Existence

Cricket is the de facto national sport of Pakistan

2011-12-10T13:44:00.000-08:00

It is a respectable truth that Hockey is the national game of Pakistan. Besides this truth, one can’t hide this fact that Hockey had almost died in the last 20 years. The only thing which has been consistent in sports is Cricket.

Cricket is one of the most popular games in Pakistan. No doubt that the National Field Hockey Team has won several International Championship matches. It has given a good name to the world of sports in Pakistan. Even with hockey as the national game, it is actually cricket that is being played much widely in Pakistan. It keeps the same popularity as the Baseball with Americans.

Our cricket team is considered as one of the best teams in the global cricket, keeping the top rankings in Test as well as One-day International matches. By tradition Pakistani cricket has been filled with talented players. Pakistani cricket do face many issues and controversies but, it is still the most favorite game of the nation.

Since years, competitions between India and Pakistan have always been expressively charged, as the talented teams from both the countries promote their game to new levels. They have become successful in producing a high quality cricket in the world of sports.

According to the history, during the time of the Partition of India in 1947, and the founding of the separate nation state of Pakistan, cricket in the country developed progressively. Besides that, Pakistan was given a Test Match status at a meeting of the Imperial Cricket Conference at Lord's Cricket Ground on 28 July 1952.When the team of West Indies was on its way to carry out a tour of India in the winter of 1948 and at once, few members of the Lahore Gymkhana , thought of inviting the strong team to Pakistan for one-off test match, this gave the birth to the idea of forming the board of control for cricket in Pakistan.(BCCP), so that an official invitation could be extended to the West Indies cricket board. Later it was being named as PCB, Pakistan Cricket Board.

The first ever recognized Cricket game was played in 1600’s in Southern England. Since then, it has become a loved game and has become the national sport of England in the end of the 18th Century. Pakistan has acquired the same love and passion for Cricket .Cricket of Pakistan has really evolved into a well-admired and constantly played game.

Cricket in Pakistan is loved a lot by people of all ages. As an expression of the love which Pakistanis have for Cricket, Pakistan Cricket Board was formed. This board is accountable for all major cricket events in and around Pakistan. As a matter of fact, Pakistan Cricket Board has helped in organizing and co-hosting the
Cricket World Cup in the years 1987 and 1996.

Looking at the achievements and success of the National Cricket Team, they have won the Cricket World Cup championship in the year 1992.On the other hand, Pakistan cricket team was the runner up in 1999 for the same championship game.
Pakistanis are highly sports oriented by nature and this can be seen in the soul of their bodies. Most of the younger population plays cricket for a healthy life style. Cricket has become the real power and way of living for the people of Pakistan.

Observing the love and passion of the people of Pakistan towards cricket, one can surely understand the value of cricket in Pakistan. A child in Pakistan knows more about Cricket than Hockey. Cricket was the favorite game of Quad-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

Cricket has gained much popularity in the sports world of Pakistan. When the cricket matches are about to start and when our team is on the ground, the nation gets glued to the radio, television or whatever medium they keep. Looking at the love, craziness and passion towards cricket, No one can deny this truth that Cricket is the de facto national sport of Pakistan.

Prevention of cancer - eating the right foods - is it possible?

2011-12-04T14:25:00.000-08:00

Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. If the spread is not controlled, it can result in death.
Cancer researchers have suggested many possible causes of cancer which can most probably be considered as ‘cancer risk factors’.

The cancer risk factors can occur due to any kind of negative action regarding smoking, eating habits (Diet), Lifestyle, Living or working environment and genetics.

One can be on safe side if he would try to apply the precautions against the deficiency in the above mentioned factors. However; it’s been observed that much of the deaths which are being caused by cancer each year are directly related to dietary factors such as types of food, preparation methods, portion size, variety as well as overall caloric balance.
Therefore having a balance in every rate is a prominent step that can prevent one from cancer.

Researchers have collected this fact that a high-fat diet can lead one towards a severe cancer. Excess fat is a well-known reason for the production of free radicals which direct towards many types of cancer.
Besides this, the flow of bile acids into the intestine increases due to a high-fat diet, this can promote colon cancer.

Most probably dark green and leafy vegetables as well as bright yellow, orange and red fruits and vegetables play a major role in preventing a cancer. They are considered as the powerful anti cancer foods as they are useful for every cell in our body.

As for the natural methods of preserving foods, stomach cancer can be caused because of the pickled, cured and smoked products which may occur during the process.

Above all, whenever one goes for grocery, one must try his best to get the fresh and best food for himself.

Natural Disasters

2011-12-01T12:47:00.000-08:00

People at some parts of the world consistently suffer due to severe weather conditions. Those Conditions cause much harm to the environment and the property. Thus, as concluded by the experts, we can define this active phenomenon of ‘Natural Disasters’ as: A natural disaster is a calamity or catastrophe brought about by a natural occurrence such as a Thunderstorm, tornado, earthquake, etc., which results in a disruption of the normal functioning of the facility. Basically, natural disasters are the effects of Natural Hazards which can be understood according to experts as: Naturally-occurring physical phenomena caused either by rapid or slow onset events having Atmospheric, geologic and hydrologic origins on solar, global, regional, national and local Scales. They include earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides, tsunamis, floods and Drought. (UNESCO Earth Sciences Programme)
Here, we have illustrated the facts regarding ‘Natural Disasters’ and analyzed as well as observed that damages caused by these ‘Natural Disasters’ can be reduced through many of the major appropriate ways.
Before we go further, we should have this fact in our knowledge that why natural disasters are preferred as one of the most major issues:
• Natural disasters are important to local ecosystems eg, in Australia smoke from bushfires are needed for seeds to germinate.
• Natural disasters often affect people economically and emotionally, other than that
Property is directly affected as well.
• If we would be aware of the natural disasters and their causes, this would guide us regarding the ways of the prevention of bushfire damage.
• Environment is affected by the natural disasters in a number of ways examples: Land, air and water, these are the significant broad areas which can be affected by the natural disasters.
"There are two big forces at work, external and internal. We have very little control over external forces such as tornadoes, earthquakes, floods, disasters, illness and pain. What really matters is the internal force. How do I respond to those disasters? (Leo Buscaglia)” (Disaster Quotations – Quotations, bellaonline.com)
Researchers have declared that capacity of natural disasters is increasing concerning frequency, complexity, scope and destruction. Millions of people have lost their life because of earthquakes, windstorms, tsunamis, floods, landslides, volcanic eruptions and wildfires during the past two decades. Besides that, the society also suffered from vast economic damages suffering a great loss in every way.
Now let’s us focus on each of the basic natural disasters so as to understand the causes and effects of these disasters which in return, may help in forecasting their occurrence more precisely and thus reducing their destructive effects.

Earthquakes

Causes

The layers of the Earth’s crust move towards or away from each other or they can also slide past each other, this movement is many times not smooth so a stress in the crust is being caused due to the friction between the moving layers. Thus, this action leads to faults and the rocks are broken and moved in abrupt jerk within the crack. This results in the occurrence of shock waves because of the active energy stored in the rocks. Therefore, the tremors and vibrations of the Earth’s surface is considered as earthquakes.

Areas under the affect of earthquake

It’s been found out those earthquakes most occur around the Pacific Ocean. One more foremost zone of earthquakes extends from the Mediterranean Sea to the Himalayas. Earthquakes mostly occur along the plane boundaries. Boundaries were earth layers are moving towards each other fall under the earthquake zone.

The effects of Earthquakes

The dreadful vibrations under the ground can cause many buildings to collapse which results in great loss of lives and property. Many times, when an earthquake occurs, the gas mains are broken due to the great shock which further leads towards more damage. When earthquakes occur under the sea or close to the coast, tsunamis can occur. Thus; we can understand through this reality that tsunamis are related to earthquakes.

Factors influencing the amount of damage caused by earth quakes.

One of the major factors is the magnitude of the earthquake. Much of the destruction can be caused by the severe earthquake measure which is above 7 on the Richter scale. Another main factor is the size of the population. Most probably, heavily populated areas suffer the more severe damage. Third main factor is the closeness to the epicenter. Areas located near the epicenter suffer a great damage.

Reduction of damage

To prevent he earthquakes is a very difficult task but, many ways can be applied to reduce the damages caused by the earthquakes. One way is to design and build such strong buildings that can survive the hard vibrations within the ground. Other than that it’s necessary to realize that in some areas which come under the zone of earthquakes, the number of buildings and their heights must be in a certain limit.
As for the damage caused by the occurrence of the fire in the period of earthquakes, such systems can be installed which may cut off the electricity and the suppliers of gas automatically. In order to save the buildings from great damage of fire during an earthquake, nonflammable materials must be brought under use during the construction of the building. Drills can be carried out in some countries which can prepare the population in order to lessen the damage and save as much lives as possible.
The prediction of earthquakes is also a very specific way to reduce the loss of lives. Scientist uses a highly developed equipment to predict he earthquakes, secondly in many countries which are situated near coastal areas, tsunamis warning systems are playing a prominent role. For example In Hawaii, there experts have arranged special tsunamis warning systems.

Volcanoes

A volcano is an opening in the crust of the Earth which ejects materials such as gases and magma. The ejection of these materials as considered as the volcanic eruptions. It can also refer to the features like mountains.

LAVA

Magma when ejected from the Earth’s interior reaches the surface of the Earth. This leads to the concept of the word ‘Lava’.

Areas under the affect of Volcanoes

Areas within plate boundaries are usually under the affect of volcanoes. Besides this, they occur in the form of a belt around the areas of the Pacific Ocean.

The effects of volcanoes

Much destruction can be expected due to a volcanic eruption as it kills many people and destroy settlements. Many times ashes combine with rain water and then produce a thick flowing mud which cans burry thousands of buildings and farmlands. Other than that, a vast amount of carbon dioxide can also result in the loss of several lives. Besides this, those volcanic eruptions may also result in the occurrence of tsunamis due to the huge destructive waves in the ocean.

Reduction of damage

Drills are being organized for the people living near in the areas near volcanoes. They are being taught ways to cope with the nearby eruptions. In sensitive areas students are given helmets for their safety. However, researchers have concluded that in the areas where a certain volcano has not erupted for years then that volcano must be considered as more dangerous as people are normally not prepared for its eruption.

Floods

The covering of water over a land, which is normally dry, is identified as a flood.

Causes

The causes of floods are mostly related to weather such as continues rainfall, melting of snow as well as storm surge.

Continuous rain

The continuous fall of rain can force a tendency for a river to flood. Similarly, when rain falls, water can start to flow over the land resulting in a severe flood.

Melting of snow

It’s also one of the major causes of flood, as the temperature rises, areas where a heavy snow fall had occurred start to get warmer ,thus, snow starts to melt fast which then is the cause of a destructive flood.

Storm surge

Flooding of coastal settlements results in storm surges which are the ultimate cause of the tropical storms, about to be discussed later.

Areas under the affect of floods

Areas near coast, sea and river are considered as the responsive areas in case of floods.

The effects of floods

Flood can drift away an established colony or area in a way that it wraps all the living things and their property and thus destroys the real image of the area. Areas including farms are ruined as well, the vast amount of water cause a severe damage to the plants, fruits and vegetables.

Reduction of damage

Although floods can be predicted by the experts but, most of the floods occur under sudden Happenings. However, it must be brought under observation that the areas which are very much near to the sea can come under destruction at once if a flood occurs.

Tropical storms

Some coastal areas in the tropics become the victim of violent tropical storms every year. These severe storms carry heavy rain and strong winds with them. The word tropical storm has other names as well depending on the type of location. Most probably in Japan, Philippines and China they are known by the name of typhoons. Similarly in Bangladesh and Australia they are identified as tropical cyclones whereas in the Atlantic they are called hurricanes.

Reason for the formation of tropical storms

Tropical storms build up over the temperate oceans when the temperature of the surface increases. It’s been that stated that when the air around the sea gets warm or heated, it develops and rises very swiftly and thus creates and area under an extreme low pressure. After that clouds and rain are formed as there occurs an increase in the heights of the warm moist air. Then after the clash with high pressure this rising warm air absorbs a greater amount of moisture which ultimately causes cumulonimbus clouds and heavy rain.

The effects of tropical storms

Mostly the densely populated areas can be affected in a very severe way causing harm to lives and property. It’s been found out that storms having wind speeds of more than 200 km per hour can destroy crops and houses, uproot trees, damage ships and overturn cars. Storm surges are caused by these tropical storms. They occur when the surface of the ocean is raised by the strong winds into a giant wave. Coastal settlements can be put to harm by these storm surges. As for the green areas, farmers can lose large portion of their land.

Reduction of damage

Changing the house structures and crop patterns can help reduce the damage caused by flood. Houses can be built in such a manner that at least people may find ways to save their lives. Other than that, drought control warning systems can also help in reducing the damage caused by flood. In order to have a good economic development, good governance and proper environmental laws are considered as very prominent. Above all, a greater conception of the processes leading towards the contribution of the increment of a flooding propensity can help to lessen the unpleasant effects on human life, the environment.

Droughts

The phenomenon of a long period in which either the rain falls in a very small amount or it doesn’t fall at all, As drought sets in as the rainfall which is expected doesn’t fall or does not last long. Droughts lead towards the concept of hazards as mostly people are not prepared for an unreliable fall of the rain on their farming areas. Desserts are one of the major examples of the areas under the effect of drought.

The effects of droughts

People living in the areas under the effect of droughts suffer great hardships as they don’t find better solutions to cope with the abrupt lengthy periods of dry weather. As there is a decrease in rainfall, people takes the advantage of the wells over and over again which Leads to the over usage of the wells. Areas under the effect of droughts suffer as their soil of becomes poor and large areas of land becomes infertile. As a result, animals become the victims of death in large number and quality of the crop decreases, the serious lack of food results in famine and death. When people start to migrate in order to remain safe against the harmful effects of the droughts, a large number of people may starve and die on the way.

Conclusion

Scientist and researchers have concluded that although it’s not possible to prevent these natural disasters to occur but we can find and arrange developing ways regarding scientific and technical knowledge in order to increase the resistance against these natural disasters. Warning alarms thus, can play a very important role for this cause. The United Nations General Assembly is following an active process in order to arrange ways to reduce the damages caused by the natural disasters and it also asserted an International Decade for Natural Disaster Reduction. However, it can be observed that alert and active steps must be taken at all times for the safety of the lives of the people, their property and the society.
Thus, it’s been proven that many of the major suitable ways can be applied in order to reduce the damages caused by these ‘Natural Disasters’.
Having an awareness and knowledge regarding these disasters is a must as awareness and knowledge is related to education which leads towards the ways of living a better life. "Knowledge is going to make you stronger. Knowledge is going to let you control your life.
Knowledge is going to give you the wisdom to teach their children. Knowledge is the thing that makes you smile in the face of disaster. (Avery Brooks)” (Disaster Quotations – Quotations, bellaonline.com)

Interview: Mr.Kalim A.Siddiqui

2011-12-01T12:30:00.000-08:00

Mr.Kalim A.Siddiqui is the President of Petroleum Marketing Business in Byco Petroleum Pakistan Limited (BPPL). He has done his bachelor in Chemical Engineering and Masters in Chemistry. He is a dominant market player.Presently,He is leading Byco’s Petroleum Marketing Business.He possesses global experience in business development,system re-engineering,streamlining processes,management of supply chain,marketing and sales and operations management.Since 30 years,he has been holding various senior management positions in the oil industry.
He has served the oil industry to a greater extent and it is his sincerity and hard work that has been serving the Petroleum Marketing Business in an outstanding way. Jewel Time had the honor of meeting Mr.Kalim A.Siddiqui who has proved to be a faithful and an exceptional professional.

JT. Tell us something about your professional background.

I am a Chemical Engineer by profession. I have completed my education from United Kingdom and I have worked there as well. Besides that, I have also worked in USA and Australia. I initially joined Caltex and worked there for almost 20 years. After that, I moved to PSO in 2001 and stayed there for 8 years. I was the Managing Director in PSO.Currently; I am working as the President, Petroleum Marketing in Byco. I was also part of the board of management at PSO and PRL.Presently; I am also a member of Board of Investment (BoI).

JT. What are the areas of operation of Byco in Pakistan?

I am looking after and heading the oil marketing company in Byco. We have redefined the region of Byco marketing two years back. In fact, we have redefined the whole direction. We have then made a vision that we want to be among the top 3 OMCs of the country. We are also trying to expand our retail network. We have given growth to our system on a fast track. Two years back when I joined Byco, there were about 32 outlets but, now we have over 206 retail outlets. These outlets are present in all of the four provinces of Pakistan, covering the areas from Karachi to Azad Kashmir. We are trying to increase this number by the end of this year. We are almost the 5th largest OMC among an industry of 12.However,we were on the 10th position earlier.

JT. Please explain the petroleum marketing business of the company.

We believe in a strong supply chain infrastructure. We are exporting as well as supplying the power. Imported expression is expected to increase. Currently, our turnover of 10 months is over 30 billion. We are building all of our activities according to good supply chain.
Our stations have reached the number of 206.We have started our active workings in Kemari and other areas. Besides that, we have finalized the arrangements on linear basis. There are about 13 operative stations in Karachi and another 3 to 4 will be operative in the next two to three months. We have about 4 to 5 stations in Lahore and the number is expected to reach from 8 to 9.We are trying to bring stations in urban sectors as well.

JT. What are the major challenges faced by the oil marketing companies in Pakistan and abroad?

In Pakistan, the formula of pricing and margin is observed as one of the lowest in the region. An oil marketing company has to build a good infrastructure and there is always the need of good equipments for the retail outlets. We have to monitor the quality and supply of the products. If the pricing and margin structure is not giving out a fair return then an oil marketing company faces many difficulties. Our industry is not completely deregulated yet. The most necessary step is to deregulate our industry. We had to face a major crash in December 2008 due to the overall fall of the oil prices.

JT. How has the current law and order situation affected your company?

Every other day, we have to shut down our business because of the situation of law and order. Many times strikes are being called. These strikes include transport strikes as well as strikes due to law and order. Besides that, supply chain gets disturbed because of the problems faced by the system of petrol pumps.

JT. What are your short term and long term strategies for marketing in Pakistan?

Our eventual goal is to be progressive in the market place; we want to be a major player in the market. Right now, our main objective is to be among the top 3 OMCs of the country. We want to supply the quality product and services to the customers. As far as deregulated market is concerned, consumer gets benefit in a long term strategy. We want to come forward as an integrated player in the long term strategy.

JT. What is Pakistan’s biggest challenge today in terms of growth and development?

As far as law and order situation is concerned, the continuity and the proper direction of the policy of the government are very necessary. These projects are considered as very capital intensive projects. When the policy of the government changes, it effects the investment and business policy of a company to a greater extent. There is a need of a proper and integrated energy policy. Government should focus on a long term vision and should announce a long term consistence policy.

JT. As a major oil refinery in Pakistan, what changes would you like to propose in government policies to assure better market conditions?

The first step which must be taken is to deregulate the whole industry and it should be market based. We should manage ourselves according to the dynamics of the international markets. Consistency of policy must be focused so that people invest with trust and make long term business plans. There is also a need of proper political stability and law and order.

JT. Have increases in fuel prices or other factors like the current law and order situation in the country, hampered future expansion plans?

The present situation is affecting the system of investment for sure. The lack in the overall circular debt is affecting the energy. Besides that, the disturbance in the current law and order situation affects the system of fuel prices which in turn disturbs the whole network of the business. Long term solution is needed in this case.

JT. What are your strengths in the face of such stiff competition?

I think living playing field and a healthy environment is good for a competition. According to me, a monopolistic situation should not be present at all.A competition ultimately provides benefit to the customers. The industry which will provide more benefits, facilities and products to the customers will survive better.

JT. Byco has been chosen as the Best Petroleum Company in the 6th Consumer Choice Awards 2010.What do you think were the reasons behind it and what role has Petroleum Marketing business played in it?

We got this award as we proved to be the fastest growing petroleum marketing company in the very difficult times. We achieved the growth of almost 300 %.We are still the fastest growing company this year. We have been trying to introduce new concepts. As it’s our objective to be a major player so we run our system according to this objective.

JT. Where do you see Pakistan in the next decade?

It mainly depends on the political situations. Pakistan has got very much potential. There is just the need of proper management of the available potentials. If we properly follow the plan of long term benefit then I believe that Pakistan will progress. We have a good market size. Pakistan can never progress unless and until the tax system will be improved. The development of Pakistan highly depends on the political stability as well as the present law and order situation. We should focus highly on the economic policies.

JT. Being a responsible professional, how do you manage your other activities in life?

I believe in proper time management. I like to give time to my social life as well. I try to relax and give quality time to my family in the evening. Other than that, I like to spend some time with my own self.

JT. What message would you like to give our readers?

Pakistan has got very much potential, resources and talent but, unfortunately we don’t utilize such blessings. If these blessings would be utilized with sincerity then Pakistan would become a developed country for sure.

Production and Role of Pharmaceutical industry in Pakistan’s economy

2011-11-29T13:16:00.000-08:00

Pakistan has a developing and a vibrant Pharma Industry. At the time of independence, in 1947, there was hardly any pharmacy industry in Pakistan and the country was suffering in this regard to a greater extent. Today Pakistan has about 400 pharmaceutical manufacturing units, which also include those operated by 25 multinationals that are present in the country. Around 70% of the country's demand of Finished Medicine is met by The Pakistan Pharmaceutical Industry. In terms of share market, the domestic pharmacy market is almost evenly divided between the Nationals and the Multinationals.

The National pharmacy industry has shown a growing progress over the years, mostly in the last decade. The industry has invested significantly to improve itself in the last few years and in the recent times the majority of the industry is following Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), compliant with the domestic as well as international Guidance. At present the industry has the capacity to produce a variety of product that range from simple pills to sophisticated Biotech, Oncology and Value Added Generic compounds.

According to the researches, although Pakistan’s pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors are expanding and evolving speedily, about half of the population has no access to the modern medicines. Clearly this presents an opportunity, but the government and industry's stakeholders are required to put more efforts. The value of pharmaceuticals that was sold in 2007 exceeded US$1.4bn, which equates to per capita consumption of less than US$ 10 per year and value of medicines sold is now expected to exceed US$2.3 B by the year 2012.

The Pharmaceutical market of Pakistan is estimated at over $1.5 Billion in value and bulk imports of raw materials are close to $450 million. The utility rates and other aspects of production have been experiencing a stable enhancement over the last couple of years. Prices of drugs have not increased over the last 7 years, most recently with China revoking its export subsidy by 8%; prices of raw materials are expected to shoot up further. Machinery and equipment is imported from China, Taiwan, Korea, India, Germany, UK, USA and Japan most of the time.
According to an expert, the regulation of price has given rise to the false belief that pharmaceutical companies are overpricing with reference to their products. Besides that, surging inflation and the deteriorating economic condition of the country has considerably affected company margins.

There is the need of a properly defined policy in this regard, as price fixing remains is in the control of the ministry. It is necessary for the pricing policy to work in automatic ways, keeping in view the interests of both patients and pharmacists. In addition, price control can help increase investment.

It was being informed that the production of drugs takes place under strict CGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practice) principles, while a variety of dosage forms including liquids, tablets, capsules, dry syrups, creams and ointments, sterile ampoules, vials, metered dose inhalers can be produced. However, some companies’ products’ production for multinational companies is found to be worth Rs 1.0 billion.

The reputable companies are not involved in the smuggling of drugs while multinational companies refrain from such a thing as well. The doctors are responsible to support the interests of the patient, but unfortunately unethical and immoral practices seem to prevail in the community. Companies should identify their responsibility and, hence, should focus at maintaining excellence on reasonable prices, while marketing should also be patient-intensive.

It was being found that a meager seven percent claim of manufacturing is being satisfied on local basis as resources are not available in Pakistan. This is because of a lack found in petrochemical industry, which makes preliminary steps essential for our local industry. Certain companies have started such a thing, but it is disappointing that no basic research for making new drugs (molecular) is processed in the country. The quality standards of the ministry are not same for all, adding that role of the doctor could be limited through this access if it satisfies the patient to buy the same product on lower rates.
The ministry should keep an eye on Chinese drugs which are coming in Pakistan and should allow only those Chinese firms that are genuine. The pharmaceutical industry hires well qualified people; therefore, grey channel input is in the loss of the patient.

As for the budgetary changes, sustained increase in exports has been seen; therefore, duties should be revised on importing machines. In order to de-register the products, the Ministry of Health should play its dynamic role.
Pakistan is a developing pharmaceutical market, holds a large population and economic progress evident.However, and per capita drug spending was observed to be rather low at around US$9.30 in the year 2007. Classified spending accounts for 65% of total healthcare expenditure sourced through out-of pocket payments, international aid and religious or charitable institutions. Pharmaceutical spending accounts for less than 1% of the country's GDP, equivalent to levels in some neighboring countries but above that in some of the South Asian countries. The forecast period is probable to witness the marginal strengthening of the generics sector, albeit more in terms of volumes than values. The share of generics is also seems to increase further as major drugs come off-patent in the near term, to the likely benefit of the generics-dominated local industry.

With an export turnover of over US$ 100 Million as of 2007, the Pakistan pharmacy industry is relatively young in the international markets. Pakistan Pharma business boasts of quality producers and many units are approved by regulatory authorities around the world. Like domestic market where in the last five years, the sales in international market have gone almost double. The pharmacy industry is making efforts to an Export Vision of USD 500 Million by 2013. In the meantime, exports are also expected to be boosted by new regional and global opportunities.
Above all, the Pakistan Pharmaceutical Industry holds a successful developing business, providing high quality essential drugs at affordable prices to Millions. Technologically, well-built and self reliant National Pharmaceutical Industry is not only playing a specific role in promoting and sustaining growth in the vital field of medicine within the country, but is also set in a good manner to take on the international markets.

Conversation with Mr.Salih Demir Pazarci, Managing Director Pak-Turk Businessmen Association

2011-11-26T13:14:00.000-08:00

He is a man who possesses the qualities of sincerity and passion towards his job. He always wishes for stronger trade relations between Turkey and Pakistan. According to Mr.Salih Demir,”The stronger interaction in business is bringing the two brotherly countries closer”.

1.Tell us something about your professional background?

I completed my MBA at University of Leicester in UK. Right now I am the Managing Director of Pak-Turk Businessmen Association.

2.How do you observe the Park-Turk business relations?

The Park-Turk business relations are going in a good direction. The stronger interaction in business is bringing the two brotherly countries closer. In order to expose the business communities of the two countries, Pak-Turk Businessmen PTBA has organised various bilateral business trips.
So far, with the help of PTBA’s customised business and trade organisations, a large number of Turkish businessmen and entrepreneur visited Pakistan and established business relations with Pakistan’s business and industry circles, and quite a large number of Pakistani leading businessmen and entrepreneurs also visited Turkey to be exposed to the opportunities that Turkey offers for international and regional trade.

3.What changes would you like to bring in the Park-Turk business relations?

I am looking forward for a more developed business relations between Pakistan and Turkey. Businessmen from Pakistan are very passionate and hardworking. I expect the business world of Pakistan to be more groomed with a strong hold.
We offer guidance for Pakistani businessmen. An educated and well qualified businessman is always given a priority everywhere.

4.According to you, which steps should be taken to improve the economic situation of Pakistan?

In order to improve the economic situation of Pakistan, it’s very necessary to control the overall situation of Pakistan. Besides; there is always a need of well educated and sincere person to improve the economic situation in Pakistan.

5.You showed great interest in building up schools in Karachi? Why do you think it was important to set up schools in Karachi?

We did it because we wanted to provide quality education. Turkish academic institutions provided quality education and lodged and boarded facilities to more than 5,000 students in 19 cities of Pakistan. More than 40 per cent of these students received full scholarships.

6.What is the reason behind the good economic situation in Turkey?

Good economic situation in Turkey is all because of the proper system there. I would say again that a good education plays a main role for a good economic situation. Besides that, awareness in people is another necessary tool.

7.How do you think, the current situation here is affecting the business of Pakistan?

A tough situation in any country ultimately gives a tough time to the business and economic situation of that country. Strikes, mishaps and political controversies create much disturbance and obstacles for the business world of Pakistan.

8.What is your suggestion to the new businessmen?

Give priority to a good education. Be aware of updates and everything around you and take the best you can from your experience. I have observed that many of the new businessmen, especially youngsters like to create short cuts in order to become a successful businessman. Try to avoid short cuts in the world of business as the world of business needs experience and quality.

9. How do you think that the Pak-Turk Businessmen Association is improving the trade relations between both the countries?

The Pak-Turk Businessman Association is playing a main role to improve the trade relations between Pakistan and Turkey. We offer guidance and maintain a list of contacts for Pakistani businessmen who wish to carry on business and trade relations with individual Turkish businessmen or with companies.

10. Your message to the readers?

Everyone has the potential to do something better for the country. You should make efforts for a better Pakistan. Youth should focus on education. Education and awareness should be brought up and maintained to do something better for Pakistan.

Consistency Counts a lot

2011-11-23T05:04:00.001-08:00

An Interview with Mr. Waqar Mehdi,Advisor to Chief Minister Information,Govt. of Sindh.

Interview by, Bushra Khalid

“Pakistan’s image is really changing in the eyes of the world, especially after the recent developments in the war against terror. The world can see that how the people of Pakistanis have sacrificed their lives in the war against terror in their country. They still have to face many difficulties and have to face many issues economically as well as socially but, they are fully cooperating against terrorism. I can understand the feelings of many people in the Northern areas. Pakistan is a Front Line State. Europe and other countries understand that Pakistan had to suffer a big loss in the war against terror”, Waqar Mehdi, Advisor to Chief Minister Information, Govt, of Sindh

Q. What is the role of the advisor to Chief Minister in this age of digital media?

It is the time of Modern Technology and Computers. You can say that now media is on a fast track system. Introduction of new and advanced technologies have brought a great revolution in the digital world. As an advisor to Chief Minister Information, I keep myself updated with all the news and updates. Besides other means, I also try to utilize the digital means to stay connected with media and people and to understand their problems. The main thing is whatever type of media it is, if a person is determined, hardworking, he can perform his duties in a best way by any means.

Q. What are the challenges that you face as an advisor to Chief Minister Sindh?

By the grace of Allah, I don’t really have to face any tough challenges as I have a better understanding and knowhow with people. My work is mostly related to media, so I have to keep myself updated with news and updates and I try my best to resolve the issues of the public by means of media. I also try to put forward a clear point of view of the Government at different circumstances.

Q. What are the responsibilities of the media in reporting and covering news and events?

Media should portray the real picture of the society. As you must have felt yourself that, many times some of the media channels deliver news which is not at all related to the reality. Some media channels should avoid spreading negative sensation among people. Media should be free and I agree with that but, some media channels and newspapers take negative advantage of this freedom. All have the right to point out negative points of the Government; all have the right to give suggestions. Government is always here to hear and correct its mistakes but, what some of the media channels do is to just create negative sensation and false impact. This is very wrong and hurting. Such actions have made people the victim of tension and worries.
Let’s take an example of a common working or businessman, I have noticed that many times some of the media channels deliver news with much negative exposure, the man who is necessarily out for his work is forced to leave his work by his relatives and asked to come back as soon. I am sorry to say that some of the media channels become too much exaggerative while delivering news. However, some channels and newspapers are giving a fair and true performance. There should be a fair and just media in the country.

Q. What is the Government’s role in the development of a fair and just media in the country?

Government is always ready to provide every kind of help to media. In the previous days, we were being told by the owners of the newspapers that GST is being applied. We took actions to withdraw it after they shared their issues with us. Government always gives full support and facilities to Media and Journalism. Government wants the freedom of media and Government has even cooperated with media during different circumstances. Media should use this freedom with justice and should play a fair character.

Q. How is Pakistan’s image changing in the eyes of the world after the recent developments in the war against terror?

Pakistan’s image is really changing in the eyes of the world, especially after the recent developments in the war against terror. The world can see that how the people of Pakistanis have sacrificed their lives in the war against terror in their country. They still have to face many difficulties and have to face many issues economically as well as socially but, they are fully cooperating against terrorism. I can understand the feelings of many people in the Northern areas. Pakistan is a Front Line State. Europe and other countries understand that Pakistan had to suffer a big loss in the war against terror.

Q. How do you assess the current law and order situation in the province? What measures in your opinion should be done by the government to control this situation?

The current law and order situation in the province has got better.Specially, we, with the help of police have taken control over the kidnappings on high way. Government is fighting hard against the target killings and crimes in the province. Government is taking strict security and other measures. Government always tries its level best to fight against terrorists and criminals. For that we also want the support of people. These people are in our boundary and only with people’s support and cooperation we can make the situation better.

Q. According to you, what steps should be taken to control the continuous target killings in Karachi?

Target killings can only be controlled with awareness and cooperation. Government is trying its level best; we want full support and cooperation of people in this regard.

Q. What tools do you apply to keep appropriate checks and balances on the media in the country?

Government can only request the certain owners of each media channels and newspapers to be fair in delivering news and information. We don’t really want to put checks, because then we are being blamed for being an obstacle for the freedom of media and journalism. Media shouldn’t just portray the negative image of the Government. Media should itself be fair in using the freedom of media.

Q. Being a busy person, how do you manage your daily routine?

I am a person with consistent nature. A person with consistent nature is always able to manage everything. I believe that if a person possesses the quality of determination then he can manage everything in life, no matter how busy he is. I read newspaper in the morning, and then I come to office bit late in morning as I stay back in office bit late at night. I prefer to spend at least an hour with my family after I come back home. In the evening, if I have to attend any social gathering, I attend that. I never mix my professional and political life with my family and private life.

Q. What message would you like to give our readers?

I want to give this message that if this society will be educated then there will be lesser problems and lesser crimes. Everyone should give priority to education. Parents should concentrate on their children’s education as education plays a main role in defending a child from the negative effects of the society. People should learn to be patient to bring peace in the city. One should follow the right media and should cooperate in fulfilling the dream which Shaheed Muhtarma Benazir Bhutto have seen for Pakistan.

Gold Jewellery, the beat of every heart

2011-11-23T04:48:00.000-08:00

Gold jewellery of Pakistan is famous for its wide variety of styles, designs and neat hand work. Gold has always held a magical fascination. Gold jewellery has always been a unique item among Pakistani women on any celebration or occasion. It holds a great role in bridal getup. It has always been the sign of love and prestige.
As far as the subcontinent is concerned, the jewellery dates back to 3000-4000 BC. Excavations were processed in the towns of Ancient Indus Valley Civilization. These excavations revealed that the goldsmiths of such a primal age knew the art of making moulds for metal and terra-cotta ornaments. They made various jewels like necklaces, bangles, earrings, rings, brooches, head ornaments, bracelets, girdles etc. However, the Aryans were fond of gold ornaments, and the Yajurveda testified that gold had magical powers.
Women of the Indian sub-continent have always been observed as the biggest buyers of Gold jewelleries. From time to time and with the settlement of Pakistanis abroad, the export of Gold jewellery has also gone up considerably. Besides that, entries of Pakistani exporters in some of the developed markets has also supported and promoted the local jewelers to introduce their branded jewellery. Pakistan is among the top consumers of gold. Although its price range has become very high these days but, its demand is always high. Those who can still afford it leave no chance in buying the best of Gold jewelleries. Most of the women like to wear Gold jewelleries, depending on the nature of their work and life-style.
The styles of gold jewelleries vary to a greater extent in Pakistan. The styles which are usually displayed in different kinds of portfolios are for both casual and formal wear. Some of these styles are observed to be blended with western styles to create elegant combination of gold and stones for bridal jewelry and casual wear. According to a designer, stones and gems of various colors are embedded in yellow gold or white gold to produce jewellery. This is done in order to match clothes of different colors. These stones can be garnets, topaz, and blue sapphire. This has ultimately given a wide choice to brides for selecting color of their wedding dress and giving rise to new trends.

In Pakistan bulk of the jewellery is produced manually using the expertise of skilled workers. Many of these workers are also engaged with popular brands that create ideas regarding the designs of Gold sets and individual items.
Ar-Raheem jewelers has been able to create a popular identity in the world of Gold jewellery in Pakistan. It is the leading and an incomparable producer of branded jewellery in Pakistan. It was established in 1986 with and experience of about five decades. Because of a better understanding of customers’ taste, skills of the craftsmen as well as commitment to exclusivity, Ar-Raheem jewelers has been able to earn its reputation in just few years.
After getting the significant response from Pakistan, they have increased their business in a successful way. They have customers on both national as well as international level. Ar-Raheem jewelers have always received a good and a satisfactory response from the customers. According to Syed Amir Ali, to get the best result one should understand the personality and taste of the customer.
According to a customer of Ar-Raheem jewelers, besides silver jewellery, the designers of Ar-Raheem jewelers understand that gold jewellery sets of wedding are the most significant identity of jewelleries a customer can ever own. Thus their sets are full of creativity and sophistication.
Jewelers have a very strong belief that the gold jewellery export from Pakistan can be increased in various ways. They believe that the gold and other jewellery sector keeps the potential to earn even higher export. It all depends on the financial situation and policy of the Government.
The Bureau is following a multilane policy. This includes suggestions and recommendations to the government to make essential changes in the policies of the Government. The Bureau is persuading cluster development philosophy in an active manner .Besides that, efforts are being made to make sure that a greater contribution of local jewellery manufacturers in international jeweler exhibitions.

If marriage is a dream, jewellery adds existence and reality to this fantasy. Precious stones, gems and set in gold, add a shine to the bride's personality. No wedding ceremony in Pakistan is complete without gold jewelleries. It has become a traditional for a typical bride to wear at least one set of gold. Gold jewellery in any fashion is always a source of magnetism for Pakistani women combining idealism and style.
Gold jewellery is all about feelings and desire, which captures the sensuality as well as essence of the woman. Sense of movement and flow in design and craftsmanship is in these days. With jeweler outlets displaying the most modern and stunning wedding sets, gold jewellery is capturing everyone’s heart with full beat. One can also observe the presence of sets in stylish and striking boxes, making the designer gold jewellery as the perfect gift.

Interview: BOMBAYWALA

2011-11-03T16:51:00.000-07:00

FABRIC FULL OF LIFE

No matter how old you get, if you can keep the desire to be creative, you're keeping the man-child alive. John Cassavetes.

Creativity with Quality is always the most wanted element in the world of fabric. Keeping this characteristic alive proves the vision and dedication of the business. Bombaywala is one such business. Founded in 1947, by the forefathers of Mr.Shahzad, Bombaywala is the pioneer of Block Printers and Dyers in the world of Block Printed Fabric in Pakistan. It has been running the business successfully from the last 60 years, satisfying the needs and desires of the customers in an outstanding way. Jewel Time enjoyed the great company of Mr.Shahzad who’s looking after the business of his forefathers in a responsible and a flourishing way.

Q.Share something about your professional background.

I have done my MBA in business management. After completing my MBA, I decided to move towards my family business. The proper business got started from the outlet in Defence in the year 2003.The first exhibition was held in Lahore in 2010.Then we had our exhibition in Islamabad and then in Dubai. I have learned about block printing and dying from my father and forefathers. It has been our family business so I have always been having good knowledge of block printing and dying. I have properly been in the line of formal line dresses from the last two years.

Q.Bombaywala keeps a long lasting history. Tell us about the history of Bombaywala.

Yes, Bombaywala does keep a long lasting history. It’s in the industry from the last 60 years as it was started in 1947.We are the pioneers of block printing and dying.Initially,this business used to run on small scale, started by my forefathers. Then the business started to grow successfully after getting a tremendous response. People liked this idea as this idea was first brought by my forefathers in Pakistan. In the year 1980, our block printing suit started to reach towards a greater level and from then, we have been getting a good response every other day.

Q.Bombaywala was found in 1947, which was the time of Independence. Did Bombaywala face any initial difficulties? What was the criterion of business at that time?

1947 was the time of the independence of Pakistan so the overall social and economic difficulties ultimately created many obstacles for the business. As that was the initial stage so they had to suffer a lot of problems but, by the hard work and dedication, my forefathers managed this all and kept on with their business in a successful way.

Q.What is the history of block printing and dying?

According to the records, as far back as the 12th century, some centers in the south, on the western and eastern coasts of India became well known for their outstanding printed cotton. On the southeastern coast the brush or kalam (pen) was used. Printing and dyeing of cottons was specially developed in Rajasthan, in the medieval age. Besides that, the use of wooden blocks for printing was more common in Gujarat.Tents were created from printed fabrics. They became a necessary part of royal processions. Trade in cotton cloth is said to have existed between India and Babylon from Buddha's time. Cheaper printed cloth came from Ahmadabad and other centers, and strangely enough Sanganer was not such a famous center for printing as it is today.

Q.How many outlets do you have? What are your futures plans regarding your outlets?

We had our first outlet in Burns road, that is basically the production and the factory outlet. Besides that, we have one outlet in Defence.We have plans to expand our business and initiate outlets in other regions of Pakistan and abroad as well.

Q.Is Bombaywala running its business on International basis as well?

We have recently held exhibition in Dubai, which was very helpful for the business. We have plans to hold more exhibitions on international basis. Besides that, we have clients from US and other parts of the world as well.

Q.How will you differentiate and compare block printed fabric with other fabric?

One of the basic differences is variety. Block printed fabric have more variety as compared to other fabrics. We have blocks of many different designs and these blocks can be used at a time for one print.

Q.What kind of material and chemicals do you use for block printing and dying?

We try to use more durable and fast chemicals. As for fabric, we prefer the good quality fabric. Basically; we buy our fabric from Faisalabad. We manufacture our own fabric as well. Above all, we use the process of Discharge printing, in a unique way, through block printing.

Q.How would you explain creativity?

Creativity is the art of using colors and design in a unique way. Whatever you do, do it in a unique and attractive way.

Q.In order to produce the product of better quality, what kind of compromises do you have to face?

As compared to other designers, our prices are very reasonable. Our main goal is also to be reachable to the customer, that’s why our prices are not very high.

Q.Bombaywala is observed to have a high belief in creativity? How do you do that?

I believe in broader thoughts. I feel that one has to think broader. Broader thoughts let you think of the broader ideas.

Q.What is your observation towards the fashion world of Pakistan today?

Fashion world of Pakistan is at a good stage. Our fashion world is full of creative and talented people.

Q.What is your message to the readers and the new entrepreneurs?

Whatever Bombaywala is and whatever Bombaywala do and did, it’s all because of your support. Always remember, your business will run in a better way if you will have a family support. As for the entrepreneurs, I would say that be encouraged in coming to this field. It’s a very creative and challenging field. Try to educate and groom yourself in as best way as possible, before coming to this field.

Interview: Ali Safina

2011-11-03T14:10:00.000-07:00

He Loves to Move On!

He attracts his fans with his vivacious, pleasant and a friendly personality. With his captivating performance in Radio and Television, he has become a true heartthrob in the media industry of Pakistan. Enjoying Coffee with Ali Safina was an interesting experience. He is an easy person to get along with, who possesses a great sense of humor. A popular RJ, VJ, DJ, a great actor and a musician, Ali Safina has proved to be a versatile celebrity.

Q.Ali Safina is one of the most popular celebrities now, how did it all get started?

It’s been five years since I am in Karachi. Before that I was in Glasgow. I was born in Multan and then my family moved to Oman. I had been a DJ in Glasgow. I always had a great interest in Music. As for acting, I never realized that I have an acting talent as well. It just came out with the time and experience.
Radio had been something which I always wanted to do. Radio taught me how to speak. Radio had always been my passion. My first show on radio was ‘Desi Club’, in the year 2007.It was a very different kind of show and everyone appreciated me a lot. I used to play hip hop urban songs with a Punjabi touch. I used to produce a remix version of songs with a Punjabi touch which listeners used to enjoy a lot. I had a great time presenting my shows on FM 89 and FM 96.In 2008 I got a chance of being aVJ on MTV.The role of ‘Taaka’ in ‘Taakay Ki Ayegy Baraat’ gave me a lot of fame in Television. I got nominated in the category of ‘Best RJ’ in Pakistan Media Awards, which was an honor for me.
I was having a good time with my Radio and Music programs on TV until I discovered my acting talent. I also enjoy acting a lot now.

Q.What type of show did you use to do in Glasgow?

In Glasgow, I was the DJ in Awaz FM 107.2, the only Asian radio station there at that time. This show could be heard in UK, Canada, US and Pakistan. I used to play regional music on my show. Besides that, I used to play underground music from Pakistan in my show, which seemed to be very different and interesting for my listeners.

Q.What made you move from Glasgow to Karachi?

I wanted to do something on my own and achieve my goals.Whatever, I had in Glasgow, that was great but, I was not satisfied as it was not being achieved by me. I wanted to progress and fulfill my desires and interests. I wanted to achieve my visions and do the work which satisfies me. I wanted to do things at my own responsibility. I discovered my path after joining Radio in Karachi.
I got the chance to be on MTV after auditions and that made me happy as I was on my way to achieve my goals without source.

Q.You have got a great fame as a RJ, DJ, VJ and Actor. Which job will you consider as your favorite one?

I think all of them.Basically, Radio had always been my passion and I have learned a lot from Radio but, each field keeps its very own importance.

Q.With whom did you enjoy working the most up till now?

I had a good time with almost all of my Co-Workers. I guess I am good at judging one’s attitude and I know how to deal with each personality.

Q.What do you think are the key points behind a good acting?

Acting is a very creative field. Good acting needs a lot of hard work and determination. While one is acting he/she has to forget whoever he/she is. Acting is to cover your personality with the role you are given, and then only an actor would be able to give a good result.

Q.What’s your opinion about the entertainment industry of Pakistan?

Our entertainment industry is moving towards a good direction. Like other industries, it does need improvements but it is doing a good job. We have got a lot of talent. I think it will be better if our media industry promotes our own talent and people more instead of outsiders.

Q.Do you think it’s good to have a good education before being a part of the media industry?

Of course it is. One can’t achieve his vision without a proper education. Education builds up your personality. If you are educated and a hard worker then nothing can stop you from achieving your goals.

Q.Any plans to get married?

Why not, I think everyone should get married one day.InshaAllah I will also get married; I am just waiting for the right time.

Q.What are your plans for future?

I am looking forward for many things, these days I am busy in shootings of a drama and have just got over with some projects. However, as a musician, I believe that there is still a lot to learn.

Q.How does it feel like to be a popular RJ, with a large number of fans?

It feels great of course. As Radio has always been my passion so I feel good about my place in this field. I have learnt a lot from Radio. I love my fans and I love talking to them.

Q.What message would you like to give to the Youth of Pakistan?

(Smiling) I guess I am no one to give message to the Youth of Pakistan.Still; I would like to say that this time is one of the best times. One shouldn’t waste this phase and should try to get the best from this period. Whatever you will achieve in this period, will be helpful for you in future.

Thriving Human Trade

2011-11-02T16:34:00.000-07:00

South Asia has emerged as a leading region for sex trafficking. As the trend increases, dedicated efforts are required to eradicate this heinous practice. Human trafficking is the world’s third largest illicit profit-making industry and South Asia remains the second largest region that harbors this practice. A study conducted at the Harvard School of Public Health showed an estimated 150,000 girls and women were trafficked each year across the region. Human trafficking refers to forceful transportation, recruitment or harboring of persons for the purpose of sexual exploitation. On most occasions, these trafficked victims are used for forced labor, organ removal, marriage or adoption.

Internal displacement due to conflict, poverty or lack of employment opportunities allows the vulnerable to be trafficked, thereby making cross-border trafficking commonplace in South Asia. Bangladesh, poverty stricken and overpopulated, provides a ready ground for traffickers in rural areas. In Nepal, statistics reveal that on average 12,000 Nepali women and minors are trafficked every year for the purpose of sexual exploitation. Most of these women are infected with HIV/AIDS and also tuberculosis.

On the other hand, most of India’s sex trafficking is internal; with states like Andhra Pradesh, Orissa, Bihar, West Bengal and the Northeast leading the trend. Speaking at a South Asia Regional Conference in 2007, Renuka Chowdhury, Minister for Labor and Employment stated, “Trafficking in human beings, especially women and children, is a heinous crime that violates all tenets of human rights and dignity.” Nearly three million sex workers exist in India where 40 per cent of them are children. A study by the Harvard School of Public Health, also released in 2007, shows that women sex-trafficked from Nepal to India were nearly 40 percent HIV-positive. The figure rose beyond 60 percent among younger girls who were sex trafficked prior to the age of 15.

According to UNODC7, Bangladesh, India, Nepal and Pakistan are ranked at the top in the countries that traffic women and children, making commercial sexual exploitation common in the region.
Existing legislation against human trafficking within South Asia has also been insufficient due to limited awareness. Although the will to speak out against trafficking has increased immensely in the past five years, the movement remains at negligible levels. According to a recent survey by the National Human Rights Commission, in India only 7 percent of the police personnel have received any kind of training until now. The number of registered cases and the percentage of traffickers’ convictions are low. The victims are often ‘re-victimized’ when they are brought in contact with the law and are arrested on charges of soliciting.

On a positive note, South Asia has proven that with modest amounts of funding, focused advocacy targeting law enforcement and the political establishment, remarkable changes can take place. In 2007, New Delhi witnessed a series of brainstorming discussions that deemed sex trafficking a severe crime that must be treated with a holistic approach by the national governments as well as international agencies. Furthermore, local activists, the media and, most importantly, the youth were identified as the leading agents of greater awareness against the crime of sex trafficking in not only their respective countries, but in the region at large.

South Asian borders: Home to sex trafficking

2011-11-01T15:17:00.000-07:00

Trafficking in persons can be explained as the transport, recruitment, transfer, or harboring of persons by means of the threat or use of force or other forms of fraud, for the purpose of exploitation. Trafficking is primarily known to be done for sexual exploitation. Many times trafficked victims are used for forced labor, organ removal and marriage or adoption.
Human trafficking is the world’s third largest illicit profit-making industry where South Asia has emerged as the home to the second largest numbers of internationally trafficked persons. India is among the favored destinations in South Asia.
At the times of hardship, this mostly starts out as an illegal migration which ends up as trafficking. Internal displacement because of conflict in some of these countries, poverty and lack of employment opportunities allow the vulnerabilities to be trafficked.
Mostly, Porous borders with poorer Bangladesh and Nepal intensify the problem of cross-border trafficking. Bangladesh is observed to be a source country for women and children. This proves that traffickers target is mostly in the poverty stricken rural areas.
On the other hand, Nepal is known as a source country in the region where fair looking Nepali young women have to become the primary victims of the trafficking. Besides that, it has been observed that the new trend emerges with attraction for boys too. An unconfirmed statistics has revealed that in average 12,000 Nepali women and minors are trafficked every year for the purpose of sexual exploitation in outer countries. As a result, most of the trafficked women from Nepal were found to be infected with HIV/AIDS and also tuberculosis.
India with over a billion populations has also been observed as a state of transit country for trafficking in persons. According to an estimated research, 90 per cent of India’s sex trafficking is internal; where States like Andhra Pradesh, Orissa, Bihar, West Bengal and the Northeast put in their shares. But often, women and children, trafficked from neighboring countries, are sent to the Middle East, Gulf countries and even to the Europe. On the other hand, Pakistan as well as Sri Lanka has also lately joined in the circuit.

According to Ms.Renuka Chowdhury, the Indian Women and Child Development minister, trafficking in human beings, especially women and children, is a dreadful crime that violates all tenets of human rights and dignity. On her address to the Conference, Ms Chowdhury informed that there were nearly three million sex workers in India where 40 per cent of them are children. Statistics has disclosed that children below the age of 10 years are also found in the Indian cities like Mumbai and Delhi.
According to the studies, Nepali women who have been trafficked into the sex trade in India were found to be nearly 40 percent HIV-positive. The situation was found to be even worse among younger girls, with the figure rising beyond 60 percent among those who were trafficked before 15 years of age.
South Asia is one of those worst areas which are affected with AIDS. It includes areas with some 2.5 million people infected with HIV/AIDS in India alone. A report estimated that some 150,000 girls and women are trafficked each year across the region.
United Nations Global Initiative to Fight Human trafficking South Asia include countries which serve as high origin, transit and destination countries for women, children and men being trafficked.
According to UNODC7, Bangladesh, India, Nepal and Pakistan are ranked top in the countries of high origin. India and Pakistan are also ranked as countries with high destinations. Many of the countries in this region are trafficking in women and children. It is a matter of great concern throughout the world. In South Asia, trafficking through Cross-Borders, sourcing, transit to destination has really become a big problem. The movement of persons within the countries for exploitation in various forms is very common. However; there are no definite figures about the actual number of victims. Trafficking for commercial sexual exploitation is one of the most dangerous forms in South Asia.

The response against the crime of human trafficking by the countries of South Asia has been insufficient. There is a limited awareness. Although knowledge and the enthusiasm to speak out against trafficking have increased appreciably in the past half decade, it is still only at negligible levels. Besides the lack in awareness, existing legislation of anti-trafficking in most countries is inadequate. The law enforcement response is also weak and irresponsive.

According to a recent survey by the National Human Rights Commission, in India, it is stated that only 7 percent of the police personnel have received any kind of training until now. The number of registered cases and the percentage of traffickers’ convictions are low. The victims are often ‘re-victimized’ when they are brought in contact with the law as they are arrested on charges of soliciting. This shows that the victims need a better shelter facilities for their safety and there is an immense need of proper steps to be taken against this evil crime of sex trafficking.
At a positive side, South Asia has proved that with modest amounts of funding, focused advocacy targeting law enforcement and the political establishment, remarkable changes can occur in the response of “governance structures” for bringing improvements in the situation.
The United Nations entity has always focussed on the criminal justice element of such crimes, the work that UNODC does to fight against human trafficking is underpinned by the United Nations Convention on Transnational Organized Crime and its protocols on trafficking in persons and migrant smuggling.On the 15th of July 2011, in‘India’s Journey of hope’, UNODC showcased inspiring initiatives to take strong actions against human trafficking. Similarly on the 26th of August 2011, The UNODC Human Trafficking First Aid Kit for Law Enforcement Agencies was introduced to support front-line officers who might come into contact with cases of human trafficking.
Trafficking in human beings is a severe crime that must be treated with holistic approach by the national governments as well as international agencies. There is a great need of awareness and the activities of the local activists including media. Education, awareness and the role of youth must be recognized as the changing agents who can take active steps against the crime of sex trafficking in their region and especially in all of South Asia.

Eid-ul-Fitr 2011

2011-10-30T13:29:00.000-07:00

Jewel Time comes across the festivities of Eid-ul-Fitar 2011

Whether it was in happiness, sadness, joy or sorrow, Eid-ul-Fitr was being celebrated around the country, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan. Observers of Islam around the country started marking the holiday by gathering inside mosques for prayers.
Pakistan celebrated Eid-ul-Fitr after Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee announced on Tuesday, 30th September that the moon of Shawwal had been sighted. In the meantime, Eid was being celebrated on the same day in different districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and all tribal agencies and Frontier Regions.
Eid-ul-Fitr celebrates the purification gained during Ramadan which is a month of fasting from sunrise-to-sunset, one of the five pillars of Islam. Eid is the first day of Shawwal and a major holiday. As the most significant Islamic events depend on lunar sighting, the timings of festivals can vary in different countries. Many Muslims offer communal prayers, listen to a khutba (sermon) and give zakat ul-fitr (charity in the form of food) during Eid ul-Fitr.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani also greeted the nation on the occasion of Eid, and advised to promote care, tolerance, patience and brotherhood. They said that these principles were needed to create a society according to the principles of Islam.
Soon after the declaration that the Shawwal moon had been sighted on Tuesday night, a wave of happiness surged through the people all-over Pakistan. Many people rushed into the markets and Eid bazaars for shopping and women couldn’t wait to go to the beauty parlors and shops, buying bangles and mehndi and come back home as soon, to prepare delicious food and sweets for the next day. People remained busy in shopping in the markets till late night. The bazaars had been occupied for the last many days and festivities reached their peak on the Eid day, with scores of families turning out in great numbers for shopping. Many people also flocked to Race Course Park and Bagh-e-Jinnah and other picnic points in the city.
For those who go to sleep early, the night was longer than the usual days, dreaming of the joys of the next day; to put on their new clothes and shoes, then to approach their elders and wish them a happy Eid while impatiently eager to get their gifts and “Eidi”.
Specific security measures were also adopted on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr. Policemen were on duty outside bazaars, shopping centers and sensitive public and private buildings. Strict security measures were also taken outside the Eidgahs.
Big Eid congregations were held across Pakistan. It was good to see the special arrangements that were made to offer Eid prayers throughout the country. On this special event, special prayers were offered for peace, development and prosperity of the country, unity of the Ummah, solution of their problems and liberation of Muslim territories.

The culture of cinemas has also grown immensely in the past few years. People from all walks of life go to cinemas to watch Hollywood, Bollywood and Lollywood movies, especially those in the hit list. It has become a great interest for the audience to visit different parts of the world virtually, that lets them experience other cultures and activities of the life of people living in different countries across the world. One of the reasons for the charm of cinema is that it entertains all types of people, young and old, literate and illiterate. It is a place where one can go to with his/her family or friends or even alone.
The cinema attracts a huge number of people on a daily basis. Keeping in mind the current situation of the country, people want to go out and watch movies to ease their minds and lift up their hopes and spirits. Cinemas have actually become so popular in Pakistan now that some of the cinemas remain open for the late hours, having their last show starting at around 12 am. Just like every year, this year Eid came with all its festivities and pleasure. Cinemas were full of audiences from all walks of life.
Eid has its very own importance and passion. Muslims celebrate to thank Allah for giving them the patience to complete the month of fasting successfully. Besides one’s own happiness and joy, one should always remember their poor Muslim fellows and share their Eid with them.

Love, the Facebook Style

2011-10-29T13:16:00.000-07:00

Love has always been considered as one of the most sensitive emotions of the world. It has a great connection with feelings and mood. In each era, Lovers have been expressing their feelings concerning love in their possible way.
Facebook has become one of the most active social networking sites in the world.Facebook users must be thankful to the founder of facebook, Mark Zukerberg, who was being named as Time’s Person of the year 2010.He came up with the idea of facebook while he was studying at Harvard. By introducing sites like facebook, Mark Zuckerberg has played a prominent role in bringing a revolution towards the world of Internet.
Among many others, this revolution in internet has become a great help towards love and relationships.
It would be fun to mention that now Lovers have found an effective way to express their feelings and moods, especially those who really want others to know about their emotions. Let’s have a look at some exclusive styles of Love on facebook.
The sensation of Love:
As we watch TV and read in books, a person in love and his expressions and feelings do attract our attention. In the same way, a lover loves to share his new sensation of love on facebook, keeping his friends’ attention to his profile, specially ‘Status Updates’. Status like ‘Love is in the air’,’ my heart beats faster now’,’ what’s with this feeling in my heart’ or lyrics from any romantic song and their links and videos are greatly being shared by the lovers of 21st century, when they are in Love!
If that special someone is in the lover’s friend’s list, he would seem to be a regular user of the applications like ‘Friend of the day’ and ‘Who will you date today?’
Love me, Love me not:
What if there are doubts from the person the lover loves? He might capture the attention of others through his confused and disputed expressions on facebook.If the other person doesn’t love back, the lover fills his and his friends’ walls with broken heart songs and links and status updates. Applications like ‘What’s your mood today’, are also actively being used during such situations.
Commitments:
The newly committed couples, either married, engaged or committed through true promises mostly waste no time in changing their relationship status from single to committed or married. Some uneasy users do use cartoon psychics and compatibility calculators to satisfy the new relationships while others happily start sharing their happy moods and seem to be interested towards the Love quizzes. They also seem to be more interested towards daily ‘Love Horoscopes’.
The lovely honeymoon couples:
The couples, deeply in Love, greatly enjoy their honeymoon period through facebook as well. They leave no chance in filling each other’s walls with lovely messages. They become more interested towards applications like ‘How deep is your love today’.
Above all, they upload albums and pictures of their lovely time with each other.
The conflicts:
The conflicts are no more limited to face to face arguments, crying on phones or thinking too much while sitting alone. In today’s world, facebook has become an active source of ‘Personal wars in public’, Lovers have no problem in arguing with each other on facebook, Infact, they prefer it a great platform where they would find an ultimate solution to their misunderstandings. Status war has become a favorite way to fight for lovers. They love to bother and tease each other while letting their friends enjoy their loving conflicts.
Many times while using the walls of mutual friends, a person gives indirect messages to his partner, allowing others to interfere and have fun by the war of love birds.
Misunderstandings, Fights and Doubts:
It’s a very specific issue. The lovers do face different kinds of misunderstandings on facebook.Sometimes a female misunderstands the conversation between her lover and his friend while on the other side, the guy becomes possessive for his companion. Most of the times, applications like ‘Your top fans’, do envy a lover when he doesn’t find his name on the top.
Breakups:
Facebook has now become a good friend of the one with broken relationship. The heart break kid now finds facebook a great site to pass time and share his feelings by sharing sad songs.

Since years, the process of finding matches via internet has become prominent; a great number of people are getting themselves committed through facebook. Not everyone gets deceived, if they like someone and are all ready to have a relationship with a person, they find their own way to get information about that special someone through mutual friends or other possible ways.
The future of relationships on facebook is both risky as well as precious, depending completely on an individual as it fully depends on a person that to what extent he allows others to know about his personal life.

Bold and Beautiful

2011-10-27T04:24:00.000-07:00

Having confidence in you counts a lot. Confidence allows you to interact with others easily. If you are confident enough you can always face any kind of challenges and activities in Life. Confidence lets you trust your decisions and yourself.
All these characteristics add the quality of boldness in you for sure. But, there is one more characteristic, a very specific one I must say. Before I go further, I want to you to be very obvious about it. I want you to be clear about the concept of beauty, at least for me. Being beautiful is not being skinny, tall and fair.Beauty is how you carry your physical features which God has gifted you. For me, being beautiful is having a good and neat personality. Being beautiful is having a good sense of dressing and a pleasant way of interacting with others.
Trust me; if you possess such qualities, you are the most beautiful person in the world. It’s really heartbreaking when I see an individual lacking confidence in him, just because he thinks he is not beautiful enough? You can’t always transform your basic features. You can’t always change your basic physical characteristics. What you can always change is your way of living, your personality and your inner self!
Stop crying for what you can’t be. Be happy and focus on what you can be.
You and Yourself
You should trust yourself before trusting others. To an extent, No one can guide you better than your own self. You should take out sometime for yourself out of your busy schedule. Look around you and relate it to your existence.
Colors, dresses, shoes, jewelleries and accessories have a great effect on your life. Observe your budget and go for your favorite ones. Trust me being beautiful is not expensive. Neither does it take much money.
Be confident. Be sure of who you are. Be sure of your morals, ethics and beliefs. Do not allow others to dictate your value. You should learn to Stand up for yourself! I have seen so many people today who allow others, life, family, and various situations over their sense of worth.
You should just be yourself. Be normal, ordinary, expected, and regular and do the things you would likely do. I don’t guess it’s that hard? Sometimes it could be. Maybe because you get worried about fitting in and being part of the in-crowd? Sometimes it is ok to stand alone. It is fine to be different that is what will complete your beauty and make it natural.
You should learn to accept yourself and realize the value of your existence. Life is not always about reaching others’ standard. It’s also about doing things for yourself and being yourself.
I am not asking you to be selfish. I want you to be better enough to help and face others. You should be in a best position to be satisfied with your ownself.Then only you would be able to satisfy others.
Feel Great!
It’s a fact, not everybody who admires fashion might be as skinny as a runway model. Unfortunately, most of the people feel intimidated by the rich fashion designs. These designs are often made for an ultra-thin consumer. Moreover, everywhere you turn there are ads, commercials, television shows and movies that feature a personality of a single body type. Every now and then, the messages that the media gives to the world regarding the ideal body type can be discouraging for the plus size individuals. However, being a bit healthy is not the end of the world in life or in fashion design.
To look great is just to know where and how to shop, and how to dress for your particular size and shape! All of us are beautiful in our own way. Especially those who know how to dress ourselves. Don't abuse yourself, by picking clothes that are too tight for you. This won't feel comfortable, instead you will appear as uncomfortable as you will feel. All of us can't be super models. That never means we have to hide ourselves in baggy clothes. Be more confident and enhance yourself. Just because you have got a plus size doesn't mean you can't look fabulous.
Fashion is not always about what’s inn, it’s mostly about what looks good on you. Learn to carry yourself in a smarter way and look great!
The Real Beauty
Beauty is not always about putting on makeup. Makeup does enhance our physical attributes but it doesn’t make us beautiful. Being beautiful is being confident and accepting yourself. You should embrace who you are and live a life that honors God. Your character traits, aspirations, and how your carry yourself build your true beauty. Be beautiful, be yourself! Embrace your personality.
I am sorry if you are putting all your efforts and hopes on your outer appearance. These physical attributes will not last forever. Your body changes as you get older. Real Beauty is your love for the people, your compassion, your passion for life, your grace and mercy, your smile, your laugh and the list goes on and on.

You need to observe yourself. Observe what needs to be change in you. If you think you should lose weight? Go for it. If you think you need some physical grooming? Go for it. If there is a possibility for a change, then go for it but, never lose your own self for it. Trust me, only you have got the tools to look bold and beautiful. Once you go through this change in yourself you will realize that you are gaining self confidence .You will feel better for who you are. So, don't hide, come out and prove that you are bold and beautiful!

Infectious Diseases in Pakistan

2011-10-25T13:00:00.000-07:00

Diseases which are caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi and other parasites become the main causes of death, disability, as well as social and economic disruption for millions of people. Despite the safe and effective interventions, many people are unable to follow the required prevention methods and treatment. Lack in productivity, missed educational opportunities and health care of high costs caused by infectious diseases directly affect families and communities.

Infections are more common in developing countries; the main reason behind it is the presence of co-infection. The unfavorable impact of infectious diseases is found to be most severe among the poorest people. These people have the fewest resources towards integrated health care, prevention tools and medications.
According to World health Organization (WHO), Pakistan ranks eighth on the list of 22 high-burden tuberculosis (TB) countries in the world. According to the researches, in 2007, an estimated 297,108 people in Pakistan (mostly adults in their productive years) developed TB. Besides that, the emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) TB and TB-HIV co-infection has become a growing concern in the country.
The Ministry of Health started to implement DOTS (the internationally recommended strategy for TB control) in 1995, where Baluchistan was selected as a pilot province. Much improvement has been made during the past five years. Pakistan’s case detection rate rose from 13 percent in the year 2002 to 67 percent in the year 2007, close to WHO’s target of 70 percent. According to the researches, DOTS coverage increased in Pakistan from 44 to 99 percent, during the year 2002 to 2007.
The sudden rise in case detection and the number of cases of TB reported every year since 2000 is the basic result of countrywide efforts to enhance the involvement of private practitioners and community volunteers to identify and refer TB suspects, as well as the common public who have helped with case finding. Since 2001, when TB was declared a national emergency by the Government, progress has been steady, with the support of USAID and the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.
Regardless of improvements, the National TB Control Program (NTCP) still has to face challenges. As TB planning shifts from the national level to the district level, technical and managerial capacities at the provincial and district levels need strengthening. Furthermore, the private region might not be fully oriented to take care of patients using the DOTS approach.

Infectious diseases can be organized into the following exposure categories. Some are basically food or waterborne diseases which are acquired through eating or drinking on the local economy.

Hepatitis A
It is a viral disease that interferes with the functioning of the liver. It spreads through consumption of food or water contaminated with fecal matter, principally in areas of poor sanitation; victims exhibit fever, jaundice, and diarrhea.

Hepatitis E
It is a water-borne viral disease that interferes with the functioning of the liver. It most commonly spreads through fecal contamination of drinking water; victims exhibit jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, and dark colored urine.

Typhoid fever
It is a bacterial disease that spreads through contact with food or water contaminated by fecal matter or sewage; victims exhibit sustained high fevers; left untreated.

Others are vectorborne diseases acquired through the bite of an infected arthropod.

Malaria
It is caused by single-cell parasitic protozoa Plasmodium that is transmitted to humans via the bite of the female Anopheles mosquito; parasites multiply in the liver attacking red blood cells resulting in cycles of fever, chills, and sweats.

Dengue fever
It is a mosquito-borne viral disease. It is associated with urban environments; manifests as sudden onset of fever and severe headache.

Yellow fever
It is also a mosquito-borne viral disease. Its severity ranges from influenza-like symptoms to severe hepatitis and hemorrhagic fever.

Plague
It is a bacterial disease that is transmitted by fleas usually linked with rats; person-to-person airborne transmission also possible; recent plague epidemics occurred in the regions of Asia, Africa, and South America associated with rural areas or small towns and villages.
In Pakistan, there is the need of working out an unusual strategy for the challenges ahead in the year 2011, as it continued to witness double burden of infectious diseases, in 2010.

According to statistics, Pakistan had been unable to control the burden of communicable diseases like tuberculosis, malaria, dengue fever, typhoid, viral hepatitis, cholera and other infections which were caused due to floods in 2010.At the same time there had been a rising trend of non-communicable diseases like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, hypertension and cancer in the country.

Experts state that though Pakistan put efforts to develop primary healthcare across the country, a lot is yet to be done. Besides that, the change in climate, which continued to endanger health and food safety were among the foremost health issues that needs to be focused. According to the experts, Pakistan needs to invest a lot on research on most valuable measures in order to protect health from climate change, particularly in vulnerable populations such as women, children and elderly in the country.

It is also believed that the economic recession has affected health and society. Trauma centers need to be developed in all major cities of the country, .However; almost no attention has yet been paid to the subject. Social inequities and injustice still kills people on a grand scale.
The important infectious diseases, which especially hit Pakistan in 2010, were ‘gastro’, ‘dengue fever’, ‘Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever’. Thousands of cases of gastro and dengue fever were reported in various cities of Pakistan. However, the provincial government has allocated little budget for prevention and control of the said infections.

The global shift from infectious diseases to non-communicable diseases was observed with heart diseases and stroke as primary killers. Besides that, the increase in cancer that is tied to an aging population and the trend was witnessed in Pakistan too.

Likewise, majority of health experts want that media campaigns should be given more attention to control the outbreak of the use of tobacco especially in youth and prevention and control of both the communicable and non-communicable diseases in the year 2011.

Integration of Evidence-Based Practice into Professional Nursing Practice

2011-10-24T17:00:00.000-07:00

Introduction
The profession of nursing is considered as a sensitive
profession. Proper need of study and guidance are the prominent
factors before putting this profession into practice. Research
findings are expected to incorporate knowledgeably into such
professional practices. It has been found out that
health care organizations have began to create methods to
support the process of information translation towards a
professional nursing practice.
Previously, the term ‘evidence-based practice’ was known as
‘evidence-based medicine’. This was the result of the
identification of scientific evidence in clinical decision-
making.
Various definitions of evidence-based practice have been
mentioned. According to a definition evidence-based practice
(EBP) is, ‘the practice of health care in which the practitioner
systematically finds, appraises, and uses the most current and
valid research findings as the basis for clinical decisions’
Five basic stages of the evidence-based practice:
There are five basic stages that must be completed prior to the
incorporation of evidence based practice into a final
performance.
The five stages are:
• The Question: The first stage is to recognize the need of a
new information. The need of this information has to be
transformed into an answerable question. It is must to take care
of the objectivity of an information.
• Finding the Evidence: The second stage in evidence based
practice is choosing the right evidence. It is of primary
importance as no mistake must be allowed in practical
implementation.
• Appraisal: In order to determine the validity and potential
usefulness of evidence, there is a need of a critical
appraisal.
• Acting on Evidence: Once it has been concluded that the
evidence is of sound quality, one has to decide the
incorporation of the evidence into his clinical practice.
• Evaluation and Reflection: This is a fundamental part of
nursing practice. In evaluation and reflection, it is essential
to verify that whether the action taken has achieved the desire
results.
The first stage is basically generates knowledge, where
information is discovered by a scientific inquiry and a
traditional research. This knowledge is then summarized and is
created into a useful and an informative data. This ultimately
leads towards more credible results. Then this evidence is
transformed into practical recommendations and integrated into
practice.

High quality of professional nursing care is a key factor in the
professional nursing practice. This factor is one of the basic
elements which holds a decisive tool regarding how a patient
must be taken care of. As far as the staff nurse is concerned,
it possess a critical linkage to bring research-based changed
into clinical practice.
Observing the environment, a health care organization has to
attentive and efficient regarding the application of research
findings, which related to the point-of-care deliverance.

A Clinical example for a professional evidence-based practice
Let’s take a clinical example to understand this factor more
Deeply:
As we know that infections can easily be spread on the hands of
healthcare workers.So, there is a need of proper hand hygiene
policy. As this policy might take minutes before entering a room
to deliver patient care. These minutes are very precious in a
busy hospital, where nurses care for many critically ill
patients. In order to save time, many hospitals have turned to
alcohol-based handrubs.These hand cleaners are being put closer
to patients.However, one might wonder if alcohol based hand rubs
which are placed inside the rooms of patients would help
increasing the incidence of hand washing and would lessen
nosocomial infection.
Different programs are taking steps for providing consumers
with a benchmark to determine the quality of care. According to
them, recognition of quality patient care, excellence in nursing
and innovation in professional nursing practice must highly be
kept under consideration.
Movements of evidence-based practice and the significant
assistances help nurses to improve research utilization. It is
very necessary for busy health professional to have a good
awareness regarding the latest researches and knowledge. This
would ultimately help them to take care of their patients in as
best way as possible.
Evidence-based medicine:
Main focus for the evidence-based medicine is the need for
medical practitioners to support their studies and activities on
the latest knowledge. The evidence-based practice acknowledges
the obstacles faced by busy practitioners and keeps them updated
with a healthy literature regarding health care. Besides
that, evidence-based practice emphasizes the need of a condensed
information.
Conclusion
The rapid expansion of literature on evidence-based practice in
nursing must be observed actively and carefully. A growing
awareness has been observed in United states and much work has
already been started in the United Kingdom. Besides that,
Australia, New Zealand and some other countries, are taking
efforts for the required development of infrastructure of
evidence-based health care and nursing.
Life and health of a patient depends on the quality of care and
Nursing. Not a single space for any kind of mistake is allowed
in the profession of nursing. Evidence-based practice supports
this factor for the best possible outcomes for the health of a
patient.

Food and Agriculture sector in Pakistan

2011-10-22T13:00:00.000-07:00

South Asian countries are mostly the rural-based countries, where more than half of their labor forces are engaged in agriculture.
It has been found out that the population was expected to rise at 1.6% during the year 2010.It has now been expected that by 2020, the population of this region will increase up to the level of 206 million in Pakistan. As a result, the demand for food grain like wheat and rice is expected to increase considerably with the growth of population and income.However, the huge technological phenomenon can fulfill the actual demand.
As far as Pakistan is concerned, agriculture is a very significant sector of the economy of Pakistan.Infact, the welfare of a large population depends on a resourceful harnessing of the agricultural source of Pakistan. The population of Pakistan has reached to a level of above 145 million and to fulfill the needs of the growing population, there is the need of a continuous increment through an enhancement in per hectare yields. It is thus, important for farmers to be able to use a balanced package of technology.
It seems that the private sectors have put efforts to support pesticides and fertilizers. This has showed a good output.However, a lack has still been found in the quality of seeds which has seriously started to affect the general production finances of the farmers.
It has been mentioned in a research that the overall agricultural GDP growth rate in Pakistan was below potential in the past several years.This low rate was the result of some provisional factors like the critical conditions of weather. Besides that, in the overall period of 1989-90 to 2004-05, the average growth rate was being calculated up to 2.3 %.However, it increased to 3% after a period of time but, again it was only 1.5% in 2007.
Top Production in Pakistan in the year 2008
Commodity Production (Int$1000)
Buffalo milk, whole, fresh 9957907
Wheat 3023994
Cotton lint 2983804
Cow milk, whole, fresh 2918026
Rice, paddy 2162313
Indigenous Cattle Meat 1406209
Sugar cane 1194856
Indigenous Buffalo Meat 1144793
Indigenous Chicken Meat 700330
Cottonseed 449528
Mangoes, mangosteens, guavas 427005
Hen eggs, in shell 417796
Indigenous Goat Meat 397314
Chillies and peppers, dry 386122
Onions, dry 371381
Potatoes 347249
Maize 311997
Indigenous Sheep Meat 304185
Oranges 302448
Dates 213193

It can be said that the agricultural rate has basically revealed mixed trends in the period of the current decade. The growth rate was up to 7.9% in 2005, which was good but, later the challenges like weather and water scarcity let the growth rate towards a critical condition. According to the researches, the annual agriculture growth rate of Pakistan from 2004-05 to 2010 is as following:

Year Growth Rate Target
2009-10 2.0% 3.8%
2008-09 4.7% 3.5%
2007-08 1.5% 4.8%
2006-07 5.0% -
2005-06 2.5% 4.2%
2004-05 7.9% 4%

As far as the total cereal production of 2010 is concerned, it has been calculated around 35 million tonnes, which is around 7% lower than that of 2009, which is at the same level of the 5 year average.However, the overall cereal exports for 2009/2010 were estimated till 3.5 million tonnes, compared to 3.8% million tones of the average of 5 year.

Source: http://www.fao.org

According to the latest studies, the recent floods have led Pakistan towards substantial damage of the crops. The floods have killed 200,000 livestock and have destroyed about 4.25 million acres of crop which were worth US$5 billion. Pakistan has lost major crops like wheat, cotton, rice, suger cane and millet. Besides that, much damage has been done to the new seed varieties which were developed over years. It has also been expected that the long-lasting floods would affect region’s ecology. Above all, it has been declared that the recent floods have changed the overall agricultural scenario of Pakistan.
In fact, the destroyed crops include about three million bales of cotton which were worth US$1 billion. Following that, Pakistan has lost sugarcane worth US$588 million, maize which were worth US$259 million, rice paddies of worth US$247 million and above 667,000 tonnes of wheat of worth US$190 million. Besides that, Pakistan has lost livestock worth US$1 billion and vegetables and fruits worth US$18 million have been lost.
The food and agriculture sector in Pakistan needs a lot of attention and hard work. The latest researches have declared that there is the need of an optimal utilization, management and development of water resources, in order to achieve self-adequacy in food grain production and exportable surplus.
The economy of Pakistan is based upon agriculture. Awareness must be brought up regarding the use of appropriate irrigation technologies. Strong steps must be taken to control the prices of food because with the crash of the present food inflation, the inflation numbers for the final half of the year 2011 are expected to come down. The domestic consumption of Wheat in the same year has been expected to go downward. According to a long-term forecast, the consumption of wheat is expected to outpace production by the year 2014/15.Pakistan could find itself in an adverse scenario of being dependent on imports, in order to meet the domestic demand. This situation is vulnerable to the price fluctuations on the world markets as well. Due to the floods, the price of wheat flour has been shorted by more than 80% in some areas.
The flood scenario has distorted the cropping systems, soil characteristics and the depth of underground water. There is a need of an active practice of purchasing agriculture produce directly from farmers in the poultry industry. Pakistan Poultry association (PPA) is concerned over the imposition of about 3.5% WHT on the production of agriculture. The efficiency in farming has become very necessary for the development of poultry industry in Pakistan. The industry is putting efforts to increase the productivity concerning the current food and agricultural scenario in Pakistan. The population of Pakistan directly effects the food requirements and the water which is required to gain the required grain productions. So, there is a need of an improved food and agricultural policy to control the food and agriculture scenario in Pakistan.

Chemical sector in Pakistan

2011-10-10T15:00:00.000-07:00

Chemical sector plays a fundamental role in the economic development of any nation. The global business of chemical forms the structure of the modern world. It converts essential raw materials into more than 70,000 various products, for industry as well as the goods of consumers that people depend on in their daily life. The modern chemical industry can be divided into four wide categories, including basic chemicals, specialty chemicals, life sciences, and consumer products. The cause for its outstanding success is the constant scientific and technological advances and breakthroughs, which have led to the expansion of new products and procedures.
During the time of independence, chemical industry in Pakistan was almost non-existent. Some traditional sectors have been developed over the years.However; the Chemical Industry in Pakistan is still at an emerging phase.
As far as the classification of the Chemical industry development of Pakistan is concerned, it can be classified into two sectors.1) the primary sector and 2) the secondary sector. Primary sector industries are at a large-scale. They are capital intensive industries that comprise refineries, natural gas, petrochemicals, metallurgical and projects based on mineral. They also supply feed stocks to the secondary chemical industry. Secondary industries are based on feed stocks which are either derived from primary sector of industries, or other different sources of raw materials. These industries are less capital intensive and they are based on high, medium or less advanced technologies.
By tradition, exports from Pakistan are basically the goods produced with low technology, feed stocks including resources like cotton, textiles, readymade garments and leather. These include 60% of total exports. The composition and contribution in exports of average and high products based on technology, containing chemicals, petrochemicals and other manufactured products is very small. It has varied between 8-10% of total exports from Pakistan. On the other hand, Pakistan possesses a very high addiction of imports of goods which are high value-added, and are expensive. Chemicals, medicines, drugs, dyes, capital plant, equipment and machinery, jointly account for about 40% of total imports with an expected value of US$16.3 billion for the year 2007-2008. Accordingly, the trade balance has been constantly increasing and was US$20.9 billion in 2007/08.
Chemicals like pesticides, fertilizers and industrial and consumer chemicals have become very important in many economic activities. They are actively being used in the industrial, agricultural and consumer sectors of Pakistan.However, Unfortunately there are no centralized treatment facility anywhere in the country.
According to a recent Healthcare Report: Pakistan’s rank is 16 in BMI’s Asia Pacific Business Environment (BERs).When observed on international basis, the rank of Pakistan is 75 out of 83 surveyed markets. Pakistan is facing issues due to instability and other happenings but, due to its strategic importance, Pakistan's foreign allies are expected to do everything they can to ensure its stability. However, foreign drug makers are also expected to continue to take a cautious stance regarding direct investment in the country.
In 2010, the overall rate of medicine, drugs and over-the-counter medicines has been calculated up to PKR 159.2bn (US$1.79bn).It has been observed that the medicine sector could face huge losses in FY10/11.This might be the result of uncertainty in the industry.
All the way through to 2014, the value of market at consumer prices is expected to be at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.13%. However, growth will only be 3.50% in US dollar terms, which would also proceed as prevention to foreign participation. The situation can improve over the ten-year forecast period, with CAGR rates as 8.84% and 6.98%, respectively.
Medicated drugs are expected to account at around 76- 78% for the five- and ten-year spans.
Besides, other business activities since years, different Chemicals are being imported and exported from Pakistan.
Discussing the consolidated figures for imports & exports such as chemicals, fertilizers, plastics, rubber, medicines, dyes & pigments, soaps & detergents, and the section of chemicals for the period from 2002-03 to 2008-09. Imports increased from 768 Million US $ in 2002-03 to 5,166 Million US $ in 2008-09 .On the other hand increment in exports was shown from 118 Million US $ in 2002-03 to 411 Million US $. Chemical shares in the total imports were about 15% while its share in exports was about 2.3%. The total imports of plants and equipment used for the manufacture of chemicals contributed about 23% of overall imports of Pakistan. The combined shares of the two categories like plants/equipments and chemicals were about 38% of country’s general imports and among major contributors of country’s imports. Pakistan’s trade deficit was about -- Billion US $ which has been increased to 17 Billion US $ in the year 2008-09.
According to the recent researches. For the time being, floods and political issues are expected to remain key features in Pakistan. From an economic point of view, it is expected that a decline in production and a provocation of price pressures will intensify stag factionary concerns, whereas modernization efforts will consume public funds for years to come. Besides that, the chemical industry has been involved in some crucial issues, especially after India blocked Chemical imports from Pakistan.
The Textile Processing is one of the most value-added, export-oriented as well as labor-intensive sectors of Textile Industry in Pakistan. The associated bodies with the textile processing opened three Regional/Zonal Offices in Faisalabad, Karachi, and Lahore/Gujranwala.

The total number of its associate units in the year 2009-10 was more than 450 spread all over Pakistan. The major object in the organization is to protect and promote the concerns of all persons who are dealing in the processing of textile products in Dyeing, Printing and Finishing.

For the recent development in the chemical sector of Pakistan, it must create its own capability and accomplish self-sufficiency in project design, engineering as well as the construction management required for the commercialization of technologies. There is a need to develop qualifications in the creation of medium and high technology based chemicals for export, along with the present industrial structure based on low technology resource based products. Above all, Pakistan must provide suitable inducements to entrepreneurs for the enlargement of an export-oriented chemical industry.

Banking and Investment sector in Pakistan

2011-08-23T16:00:00.000-07:00

The development in the banking sector and the real economy are equally supported by each other. An emergent and vibrant banking sector is fundamental for economic growth in Pakistan. The banking sector comprises the foundation of the financial sector in Pakistan.
The government owned Institutions dominated the banking in Pakistan. It accommodated the economic needs of the government, public enterprises as well as private sectors. Public sector dominancy leads to inefficiency in the banking sector. Besides that, the economic efficiency of the banks remained short and that directed towards low savings and investment in the private sector which then resulted in small growth. These problems comprised of the intense ownership of financial assets, high taxes, and narrow range of products. Other than that, they did not diversify into consumer and mortgage financing.

In order to develop the efficiency of financial system, the Government of
Pakistan introduced the macroeconomic and financial sector restructuring program.

After the privatization of most of the chief banks, the banking sector has developed in size. Besides the banking sector has become more competitive and economically stronger. The enhancement of management brought high productivity, trace short non-performing loans (NPLs) and levels of capital adequacy well above dictatorial necessities .Despite the successful growth in recent years, the banking sector prolongs to have a great prospective for further enlargement, diversification and financial growth.
The financial sector is too bank-centered and in order to meet the future financing needs of the country, it needs to become more diversified. The increase in the financing supplies of private and public communications’ investment, mostly in the transportation and energy sectors, are expected to remain unmet until the development of new long-term financing sources outside the banking sector. According to a conservative estimation of the GOP’s Medium Term Development Framework for 2005-10, around USD 150 billion (Rs. 12.0 trillion) will be required for such investments over the time it faces.
However, The BSS assembles and develops on the presented SBP Strategic Plan for 2005-10.That plan included some 20 functional as well as management strategies. It’s been observed that many of those strategies have been implemented, while others have been integrated with the BSS.
A multi-faceted microfinance has been developed by SBP and Pakistan Microfinance Network (PFM) to triple the number of microfinance beneficiaries from 1 million to 3 million by 2010 and then to 10 million by the year 2015. In order to support this program, commercialization of the microfinance industry has been encouraged so that it becomes sustainable socially and financially.
According to a research, Banks will be required to increase their MCR to Rs. 23.0 billion by the end of 2013.Except microfinance banks (MFBs); all banks will be required to comply. The requirements of MCR for DFIs have been kept the same as was instructed. This forced banks (and DFIs) either to strengthen further by finding merger partners or exit the market, with the higher MCRs as a new spate.
The researches have also concluded that the State Bank of Pakistan has accepted the merger of Atlas Bank and Summit Bank (Arif Habib Bank Ltd). Merger, acquirement and LBOs (Leveraged Buyouts) in the banking sector in Pakistan have been found out to be more common as compared to the other sectors. The trend signifies that it is an improved and developed sector than any other. However, other sectors like textile, leather, apparel, pharmaceuticals are considered as the major industries in Pakistan.
It has been observed that despite some significant achievements, the microcredit growth target which reached out to 3 million borrowers by the end of 2010, embarked in the strategy, continued to be unattained for many reasons. As a result, SBP initiated the practice to re‐visit the policy of 2007 in the current context and build up a medium term deliberated outline for sustainable microfinance in Pakistan.

On the other hand, the industry is yet to create foremost breakthroughs to develop into a dynamic contributor within the general financial sector and to contact millions of underserved people. The existing outreach of 2 million borrowers is merely 7% of the potential market. The Microfinance Strategy of the year 2007 rest a mark to reach 3 million borrowers by the end of 2010 from 0.9 million borrowers as it was in Dec 31, 2006.

The sector accomplished an inspiring growth rate of 43% per annum in 2007 and 2008, though, the microcredit growth lowered down in 2009 and 2010. Even though the growth of credit remained lower than its target, the microbanking industry progressed in deposit mobilization and microinsurance.

As far as the deals and companies in the sector of Banking are concerned, they found out to be as:
• Debt Financing: 70%
• IPOs: 15%
• M&A: 10%
• Restructuring: 5%
M&A is most common in the banking sectors. Here’s a table of M&A activity from 2002 – 2010 that has been updated from time to time:

M&A in Pakistan seldom takes place to create value; this consolidation in the banking sector is determined by dictatorial requirements.
According to the updated commercial banking report of Pakistan, the commercial banking forecast series of BMI covers 59 countries that account for 80% of global GDP. Each report which was being researched at source shows independent assessment of BMI and 5-year forecasts to end-2014 for the commercial banking sector in the market. By the means of its expertise in the country risk and financial markets analysis, BMI has produced private models to estimate a capital of key variables on the commercial banking sector. Historic and forecast data have been provided for the sector’s overall asset and liability growth, client loans, and client deposits. Forecasts for basic ratios counting the loan-deposit ratio and the loan-asset ratio are also included, in addition to the core macro-economic forecasts. Data has been presented in both local currency and US dollar terms.

Private sector investment and consumption should be observed as the key elements of the economy. They must be supported by increasing economic intermediation and services, counting banks as well as non-bank financial institutions, stock market and the debt securities. Changes should be introduced and developed on the strengths of the financial coordination, effort on removing the flaws and gaps and concur upon the speed, contents and staging of these reforms.

Mobile Technology beyond our imagination

2011-07-02T04:08:00.000-07:00

Introduction of new and advanced technologies have brought a great revolution in the digital world. The technology of mobile comes under such great technologies. The use of mobiles is no more limited to the deliverance of personal messages. The advancements in mobile technology and their uses have surprised us to a greater extent, both negatively as well as positively.
Mobile technology has played a dynamic role for education. Students can access Internet through the great technology of mobile broadband. This permit students and researchers to do research whenever and wherever they want.
Observing the way of giving out news, mobile technology now allows us to get breaking news as soon as possible. An individual can now make quick and informed decisions via real time information by mobile technology. The amazing features of Wi-Fi and GPRS have provided the facility of using Internet anywhere and anytime.
As far as the global commerce is concerned, mobile technology has allowed us to market the data we require, by using our mobile phones. Besides that, the introduction of 3G technology has developed the way of conducting business by introducing the characteristics of video calls, sharing large files and browsing the Internet. Among other developments, Promotion of products and brands via mobile is becoming very much active in the world. It’s one of the prominent developments in business in the digital world. It has been found out that the Web and Mobile Marketing are the most productive marketing sources in the digital media.
It’s been expected that the total global IT would increase by nearly six per cent this year. This is expected to happen by means of mobile and other social technologies.
It has also been mentioned in a research that the technologies are finally being integrated with each other, such as cloud with mobile, mobile with social networking, social networking with big data and real-time analytics.
Thus, with the increasing number of masses using mobile technology, projects are reaching a wider pool of prospective clients. On the other hand, mobile banking has let the bankers live an easier life as the convenience in transferring money saves a lot of time.
Mobile technology has become a great helper of people in emergencies as well. According to a research in 2009, 71% of men and 77% of women used their mobiles in their emergency situations.

However, if the proper precautions are not taken regarding the use of mobile technology, one can face a great loss personally as well as in other means. Among many others, one true example is the exposure of valuable data to unauthorized people. Care should be taken for the security of data.

The use of the developing mobile technology depends completely on an individual and the society. It’s our responsibility to make a positive use of this technology. When used negatively, it has a great power to destroy a good part of the world and when used positively, it has the greatest power to let us move ahead and get more advanced in the world of technology.

The technology trends of 2011 and Social Media

2011-06-27T04:06:00.000-07:00

Endorsement of products and brands and other different activities via social media are becoming very much active in the world. It’s a great revolution in the digital world.
According to a research firm, social media, cloud services and mobile devices are among the key transformative technologies that are moving into the mainstream.
However, it’s been expected that the total global IT would increase by nearly six per cent next year, by means of mobile and social technologies which have been considered as the great help to drive this.
It has also been mentioned in a research that the technologies are finally being integrated with each other, such as cloud with mobile, mobile with social networking, social networking with big data and real-time analytics. Besides that, according to a report presented by Ofcom, the UK is already giving more preference to the desktop PCs in favor of mobile devices.
Other than that, laptops are the most popular devices in Britain, where they are used to surf the internet at home, while the UK saw the uppermost development in Smartphone uptake last year.
As far as the super technology trends of 2011 are concerned, the trends of ‘Smart,’Cloud’,’Social’,’Open’ and ‘Hybrid’ are included in the topmost trends. They are driving IT research and development and the production of consumer electronic products in 2011.
"This year, the number of smart phone users in Korea reached 4 million, and the scope of smart devices was expanded from mobile phone and PC to TV, refrigerator, and automobile," said Samsung SDS in their 2011 IT Mega Trends report published on October 20.
It’s an undeniable fact that Smartphone and Mobile device technologies have been adopted by the consumers all around the world, at a higher rate. This has ultimately resulted in the development of Social networking services as well as location based marketing and social business. On the other side, through an Open Revolution, various ideas of a great number of ordinary people can be considered instead of just concentrating on the ideas of a small number of elites.
Old and New. It’s a fact that social media has been growing to a much greater extent in the past few years and thus, have left the more traditional marketing sectors behind. The combination of the old and new may well mark 2011 out as a defining moment in the record of social media.
It’s true that Social media has been a rising force in the business world for a number of years but, 2011 looks likely to be a more fundamental year.

Digital Marketing in Pakistan

2011-03-21T04:04:00.000-07:00

Digital Marketing in Pakistan

Promotion of products and brands via internet, mobile and other interactive channels is becoming very much active in the world. It’s a great revolution in the digital world.
Pakistan is also playing quite an effective role in this successful revolution. Pakistan has been successful in creating and developing such means which has boosted the digital marketing system in Pakistan. Some specific websites include Search Engines, Social Networking Websites, Shopping Websites/e-commerce Websites, Forums, Blogs, Corporate Websites and Web Directories, etc.
It has been found out that the Web and Mobile Marketing are the most productive marketing sources in the digital media.

Web Marketing in Pakistan

Web Marketing is also known by Online Marketing which ultimately points towards: Internet Marketing, Electronic Marketing, marketing and Online Research.
With websites like, Face book and Google, digital marketing in Pakistan has been increasing effectively. Marketing of products and brands through web marketing has made marketing easier and faster in the world of digital media.
In Web Marketing, the main features of market advertising are being used so that a response can be generated by the people. In this system, the creative as well as technical phase of the internet is being tied together which include design, development, advertising as well as marketing.

Mobile Marketing in Pakistan

Mobile and SMS marketing in Pakistan has introduced a new and active platform for digital marketing in Pakistan. Mobile has the highest recall rate in the world. Following that, Pakistan is also becoming a productive mobile marketer.
Companies spread messages to the receivers through different networks and thus, launch their specific product or brand in the market.
Due to the anti-spam law by PTA, small-time businesses that are using SMS for spamming different database of numbers are diminishing and there is an upward trend of usage of SMS short codes and relevant marketing with the support of ATL and BTL mediums.
In conclusion, the digital marketing medium is on the rise and has a phenomenal potential in Pakistan.

Top Six Grasslands of China

2011-03-19T15:59:00.000-07:00

The grasslands of China cover the total area of four hundred million square meters. They also hold forty one percent of the territory of China. These grasslands are crucial to many Chinese people, particularly to those who exist on and around them.
Ili Grassland
The Ili Grassland can be found in the crease of the Tianshan Mountains. According to the researches, this grassland is included in the largest mountain a range of Asia.It is surrounded by ridges on each of the three sides. It opens towards west to the moist currents of air.
One can observe the formation of a vertical division of grassland belts. These belts range through montane meadows, frigid meadows, montane meadow steppe, montane steppe, montane desert steppe, river valley meadows and plain desert.
East Hulun Buir Grassland
This fertile land is garlanded with numerous pearls as well as hundreds of silver chains. Both the rivers and the lakes originate from the Greater Xing’an Mountain. The mountain ranges across eastern Inner Mongolia and Heilongjiang Province. Same feature is being shared by the Rivers in Hulun Buir.
Western Sichuan Frigid Grassland
This grassland is also Bumyak Grassland. Possessing an altitude of three thousand and eight hundred to four thousand and five hundred meters, it is the largest grassland in the central Shaluli Range present in the Hengduan Mountains. The Sichuan-Tibet highway lengthens up to hundred kilometers all along the north of this grassland.
Xilin Gol
In the Mongolian language, the meaning of Xilin Gol is”river on the plateau”. This grassland is spread over more than two hundred thousand square kilometer and covers the Mongolian Plateau.
The Ujimqin Grassland stretches towards the east and north of Xilin Hot. The landscape is flat, in the midst of numerous rivers and small lakes.
Qilian Mountain Grassland
Remarkable changes took place in northwest China about five hundred and seventy million years ago. After the settlement of the sea, the Qilian Mountain Grassland arose. ”Qilian” is basically a term which the ancient nomadic Hun existing in north China used to refer to the”heavenly mountain”.

Nagqu (Nakchu)
Nagqu is the name of a river present in northern Tibet. It originates on the southern slope of the Thanglha Mountains and runs through Amdo, Biru, Nagqu, Sog and Baqen countries. The land there is found to be vast, and low hills are mixed with valleys.

Many organizations in China are taking active and preventive measures to keep these grasslands alive. According to them, grasslands shall be used sensibly and overgrazing prevented. At the places where dearth, degeneration or soil erosion occurs due to overgrazing, the users of the grasslands shall be given proper guidance towards the reduction of grazing and reshow forage grass.
There is the need of proper administration of extra control. Besides that, the local people and government at various levels should take measures to combat the pets of grassland. Other than they should take steps to protect those beneficial animals and birds that feed on pests and mice. These steps would restore vegetation and keep these grasslands alive.

Future of Online Media

2011-01-04T13:51:00.000-08:00

Media and Online Media

The word ‘Media’ is basically the plural of the word ‘Medium’, which means a way of sending message from one place to another place. ‘Online Media’ is concerned with media in digital and online means.
‘Online Media’, which can also be mentioned as ‘New Media’, is included in the fastest growing media around the globe. Internet is considered as the quickest way of knowing anything. There are many representations of Online Media; Internet, Social Networking, Online Marketing and Business, forums, blogs, image galleries and video portals etc.
The Future of Online Media
It can be said that the future of Online Media is bright. One can observe that e-business is gaining more attraction and success in the world of business and marketing.
In today’s world when digital media is at its peak, it can be said that the progress and development of Print and Electronic media is also dependent on Online Media.
It Can also be observed that now, Online Media is not only used just for entertainment, It has become a specific need of most of the people in their daily lives.
Online access has moved from being a luxury to an essential requirement. (Nielsen).
So, concerning the future of Online Media, it’s very clear that it has a healthy future, depending highly on the positive means of work and system.