Whatever the criticism and appreciation of the new federal budget
by various political quarters, one thing is as clear and transparent as
sky is after a thunderstorm and heavy rain: it has come out of hard work of so many hands in the wake of terror-laden storm countered by God's blessing and masses' support.
There was a news-break, and that's that 2.5 million young men and women would be provided job opportunities across the country. That must have given a ray of hope to hundreds of thousands job seekers, including graduates and post-graduates.
Doesn't matter if common people become outspoken in criticism of policies which they say have not improved their social and economic life.
It's in such a situation that old citizens recall the dedication of former prime minister Mohammad Khan Junejo to the cause of the country and its masses, especially the youth. The worth emulation work that was done by his administration included the establishment of YIPS -- Youth Investment Promotion Society.
The organisation aimed at eradication of poverty in rural and urban areas by offering loans on very soft terms to educated young jobless people who wanted to earn livelihood themselves with honour and dignity.
The minimum educational qualification was matriculation: there were no hurdles in getting loans ranging between Rs50,000 and Rs500,000, which amount could be doubled on the basis of the performance and successful implementation of the project approved by the YIPS Board of directors. Loans to unemployed youths were sanctioned in accordance with the nature of projects, quality of products to be produced and demand in the market.
What made such a social and economic policy popular across the country was inclusion of domestic products in the list of small and medium enterprises. It was under the chairmanship of Ms Shahnaz Wazir Ali that the entire staff headed by Managing Director Farooq Alam worked hard to benefit the youth.
The number of
projects for soft-term loans was increased gradually on people's demand first from 100 to 150 and then to 200. Eventually, the number of beneficiaries ran into millions. The ministry concerned provided finance to the society. Print media played an important role in the survival of the Youth Investment Promotion Society until it was closed down against the wishes of the common people.
The provision of technical aid and marketing advice and workshops regarding domestic and small and medium commercial projects formed a special feature of the unforgettable organisation. The latest step seems in the same direction in national interest.
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