has taken a few steps towards
s.c
improvement of the situation for the women in the country. Elucidate.
10. Pakistan must keep an eye on the strategic alliances which are taking place in the South Asian
e
Countries. Is there any alliance which can become harmful for the economy of the country? Discuss
im
Geography
dT
Paper-1:
Physical Geography
orl
1. What is the difference between Weathering and Erosion? Write in detail that how the
jW
weathering processes take place in different manners?
2. Explain in detail the features which result from the actions of a Glacier? Illustrate your answer.
3. Right a comprehensive note on the actions performed by a River in its three stages?
©
4. Describe internal structure of the earth. Illustrate your answer.
5. Write in detail that how the earthquakes are occurred in the various zones of the crust?
ht
6. What is meant by volcanic activity? Give various features which take place on the surface of
the earth in the result of Volcanism? Illustrate your answer.
rig
7. What is meant by atmospheric disturbances? Distinguish between Temperate and Tropical
Cyclones?
py
8. What is meant by the World Wind Pressure Belts? Right a note on these wind belts and
distinguish those from local wind systems. Illustrate your answer.
Co
9. Write a note on the Monsoon Climatic Region of the world.

10. What are oceanic movements? Explain in detail the causes, effects and Movements of the
waters of Atlantic Ocean. Do you find any similarity between Gulf Stream and Black Stream
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Current?
11. Write a detailed note on salinity in the oceans?
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12. What is meant by Oceanic relief? Waves and Tides? Write a note on occurrence of Waves and
Tides.
Co
13. Which Type of Map Projection can be considered best for showing the Temperate Regions of
the world? Illustrate your answer.
14. Write short notes on the following:
pk
a. Cycle of erosion b. Insulation

c. Karts Topography d. Statistical Diagrams
m.
Recommended Books:
co
Physical Geography by A.N.Strahler

Physical geography by Goeh
m.
Top 20 Questions of Geography, JBD Exam Cram Series.

oru
Paper-2:
Human, Economic & Regional Geography
SF
What is meant by Economic Activities? In which activity you can place the under developed
countries and why?
CS
15. Explain in detail the Age-Sex pyramids. What is the importance of these pyramids for the
development of the goals of a country? Illustrate your answer.
16. Right a comprehensive note on the population Resource Regions of the World?
17. Describe the sources for the collection of the population data. What problems are faced in this
regard in lesser and over populated clusters of population in the world? Illustrate your answer.
om
18. What do you understand by Malthesian Theory of Population? On what grounds it has been
criticized? Give your personal opinion in this regard.
19. Write in detail that how the aspects of Forestry and Fisheries are important for the mankind?
s.c
In which areas of the world the best possible fishing grounds are found?
20. How would you explain the various cultures prevailing in the world with special reference to
e
the horrible aspect of racial discrimination? Completely focus on the different races of the world?
im
21. Right a comprehensive note on the Languages and Religions of the world.
dT
Muhammadan Law & Jurisprudence
By Ch. Khuram Aziz (CSP)
orl
1.Islamic Law / Shariah & its Sources
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2.Marriage: Essentials, Kinds & Modes
3.Talaq/Divorce: Kinds & Procedure
4.Khula: its grounds
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5.Dower: its kinds & Significance
6.Will/Bequest: its Essentials, Rule of Legal One Third, Limitations on the Testamentary Powers of
a Muslim & Revocation of Will
ht
7.Gift/Hiba: its Essentials & Kinds, Deathbed Gifts & Acknowledgments
rig
8.Waqaf: its Essentials, Kinds, Powers & Duties of Mutawalli &Doctrine of Cyprus
9.Pre-emption/Shufa: its Grounds & Kinds
py
10.Islamic Law of Inheritance: its Rules esp. Rule of Representation & Impediments to Inheritance
11.Acknowledgement of Paternity (Legitimacy)
Co
12.Guardianship of the Minor(Ward) under The Guardians and Wards Act:Duties & Powers of a
Guardian and Fiduciary Relationship
13.The Salient Features of Muslim Family Laws Ordinance,1961: Critical Analysis
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14. Short Notes:

a)Custody of a child/Hizanat
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b)Maintenance of Wives
c)Polygamy
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d)Option of Puberty
e)Iddat/Waiting Period
pk
Public Administration
m.
1.Public Administration: its Nature & Scope

2.Bureaucracy: its Merits & Demerits as a system of organization
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3.Bureacracy in Pakistan: As an Agent of change & the application of Weberian Model in Pakistan
4.Accountability: Internal & External Mechanisms
m.
5.Leadership: Developing leadership in Pakistan

6.Planning: its Concept & Planning machinery / procedure in Pakistan
oru
7.Principles of Administrative Organization

8.Personnel Administration in Pakistan: Different systems of Recruitment
9.Good Governance in Pakistan: Bottlenecks & the way out
SF
10.Local Self-Government: its Past, Present & Future in Pakistan

11.Financial Administration in Pakistan:
CS
(a) Budgetary Procedure in Pakistan

(b)Accounting & Auditing of Public Sector in Pakistan
Islamic History & Culture
Paper-1
By Zahid Ashraf
om
zahidten@gmail.com
1. Discuss in detail the political, social and economic revolutions brought by the Holy Prophet.
s.c
2. “Battle of Badr is a decisive war in the history of Islam.” Disucss
3. Why did Holy Prophet migrate to Madina? What were the impacts of this Hijrah?
e
4. Highlight the character of Hazrat Abu Bakr, his conquests and achievements.
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5. Life, Battles and administration of Hazrat Umar
5. How did the Abbasid Court patronize the philosophical, scientific and literary progress?
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6. Write notes on:
Teachings of the Holy Prophet (SAW)/ Holy Prophet (SAW) as a teacher
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Farewell Pilgrimage
Walid Bin Abdul Malik
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Umar Bin Abdul Aziz
Battle of Uhad and Tabuk
Suffering and persecutions of the Holy Prophet (SAW) during the Makkan Period.
©
Paper-2
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1. The scientific and literary progress of the Muslims in Spain and Sicily laid the foundation of
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renaissance in Europe. Discuss with evidence
2. Give an account of the conquest of Spain and Africa.
py
3. Describe the character and achievements of Muhammad al-Fatih and Sulemain, the
Magnificent (The Ottoman Empire).
Co
4. What contributions did Muslim make in the field of Architecture, Music and Calligraphy?
5. Write a note on the Muslim's contribution in Spain in natural or social sciences (special focus
on Medicine and Philosophy).
nt
6. Write in detail 'The Renaissance Movement'.

7. Muslim Seminaries and Universities of Baghdad and Spain.
nte
8. Write notes on
Abdul Rehman I and Abdul Rehman III
Co
Ziryab
The Dome of the Rock
How did Islam Spread in Spain and North Africa?
pk
Ibn Khuldun
Ibn Rushd
m.
Ibn Sina
Problems of Muslim Umma
co
History of Indo-Pak
m.
PAPER-1
By Imran Ranjha
oru
ia_ranjha@yahoo.com
1. “Mahmood of Ghznavi's real aim was to establish a Turkish Empire and his Indian Campaigns
SF
were only means to this end”. Comment?

2. Write a detailed note on Alauddeen Khilji's character and achievements?
CS
3. “Sultan Muhammad-bin-Tughluq's character was a mixture of two extremes, but he was a man of
Ideas”. Discuss.
4. Society and culture under the Sultanate:The Mongol policy of the sultans of Delhi?
5. Shah Jahan's rule was regarded as the most glorious period of the Mughal Empire. Elucidate
6. Din-e-Ilahi was “an outcome of ridiculous vanity, a monstrous growth of unrestrained autocracy.”
Elaborate
om
7. “He (Humayun) tumbled through life and he tumbled out of it.” Discuss the character of
Humayun in the light of these remarks and account for his ultimate failure.
8. "The war of succession among the sons of the Shah Jehan was in fact, war between the two
s.c
ideologies". Comment and account for the success of Aurangzeb Alamgir.
9. Discuss the career and character of Aurangzeb Alamgir. Where did he falter?
e
10. Trace the rise of the Baghti Movement. Examine its teachings and contribution to society and
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culture
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Paper-2
1. Aligarh Movement created reawakening among Muslims to provide a political platform through
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Education network" Analyze the statement
2. Highlight the contributions of Shah Waliulah towards regeneration of the Muslims of South Asia
jW
3."The Hindu reaction on the Partition of Bengal (1905) proved a blessing in disguise for the
Muslims". Elucidate.
4. Discuss the reason for the failure of Parliamentary Democracy in Pakistan from 1947 to 1958.
©
5. Critically examine the justification of 'Pakistan Resolution' in 1940.
6. Right from beginning Pak-Afghan relations could not be established on friendly terms. What has
ht
affected the relations of two brotherly neighboring countries? Make a critical analysis.
7. Write down the fourteen points of Quaid-i-Azam and its importance towards the creation of
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Pakistan.
py
US History
By: Haseeb Gohar
Co
CSS 2010, FSP

haseebmayo@hotmail.com
nt
1. President John Adams inherited George Washington's policy problems but not his aura of
leadership. Elaborate.
nte
2. Thomas Jefferson described his election to the American Presidency in 1800 as “the Second
American Revolution”. Was the claim justified? Support your answer with evidence.
Co
3. What is Monroe Doctrine? On what occasions has it been enforced and with what results?
4. In what way did the philosophy and purpose of Jacksonian democracy differ from those of the
Jeffersonian democrats?
pk
5. Evaluate the presidency of Franklin D. Roosevelt.

6. The NEW DEAL was to save capitalism but ironically it was denounced by the Capitalist
m.
Class. Why?
7. American Civil War (1860-65) was a clash of economic interests as well as of Social Ideals.
co
Elaborate.
8. Some American historians insist that the American Revolution was a social upheaval as well as
m.
a political revolt. Discuss the social and economic results of the Revolutionary years.
9. The American Constitution is a system of “Checks and Balances”. Discuss.
oru
10. “The American War of Independence was a revolt against Mercantilism.” Discuss.
11. Critically examine the significance of the issue of Slavery in American history.
12. Discuss, 'War against Terror' as an instrument of US foreign policy.
SF
13. Describe in detail the colonial period in the history of United States of America.
14. Who were FEDERALISTS? What were their political views and economic vision for the US?
CS
15. MISCELLANEOUS
Note: Dollar Diplomacy, Watergate Scandal, Missouri Compromise 1820, Marshal Plan, Wilson's
Fourteen Points, The great depression 1929
Journalism
By Qurat ul Ain Malik
om
CSS 2010, DMG
annie_malik@live.com
s.c
1. It is stated that militant Muslim press had played a defining role in the amelioration and
ratification of the Muslims of the subcontinent, in the light of their services, what lessons can the
e
journalists of today learn from them to bring social and political reformation in the current
im
Pakistan's society?
2. What are the impacts of private TV channels (both positive and negative) on the youngsters
dT
with special reference to education, entertainment and awareness?
3. What do you understand by the ethics of journalism? To what extent the media organizations
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preferably electronic media are following code of ethics as enunciated by the APNA and the
Constitution of Pakistan?
jW
4. What is mass media? Compare the functions and impacts of electronic media Vs print media.
Also elaborate whether media in Pakistan is enjoying an absolute freedom?
5. Define communication and explain the process of communication with special emphasis on the
©
importance of feedback? Also explain the physical barriers in mass communication process.
6. Define news. What do you mean by breaking news? Explain all those factors that increase the
value of news for the viewers.
ht
7. Present century is known as century of advertising. Explain all the latest trends adopted for
rig
advertising in the current developed world.
8. Media is known as a double edged sword. Elaborate this statement in the light of power of
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media in modern world.

9. Magazines are regarded as the most successful and influential source of entertainment and
Co
education. In the light of this statement explain all those factors

that have hindered the development and growth of magazine journalism in Pakistan.
10. Critically evaluate the status of freedom of press in Pakistan ever since inception by making
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an analysis of democratic and military regimes.

nte
Sociology
Important Question for CSS-2012
Co
By Shahid Abbas
rai_shahid@hotmail.com
pk
Question # 1: Prove that Individual is a “social product”. Highlight the contribution of culture and
society in this process.
m.
Question # 2: Define the term research design. What are the salient features of experimental design
of research and also discuss the limitations in its application to the study of human behaviour?
co
Question # 3: Discuss in detail Emile Durkheim's theory of suicide and also highlight its effect on
human society.
m.
Question # 4: What is social class? Discuss its significance in a society by giving example from
Pakistani society.
oru
Question # 5: Discuss in detail the division of labour by Karl Marx.

Question # 6: What do you understand by social control? Discuss the internal and external means of
social control by giving example from Pakistani society.
SF
Question # 7: Define social institution. What are the dynamics of family as a social institution in
Pakistan? Explain with examples.
CS
Question # 8: What is child labour? Discuss in the backdrop of Pakistan. How can this social
problem be controlled?
Question # 9: Define social mobility. What are the types of social mobility? How can social
mobility be achieved in Pakistan? Explain with examples.
Question # 10: Write notes on any two of the following:
I-Divorce
om
ii- Drug abuse
iii- Poverty
s.c
Key facts about
N. Korea
e
im
Occupies the northern half of the Korean peninsula, bordering South Korea, China and Russia.
dT
AREA: 122,762 square kilometres, about the size of the US state of Mississippi.
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POPULATION: 24 million.
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CAPITAL: Pyongyang.
RELIGION: Buddhism, Christianity.
©
HISTORY: The Korean peninsula was colonised by Japan from 1910-1945 but partitioned after
ht
world war 11 into US and Soviet spheres of influence. Kim Il-Sung founded North Korea as a
communist state in 1948.
rig
He invaded South Korea in 1950, sparking a three-year war in which a US-led United Nations force
py
backed the South and China fought for the North. It ended in an armistice, leaving the two Koreas
still technically at war.
Co
POLITICAL INSTITUTIONS: Highly centralised communist state. The most powerful body is the
National Defence Commission overseeing the military and lately chaired by Kim Jong-Il.
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ECONOMY: Agriculture, mining and manufacturing in a state-directed economy.

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GDP: $28 billion dollars; GDP per capita $1,800

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CURRENCY: won.
pk
MILITARY: Armed forces of around 1.2 million. Most estimates say it has enough plutonium to
build six or seven atomic weapons.
m.
South Korea`s defence ministry says the North has at least 1,000 missiles of various types,
co
including some with a range of more than 3,000 kilometres.

m.
The North has a stockpile of between 2,500-5,000 tons of chemical weapons, the South alleges.
JWT Desk
oru
SF
CS
practical suggestions to solve composition
paper method of attempting question paper
om
You can score high marks in this paper provided that you attempt the paper
s.c
with a strategy. There is the need to seriously revisit the method of attempting
question paper.
e
im
dT
orl
jW
©
ht
rig
py
Co
Composition paper has two parts. First part consists of first three Questions i.e. Precis,
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Comprehension and Expansion and Second, Grammar and vocabulary including idioms and pair of
words. The actual knack of this paper is your expertise in First Part that is to say how you attempt
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the first part and in which sequence the questions are written. The real test of candidates is judged
the way Précis, Comprehension and Expansion questions are answered.
Co
The most advisable would be to answer the questions of Second Part i.e. Grammar and Vocabulary
Questions first because these questions are scoring. You should concentrate in getting score/marks
pk
in the first place. Most importantly, these questions do not take much time either you know the
answer or you do not know. There is no point in wasting time.
m.
The real strategy would be attempting the Precis Reading Comprehension and Expansion afterwards
co
because these Questions are time-consuming and challenging.

m.
My write-up would further explicate the way to attempt Expansion, Précis Writing and Reading
comprehension questions.
oru
How to attempt Expansion

After attempting Essay in Paper one, there seems no logic to answer expansion question. Actually,
SF
Expansion question is very tricky because the candidates consider that writing four to five pages
would suffice the Expansion and this very method fails owing to not understanding the gist of
CS
quotation. Actually, writing more in Expansion is wrought with dangers because you have to write
actual sense of the given sentence and if you do not understand the real meaning of given sentence
then mere writing pages would not bring marks.
Kinds of Expansion
There are two kinds of Expansion.
om
General Expansion
The topic is of general nature where you can write any angle that you want to. For instance, there is
s.c
topic “Love”, this topic is not restricted and it depends upon you what angle or angles you wish to
explore. There is no restriction that to dwell upon any single angle. Writing on General topic is
e
advisable.
im
Particular Expansion
dT
Mostly sentences are from this kind of expansion where one angle is given and you do not find
room to expand that idea. You have to understand the controlling idea of that sentence or quotation.
orl
You are limited and you do not have ample room to expand your ideas. Writing three to four
paragraphs would suffice this question. The real challenge is to give the examiner feel that you
jW
understand the quotation. Most people consider mere writing four to five pages would impress the
examiner and this is wrong perception. This question does not test your art of English but it tests
your understanding of the given sentence or quotation and your power of expression to write
©
correctly and pertinently.
How to attempt particular Expansion?

ht
Following are the two levels of understanding particular Expansion.
rig
First Level: Denotative
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Denotative means dictionary meaning of sentence

or quotation. What the question denotes or says is
Co
to be understood and that too at the dictionary

level. Read the quotation word by word and get
dictionary meaning and that is the way to get
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meaning of quotation. After understanding, the

quotation is to be expanded. Mostly quotation are
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to be understood at denotative level.

Co
Second Level: Connotative

Connotative means suggestive. This is the second
layer of meaning or understanding. No doubt
pk
connotative level comes when denotative level is understood. This level of understanding of the
words banks upon mostly on common sense. The dictionary meaning of for instance red may mean
m.
red colour but what red connotes is to be understood where the word red is used. Another meaning
is derived when first meaning i.e. dictionary meaning is finished.
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Denotative or Connotative level requires that whole sentence word by word be understood, the
m.
controlling word of quotation is focused which becomes the main idea of expansion. Second
meaning comes from totality of words of quotation. Third, the emphasis of grammar is also seen
oru
before arriving at any understanding of expansion.
Précis writing
SF
The most important Question of composition i.e of course Precis writing. Précis tests the skills of
composition of candidates. Candidates attempt this Question in different ways. Following method
CS
of Precis writing if followed would yield good marks.
Method of Precis Writing

a) Count the words
As soon as you attempt Precis Question, it becomes most important to count the words of original
passage. Generally, students avoid counting the words and this proves fatal. Precis or Summary is
om
the one third of total words used in passage or directed otherwise by examiner. When the examiner
does not specifically direct, the general perception goes to one third. Counting the words of passage
provide sound base on which edifice of Precis is erected.
s.c
b) Casual Reading
e
This reading is reading only one time that too not serous reading. Reading the passage casually is to
im
get inkling or hint regarding the passage. This one time reading basically releases the pressure and
the candidate gets fair idea of the passage.
dT
c) Skimming
orl
Skimming means reading three to four times to find out title or heading of the passage. Title or
heading of the passage is usually present in the Topic sentence of the passage. And the Topic
jW
sentence contains the controlling idea and this controlling idea controls the whole body of the
passage. Technically speaking, Title or heading is to be found before writing Precis.
©
d) Intensive Reading
Intensive reading is detailed reading. Read two to three times the original passage. It is basically
reading word by word. It is also reading between lines
ht
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e) Sifting
Sifting is also reading technique means selection of ideas. This is the most important technique of
py
all the techniques of Precis writing. Precis depends upon sifting process. It is basically underlining
process. While reading the passage the most important ideas are sifted out from the unimportant
Co
ideas. And the most relevant points or ideas are selected from irrelevant points by underlining the
original passage. Sifting is mathematical process that sifts only important/relevant points from
unimportant/irrelevant points.
nt
f) First Draft or Rough Draft

nte
Sifting material is to be written on rough page as it is. Copy the underlined portions on rough page
in the original sequence of passage. Write the sifted material in your own words. You are required to
Co
follow the sequence of ideas of original passage and use one-word connectors. After writing the
first draft, count the words and check the variation or difference.
pk
g) Final Draft
After writing First Draft, write final draft and bring the required changes in final draft. Make sure
m.
that target should not exceed in any way and the final draft should not convey the sense of
borrowing of words from original passage.
co
How to attempt Reading Comprehension Question?

m.
This Question is considered to be the easiest question of all because we have to write the answers
by seeing the original passage. Following techniques be followed to answer this question.
oru
1) Casual Reading
Read one time to get inkling or hint of main idea in the original passage.
SF
2) Skimming
CS
Find out title or heading by reading three to four times.
3) Intensive Reading
Read two to three times with concentration and read between lines.
4) Sifting
om
Sift the most important points from the unimportant points. Underline the most relevant points.
5) Read a Question & understand it
s.c
There is a general trend that candidates read Questions first and then read the passage, this approach
is not advisable because in this approach you can not write answers of general nature and also
e
where your opinion is asked.
im
After reading the passage more than six times, then read a question and understand the question
dT
fully.
orl
6) Locate an Answer of a Question
After reading and understanding a Question, locate the portion of passage where answer of a
jW
Question lies. This locating of answer in original passage be made of every Question one by one
with concentration. This step has paramount import of this Question. Your correct answers bank
upon your skill or ability to locate correct answers
©
7) Read located answer
ht
Before writing an answer, read three to four times that located answer.
rig
8) Write Located answer in your own words
After reading three to four times the located portion of an answer, write the answer in your own
py
words. Try to write answer in a detailed wa.

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9) Vocabulary-in-context
Word or phrases are asked to explain their meanings. Mostly candidates write the meaning that they
know but in this question. You are to explain the usage of word or phrase in the particular reference
nt
of the passage or paragraph. You are required to explain through context of the word or phrase.
nte
It is possible to score good marks in these three Questions if attempted correctly and with a strategy.
Time management plays key role generally in every paper of CSS but composition paper
Co
particularly is dependent upon efficient and proper usage of time.

Noor Ahmad Somoon (CSP)
pk
m.
WORLD IN FOCUS December – January

co
2011
m.
oru
NATIONAL AFFAIRS
SF

CS
om
e s.c
im
dT
orl
11-12-2011/Dawn
US vacates Shamsi airbase; FC in control: The United States completed evacuation of the Shamsi
jW
airbase when two aircraft took off with the last contingent of 32 troops. Frontier Corps personnel
took over the airbase after departure of the American soldiers.
©
13-12-2011/The News
Senate passes bill to provide financial aid to jailed women: A pro-women legislation aimed at
ht
providing financial and legal assistance to women languishing in jails smoothly sailed through the
upper house. “The Women in Distress and Detention Fund (Amendment) Bill, 2011 aimed at
rig
amending Women in Distress and Detention Fund Act, 1996 was moved in the House by Leader of
the House Syed Nayyer Hussain Bokhari.
py
15-12-2011/Dawn
Co
Civilian, military leaderships face off in Supreme Court: If the first act of the memo controversy
ended with the resignation of ambassador Husain Haqqani, the curtains came down on the second
act evening when the Supreme Court received the replies it had asked the president, Haqqani, the
nt
Chief Of Army Staff, the ISI head and Mansoor Ijaz to submit.
nte
19-12-2011/Dawn
EC starts enforcing law against dual nationality: The Election Commission (EC) has started
Co
enforcing a law that bars dual-nationality holders from becoming members of parliament.
Candidates in the by-election for a Senate seat from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will be required to
pk
submit a declaration with their nomination papers that they have not acquired the citizenship of any
other country.
m.
19-12-2011/Dawn
co
Federal health division set up: The cabinet secretariat has notified the establishment of 'federal
health unit' in the Cabinet Division.
m.
22-12-2011/Dawn
oru
Govt, Army on collision course: A sense of foreboding gripped the country as a showdown
between the civilian arm of the government and the army-led security establishment looked
imminent, with the Supreme Court also making it abundantly clear that instead of backing off from
SF
the so-called 'memogate' scandal, it would like to take it to its logical conclusion.
CS
22-12-2011/Dawn
US offers compensation to Pakistan: The United States has offered to send a team to Pakistan to
brief the military on the findings of its investigation into the Nato raid, the State Department said.
According to the statement, The US was prepared to offer compensation to the families of troops
who lost their lives.
om
23-12-2011/Dawn
COAS affirms faith in democracy, resolves to pursue memo case: Army chief Gen Ashfaq
Parvez Kayani reaffirmed his commitment to democracy, but made it clear that the military would
s.c
not back down from 'memogate' standoff with the government.
e
“Irrespective of all other considerations, there can be no compromise on national security,” Gen
im
Kayani said.
dT
23-12-2011/Dawn
Currency swap accord with China: A landmark bilateral Currency Swap Arrangement (CSA) was
orl
signed between the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) and the People's Bank of China (PBC).
jW
The CSA has been concluded in Chinese Yuan 10 billion and Rs.140 billion for promoting bilateral
trade and investment and strengthening financial cooperation. The currency swap would expire in
three years, but could be extended with mutual consent.
©
23-12-2011/Dawn
ht
Pak Army did not fire first: ISPR: The Pakistan Army rejected key findings from a US
investigation into American air strikes of Nov 26, 2011, that killed 24 Pakistani soldiers and said the
rig
report was unlikely to repair the severely damaged relationship between the two countries.
py
Co
nt
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Co
pk
m.
23-12-2011/Dawn
co
WB okays $5.5bn aid: The World Bank has agreed to give $5.5 billion in development aid to
Pakistan to support poverty reduction and economic growth.
m.
The funding will provide support to critical social services such as education and health and back
oru
infrastructure programmes aimed at creating jobs and restoring long-term growth.
25-12-2011/Dawn
SF
'Tsunami' sweeps Karachi: The Imran Khan wave, which the cricketer-turned-politician prefers to
call 'tsunami', reached Karachi with a large turnout at a Pakistan Tehrik-i-Insaaf meeting which
CS
surprised many political analysts, some of whom termed it one of the largest rallies recently held in
the city.
25-12-2011/Dawn
Pak ranks 43rd in scientific research publication: Though the Higher Education Commission
(HEC) has made enormous efforts to promote research work, Pakistan ranked 43rd in the world in
om
terms of published scientific papers in the year 2010. According to the worldwide scientific journal
ranking (SJR), Pakistan published 6,987 research documents in 2010.
s.c
26-12-2011/Dawn
Pak and India resume conventional CBM talks: Pakistan proposed to India deployment of
e
artillery and mortars 30 kilometres away from the Line of Control (LoC) as the two sides revived
im
talks on conventional and nuclear confidence-building measures (CBMs) after a gap of four years.
dT
26-12-2011/The News
SMEDA launches project for SMEs: The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority
orl
(SMEDA) launched the Pro-poor Governance for Legal Empowerment of the Poor (Pro-Gole)
project for small and marginalised businesses.
jW
27-12-2011/Dawn
Pakistan and India agree to extend nuclear pacts: Senior Pakistani and Indian officials agreed on
©
extending pacts on reducing risks of nuclear accidents and pre-notification of ballistic missile tests.
28-12-2011/Dawn
ht
Biogas plant set up by UN: A plant set up in Sanghar, Sindh, by the United Nations Environment
rig
Programme (UNEP) is generating 50 cubic metres of biogas sufficient to energise 20 households in
addition to producing 200kg of liquefied and 150kg of solid fertilizer a day by using 400kg of
py
agricultural waste.
Co
29-12-2011/Dawn
Kharotabad case forensic investigator shot dead: Police surgeon Dr Syed Baqir Shah, who had
conducted the post-mortem on the bodies of five foreigners killed by security forces in the infamous
nt
Kharotabad shooting, was gunned down.

nte
30-12-2011/Dawn
Judicial Commission for memo case probe: The Supreme Court accepted PML-N chief Nawaz
Co
Sharif's petition on the 'memogate' issue and set up a judicial commission comprising Balochistan
High Court Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, Islamabad High Court Chief Justice Iqbal Hameedur
Rehman and Sindh High Court Chief Justice Mushir Alam. The commission has been asked to
pk
come up with its findings in one month. District and Sessions Judge Islamabad Raja Jawwad Abbas
Hassan will act as its secretary. The commission will hold its meetings in the IHC building.
m.
31-12-2011/The News
co
Reference against GB judge for threatening governor: In a unique case of judicial history, a
judge of the apex court in Gilgit-Baltistan has been formally charged to have hurled serious threats,
m.
including life threats, at the GB governor, and may even face removal from office.
oru
The chief judge of the GB Supreme Appellate Court and chairman GB Supreme Judicial Council,
Justice Muhammad Nawaz Abbasi, has filed a reference before Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani to
initiate the proceedings against the judge – Justice Syed Jafar Shah.
SF
01-01-2012/Dawn
CS
Asma criticises memo commission, quits as Haqqani lawyer: Prominent lawyer Asma Jehangir
has categorically stated that she has 'no confidence' in the judicial commission constituted by the
Supreme Court to investigate the memogate scandal and refused to represent former ambassador to
the US Hussain Haqqani in the case.
01-01-2012/Dawn
om
Pakistan to challenge UN decision in world court: Pakistan has decided to challenge in the
International Court of Arbitration a decision of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change
(UNFCCC) to grant carbon credits to India on a controversial hydropower project without
s.c
mandatory clearance of its trans-boundary environmental impact assessment.
e
01-01-2012/Dawn
im
Pakistan starts UNSC stint: Pakistan along with Azerbaijan, Guatemala, Morocco and Togo
assumed seats as new non-permanent members of the 15-nation UN Security Council. Pakistan has
dT
previously served in the Security Council in 1952-53, 1968-69, 1976-77, 1983-84, 1993-94 and
2003-04. It will be the fourth time Pakistan's term will overlap with India's, as it did in 1968, 1977
orl
and 1984.
jW
06-01-2012/The News
10 years tax holiday allowed in SEZs: Ten years tax holiday shall be allowed to industries to be
set up in the new Special Economic Zones (SEZ) being set up in the federal capital, in the
©
provinces, Azad Kashmir and Fata. The SEZ bill was approved by the Special Standing Committee
for Law and Justice and Frontier Regions.
10-01-2012/Dawn ht
rig
Senate body wants Derawar Fort on World Heritage List: The Senate functional committee on
problems of under-developed areas has recommended to the federal government to get the
py
crumbling Derawar Fort in Cholistan on the World Heritage List.

Co
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
nt
11-12-2011/Dawn
British Deputy PM at odds with Cameron over EU vote: British Deputy Prime Minister Nick
nte
Clegg opened up tensions in the coalition government, warning that the country risks becoming an
international “pygmy” after vetoing a new European Union treaty.
Co
11-12-2011/The News
Species, threats grow in Mekong region: Scientists identify a new species every two days in the
pk
Greater Mekong region, the WWF said, in a report detailing 2010's more unusual finds such as a
leaf warbler and a self-cloning lizard. More than 200 species were newly recorded last year in the
m.
Greater Mekong, which includes Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar, Vietnam, Laos and the South-
western Chinese province of Yunnan.
co
11-12-2011/Dawn
m.
Climate conference reaches landmark agreement: A UN climate conference reached a hard-

fought agreement on a far-reaching programme meant to set a new course for the global fight
oru
against climate change. The 194-nation conference agreed to start negotiations on a new accord that
would ensure that countries will be legally bound to carry out any pledges they make. It would take
effect by 2020 at the latest. Currently, only industrial countries have legally binding emissions
SF
targets under the 1997 Kyoto Protocol.

CS
13-12-2011/Tribune
Malaysian sultan sworn-in as country's oldest new king: An 84-year-old Malaysian state sultan
was sworn-in as the country's new king. Sultan Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah became the oldest
constitutional monarch in the south-east Asian nation's history.
13-12-2011/Dawn
om
Palestinian flag raised at Unesco headquarters: Palestinians raised their flag at the headquarters
of the UN cultural agency in Paris as the agency's 195th member, a historic move and symbolic
boost for their push for an independent state.
s.c
13-12-2011/Dawn
e
Canada becomes first nation to pull out of Kyoto Protocol: Canada became the first country to
im
announce it would withdraw from the Kyoto Protocol on climate change, dealing a symbolic blow
to the already troubled global treaty.
dT
Environment Minister Peter Kent broke the news on his return from talks in Durban, where
orl
countries agreed to extend Kyoto for five years and hammer out a new deal forcing all big polluters
for the first time to limit greenhouse gas emissions.
jW
13-12-2011/The News
Scientists narrow search for 'God particle': Physicists said that they had narrowed the search for
©
the elusive sub-atomic Higgs boson particle that would confirm the way science describes the
Universe.
ht
Experiments at Europe's giant atom smasher have “reduced the window where scientists think they
rig
will find the Higgs boson,” also known as the God Particle, said Bruno Mansoulie, a researcher at
the European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN).
py
Co
nt
nte
Co
pk
m.
13-12-2011/The News
co
655,000 malaria deaths in 2010: Malaria caused the death of an estimated 655,000 people last
year, with 86 per cent of victims children aged under five, World Health Organisation figures
m.
showed. The figure marked a five per cent drop in deaths from 2009. Africa accounted for 91 per
cent of deaths and 81 per cent of the 216 million cases worldwide in 2010.
oru
13-12-2011/Tribune
A jumping cockroach is discovered in South Africa: The scientists have discovered a cockroach
SF
that jumps. Just four-tenths of an inch long, this roach can jump up to 50 body lengths in a single
jump. The newly discovered leaproach, which looks like a cockroach but acts like a grasshopper, is
CS
described in the journal Biology Letters. The insect was found in the Silvermine Nature Reserve in
the Table Mountain National Park in South Africa. It lives in grasslands and feeds on grasshopper
droppings.
13-12-2011/The News
Tunisia opposition veteran Marzouki sworn-in as president: Tunisia's opposition veteran
om
Moncef Marzouki was sworn-in as the country's first elected president since the North African
nation's revolution sparked the Arab Spring.
s.c
14-12-2011/Daily Times
Kuwait emir swears-in new cabinet: Kuwait's emir swore-in a new cabinet that closely resembled
e
its predecessor to take the Gulf oil producer into a parliamentary election expected next year. The
im
50-member parliament has long tussled with governments dominated by the ruling al-Sabah family.
dT
15-12-2011/Dawn
Opium cultivation surges in SE Asia: Opium cultivation in Southeast Asia has doubled since 2006
orl
with significant increases in Myanmar and Laos this year, according to a UN report.
jW
The UN Office on Drugs and Crime said the lack of security, political stability and sustainable
development was the key reason for a 16 per cent increase in the amount of land sown with poppies
in 2011.
©
The estimated value of opium production in Myanmar, Laos and Thailand — the countries where
ht
most of the region's cultivation takes place — rose 48 per cent in 2011 from last year to $319
million, according to the UNODC.
rig
15-12-2011/Dawn
py
New telescope captures 'starburst' galaxy: Europe's state-of-the-art Very Large Telescope (VLT)
in Paranal, Chile, has captured some of the most detailed images ever taken of a spiral galaxy. The
Co
Silver Coin Galaxy, known to scientists as NGC 253, gleams about 11.5 million light years away in
the southern constellation of Sculptor.
nt
15-12-2011/Dawn
Chirac found guilty of corruption: Former French president Jacques Chirac was convicted of
nte
graft but escaped jail, receiving a suspended two year sentence for running ghost workers at Paris
city hall.
Co
112 countries recognise Palestine as a state: At least 112 countries around the world have
pk
formally recognised Palestine as a state, stretching from Africa to Asia, Europe to Latin America. In
Latin America, Uruguay and Peru joined the growing ranks of countries which recognised Palestine
m.
this year, with 12 out of the region's 13 countries formally recognising it as a state.
co
17-12-2011/Dawn
440 killed, 200 missing after Philippines storm: Tropical storm Washi whipped the southern
m.
Philippines, unleashing mammoth floods across vast areas that left 440 people dead and nearly 200
missing.
oru
18-12-2011/Dawn
US troops quit Iraq 9 years after invasion: The last US forces left Iraq and entered Kuwait,
SF
nearly nine years after launching a divisive war to oust Saddam Hussein, and just as the oil-rich
country grapples with renewed political deadlock.
CS
18-12-2011/Dawn
Pakistani made deputy leader of Scottish party: Scotland's opposition Labour Party elected
Johann Lamont as its new leader, with a 28-year-old lawmaker of Pakistani ethnic origin Anas
Sarwar voted in as her deputy. The former dentist is the son of Pakistan-born Mohammad Sarwar, a
former MP for Glasgow, who was Britain`s first-ever Muslim lawmaker. Anas Sarwar holds his
om
father's former seat.
e s.c
im
dT
orl
jW
©
19-12-2011/The News
N. Korea test-fires short-range missiles: North Korea test-fired two short-range missiles off its
ht
east coast, the same day it announced the death of leader Kim Jong-II, South Korea's Yonhap news
agency said.
rig
22-12-2011/Dawn
py
Hamas moves to join PLO umbrella: The rival Palestinian factions Fatah and Hamas took an
important step toward reconciliation, announcing plans for the Islamic militants to join the umbrella
Co
group that has overseen two decades of on-and-off peace talks with Israel. Under the agreement,
Hamas' supreme leader, Khaled Mashaal, joined a committee that will prepare for elections of the
PLO's parliament in exile. He will serve alongside Abbas.
nt
nte
22-12-2011/Dawn
French lower house adopts genocide bill: France sparked a diplomatic row with Turkey by taking
steps to criminalise the denial of genocide, including the 1915 mass killing of Armenians by
Co
Ottoman Turks, prompting Ankara to cancel all economic, political and military meetings.
Lawmakers in France's National Assembly — the lower house of parliament — voted
overwhelmingly in favour of a draft law outlawing genocide denial, which will be debated next year
pk
in the Senate.
m.
22-12-2011/Dawn
Ankara cuts some ties with Paris: Turkey reacted with fury to a vote by French lawmakers to
co
outlaw denial of the Armenian genocide, immediately cutting military ties and warning of
“irreparable damage” to relations.
m.
“This is politics based on racism, discrimination and xenophobia,” thundered Prime Minister Recep
oru
Tayyip Erdogan, ordering home Ankara's ambassador to Paris and banning political visits between
the two Nato allies.
SF
Norway panel approves report declaring killer insane: A Norwegian psychiatric report
CS
concluding that an anti-Islam militant who killed 77 people in July was insane and unfit to serve
prison time was approved by a medical review commission, strengthening the likelihood he will
avoid jail.
22-12-2011/Dawn
10,000 US troops pulled out of Afghanistan: US military officials say that President Barack
om
Obama's order to withdraw 10,000 American troops from Afghanistan this year has been
accomplished, a little more than a week before the year-end deadline.
s.c
23-12-2011/Dawn
US, Japan, EU boycott UN 'silence' for Kim: The United States, Japan, South Korea and leading
e
European nations boycotted a minute of silence at the UN General Assembly demanded by North
im
Korea for its late leader Kim Jong-Il. The UN tribute was the highest profile international move
sought yet by the North's government as it seeks global recognition for the hard-line leader who
dT
died at the age of 69.
orl
23-12-2011/The News
Leftist Milanovic Croatia's new PM: Driven, self-confident and smart but criticised for lacking a
jW
common touch, Zoran Milanovic was sworn-in as Croatia's new prime minister faced with a
troubled economy and the challenge of EU integration.23-
©
12-2011/The News
Suu Kyi registers party: Myanmar's democracy champion Aung San Suu Kyi registered her
ht
opposition party and visited the national parliament for the first time, as she prepares to enter the
mainstream political arena.
rig
24-12-2011/Dawn
py
Islamist sweep second round of Egypt poll: Egypt's main Islamist parties won 65 per cent of
votes for party lists in the second round of a historic election for a new parliament after Hosni
Co
Mubarak's ouster. The Freedom and Justice Party (FJP) won 36.5 percent of the vote for party lists,
with 4.058 million out of 11.173 votes, according to figures provided by the electoral committee for
the second round which was held on December 14. The Al Nur Party won 28.78 per cent, with
nt
3.216 million votes.

nte
25-12-2011/Dawn
Ancient seal found in Jerusalem: A rare clay seal found under Jerusalem's old city appears to be
Co
linked to religious rituals practiced at the Jewish Temple 2,000 years ago, Israeli archaeologists
said. The coin-sized seal found near the Jewish holy site at the Western Wall bears two Aramaic
words meaning “pure for God.”
pk
25-12-2011/Tribune
m.
UN General Assembly cuts 2012-13 budget by 5 per cent: The UN General Assembly has
approved a 5 per cent decrease in the United Nations' budget for 2012-2013, only the second time in
co
50 years that the world body has slashed its spending.

m.
26-12-2011/The News
Coup foiled in Guinea-Bissau, navy chief held: Guinea-Bissau's army said it foiled a coup
oru
attempt in the impoverished West African country and arrested the navy chief, accusing him of
being the “mastermind” of the attack. Army chief of staff General Antonio Indjai said loyal troops
had defeated the assault by renegade soldiers on army headquarters, which came while President
SF
Malam Bacai Sanha is undergoing medical treatment in France.

CS
26-12-2011/Dawn
Brazil: sixth biggest economy: Brazil has overtaken Britain as the world's sixth largest economy, a
London-based research group said. In its latest World Economic League Table, the Centre for
Economics and Business Research (CEBR) said Asian countries were moving up while European
countries were slipping down.
om
27-12-2011/The News
Russia test-fires long-range missile with new warhead: Russia successfully test fired its long-
range ballistic missile RS-18 from its Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan with a new warhead
s.c
aimed at overcoming Western air defence systems.
e
im
Afghanistan signs first major oil deal with China: Afghanistan signed an oil deal with China
which could earn the war-torn country $7 billion over 25 years.
dT
Afghanistan's first major oil exploration contract will see state-owned China National Petroleum
Corporation develop three oil fields in the relatively peaceful north of the country along the Amu
orl
Darya river.
jW
28-12-2011/Dawn
The Times names Tunisian fruit-seller 'person of 2011': The Times newspaper in London named
Mohamed Bouazizi, the Tunisian fruit-seller who unwittingly started a wave of protests known as
©
the Arab Spring, as its person of 2011. The 26-year-old from a poor family set himself alight in the
town of Sidi Bouzid on Dec 17 last year in protest against harassment by officials, and died from
his burns in early January.
ht
rig
28-12-2011/Dawn
Russia, Turkey clinch gas pipeline deal: Russia said it had clinched a deal with Turkey allowing it
py
to lay the South Stream natural gas pipeline to Europe through its territorial waters.
Co
29-12-2011/Dawn
Turkish air attack leaves 35 Kurds dead: Turkish warplanes killed 35 people in an air strike on
the Iraq border, officials said.
nt
30-12-2011/Dawn
nte
Jamaica opposition sweeps poll: Jamaica's leading opposition People's National Party has won a
landslide election in a vote driven by concerns about crime, corruption and poverty on the
Co
picturesque Caribbean island.
01-01-2012/Dawn
pk
Defiant Iran tests missile as US unleashes new sanctions: Iran announced that it had tested a new
missile and made an advance in its nuclear programme after the United States unleashed extra
m.
sanctions that sent its currency to a record low.

co
01-01-2012/Dawn
Foreigners to buy Indian shares: India announced that it would open up its stock market to
m.
individual foreign investors for the first time, in a major economic reform designed to boost
overseas investment.
oru
01-01-2012/The News
Warmest weather in Paris since 1883: Revelling Parisians enjoyed the warmest New Year's Eve
SF
in Paris since 1883 with temperatures hitting 12.3 degrees Celsius (54.1 degrees Fahrenheit),
weather service Meteo France said.
CS
02-01-2012/Dawn
Iran tests missiles near key strait: Iran tested missiles near the Strait of Hormuz, underlining its
threats to close the vital oil-transit waterway as the West readies to impose more economic
sanctions over Tehran's nuclear drive.
om
02-01-2012/Tribune
Bird flu virus can't spread through humans, officials say: The strain of H5H1 bird flu cannot
spread among people, a Chinese health agency said. Genetic analysis indicated the virus spread
s.c
directly from poultry to the victim. “Though it is highly pathogenic to human beings, the virus
cannot spread among people,” the statement said.
e
im
02-01-2012/Dawn
10pc of Libyan assembly seats for women: Ten per cent of the seats of the proposed Libyan
dT
Constituent Assembly will be reserved for women, a draft election law published said. “The General
National Congress (constituent assembly) is to be composed of 200 members elected freely and
orl
directly. 10 per cent of the seats will be reserved for women,” said the draft released on the website
of the election preparatory committee. The constituent assembly election is scheduled to be held in
jW
June.
03-01-2012/The News
©
Moroccan king names Islamist-led govt: Moroccan King Mohamed VI named a new government
led by moderate Islamist Prime Minister Abdelilah Benkirane.
05-01-2012/Dawn ht
rig
Former Israeli PM indicted for graft: Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert was indicted
alongside a number of other people for allegedly taking bribes in a massive property scandal.
py
05-01-2012/Dawn
Co
EU stands firm on airline emission fee: The European Union refused to back down from a
disputed airline emissions fee despite China's refusal to pay the new charge to land in Europe. The
27-nation EU began to require all airlines to buy pollution permits to fly to Europe on January 1
nt
despite stiff opposition from the United States, China and many other countries.
nte
06-01-2012/Dawn
Turkey's former army chief held: The former head of Turkey's armed forces, General Ilker
Co
Basbug, was in custody on charges of trying to overthrow the government, a stunning move by the
country's judiciary against a military that was once the ultimate power in the land.
pk
06-01-2012/Dawn
S. Sudan massacre claims, 3,141 lives: Over 3,000 people were killed in South Sudan in brutal
m.
massacres last week in an explosion of ethnic violence that forced tens of thousands to flee, the top
local official said.
co
08-01-2012/Dawn
m.
Arabs give Syria mission green light to continue: Arab ministers meeting in Cairo gave a widely
criticised observer mission to Syria the green light to continue and called for an immediate end to
oru
the violence there. The Arab ministerial committee on Syria “has decided to give Arab League
observers the necessary time to continue their mission according to the protocol,” which states that
the mission is for the duration of one month.
SF
09-01-2012/Dawn
CS
Malaysia's Anwar Ibrahim acquitted, vows to win elections: Malaysian opposition leader Anwar
Ibrahim was acquitted in a stunning climax to a two-year sodomy trial and quickly set his sights on
ousting the long-ruling coalition in upcoming polls.
09-01-2012/The News
IAEA confirms Iran enriching uranium at new plant: The UN atomic agency confirmed that
om
Iran has started enriching uranium to 20-per cent purity at a new site in a difficult-to-bomb
mountain bunker. “The IAEA can confirm that Iran has started the production of uranium enriched
up to 20 per cent... in the Fordo Fuel Enrichment Plant,” the International Atomic Energy Agency in
s.c
Vienna said in a statement.
e
09-01-2012/The News
im
Astronomers make biggest map of dark matter in universe: International astronomers said that
they have created the largest map of dark matter ever observed in the universe, using data from
dT
potent telescopes that scanned 10 million galaxies.
orl
10-01-2012/Tribune
23 new animal species found near deep-sea hot spots: Researchers using a remote-controlled
jW
vehicle that dived about 1.5 miles, or 2.5 kilometres, below the surface of the Southern Ocean near
Antarctica have discovered 23 new animal species living in the hot, dark environment around
hydrothermal vents.
©
10-01-2012/Dawn
ht
Suu Kyi becomes party chief: Democracy champion Aung San Suu Kyi has become head of her
political party National League for Democracy (NLD), a spokesman said, as she prepares to fight
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by-elections to enter Myanmar's army-dominated parliament. “According to our party structure
Daw Aung San Suu Kyi became the chairman of the NLD,” spokesman Nyan Win said. Daw is a
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term of respect.
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SPORTS
11-12-2011/Dawn
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Amir loses titles to Peterson in split verdict: Britain's Amir Khan lost his WBA super-lightweight
and IBF light-welterweight titles after he was deducted two points and dropped a split decision to
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American Lamont Peterson.

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pk
m.
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SF
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11-12-2011/Dawn
Australia beat Spain to retain Champions Trophy: Australia maintained their stranglehold on
hockey's Champions Trophy with a 1-0 win over Spain, claiming a record fourth straight title
through a disputed goal to Eddie Ockenden.
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11-12-2011/The News
India retain SAFF title: Defending champions India retained the South Asian Football Federation
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(SAFF) title with a 4-0 win over Afghanistan in the final in New Delhi.
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18-12-2011/Dawn
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Ward wins Super Six final showdown: Andre Ward captured the Super Six World Boxing Classic
tournament with a unanimous decision over Britain's Carl Froch in Atlantic City New Jersey.
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23-12-2011/Dawn
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Toure named African Footballer of the Year: Ivory Coast and Manchester City mid-fielder Yaya
Toure was named African Footballer of the Year.
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01-01-2012/Dawn
Jeptoo wins event in record time: Kenya's world championship marathon silver medallist Priscah
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Jeptoo won the women's San Silvestre race in a record of 48 min 48 sec. The men's race was won
by 24-year-old Ethiopian Tariku Bekele.
07-01-2012/Dawn ht
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Czech Republic win second Hopman Cup: Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova and Tomas
Berdych had straight-set singles victories over France to give the Czech Republic their second
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Hopman Cup title.

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10-01-2012/Dawn
Messi named world's best player for third consecutive year: Already judged one of football's all-
time greats at just 24, Lionel Messi unsurprisingly extended his reign as the world's best player for a
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third year.
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The Barcelona and Argentina forward received the FIFA Ballon d'Or award for 2011, beating his
club team-mate Xavi Hernandez and Cristiano Ronaldo of Real Madrid to the game's most
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prestigious individual honour.
Messi is the first man to win three straight FIFA world player awards in the honour's 21year history.
pk
In the women's award, Homare Sawa of Japan ended Brazil forward Marta's five year rule as the
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world's best player.

Norio Sasaki was named best coach of a women's team for his work guiding Japan to their World
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Cup title.
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The Japan Football Association received FIFA's Fair Play award for its response to a devastating
earthquake and tsunami last March, including hosting Barcelona's Club World Cup victory in
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December.
Obituaries
SF
National
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15-12-2011/Dawn
Former air chief Nur Khan dies: Former Air Force chief Air Marshal (retd) Malik Nur Khan died.
He was 88. In 1959, Nur Khan was appointed head of the Pakistan International Airlines on
deputation. He held this position till July 1965 when he replaced Air Marshal Asghar Khan as the
PAF chief. One of the heroes of the 1965 war, Nur Khan had the credit to have clashed with the
om
Israeli Air Force during the 1973 Six-day War when the then government decided to send a
Pakistani contingent in support of Egypt.
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23-12-2011/Dawn
Former CJP Afzal Zullah died: Former chief justice of Pakistan Muhammad Afzal Zullah died on
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23 Dec, 2011. He was 83.
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26-12-2011/Dawn
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JUP leader Shah Faridul Haq passes away: Jamiat Ulema-i-Pakistan-Noorani (JUP-N) leader
Prof Shah Faridul Haq passed away. He was 78.
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Shah Faridul Haq wrote several books on political science and contemporary constitutions. He also
translated the Quran into the English language.
jW
10-01-2012/Dawn
Pir Pagara passes away: Pir Pagara, a seasoned politician and the spiritual leader of the Hur
©
Jamaat,
passed away in London. He was 83.
10-01-2012/Dawn ht
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MNA Azeem Daultana dies in accident: Pakistan People's Party MNA Mian Azeem Khan
Daultana met with a fatal accident early morning near Kotwali Bridge on his way to Luddan, some
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30-km from here. Daultana was nephew of Pakistan Muslim League-N leader Tehmina Daultana.
He was also serving as federal parliamentary secretary for information and broadcasting.
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International
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18-12-2011/Dawn
Havel, leader of 'Velvet Revolution', dies: Vaclav Havel, a dissident playwright jailed by
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Communists who became Czech president and a symbol of peace and freedom after leading the
bloodless “Velvet Revolution”, died at 75.
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19-12-2011/Dawn
Kim Jong-II dies at 69; the son rises: North Korea hailed Kim Jong-II's young son as a “great
pk
successor” at the helm of the isolated country after the leader who built an atomic arsenal died.
m.
22-12-2011/The News
Indian Test pacer Ranjane dies aged 74: Vasant Ranjane, a former India medium-pacer, has died
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in Pune at the age of 74. Ranjane played seven Tests for India between 1958 and 1964 and
represented Maharashtra and Railways in first-class cricket from 1956 to 1971.
m.
Muhammad Usman Butt

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SF
Manage Your Store

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A store manager is the person ultimately responsible for the day-to-day
operations (or management) of a retail store. All employees working in the store
report to the store manager.
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©
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Roles and responsibilities
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Human Resources, specifically: recruiting, hiring, training and development, performance

management, payroll, and schedule workplace scheduling
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Store business operations, including managing profit and loss, facility management, safety and
security, loss prevention (also called shrink), and banking
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Product management, including ordering, receiving, price changes, handling damaged products, and
returns
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Team Development, facilitating staff learning and development
Problem solving, handling unusual circumstances

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Sales generation
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A store manager must meet monthly, quarterly, or annual sales goals, depending on the company's
fiscal cycle. This involves setting individual sales goals (quotas), holding contests for employees, or
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offering sales promotions. The manager may also receive a monetary incentive (or "bonus") tied to
financial performance over a specific period. This incentive may be based on net sales, profitability,
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or both. Thus, the store manager may be forced to reduce payroll expenditures by decreasing
employees' hours, or otherwise reducing operating cost. A store manager should motivate his team
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to achieve the target set for the store by using some different activities. A store manager should set
an example for his/her subordinates to follow.
SF
Safety and security

The manager must post Material Safety Data Sheets for their employees for any hazardous materials
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used in the store. The store manager is the store's primary key-holder and may be called to the store
before, during, or after business hours in the event of an emergency. He is also responsible for the
safety of all customers and employees on store premises.
Division of responsibility
A store manager may have several subordinates who have management-level responsibility. These
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employees may be called assistant managers, department managers, supervisors, key holders, shift
leads, or leads. A store manager has over-all responsibility for all day to day activity of the store.
Managing & controlling staff, and planning are essential points of the store manager.
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Hiring, training and development
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The store manager is responsible for hiring, training, and in some cases, development, of
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employees. The manager must ensure staffing levels are adequate to effectively operate the store,
and ensure employees receive training necessary for their job responsibilities. Managers may be
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responsible for developing employees so the company can promote employees from within and
develop future leaders, potentially for employment at other locations. The role of store managers
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with regards to the other employees varies from company to company and each respective
company's operating methods but in general a store manager will be required to deal with and try to
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solve any issues adversely affecting an employee's work. This is done to prevent a drop in
productivity and to make sure that the employee seeking help doesn't end up being a casualty of the
necessary role of firing long-term inefficient workers.
©
Managers must ensure that the proper amount of inventory is displayed for customers to purchase,
by ensuring that shelves and racks remain stocked and that product is frequently rotated out of
storage areas.
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Visual merchandising and inventory control

Store managers ensure that visual merchandising is consistent with customers' expectations of the
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brand. In retail locations, store managers are responsible for visual merchandising. Many companies
communicate how to merchandise their stores using direction such as planograms to indicate
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product placement. While managers have a varying degree of autonomy in deviating from corporate
direction, it is important to ensure that stores are compliant with the company's brand image.
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Managers must ensure that the proper amount of inventory is displayed for customers to purchase,
by ensuring that shelves and racks remain stocked and that product is frequently rotated out of
m.
storage areas. Managers are also concerned with shrinkage, and must ensure that merchandising
techniques and customer service skills minimize the possibility of product being stolen.
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Nabeel Niaz
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twitter
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Twitter is Revolutionising the World, Much to the Annoyance of its Critics
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Foreign policy wonks in droves are turning to Twitter to make their ideas travel faster and further.
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In just a few years the technique has become so commonplace that established magazines such as
Foreign Policy now annually publish guides to the top 100 twitterati—and these lists are of course
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hotly contested in social media the moment they appear.

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But are we moving into an enlightened age of "I think therefore I tweet", or is it becoming too often
a case of "tweet first, think later"? From my own recent forays into the think-tank twitterverse,
certain truths and tensions have become apparent. The microblog is fantastically useful for the rapid
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spread of new commentary and analysis. Its critics miss the point when they assume that Twitter's
140-character discipline amounts to an intellectual straitjacket, dumbing down complexity and
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subtly.
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Instead, it's a lever, a vehicle, a thoroughbred Trojan horse. Whatever your preferred metaphor, it is
the ultimate tool to instantly connect the lone thinker with audiences old and new. One way of doing
this is to craft each tweet around a hyperlink to whatever form of online publication you are seeking
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to put in front of the reader: blog, news article, essay, report, video, podcast—even a good old-
fashioned book.
m.
That requires enticing readers with a pithy, provocative message. Twitterland is no country for
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nature's lawyers and bureaucrats. But toil and reputation remain essential. The aspiring policy wonk
will tweet in vain if he or she has little original or sensible to say, or lacks existing research of
m.
substance to promote. (Of course, all tweeting is vanity of one sort or another; the truly humble
need not apply.)
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Yet the medium's most immediate impact for the professional interpreter of current affairs is the
way it can connect with old media. Many mainstream journalists and editors, always time-poor, are
SF
becoming serious Twitter freaks.

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Time and again in my own social media forays, I've discovered the media ripple-effect of a well-
timed tweet. I've also found that Australia's Asian time zone is a real advantage in analysing
breaking stories in this most dynamic region; by the time most of Europe and America is awake, the
news is old.
When North Korea bombarded Yeonpyeong island last November, and I happened to be convening
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a security workshop in Seoul on, well,
how or how not to deter Pyongyang, it took a single tweet about the surreal nature of my day to
generate half-a-dozen international media interviews about Korean tensions.
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When Osama bin Laden was killed, my early online speculation about the location of his sanctuary
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in a Pakistan garrison town picked up quick momentum—and a few hundred new followers—in
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India's fast-growing social media scene. (Of course, that's nothing on the microblogging legend
Sohaib Athar, an Abbottabad resident whose inadvertent live-tweeting of the raid brought him more
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fame than he ever wanted, and an online following in the tens of thousands.)
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While the then US Defence Secretary Robert Gates was in Beijing in January, Asian social media
networks erupted with rumours of a flight test of a Chinese stealth fighter. What happened next was
jW
a fascinating lesson in the agility and impact of social media, and the disadvantages faced by
traditional news organisations and governments in handling fast-moving stories.
While the then US Defense Secretary Robert Gates was in Beijing in January, Asian social media
©
networks erupted with rumours of a flight test of a Chinese stealth fighter. What happened next was
a fascinating lesson in the agility and impact of social media, and the disadvantages faced by
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traditional news organisations and governments in handling fast-moving stories.
I chanced upon early rumours of the test, just minutes after it took place. An independent American
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security blogger was re-tweeting reports from Chinese, Taiwanese and Singaporean blogs and
Twitter accounts. The first unverified, amateur photographs soon appeared (China has plenty of
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patriots who like to proudly post online their unauthorised snaps of secret military hardware) and, a
few tweets later, were seen by thousands. I put up my own early assessments—that the reports of
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the flight test were credible, and that such an event was probably a deliberate People's Liberation
Army snub both to Gates and China's civilian leadership. It took a few more hours before major
news organisations were ready to report the story categorically. One hopes that Western intelligence
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agencies were ready to make a judgment faster than that.

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Of course, speed is not everything: foreign policy experts in think-tanks are not strictly journalists
or intelligence analysts. But social media is helping to blur the boundaries between these callings.
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That is not always helpful. The contest for profile in the global think-tank bazaar can create the
temptation for a timely opinion, at the expense of even trying to be right. And Twitter can be
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cripplingly addictive to those of an easily-distracted disposition: the ideal is to set aside a few short
time slots each day to monitor and feed the beast. According to a range of wonks I've consulted,
m.
Twitter is perhaps even more useful as a daily source and filter of information than as a promotional
tool. For foreign policy professionals, Twitter is not so much replacing traditional media as
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becoming the smartest way to consume it.

m.
Why read the world's great newspapers—or even consult their websites—when you can follow the
Twitter feeds of their busiest, nosiest foreign correspondents, read what they read, watch their
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assessments take shape? Don't just take my word for it; plenty of younger and brighter wonks will
tell you the same.
SF
Yes, there's the danger of the echo chamber: if you choose to follow a largely like-minded crowd on
Twitter, as in life, you will have your prejudices reinforced. Which is why I force myself to follow a
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motley and ever-shifting assembly, from China hawks to the Julian Assange cheer squad, from
Hindu nationalists to brave Pakistan liberals, from Arab street democrats to the dullest of state
propaganda, from soldiers to peaceniks, professors to precocious students, and, for my sins, the
global updates from Australia's Foreign Minister and former prime minister, the ubiquitous Kevin
Rudd.
JWT Desk
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Basanat: A Lost Festival
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The Basant prohibition has been explained officially in terms of foul play by kite
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flyers who use metallic wire or coat their twine with such preparations that it
becomes fatal for the people in the streets who happen to get it on their throats.
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But the real reason is the clerics' hatred of the festivity.
jW
©
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Not much time has passed when Lahore also named as the heart of Pakistan was getting a unique
fame in the world. This fame was about the celebration of Basant with a lot of vigour and
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enthusiasm. Although the tradition is still being observed but a ban on kite flying has stolen its
colours.
m.
The Basant prohibition has been explained officially in terms of foul play by kite flyers who use
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metallic wire or coat their twine with such preparations that it becomes fatal for the people in the
streets who happen to get it on their throats.
m.
But the real reason is the clerics' hatred of the festivity. They campaigned against it calling it a
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Hindu festival and a pagan ritual. The Muslims, they insisted, must be barred from it. It was on
account of this campaign that the prohibition was proclaimed.
SF
Hindus revere and worship everything in nature. To them, the stars, the planets, the rivers, the
mountains, the trees, the birds all reveal some aspect or attribute of some god or goddess. But
should this give them a monopoly on nature's bounties? Don't we benefit from the natural
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phenomena? Why should their behaviour bar us from our joys?
Some of the Indian festivals have cultural significance, in addition to a religious significance (which
can vary depend on the specific tradition), and are thus often celebrated by non-Hindus also in some
form. These include Holi and Diwali in addition to Basant.
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Amir Khusro (1253-1325) has composed songs using the word Basant (festival), and Nizamuddin
Auliya used to join him in celebrating Basants of sufis.
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The Hindu Basant Panchumi involves certain acts of worship. For the Muslims the Basant festival
was started by Nizamuddin Auliya. Amir Khusrau, the story goes, was on his way to visit his
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spiritual mentor when he noticed mustard fields in full blossom. He also saw a lot of people
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wearing the colour: women in yellow saris, men in yellow turbans.
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The scene inspired the poet in him. He plucked a branch carrying several mustard flowers and
placed it in his turban. He also came up with a verse invoking the spring showers to demand flowers
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and wine.
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Aaj basant manaalay, suhaagan,
Aaj basant manaalay
Anjan manjan kar piya mori, lambay neher lagaalay
©
Tu kya sovay neend ki maasi,
So jaagay teray bhaag, suhaagun,
Aaj basant manaalay.
Oonchi naar kay oonchay chitvan, ht
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Ayso diyo hai banaaye
Shah Amir tuhay dekhan ko,
py
nainon say naina milaaye,

Suhaagun, aaj basant manaalay.
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Translation:
Celebrate basant today,
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O bride, Celebrate Basant today

Apply kajal to your eyes, and decorate your long hair
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Oh why are you the servant of sleep?

Even your fate is wide awake,
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Celebrate Basant today,

O high lady with high looks,
That is how you were made,
pk
When the king looks at you, your eyes meet his eyes,
O Bride, Celebrate Basant today.
m.
Nizamuddin, for his part, had for months looked dejected following the death of his favourite
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nephew. He had stopped listening to music and had not been seen smiling in a while. The verse
brought a smile to his face. Noticing the flowers Khusrau was carrying in his turban, he demanded
m.
an explanation. Told that the people were celebrating the advent of spring, he instructed his
followers to do likewise. The little hint from Sultan Ji opened the doors for Delhi's Muslims.
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Hindus revere and worship everything in nature. To them, the stars, the planets, the rivers, the
mountains, the trees, the birds all reveal some aspect or attribute of some god or goddess. But
should this give them a monopoly on nature's bounties? Don't we bene-fit from the natural
SF
phenomena? Why should their behaviour bar us from our joys?

The festival became so popular with Delhi's Muslim population that it came to be regarded as their
CS
representative celebration. It was particularly associated with the city's sufi shrines. And it was no
longer a one-day affair; it went on for weeks.
So, the authorities' view of the festival is at a variance with our cultural history. Our sufi saints
considered Basant permissible fun but our clerics and officials today see it as un-Islamic. How
callous do they have to be to refuse to tolerate people enjoying themselves; to try and douse all
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occasions of joy?
Kite flying is the major and most colourful event of this festival. The sky is covered with different
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colourful kites. Sweet yellow rice is prepared specially for this occasion. 'Yellow' is the colour of
the festival and so it dominates everywhere, i.e. in the kites, in the clothes, especially in the clothes
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of ladies, as ladies make a lot of preparation for this particular occasion. People use searchlights in
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the night to fly the kites. All the family members gather at one single place, mostly on the rooftops,
and celebrate this festival.
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A fighter kite which is invented in India and Pakistan is called a “Patang” or “Guda”. These kites
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were made of tissue paper and two sticks of bamboo and most recently now kites were made of
plastic wrap or Mylar (non-sticky plastic). The kites fly by line or thread. The line is called
jW
“Manjha”, a glass-coated thread and each flier attempts to cut every other kite out of the sky. They
always make competition with each other. The last kite flying is the winner. Some of the
competitions are last standing kite, some competitions are beautiful kites and some competitions are
©
related to biggest kites.
Origin
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In Sanskrit Vasanta means spring and Panchami is the fifth day of the fortnight of waxing moon
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(Shukla Paksha) in the Hindu month of Magh, January–February of English calendar.
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In the Vedas the day of Vasanta Panchami is dedicated to goddess Sarasvati. It is not a national
holiday in India but the schools are closed and the students participate in decoration and
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arrangement of the worship place. A few weeks before the celebration, schools become active in
organising various annual competitions of music, debate, sports and other activities. Prizes are
distributed on the day of Vasanta Panchami. Sarasvati is the goddess of learning. Sarasvati bestows
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the greatest wealth to humanity, the wealth of knowledge.

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The Vedas describe Sarasvati as a water deity, goddess of a river of the same name. According to
popular belief, Sarasvati, originating from the Himalayas, flowed southeast, ultimately meeting the
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Ganges at Prayag, near the confluence of Yamuna. Hence, the place is called Triveni. In due time
this course of water petered away.
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The mythological history of Sarasvati associates her with the holy rituals performed on the banks of
the river Sarasvati. She is worshipped as a goddess of speech, attributed to the formation of Vach
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(words), invention of Sanskrit language and composition of hymns.

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Amanullah Khan Arman's book Urs aur Melay published by Kitab Manzil Lahore in 1959. contains
a chapter on Basant (pp.276-277):
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“In pre-partition India Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs celebrated Basant in unison. Basant festivals
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held in all major cities of Punjab and men wore yellow turbans and women yellow dupattas and
saris. Hindu, Muslim and Sikh women together play and traditional seasonal songs were sung that
reflected the liveliness and romance of Punjabi life. Kite flying was also common but on a small
SF
scale with decency.

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After partition the festival too lost its original colours. After departure of non-Muslims Basant was
reduced to kite flying and other traditions were gradually forgotten. Now-a-days neither yellow
clothes nor swings could be seen or any other civilised activity. Here and there, crowds of kite
flyers show their ill manners. Children, grownups and old alike fly kites on rooftops from dawn to
dusk. Kite battles and brawls are common scenes.
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Most of the kite flyers are less educated or illiterate labourers. Some educated also do the same and
the kite flying orgy is spreading among the school children.”
s.c
This was the narration of Basant in Pakistan till late 1980s Afterwards it was for many years
officially backed by the government and sponsored by multinational corporations. Although Basant
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is celebrated throughout Pakistani Punjab, it is Lahore which made it popular not only in Pakistan
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but all over the world as the largest kite festival. Over the years, the Basant festival has drawn
thousands of travellers to Lahore from all over the world. Even Indian movie stars had started
dT
participating in the festival which peaks with an all-night flood-lit kite flying marathon on the eve
of the festival.
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In 2005, an advocate, M. D. Tahir of the Lahore High Court, contended that many dangers,
jW
including the kite strings and power breakdowns, resulted from kite flying. As a result, in 2005, kite
flying was banned in Pakistan. Violent protests occurred outside the Supreme Court.
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Despite the ban on kite flying one can see hundreds of kites every afternoon and evening on
Lahore's sky and the number of kites is even higher on Sundays and public holidays. Kite flyers
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compete to cut each other's kites loose. In the past strings were coated with a slurry of fine glass
shards which allowed one flyer to cut another's kite lose. In small villages the custom of 'kite
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running' allows poorer children to chase down and claim the free flying kites. Sadly, the festival has
lost its true colour and instead became a game of death.
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Fawaz Niaz
Co
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This Month in History February

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According to the Greorgian calendar, February is the second month of the year,
and also the shortest month. February has 28 days until Julius Caesar gave it 29,
and 30 days every four years. According to tradition, Augustus, the Roman
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emperor, took one day off to add one day to August, the month named after him.
We now have February with 28 days, and 29 on leap years.
m.

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m.
In the northern half of the world, February is a very cold month. There are usually sunny days that
show spring is not too far off. The Southern hemisphere usually enjoy midsummer weather during
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February.
The second day of February is often referred to as GROUND HOG's DAY. The old stories told are
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that the ground hog comes out of it's burrow on February 2, to look for it's shadow. If there is
sunshine and he sees his shadow, then he goes back to sleep and there will be more winter time. If
CS
he doesn't, then the spring time will begin. This is a superstition.
VALENTINE'S DAY is celebrated on February 14 in most western countries. Children give

valentines and have a party in school. Young and old exchange cards with loved ones. This custom
is hundreds of years old, valetine greetings having been found that date back into the 1400s.
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In subcontinent India and Pakistan the second week of February is celebrated as Basant. It is a
spring festival marked with kite flying.
s.c
What happened in History in this month?
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February 1
1978-Allama Iqbal's house, Lahore is declared national monument.
2002-Wall Street Journal reporter, Daniel Pearl killed in Karachi.
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2003 - Sixteen minutes before it was scheduled to land, the Space Shuttle Columbia broke apart in
flight over west Texas, killing all seven crew members.
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Birthday - Hattie Caraway (1878-1950) the first woman elected to the US Senate, was born in
Bakersville, Tennessee. Her husband became the US Senator from Arkansas. Following his death in
1931, she filled the remainder of his term, then was elected herself, serving a total of 14 years.
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Birthday - Hollywood director John Ford (1895-1973) was born in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. Known
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for The Grapes of Wrath and The Searchers, he also served in World War II as chief of the
Photographic Unit of OSS, and earned two Academy Awards for documentaries made during the
war.
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February 2
1990 - In South Africa, the 30-year-old ban on the African National Congress was lifted by
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President F.W. de Klerk, who also promised to free Nelson Mandela and remove restrictions on
political opposition groups.
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Birthday - Irish novelist and poet James Joyce (1882-1941) was born in Dublin, Ireland. His works
include Dubliners, A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man, Ulysses, and Finegan's Wake.
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m.
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February 3
1962-Prominent poet and Pakistan's Guinness world record holder Dr. Muhammad Saeed Fazal
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Karim Beebani born in Rawalpindi. He wrote Ghair Munqoot Naatia poetry book 'Mumdooh-e-
Kirdigar' and Ghair Munqoot Hamdia poetry book 'Alhumdolillah'.
1997-Nation goes to the polls. PML secures 135 seats.
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February 4
World Cancer Day [WHO]
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Independence Day of Ceylon/Sri Lanka

1985 - Twenty countries in the United Nations signed a document entitled "Convention Against
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Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment."
February 5
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1990-Kashmir Solidarity Day observed for the first time.

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February 6
National Day of New Zealand
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1952 - King George VI of England died. Upon his death, his daughter Princess Elizabeth became
Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Her actual
coronation took place on June 2, 1953.
pk
1979-Supreme Court upholds Bhutto's conviction in Mohammad Ahmad Khan murder case.
1982-Noted Urdu poet, Josh Maleh-abadi, passed away in Islamabad.
m.
February 7
co
- Independence Day of Grenada

Birthday - British novelist Charles Dickens (1812-1870) was born in Portsmouth, England. He
m.
examined social inequalities through his works including David Copperfield, Oliver Twist, and
Nicholas Nickleby. In 1843, he wrote A Christmas Carol in just a few weeks, an enormously
oru
popular work even today.

Birthday - American social critic and novelist Sinclair Lewis (1885-1951) was born in Sauk Center,
Minnesota. He received the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1930. His works include Main Street,
SF
Babbit, and It Can't Happen Here.

CS
February 8
1949-Azad Kashmir Government shifts its capital to Muzaffarabad.
1994 —Kapil Dev sets world record for Test cricket wickets with 432
February 9
1943 - During World War II in the Pacific, US troops captured Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands
om
after six months of battle, with 9,000 Japanese and 2,000 Americans killed.
1951-First census begins in Pakistan.
1984-Government of Pakistan imposed ban on all students unions.
s.c
1994-Israeli minister Shimon Perez signed accord with PLO's Yasser Arafat.
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dT
orl
jW
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February 10
2010 - Afghan officials removed 150 bodies of people killed by avalanches in the Salang Pass in the
Hindu Kush mountains.
py
2011 - An undersea fiber-optic cable arrived in Cuba, linking it to Venezuela. Venezuela offered to
help Cuba speed its internet connection when the US refused
Co
February 11
- National Day of Iran
nt
Celebrated in Japan as the founding date of the Japanese nation, which occurred with the accession
nte
to the throne of the first Emperor, Jimmu, in 660 BC.

1929 - Italian dictator Benito Mussolini granted political independence to Vatican City and
recognised the sovereignty of the Pope (Holy See) over the area, measuring about 110 acres.
Co
1973 –First release of American prisoners of war from Vietnam took place.
1978 –The People's Republic of China lifted a ban on works by Aristotle, William Shakespeare and
Charles Dickens
pk
1990 - In South Africa, Nelson Mandela, at age 71, was released from prison after serving 27 years
of a life sentence on charges of attempting to overthrow the apartheid government. In April 1994, he
m.
was elected president in the first all-race elections.

1996-Cricket World Cup jointely hosted by Pakistan, India and Sri Lanka.
co
2011 - In Egypt, President Hosni Mubarak resigned amid a massive protest calling for his ouster.
Thousands of young Egyptians and others had protested non-stop for 18 days in Cairo, Alexandria
m.
and elsewhere. Mubarak had ruled Egypt for nearly 30 years, functioning as a virtual dictator.
Birthday - American inventor Thomas Edison (1847-1931) was born in Milan, Ohio. Throughout
oru
his lifetime he acquired over 1,200 patents including the incandescent bulb, phonograph and movie
camera. Best known for his quote, "Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent
SF
perspiration."
February 12
CS
1966-Sheikh Mujeeb, chief of Awami League, announced his six points in Karachi.
Birthday - Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865) the 16th US president was born in Hardin County,
Kentucky. He led the nation through the tumultuous Civil War, freed the slaves, composed the
Gettysburg Address, and established Thanksgiving.
Birthday - Author and naturalist Charles Darwin (1809-1882) was born in Shrewsbury, England.
Best known for his work Origin of the Species concerning the theory of evolution.
om
February 13
1931 – New Delhi became the capital of India.(British India)
s.c
1973-Begum Ra’ana Liaquat Ali became first woman to assume office of Sindh governor.
Birthday – Renowned intellectual and Urdu poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz born in 1911 at Kala Kadir,
e
Sialkot.
im
February 14
dT
Celebrated as (Saint) Valentine's Day around the world, now one of the most widely observed
unofficial holidays in which romantic greeting cards and gifts are exchanged.
orl
1929 - The St. Valentine's Day massacre occurred in Chicago as seven members of the Bugs Moran
gang were gunned down by five of Al Capone's mobsters posing as police.
jW
1958-Sardar Abdur Rab Nishtar, vetern leader of Pakistan Movement passed away in Karachi.
1989 – Iranian leader Ruhollah Khomeini issued a fatwa encouraging Muslims to kill the author of
The Satanic Verses, Salman Rushdie.
©
February 15
ht
1869 - Renowned Urdu and Persian poet Mirza Asadullah Khan Ghalib died in Delhi.
1989 - Soviet Russia completed its military withdrawal from Afghanistan after nine years of
rig
unsuccessful involvement in the civil war between Muslim rebel groups and the Russian-backed
Afghan government. Over 15,000 Russian soldiers had been killed in the fighting.
py
2001 – First draft of the complete human genome is published in Nature.

2003 – Protests against the Iraq war took place in over 600 cities worldwide. It was estimated that
Co
between 8 million to 30 million people participate, making this the largest peace demonstration in
history.
Birthday - Astronomer and physicist Galileo Galilei (1564-1642) was born in Pisa, Italy. He was the
nt
first astronomer to use a telescope and advanced the theory that the sun, not the earth, was the
centre of the solar system.
nte
Birthday - Inventor Cyrus McCormick

(1809-1884) was born in Rockbridge County, Virginia. He invented the horse-drawn mechanical
Co
reaper, a machine that freed farmers from hard labour and contributed to the development and
cultivation of vast areas of the American Great Plains.
Birthday - Susan B. Anthony (1820-1906) was born in Adams, Massachusetts. A pioneer in
pk
women's rights, she worked tirelessly for woman's suffrage (right to vote) and in 1872 was arrested
after voting (illegally) in the presidential election. She was commemorated in 1979 with the Susan
m.
B. Anthony dollar coin, thus became the first American woman to have her image on a US coin.
co
February 16
- Independence Day of Lithuania
m.
1971-Korakaram Highway, linking China and Pakistan, opened.

2005 – The Kyoto Protocol came into force, following its ratification by Russia.
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2009-Pakistan government announced a truce with Taliban, accepting a system of Islamic law in the
Swat valley, conceding the area as a Taliban sanctuary.
SF
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February 17
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1997-Nawaz Sharif sworn in as 19th prime minister.
1979 – Snowfalls in the Sahara Desert in southern Algeria for the only time in recorded history.
jW
February 18
Independence Day of Gambia
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2008-Elections were held amidst tight security. PPP, PML-N, Q and ANP win 124, 91, 54 and 13
seats respectively.
February 19 ht
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1921 – Reza Shah took control of Tehran during a successful coup
Birthday - Astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus (1473-1543) was born in Torun, Poland. Considered
py
the founder of modern astronomy, he theorised that the sun, not the earth, was the centre of the solar
system.
Co
February 20
World Day of Social Justice
nt
1943 - German Field Marshal Erwin Rommel broke through American lines at Kasserine Pass in
North Africa as inexperienced US Troops lost their first major battle of World War II in Europe,
nte
with 1,000 Americans killed.

1999-Pakistan crushed India by 46 runs in inaugural Asian test championship
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February 21
International Mother Language Day [UNESCO]
pk
1956-Constituent Assembly decided the country shall be a Federal Republic known as Islamic
Republic of Pakistan.
m.
1965 - Former Black Muslim leader Malcolm X (1925-1965) was shot and killed while delivering a
speech in a ballroom in New York City.
co
1972 - President Richard Nixon arrived in China for historic meetings with Chairman Mao Tse-tung
and Premier Chou En-lai.
m.
1974-Pakistan recognised Bangladesh.

1987-President Zia made a surprise to India, met premier minister Rajiv Gandhi.
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1999-Lahore Declaration signed by Nawaz Sharif and A. B. Vajpayee.
February 22
SF
1974-Islamic Summit Conference started in Lahore; 22 heads of state participate.

1992- Nawaz Sharif introduced yellow-cab taxi scheme.
CS
Birthday - George Washington (1732-1799) was born in Westmoreland County, Virginia. He served
as commander of the Continental Army during the American Revolution and became the first US
president.
February 23
1947 – The International Organisation for Standardization (ISO) was founded
om
1997-Nawaz Sharif launched "Qarz utaro Mulk sanwaro" scheme. Declared Sunday, instead of
Friday as weekly holiday.
s.c
February 24
1582 - Pope Gregory XIII corrected mistakes on the Julian calendar by dropping 10 days and
e
directing that the day after October 4, 1582 would be October 15. The Gregorian, or New Style
im
calendar, was then adopted by Catholic countries, followed gradually by Protestant and other
nations.
dT
1960-Cabinet of Pakistan decided to name the new capital as Islamabad.
2003-Senate elections in Pakistan: Ruling party won most seats in voting to the upper house.
orl
February 25
jW
1948- Urdu declared the national language of Pakistan.
1985-Partyless national elections held in Pakistan.
1986 – People Power Revolution: President of the Philippines Ferdinand Marcos fleed the nation
©
after 20 years of rule; Corazon Aquino becames the Philippines' first woman president.
February 26
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1848 - The Communist Manifesto pamphlet was published by two young socialists, Karl Marx and
rig
Friedrich Engels. It advocated the abolition of all private property and a system in which workers
own all means of production, land, factories and machinery.
py
1980 – Egypt and Israel established full diplomatic relations.

1993 – World Trade Center bombing: In New York City, a truck bomb parked below the North
Co
Tower of the World Trade Center exploded, killing 6 and injuring over a thousand.
1994 - Political foes of Russian President Boris Yeltsin were freed by a general amnesty granted by
the new Russian Parliament.
nt
February 27
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Independence Day of Dominican Republic

1900 – The British Labour Party was founded.
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1991 - In Desert Storm, the 100-hour ground war ended as Allied troops entered Kuwait just four
days after launching their offensive against Saddam Hussein's Iraqi forces.
Birthday - American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807-1882) was born in Portland, Maine.
pk
Best known for Paul Revere's Ride, The Song of Hiawatha, and The Wreck of the Hesperus.
m.
February 28
1986 - Swedish Prime Minister Olof Palme (1927-1986) was assassinated in Stockholm while
co
exiting a movie theater with his wife.

1994 – NATO conducted its first combat action in its 45 year history as four Bosnian Serb jets were
m.
shot down by American fighters in a no-fly zone.

2004 – Over one million Taiwanese participating in the 228 Hand-in-Hand Rally form a 500-
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kilometre (310 mi) long human chain to commemorate the 228 Incident in 1947
February 29
SF
1908 - Dutch scientists produce solid helium

1940 - Hattie McDaniel became first black woman to win an Oscar
CS
1944 - 5 leaders of Indonesia Communist Party sentenced to death

1948 - Stern-group bomb Cairo-Haifa train, 27 British soldiers died
1956 - Islamic Republic formed in Pakistan
1960 - Earthquake killed one-third of Agadir Morocco population (12,000) in 15 sec
2000 At least 700 died in flooding in Mozambique
Birthday: 1692 - John Byrom, English poet (d. 1763)
om
Zaheer Ahmad Anjum
e s.c
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Winter Ailments and Preventions I
dT
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It’s a fact of life that during the colder part of the year, the more senior members
of society are likely to develop various ‘winter ailments’ - mostly caused by
jW
germs.
©
Why does this happen?
ht
Well, it’s partly because exposure to cold weather lowers your defences against viruses. When the
rig
temperature goes down towards freezing point; your nose starts losing its ability to repel these little
‘bugs.’ So they cheerfully make their way in!
py
Also, people tend to crowd together more in winter – particularly in buses, trains and shops.
Regrettably, a lot of them are likely to cough or sneeze all over you, and you pick up an infection.
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COLDS
Unfortunately, a cold does not give you immunity against further infections. This is because there
nt
are over 100 different ‘common cold viruses’ – and getting one of them doesn’t give you protection
against all the rest. So if you’re unlucky, you could catch two colds in quick succession. There’s an
nte
old medical saying: ‘A treated cold lasts a week – but an untreated one lasts seven days.’ In other
words, there’s no cure for the common cold. But you can ease the symptoms a lot by using things
Co
like:
Steam inhalations, Aspirin, Paracetamol, Ibuprofen
Penicillin and other antibiotics have no – repeat no – effect on colds. This is because antibiotics
pk
only kill BACTERIA – not VIRUSES. So there’s no point in going to your doctor for treatment of a
cold.
m.
Some people swear by vitamin C, and there’s no harm in trying it, but latest research suggests that it
probably doesn’t have any genuine effect, though if it’s taken as soon as symptoms occur, it may
co
shorten the duration of the cold. The symptoms can be alleviated by washing the nose out with a
solution made up of half a teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda to a litre of (comfortably warm) water.
m.
Any health professional can show you how to do this.

Prevention: The one sure way of avoiding colds is to keep away from other people. You can’t catch
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a common cold unless there’s somebody to give it to you. That’s why solo Arctic explorers never
get colds!
SF
SORE THROATS
Sore throats are spread around in much the same way as colds – in other words, by people
CS
coughing, sneezing and spluttering, especially when they don’t use a hanky! Various germs can be
responsible, some of them fairly trivial viruses, but some of them rather more serious.
Smoking is frequently a major factor in causing sore throats, since the delicate membranes of the
back of the throat weren’t built to have cigarette smoke drawn across them.
Do not to buy sore throat remedies containing local anaesthetic. They numb the throat, but can
sometimes cause a nasty sensitivity reaction. Most sore throats do not respond to penicillin or other
om
‘ABs’. But if your symptoms go on for more than a week, see your doc and she will tell you
whether any antibiotic medication is needed.
Prevention: To avoid sore throats, the principles are the same as we’ve mentioned for colds. Avoid
s.c
crowded, enclosed places, and do not smoke.
e
COUGHS
im
Unlike colds and sore throats, coughs can be due to all sorts of different causes. Also, some coughs
are caused by medication – particularly certain pills for high blood pressure.
dT
In winter, many coughs are due to infections in the upper part of the respiratory tract – that is,
behind the nose. Mucky stuff drips down the back of the throat and irritates the larynx (voice box).
orl
A lot of winter coughs are due to infections in the lower respiratory tract – like bronchitis or even
sometimes pneumonia.
jW
A few are due to heart problems. And in smokers, there is always the worry that a cough that just
won’t go away could be due to lung cancer.
Coughs are either non-productive (that is, dry) or productive (i.e. making you bring up sputum).
©
Chemists will generally ask you which of these two types of cough you have before recommending
a medication. Some coughs cause a lot of pain in the chest, and where this happens you should
ht
consult a doctor. If you cough up any blood, you definitely must see your GP within a few days –
just in case there is anything serious wrong. You should consult your GP if a cough drags on for 10
rig
days, or if it is causing you pain or distress, or if you are bringing up a lot of green or yellow
phlegm – this usually indicates bacterial infection.
py
Prevention: Don’t smoke. And stay away from people who are coughing or sneezing!
Co
SINUSITIS
Sinusitis is really common, especially between December and April. It’s an inflammation of the
sinuses – which are the little air cavities located inside the bones of the face. All of these air spaces
nt
are connected with your nose – which is why germs can easily get into them and cause
inflammation.
nte
Sinusitis causes pain in the face or forehead, a badly blocked-up feeling, and often fever and
sensations of giddiness. Sufferers frequently complain that they feel absolutely awful. If you think
Co
you’ve got sinusitis, begin by dosing yourself with aspirin or paracetamol, plus a ‘decongestant’
from your chemist But if the symptoms persist for a few days, you will need to go to your general
practitioner.
pk
Prevention: This is difficult. If you’re prone to sinusitis, try to avoid crowded, germ-ridden places!
At the first hint of an attack, use a good decongestant. If you know how to wash your nasal passages
m.
out with saline or a bicarb solution, then do it.

co
INFLUENZA
’Flu comes around every winter – but it’s far worse in some years than in others. It usually causes
m.
somewhere around 12,000 deaths per winter – and it’s important to realize that the majority of these
fatalities are in the over-50s. So you need to take care and protect yourself!
oru
What about influenza pandemics (that is, really widespread epidemics), like the notorious Spanish
’flu of 1919 which devastated Europe and America? And it could possibly be the avian (bird ’flu)
type – though this depends entirely on whether the virus that kills birds manages to change its
SF
nature, so that it can spread like wildfire among humans. The symptoms of ‘’flu are generally like
those of a cold – only much, much worse.
CS
Features usually include headache, sneezing, Runny nose, aching all over, high temperature and
cough. In some types of influenza, you also get ‘tummy symptoms’ – like abdominal pain, diarrhoea
and vomiting. This is often referred to as ‘gastric ’flu.’
If you get ’flu, stay at home and go to bed. Do not even think of trying to travel to work, because
you will only spread the germ around. Drink plenty of fluids, and use paracetamol, aspirin or
ibuprofen. If you’re feeling really rough, ring your doctor’s surgery for advice, and tell them your
om
symptoms. Because influenza is caused by a virus (and is therefore unaffected by antibiotics), GPs
do not routinely give penicillin or other ‘ABs.’
However, if the doctor thinks you have developed a ‘secondary’ bacterial infection as a result of the
s.c
’flu – and that is common –he will give you an antibiotic.
Prevention: Everybody over 65 (and a lot of people with chronic health problems) should make
e
sure that they have the ’flu jab each year. Recently, some researchers have cast doubt on the value
im
of this vaccine – but the overwhelming majority of doctors believe in it.
Hina Adeel
dT
orl
jW
Disclaimer
©
All material is sourced from http://jworldtimes.com/ and is copyright of the
respective owners. ht
rig
py
Co
nt
nte
Co
pk
m.
co
m.
oru
SF
CS

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General Musharraf who assigned me mainly three tasks:

him to tender an apology on state TV.”

react strongly. Why we have such double standards?

To retrieve the agreement on Kashmir does not mean mindlessly adhering to

Year 2011 At A Glance

Wednesday, February 01, 2012

India, unless it were for the insane design of gobbling Pakistan.

our honour as a nation.”

hundreds of thousands tortured, injured and humiliated....The Indian military occupation of

than, Kashmir needs azaadi from India.”

Arundhati Roy in The Guardian August 22, 2008

New York Times, August 8, 2008.

get from an account prepared by an Indian humanist of distinction (I am abbreviating it):

and shot her before they proceeded to rape her daughter.”

Dr. Angana Chatterji in daily Etalaat November 7, 2000.

Year 2011 At A Glance

Wednesday, February 01, 2012

1947 subcontinent partition.

superpower and taking control from the US.

Belief in Youm-al-Qaymah or Resurrection

punish/reprimand us by sending us to hell, which is a place of extreme annoyance and molestation.

thorough and foolproof accountability."

Pakistan and Iran, despite of international pressure and criticism have

cause of concern. Maintaining a friendly equation is a necessity for both the

Wednesday, February 01, 2012

policy of unequivocally supporting Pakistan in its stance on Kashmir in decades following

are 'observers' in Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).

Nabiha Gul is a Cooperative Lecturer at the Department of International Relations, University of

The year 2011 witnessed political uncertainty, corruption, and lawlessness in

Pakistan. Assassination of the Punjab Governor Salmaan Taseer and world's

Salmaan Taseer's son were among the prominent incidents.

Year 2011 At A Glance

Wednesday, February 01, 2012

24: Suspect in governor’s death lauded.

05: Long bans for Pakistani cricketers.

12: Pakistan seeks Musharraf’s arrest.

15: Fatal Karachi attack on Saudi car.

19: Bail denied in US Pakistani Taliban case.

08: Militants hit Pakistan checkpoint near Peshawar.

06: Ten killed in Pakistan explosion in Quetta.

19: Dengue fever strikes thousands in Lahore.

24: Pakistanis strike back at US accusations.

29: Pakistan PM rejects US pressure.

against the Haqqani network.

08: Pakistan hit by flood cash crisis in Sindh province.

Leading sports deaths of the year ht

A sad year for art world

as the chairman of implementation commission established to oversee the process of

So far as the 18th constitutional amendment is concerned, it is an endeavour to strengthen, empower

in March 2012 Senate elections the minorities' members would be elected.

Senate elections the minorities' members would be elected."

capacity of the provinces to handle it.

external constraints and exploitation. This requires a holistic systemic change in

Year 2011 At A Glance

Wednesday, February 01, 2012

problems of regional disparities.

causes of instability. Papering of cracks will just not do.

functioning independently with usual checks and balances.

everything will be alright, magically or providentially.

Islamabad since 2009. Interview Conducted By: WAQAS IQBAL

Jahangir's World Times(JWT): What are the determinants of a foreign policy?

a foreign policy and cannot be neglected.