Senior citizens

The economic survey revealed by the worthy finance minister presented a rosy picture of the economy. The ruling party members make tall claims that country is finally on the road to peace and prosperity. Given this hype, the media raised hopes of government servants, pensioners, and workers for substantial increase in their pay and pension. Unfortunately, the finance minister dashed the hopes of the most. He raised the salaries of government servants by 10 percent after the amalgamation of ad-hoc allowances. This raise compensated the serving employees to some extent, but completely ignored those who retired back 10 years or before. Employees who retired in 1970 or before were only given an increase of 10 percent.

These senior pensioners deserve the special attention of the government and the National Assembly members. They might be very small in numbers, but are most deserving and in need of financial support. To help this segment of society live a respectable life, the government may enhance their pension by 50 percent. Since these pensioners are small in number, the proposed increase would have little impact on the financial bottom. But it will go a long way in improving the life quality of old pensioners.

Raja Shafaatullah

Islamabad