Precise Post-War Analysis

This is with reference to the article titled ‘Shifting Equation’ by Faisal Siddiqui. Based on precise post-war analysis and rational assessment, the article is well-written and merits appreciation. The writer’s approach to the fallout of the recent four-day war between Pakistan and India is realistic, shying away from glorifying warfare at the expense of the public good, while reminding Pakistan’s adversaries of the emerging power calculus in Asia that now tilts in favour of the key alliance between Pakistan and China, and not the other way round.

Ejaz Wasay,
Karachi, Pakistan.

Dwindling Political Career

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, once perceived as an unassailable political figure, has been severely undermined following the Pahalgam attack and its fallout. On April 22, the terrorist ambush in Pahalgam killed 26 tourists, exposing a staggering intelligence and security lapse. Reports confirm Modi’s government privately admitted the valley had opened to tourists without informing security agencies, prompting harsh criticism from opposition figures like Rahul Gandhi and Asaduddin Owaisi. The crisis sparked a political firestorm: the Congress accused him of “missing” during the crisis for skipping an all-party meeting. At the same time, opposition voices questioned Modi’s priorities and ethics, warning the tragedy was being exploited for election gains in Bihar. Analysts argue that the failed “Operation Sindhur” response fractured India’s strategic narrative and highlighted the limitations of Modi’s leadership. The cumulative effect: Modi’s image as a decisive statesman has taken a hit. The post-Pahalgam fallout has eroded public trust and emboldened critics to call for leadership change—a watershed moment suggesting Modi’s political career may be entering a vulnerable and uncertain phase.

Kapil Sabnavis,
Mumbai, India.

Budget For the Rich

Pakistan’s 2025–26 budget sharply favors the wealthy while squeezing the poor, salaried, and middle classes. Despite some income‑tax relief for salaried workers, the government compensates with new and higher indirect levies—GST hikes, carbon taxes, elevated cash withdrawal fees, and increased bank interest and digital services taxes. Meanwhile, targeted salary and pension increases (7–10 %) fail to offset the rising cost of living. At the same time, subsidies and loopholes benefit the rich. The agricultural elite is lightly taxed, while large landowners and industries enjoy exemptions. A World Bank‑PIDE study found that the top 20% capture over a third of utilities, education, and healthcare subsidies. At the same time, the poorest receive little. The real estate, energy, and retail sectors escape meaningful taxation, yet the government proudly extends them incentives, claiming “trickle‑down” effects that never materialize. Critics denounce this as an “elitist, anti‑people” budget, bleeding the poor to enrich the uber‑wealthy. The budget shifts tax burdens downward while preserving perks upward, widening social inequality. It transfers the weight of fiscal austerity onto those least able to bear it, while shielding the privileged and subsidising the affluent, marking it a budget for the rich at the expense of the poor.

Durdana Najam,
Karachi, Pakistan.

Sri Lankan Economy

Sri Lanka’s economy has shown cautious progress since emerging from its 2022 financial crisis. Macroeconomic stability has been largely restored, fuel, medicine, and electricity shortages have ended, inflation has fallen into single digits, and growth reached roughly 5% in 2024. Key structural reforms, tax revenue mobilization, debt restructuring (including a $25 billion deal), and utility tariff adjustments have secured IMF support and unlocked aid from the World Bank. However, growth remains modest (~2–4%), poverty persists above 22–25%, with real wages declining, and many households still struggle. The new government, led by the leftist National People’s Power, balanced IMF-mandated austerity with limited social spending, scaling up welfare, health, education investments, and digital initiatives. Challenges continue: high poverty, low investor confidence, and the need to sustain reforms without reversing progress. The economy is on recovery footing, yet remains fragile and reliant on continued governance and fiscal discipline.

Joseph Fernando,
Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Maldivian Foreign Policy

Maldives’ foreign policy under President Mohamed Muizzu has taken a significant turn, especially in its approach toward India. Breaking from the traditional “India First” stance, Muizzu’s government has adopted a more assertive, nationalist line, departing from the close strategic and defense ties that defined past administrations. The government has also leaned towards strengthening relations with China and other regional players, signaling a more balanced or non-aligned foreign policy approach. However, economic realities, like tourism dependency and infrastructure support, continue to tether the Maldives to Indian trade and aid. Despite diplomatic tensions, both nations maintain people-to-people exchanges and maritime cooperation. The Muizzu administration walks a tightrope: asserting sovereignty and domestic political capital while avoiding a rupture with India. This evolving dynamic reflects a more independent, interest-driven Maldivian foreign policy in a multipolar regional context.

Mbot Layaan,
Malé, Maldives.

Happiness For All

Bhutan’s unique development philosophy, Gross National Happiness (GNH), places holistic well-being above purely economic growth. GNH is rooted in Buddhist principles and emphasizes four pillars: sustainable development, environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and good governance. This approach has had a profoundly positive impact on Bhutanese society. Unlike GDP-centric models, GNH ensures people-centered policies align with long-term national well-being. As a result, Bhutan maintains high social cohesion, low crime rates, and a strong sense of national identity. Environmental protection is integral—over 70% of the country remains forested, and Bhutan is the world’s only carbon-negative nation. Education and healthcare are free, and spiritual values are woven into governance. Internationally, GNH has earned Bhutan admiration for prioritizing human dignity and happiness in policymaking. While economic challenges persist, the GNH model has created a balanced, resilient society focused on collective well-being rather than material wealth alone.

Dorji Palden,
Thimphu, Bhutan.