Muhammad Ali Rana

  The Paradox of Plenty Pakistan is a land of paradoxes. It has mountains of copper and gold, fertile valleys, and one of the youngest workforces in the world. More than 64% of its citizens are under 30—a demographic blessing that could power an economic miracle ( UNDP Report ). And yet, Pakistan continues to stumble. Poverty deepens, instability lingers, and its institutions remain fragile. The tragedy is not a lack of resources or talent—it is the betrayal of public service. Here, politics is not a duty. It’s an investment portfolio. The Foundation of Flawed Intentions The rot begins at the entry gates of the state. The Central Superior Services ( CSS ), Provincial Civil Services ( PCS ), and judicial recruitment exams were meant to select the nation’s best minds. But these exams measure memory, not morality. They reward rote brilliance, not honesty. For many, passing them is less about serving the people and more about entering a lucrative marketplace of power. A government job ...

Long absence creates opportunities for illegal possession, a silent theft affecting thousands. 📌 Editor’s Note (24 September 2025): Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced a new law with strict penalties and special courts to curb illegal dispossession  — a landmark step to protect widows, orphans, and vulnerable citizens. As discussed in this article, we are thankful to CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif for taking this decisive and courageous step. 📌 Update (31 October 2025): The legislative process is now complete, and this initiative has officially been enacted as the Punjab Protection of Ownership of Immovable Property Ordinance 2025 . This law is now in effect, introducing a 90-day protection guarantee against illegal land grabbers (Qabza Mafia) and further strengthening property rights for the citizens of Punjab. *** In my ongoing work, particularly in “ The Hidden Engine of South Asia ,” I’ve tried to shed light on the unseen economic forces that truly sustain our region – the ...