Better Pakistan
Better Pakistan: People often ask why I do not write about solutions. I have two clear answers.
First, most people in Pakistan do not want solutions. They want their own beliefs confirmed. When they hear something uncomfortable, they stop listening. Social media algorithms strengthen this habit. They show people only what they like. Over time, people expect easy and familiar opinions.
When people hear views they dislike, they react badly. They argue, interrupt, or attack. Many respond with abuse or mockery online. This behaviour shows a loss of critical thinking. People struggle to engage with different ideas. Still, some people can listen and think calmly.
Define the Problem
For them, my second point matters. We must define the problem before offering solutions. A solution has meaning only when the problem is clear. In economics, different problems need different answers. Are we short of foreign exchange? Do we fail to raise taxes?
We cannot answer all of them at once. That turns solutions into moral advice, not policy. Large reforms need public trust and political consensus. Institutions must work within their limits. Without this support, broad solutions will fail.
Practical Priorities
Given these limits, Pakistan should focus on a few practical goals. These goals must be achievable and measurable. Small successes can trigger wider change.
Two areas offer this potential. Both rely on technology. One is digital payments. The other is renewable energy, especially solar with batteries.
Digital payments can document the economy. Today, people make many small digital payments, but most money still moves in cash. Banks clear large sums digitally, yet daily trade remains cash-based. This slows growth and blocks transparency.
Transformative Shift
When most retail payments shift to digital channels, the economy will change. New businesses will emerge. Tax collection will improve. Opportunities will expand. Until then, the economy will stay informal and limited.
Solar energy offers similar benefits. The state should stop protecting an inefficient power system. It should phase out loss-making projects and circular debt. Solar can provide cheaper and reliable energy.
Powering Growth
Affordable and steady power will free entrepreneurs. People will create new businesses without waiting for the state. Flexible energy systems will drive growth. If the state focuses on realistic and transformative areas, other problems will gradually ease.
Published in Dawn, 8th January 2026
