Reward the taxpayers

The recent announcement of a comprehensive welfare package for overseas Pakistanis by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is a commendable step. Public recognition of the contributions of overseas Pakistanis, such as the record $4.1 billion in remittances for the month of March, fosters national pride and encourages continued dedication. Similarly, the salaried class has demonstrated extraordinary fiscal responsibility, reportedly contributing Rs331 billion in income tax over the first eight months of the current fiscal year – a staggering 1,350 per cent more than the retailers.

Their unwavering compliance deserves equal acknowledgment and incentives, rather than disproportionate favouritism towards other segments. Underperforming institutions continue to receive undue patronage at the public expense, despite lacklustre outcomes. True national progress demands that recognition and rewards align with merit, performance and sacrifice and not privilege or political convenience.

Ashfak Siyal

Karachi