Austerity, a solution for all our economic & social ills By Dr Yasin Khan Durrani.

AUSTERITY (Sa'adki Apnao) seems difficult in modern way of life, but it is possible if we adopt Islamic way of life.

To-day, normal living has become expensive and a large segment of the society cannot afford through meagre resources.

In fact, the economic problems are manifold everywhere in the world especially in the low and middle income countries, they are the worst sufferers.

In fact, the economy of Pakistan is in a shambles with increasing inflation. Our economy started weakening in 2019 and have reached the lowest ebb by 2022, facing extreme crisis of the history.

While assessing the economic indicators of Pakistan, we are ranked 34th amongst 39 Asia-Pacific countries.

According to WHO there has been 25% increase in global prevalence of anxiety and depression in such countries but the solution offered by World Mental Health is just a tip of the iceberg.

Despite being an agrarian economy, the essential food items are getting out of the reach of 70% population, though we have no scarcity of food in the country.

The scientists have observed that simple food will save us from many ailments, especially cardio-vascular diseases like high blood pressure and diabetes, which are on the rise in many countries.

Moreover, the health is also getting very expensive all over the world. In 2010, over 40% of benefit claimants in Britain had 'mental and behavioural disorders' and were in debt due to financial constraints.

The analysis 'suggested that 40% budget cuts in 2015-16' have reduced the mental health services requirements by the citizens as a result of austerity, with reduced mortality rates.

Inflation is being recorded high due to lack of socio-economic development in all sectors. Budgetary allocation has been reduced in all sectors and non-development expenditure has increased.

In fact, poor economic management is the real cause of deteriorating economy in Pakistan. The basic responsibility lies with the system to identify and prioritise the problems rather than resorting to rush for IMF and friendly countries for possible rescue.

Imposition of heavy taxes and levies on the common man is not the answer, while there is no cut on luxuries of the elite, despite corrupt practices in the society.

In fact, things are getting difficult with every passing day. Hence it is essential that each one of us should work hard with honesty, pay taxes and promote love in the community starting from simple dress and simple food.

A YouGov poll in 2015 found...