Q.4   What major economic challenges are being faced by Pakistan? What recommendation do you suggest to deal with these issues. (20)  2019

Pakistan is currently facing several economic challenges, including:

1. Inflation: Pakistan has been experiencing high inflation rates, with food prices particularly affected. This has led to an increase in the cost of living, which has hit the poorest sections of society the hardest.
2. Fiscal Deficit: Pakistan has been running a significant fiscal deficit, meaning that government expenditure is higher than revenue. This has led to a rising public debt, which has been compounded by the government’s inability to attract sufficient foreign investment.
3. Trade Deficit: Pakistan is currently importing more than it exports, leading to a widening trade deficit. This has put pressure on the country’s foreign exchange reserves and contributed to the depreciation of the Pakistani rupee.
4. Energy Crisis: Pakistan has struggled with an energy crisis for several years, with power shortages and blackouts affecting businesses and households across the country. This has led to decreased productivity and reduced economic growth.

To address these challenges, several recommendations can be made:

1. Control Inflation: The government should implement measures to control inflation, such as reducing unnecessary government spending, increasing the availability of essential goods, and reducing taxes on basic necessities.
2. Reduce Fiscal Deficit: The government needs to reduce its fiscal deficit through increasing revenue streams, improving tax collection, and implementing measures to curb corruption and waste.
3. Promote Exports: Pakistan should prioritize the promotion of exports, particularly in sectors where it has a comparative advantage, such as agriculture, textiles, and leather. This can be done by improving the ease of doing business, providing incentives for export-oriented industries, and negotiating trade agreements with other countries.
4. Address Energy Crisis: The government should invest in renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. This can be done through public-private partnerships and by incentivizing private investment in renewable energy projects.

Overall, addressing these economic challenges will require a concerted effort from the government, private sector, and civil society. Implementation of the above recommendations, coupled with effective policy measures and reforms, can lead to a more sustainable and stable economic future for Pakistan.