Strategic insurers

The present government has divided state-owned assets into two categories: strategic and non-strategic, with the former category set to be retained. Surprisingly, the State Life Insurance Corporation (SLIC) and Pakistan Reinsurance Company Limited (PRCL) have not been deemed strategic. Although the government appears to be adamant about getting rid of these institutions, I would request them to review their decision. The SILC is the only institution which undertakes the life risk of millions of government employees all over the country. It has earned good repute and public confidence and has been paying claims to the satisfaction of the policy holders. As such, it needs to remain on the list of strategic institutions. Similarly, the (PRCL) is also the only state-owned institution which provides reinsurance coverage to the insurance companies in the country, which ought to make it eligible for strategic-asset status.

Khawaja Tajammul Hussain

Karachi