Author: Maxter ʚïɞ

This author has written 2722 articles

SUMMARY of the Article “Indian foreign policy,” Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry, Dawn, August 18th, 2024

The article by Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry explores the evolution of India’s foreign policy since its independence in 1947, highlighting significant shifts and enduring characteristics. Initially, India adopted a non-aligned stance during the Cold War, leaning towards the Soviet Union while maintaining cool relations with the United States. The Panchsheel principles guided its friendly approach towards China, and it viewed itself as part of the developing world. However, in recent decades, particularly with the onset of the 21st century, India’s foreign policy has undergone a paradigm shift. Aligning itself with the US Indo-Pacific Strategy, India is now seen as a key player in America’s efforts to contain China’s influence in the region. Despite ongoing tensions with China, India maintains robust economic ties with its neighbor. Concurrently, India continues to nurture its close relationship with Russia, even as the US and Russia face off over Ukraine’s potential NATO membership. India’s current foreign policy, described as ‘strategic autonomy,’ involves balancing relations with major global powers while simultaneously engaging in multiple alignments like BRICS, SCO, and QUAD, despite the seeming contradictions among them. Its growing economy, democratic stability, and strategic partnerships have bolstered India’s global standing. However, its foreign policy towards South Asian neighbors remains unchanged, characterized by hostility towards Pakistan, rivalry with China, and a dominant stance towards smaller regional states like Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. India’s reluctance to recognize the independent foreign policy choices of its neighbors, especially in relation to » Read More…

SUMMARY of the Article “Brick in the Wall,” Muna Khan, Dawn, August 18th, 2024

The article reflects on the implications of techno-nationalism and the growing trend of governments using technology as a tool to control information and assert national identity. The writer recounts her experience from graduate school in 2016, where she was introduced to various social media platforms used in the US, which were perceived as primitive compared to China’s WeChat. The US, despite its claims of internet freedom, has a history rooted in using technology to keep perceived enemies out, starting with the creation of Arpanet by the US defense department in the 1960s to communicate securely amid fears of a Soviet attack. The article delves into how techno-nationalism, like the US blacklisting Huawei over spying concerns, serves national interests by influencing global power dynamics. China’s creation of the “Great Firewall” in 2000, which serves as a defense against foreign influence, is compared to Pakistan’s reported Rs30 billion firewall aimed at limiting foreign content and protecting national security. However, this firewall is seen as detrimental, isolating Pakistan from the global economy and causing significant financial losses, especially for the tech industry. The writer criticizes Pakistan’s version of techno-nationalism as “cringe” and counterproductive, warning that it prioritizes security over civil liberties and will likely harm the economy and civil rights. The » Read More…

SUMMARY of the Article “Pakistan at 77,” by Samuel Rizk, Dawn, August 14th, 2024

In this reflective piece, Samuel Rizk, the UNDP resident representative in Pakistan, offers a nuanced analysis of Pakistan’s journey as it marks its 77th Independence Day. Despite the nation’s pride and natural beauty, Pakistan faces significant challenges as it recovers from the dual blows of the Covid-19 pandemic and the devastating 2022 floods. The country remains highly vulnerable to climate change and continues to struggle with macroeconomic instability, debt, and security concerns. These issues are compounded by unresolved governance challenges, which hinder the nation’s ability to achieve inclusive and sustainable development. The article underscores the urgency of addressing these challenges, especially as Pakistan has only six years left to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Alarmingly, the country is projected to achieve only 35 out of 169 targets, with poverty at 40 percent and significant gender disparities. The literacy rate among women and girls is a mere 46 percent, and nearly 22 million children are out of school. Rizk highlights three critical areas of focus for Pakistan’s future: investing in human capital, particularly by empowering women and youth; preparing for a resilient, sustainable economy that adapts to climate challenges; and enhancing Pakistan’s global presence by committing to human rights, civic engagement, and strong trade practices. By » Read More…

 SUMMARY of the Article “Striving to Hope,” Dawn, August 14th, 2024

On this Independence Day, marked by the triumph of Arshad Nadeem at the Olympics, there is a slightly brighter outlook for Pakistan, a country often seen as an underdog. However, this optimism must be tempered with reflection on the future for the nation’s youth, who make up over 60% of the population. August 12, the UN’s International Youth Day, serves as a reminder of the challenges these young people face. Pakistan is experiencing a ‘youth bulge,’ with a significant portion of its population under 30. This demographic reality, often misinterpreted as a sign of potential power, is actually a warning. The resources required to support such a large young population—education, healthcare, employment—are insufficient, leading to widespread unemployment and associated mental health issues. The pandemic has exacerbated these challenges, leaving many young people in a state of uncertainty and prompting them to seek opportunities abroad. The societal and cultural environment also contributes to this crisis, with social media creating unrealistic standards of wealth and success, fueling anxiety and depression among the youth. Despite the celebration of underdog stories like that of Nadeem, the article argues that it is essential for older generations and policymakers to reduce the obstacles young people face. This includes controlling population growth, creating effective » Read More…

13th Aug | Daily Dawn Vocabulary Alphabetical order

These words are vital for CSS exam preparation, as they cover a range of topics and concepts. Understanding and using them correctly will help you score higher in the English essay and précis paper, as well as in current affairs and Pakistan affairs papers where precise terminology is essential. So, improve your vocabulary and get ready for your exams. This list includes simple meanings to help you confidently understand and use these words. Whether you’re studying for CSS, PMs, IELTS, GRE or any other test, these words will help you succeed.

» Read More…

12th Aug | Daily Dawn Vocabulary Alphabetical order

These words are vital for CSS exam preparation, as they cover a range of topics and concepts. Understanding and using them correctly will help you score higher in the English essay and précis paper, as well as in current affairs and Pakistan affairs papers where precise terminology is essential. So, improve your vocabulary and get ready for your exams. This list includes simple meanings to help you confidently understand and use these words. Whether you’re studying for CSS, PMs, IELTS, GRE or any other test, these words will help you succeed.

» Read More…