Pakistan:‘Budget not beneficial for masses’

Daily Times

The Federal Budget 2013-14 announced by the Federal Finance Minister Ishaq Dar with an outlay of Rs 3.5 trillion on the floor of the National Assembly on Wednesday does not appear to be beneficial for the masses. The budget has failed to present immediate solutions to burning problems faced by masses as majority of pledges and commitment made by the minister relates to prolonged solutions. Making upward revision in sales tax ratio would have a negative impact on all kitchen items and it would only add to the financial miseries of the helpless consumers of the country. Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) Adviser Communication Khurrum Saigal in his comments over the salient features of the new budget claimed that it has failed to offer fast-track solution to the burning issues specially ending the scourge of load shedding in the country, which has assumed critical dimension over the period of time. Major part of the speech of the finance minister is related to promises and pledges, which would start assuming solid shape after a long gap of two to three years and until then the general public of the country would have to remain patient.