THESE days a revolutionary spirit has permeated in the Arab world giving an illusory belief to different pseudo-intellectuals in Pakistan who are busy doing such calculations here.

But, in Pakistan the problem is not of bread and butter but of terrorism and extremism plaguing the economy and polity.

The government has inherited this baggage along with empty state treasures from its predecessors, so not everything can be mended at one go.

Despite that, the country has unprecedented reserves of $17bn, stock exchange index points of around 12,500 and foreign remittances above S10bn.

Revenue generation and fiscal deficit are intertwined issues but, with mutual consensus, revenue generation can be increased, provided the government is allowed to do so, by bringing tax reforms, which will help to reduce the fiscal deficit.

In this regard provinces, with their increased financial and administrative rights (gained through the 18th Amendment), can play a pivotal role by reducing their expenditure and increasing revenue generation.

Thus the onus should not fall on the federal government only. But, above all, a stable law and order condition is required for this.

Therefore, to face that challenge courageously should be the government's major priority.

Once that challenge is met, the attached strings of economy and stable society would be synchronised.

Therefore, a concerted effort by both the provincial and the federal government is required, along with the support of the independent judiciary.

HEENA KHAN Lahore