Karachi, A recent survey conducted by Gallup and Gilani Pakistan has revealed that, similar to Q2 2023, inflation remains the most commonly cited problem for businesses in Q3, with over 1 in 4 businesses expressing a desire for government intervention to address this issue. Additionally, the proportion of businesses seeking government solutions for problems like loadshedding, taxes, and political instability has increased.
According to Gallup Pakistan, The survey, which included a nationally representative sample of businesses from across Pakistan, posed the question: “Which problems affecting your business considerably would you want the government to solve?” In response, 41% of the businesses identified ‘Inflation’ as their primary concern, while 18% cited a need for ‘Relief on utility bills,’ 8% expressed concern over the ‘Devaluation of Pakistani currency,’ and 3% highlighted the issue of ‘Inconsistency of Government policy.’
The findings underscore the significance of addressing inflation as a top priority for businesses, as it continues to impact the economic landscape and shape businesses’ expectations from the government.
Karachi, The Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi recently hosted the launch event for Bashir Sadozai’s travelogue “Koh e Qaf ki Chotiyyan” at the Haseena Moin Hall. The event, which attracted a significant audience, was a celebration of the rich cultural and historical exploration contained within Sadozai’s work.
According to Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi, the launch was presided over by Prof. Sahar Ansari and featured a lineup of notable figures such as Farast Rizvi, Ikhlaq Ahmed, Dr. Nuzhat Abassi, Khalid Moin, Syed Shuja Abbas, Tayyaba Mateen, and the author himself, Bashir Sadozai. The event was moderated by Raheela Firdous.
Prof. Sahar Ansari, in his presidential address, emphasized the significance of Sadozai’s book as a valuable source of information on regions like Azerbaijan, which have seen little documentation, especially post the dissolution of the Soviet Union. The book’s historical depth and exploration of Azerbaijan’s literature, culture, attire, and cuisine were particularly lauded.
Farast Rizvi, a critic, praised the travelogue for going beyond a mere narrative, capturing the essence of the traveler’s mental journey. He highlighted the unique literary and artistic qualities of Sadozai’s narrative, which vividly portrays his experiences in Baku, Azerbaijan.
Ikhlaq Ahmad pointed out the distinctive aspect of Sadozai’s travel book, noting its deviation from traditional narrative structures and its deep reflections on Pakistan and the author’s experiences in Azerbaijan.
Khalid Moin spoke about the literary qualities of the book, emphasizing its transcendence beyond a typical travelogue and the immersive experience it offers of Azerbaijani culture and life.
Tayyaba Mateen likened the narrative to fairy tales, creating a vivid experience of traveling in Azerbaijan. She praised the author’s ability to articulate complex truths with simplicity.
Dr. Nizhat Abbasi commended Sadozai’s writing and oratory skills, highlighting the travelogue’s rich literary style and the anticipation for future works from the author.
Syed Shuja Abbas reflected on Sadozai’s contributions to Karachi and Urdu literature, both in Pakistan and abroad.
Author Bashir Sadozai, expressing gratitude for the audience’s presence, shared insights into his travel experiences in Azerbaijan and his deep connection with the cultures he explores.
The launch event showcased the importance of travel literature in understanding and appreciating diverse cultures and histories, with “Koh e Qaf ki Chotiyyan” serving as a significant contribution to Urdu travel literature.