THE 2016-17 federal budget preparation is in the final stages these days. Millions of pensioners, including myself, are hoping and praying that the pensioners would be given at least a 20 per cent increase in their pensions.

Unlike serving public servants, pensioners have only this source of income to cope with their ever-increasing bills.

It is sad that pensioners don’t have a representative body to voice their concerns and seek a solution to their problems. These lines are penned in the hope that the federal government takes note of their concerns and addresses them.

M.Z. Rifat

Lahore

Published in Dawn, May 29th, 2016

Opinion

Editorial

‘Source of terror’
Updated 29 Mar, 2024

‘Source of terror’

It is clear that going after militant groups inside Afghanistan unilaterally presents its own set of difficulties.
Chipping in
29 Mar, 2024

Chipping in

FEDERAL infrastructure development schemes are located in the provinces. Most such projects — for instance,...
Toxic emitters
29 Mar, 2024

Toxic emitters

IT is concerning to note that dozens of industries have been violating environmental laws in and around Islamabad....
Judiciary’s SOS
Updated 28 Mar, 2024

Judiciary’s SOS

The ball is now in CJP Isa’s court, and he will feel pressure to take action.
Data protection
28 Mar, 2024

Data protection

WHAT do we want? Data protection laws. When do we want them? Immediately. Without delay, if we are to prevent ...
Selling humans
28 Mar, 2024

Selling humans

HUMAN traders feed off economic distress; they peddle promises of a better life to the impoverished who, mired in...