From Tribal Trails to National Triumphs: The Inspiring Journey of Pakistan Rising Stars

From Tribal Trails to National Triumphs: The Inspiring Journey of Pakistan Rising Stars

In the rugged terrain of the newly merged districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), where education was once scarce and opportunities limited, a remarkable transformation is underway. Once considered remote and underdeveloped, these areas are now witnessing the emergence of a new generation of talented and resilient youth who are making waves in various fields, from sports to politics, and beyond.
The remarkable rise of these young talents from the tribal districts reflects the region’s newfound stability and peace. It underscores the importance of investing in education and opportunities for the youth. As they continue to shine and make their country proud on various platforms, they serve as role models for future generations, embodying the spirit of resilience, determination, and excellence. The youth from the tribal districts are indeed the rising stars of Pakistan, illuminating the path towards a brighter and more inclusive future for all.
The journey of the youth from the tribal districts towards success and recognition has not been without its challenges. For decades, these areas were marred by instability, conflict, and a lack of infrastructure, severely limiting the younger generation’s access to education and opportunities. The region’s tribal culture and conservative norms further compounded these challenges, particularly for women, who often faced additional barriers to pursuing their dreams and aspirations.
However, despite these daunting odds, the youth of the tribal districts refused to be deterred. With resilience, determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, they began to carve out their paths towards success, defying stereotypes and breaking down barriers along the way.
One of the most prominent examples of this indomitable spirit is seen in the realm of sports, particularly cricket. Historically, the tribal districts were not known for producing cricketing talent on a national or international level. However, in recent years, a wave of young cricketers has emerged from these areas, captivating audiences with their raw talent and skill.
Shaheen Shah Afridi, hailing from the Khyber district, is one such rising star. Known for his lethal pace and ability to swing the ball, Shaheen has quickly risen through the ranks to become one of Pakistan’s most promising fast bowlers. With his impressive performances on the field, he has not only earned the admiration of fans but has also become a symbol of hope and inspiration for aspiring cricketers from the tribal regions.
Similarly, Abbas Khan Afridi, another talented cricketer from the Khyber district, has been making waves in the world of cricket with his consistent performances and all-round skills. With each match, Abbas continues to prove that talent knows no boundaries and that with dedication and hard work, anything is possible.
But cricket is not the only arena where the youth from the tribal districts are making their mark. In the field of squash, Maria Toorpakai’s journey from the tribal regions of Pakistan to becoming the country’s top-ranked female player is nothing short of extraordinary. Despite facing numerous obstacles and threats, Maria refused to let fear dictate her path. Through sheer determination and unwavering courage, she pursued her passion for squash, eventually rising to prominence on the international stage.
Maria’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of the youth from the tribal districts, who continue to defy the odds and chase their dreams against all odds. Her achievements have not only brought glory to Pakistan but have also inspired countless others to break free from the shackles of fear and doubt and pursue their passions with conviction.
In addition to sports, the youth from the tribal districts are also making their presence felt in the realm of politics. Ayesha Gulalai and Zartaj Gul Wazir, both born and raised in the tribal regions, have risen to prominence as dynamic and influential political leaders. Their journey from the tribal districts to the hallowed halls of the National Assembly is a testament to their resilience, determination, and commitment to bringing about positive change in their communities.
Indeed, the youth from the tribal districts are the future of Pakistan, and their rise to prominence serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for the entire nation. Despite the myriad challenges they face, they continue to defy expectations and break down barriers, proving that with resilience, determination, and unwavering faith, anything is possible.
As the tribal districts continue on their journey towards peace, stability, and prosperity, the government and other stakeholders must continue to invest in the education, training, and development of the region’s youth. By providing them with the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to succeed, we can ensure that the youth from the tribal districts continue to shine bright and make their country proud for generations to come.
Stability First: KP Political Leadership Must Prioritize the Development of the Province

Stability First: KP Political Leadership Must Prioritize the Development of the Province

Hassan Sajid 

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) is not only one of the most beautiful provinces of Pakistan but also a land rich in natural resources. From its breathtaking landscapes, such as the Swat Valley and Kaghan Valley, to its abundant mineral deposits, including gems and precious metals, KP holds immense potential for economic growth and development. The province’s leaders have a tremendous opportunity to harness these resources more effectively, which could lead to significant progress and widespread societal benefits.
KP’s natural beauty, with its majestic mountains, lush valleys, and vibrant cultural heritage, makes it a prime destination for tourism. The development of tourism infrastructure could transform the local economy by creating jobs, attracting foreign investment, and boosting local businesses. Properly managed tourism can also preserve the environment and cultural sites, turning KP into a hub for eco-tourism and cultural tourism.
Unfortunately, the current priorities of the KP government do not seem to align with the stability, progress, and development that the province so desperately needs. By realigning their focus towards sustainable resource management, infrastructure development, and tourism, KP can achieve the prosperity it is capable of.
The province has abundant economic resources, including fertile agricultural land, forests, and water resources. KP can substantially increase its economic output by investing in modern agricultural techniques, enhancing irrigation systems, and supporting small and medium enterprises. These efforts would not only improve food security but also boost exports and generate revenue for the province.
Due to its numerous rivers and mountainous terrain, KP has immense potential for hydroelectric power generation. Developing hydroelectric projects could provide a sustainable and renewable energy source, reducing the province’s dependence on fossil fuels and addressing the chronic power shortages that plague the region. This would also attract industries that rely on stable power supplies, further boosting economic development.
The province is rich in mineral resources such as marble, gemstones, and precious metals. Proper exploration and mining, emphasizing environmental sustainability and local job creation, could transform KP into a mining powerhouse. This sector has the potential to generate substantial revenue, which could be reinvested into the province’s infrastructure and public services.
KP stands at a critical juncture following the 2024 elections; the political leadership must shift its focus toward stability and development. Despite the immense potential, KP’s leaders have repeatedly failed to prioritize development and public welfare. The recent 2024 elections saw the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party secure a position in KP for the third time.
However, PTI leaders have shown little progress in development initiatives. The focus has been more on political rhetoric and disputes rather than tangible development efforts for the province.
The contrast between KP and Punjab’s leadership is stark. In Punjab, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has introduced numerous programs aimed at provincial progress, including the Digital Rozgar initiative, the Dastak App for citizen services, the Apna Chat Apna Ghar project, providing youngsters with electric bikes, and much more. A special Ramadan Ration Program was also launched to support people in need. These initiatives reflect a clear vision for development and public welfare.
In KP, the situation is disheartening. Leaders like Ali Amin Gandapur have not introduced significant programs for the province’s development. Instead, internal disputes, such as the ongoing conflict between the Governor and the Chief Minister, have taken precedence over governance and public service. As a result, the public is suffering from unemployment, poor infrastructure, and soaring inflation. The province’s debt burden has surged to Rs 530.72 billion in the fiscal year 2022-23, a clear indicator of financial mismanagement and lack of strategic planning.
The people of KP are bearing the brunt of this negligence. With 18-hour power outages, rampant unemployment, and an unmanageableinflation rate, the quality of life has deteriorated significantly. The provincial government’s mismanagement and lack of vision are evident, and the urgent need for a shift in priorities cannot be overstated.
For KP to realize its potential, the political leadership must prioritize stability and development. This requires a collaborative approach with the federal government, implementing effective policies, and focusing on public welfare. KP can transform into a progressive province by investing in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic development.
Tourism Development: Invest in infrastructure, marketing, and training to develop a sustainable tourism industry.
Economic Reforms: Support agricultural innovation, enhance irrigation systems, and promote local businesses.
Power Projects: Develop hydroelectric projects to ensure a stable and renewable energy supply.
Mining Initiatives: Implement sustainable mining practices and share the benefits with local communities.
Good Governance: Resolve internal disputes, focus on policy implementation, and achieve financial stability.
KP has the resources and potential to become a beacon of progress in Pakistan. However, this can only be achieved if the political leaders prioritize development over political theatrics. Stability, vision, and commitment to public welfare are essential for the province’s growth and prosperity. The time for action is now, and the people of KP deserve nothing less.
Unblocking Opportunities: How the Revival of CPEC Spells Success for KP and Beyond

Unblocking Opportunities: How the Revival of CPEC Spells Success for KP and Beyond

Laila Sadaf

CPEC (China Pakistan Economic Corridor), the flagship project of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, has the potential to turn around the dwindling economy of Pakistan and amplify its growth. It is a transformative venture that aims to establish regional connectivity and develop the overall infrastructure of Pakistan. Meanwhile, Pakistan is already harvesting the early fruits of development by successfully operationalizing the first phase of CPEC. CPEC is now expected to see renewed momentum in its second phase after the official visit of Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif to China in June this year. CPEC’s potential for unlocking opportunities and fostering sustainable economic growth in Pakistan, particularly in the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), is abiding.
The decision to upgrade CPEC by constructing multiple additional corridors, including rapid and devoted industrialization, investments towards the modernization of the agriculture sector, technological innovations, and green corridors, were the meeting’s main agendas during PM visit to China. Additionally, a promise has been made to maximize the usage of the Gwadar port and renovate the Karakoram Highway to further facilitate transportation. Along with these, it was decided that one thousand young Pakistanis would get tech and agriculture training from the Chinese side. Huawei will annually provide IT training to 200,000 children in Pakistan.
These commitments would support the youth to develop and utilize their skills towards the development of e-governance and the digitalization of the economy.
Pakistan agreed to “optimize its business environment and policy framework” to facilitate Chinese investments as the key agenda of CPEC’s second phase. The Chinese representatives also promised to encourage Chinese businesses to make investments in Pakistan’s Special Economic Zones (SEZs). Establishing industries and subsidizing the existing industries is the need of the hour for the waning economy of Pakistan, as they hold the prospect of providing job opportunities for our young people across the province.
The situation, however, does not seem quite promising. The establishment of SEZs has been incredibly delayed due to various economic and political reasons. Dhabeji is still in the bidding phase, while the Rashakai project has made only modest headway. Rapid development and operationalization of SEZs ought to be a primary goal of the government of Pakistan to draw in investments not only from China but other nations. Moreover, Pakistani businesses that have rolled back their investments and hoarded their money outside due to the uncertain economic conditions of Pakistan need to be encouraged and facilitated to invest in their native country to promote financial influx in Pakistan.
Furthermore, another project of significance is the upgradation of the ML-1 (Main Line-1) railway track to be implemented in a phased manner after agreeing on financing modalities. It includes the upgradation and doubling of ML-1 from Karachi to Peshawar and Taxila to Havelian, the rehabilitation and construction of major bridges, and the provision of modern signaling and telecom systems. The north-south railway track is 100 years old; therefore, its upgradation is imperative to meet our strategic and socioeconomic needs and bring about revolutionary developments in the railway sector. It has the capacity to provide thousands of jobs to the local people and amplify the exports by providing safe and short trading routes.
The CPEC project has certainly helped Pakistan significantly develop its power and transport infrastructure sectors. Based on the achievements of CPEC in its first phase, the second phase—mostly based on business-to-business cooperation—is expected to yield further economic surplus for Pakistan, besides translating those benefits into higher productivity, growth, and exports through Chinese investments in manufacturing, agriculture, and technology.
In addition to the above-mentioned key agendas of the second phase, Pakistan is also engaging the Chinese leadership for the renewal of more than 1,800 megawatts of hydropower projects (HPPs) and investment from fresh Chinese companies in the Counter country’s transmission and distribution network as part of the second phase of the CPEC. It will help Pakistan get rid of its long-standing dependency on imported power production and the menace of electricity shortages prevalent whiningly across the country and specifically in KP. Besides these fresh investments in transmission projects, Pakistan is also inclined towards pursuing Chinese firms to enter the distribution sector, as the government urges private sector participation, including through privatization or long-term concession agreements.
Thus, to make the second phase of CPEC a success, it is necessary that the government should draw lessons from earlier experiences and failures and plan a doable and long-term project along with Chinese counterparts. There is a need to ensure transparency throughout the entire program, from the conceptualization of the projects to their operation. Pakistani government needs to understand that any program that relies excessively on any other nation for financial assistance is not good for the country. The best course of action is to limit the program with pragmatic and efficient strategies for its materialization and to keep a modest size of it, to carry it out at its natural pace and without much fanfareHence, it could rightly be said that the CPEC project still has great potential for the development of Pakistan, despite the hurdles, and could bloom into a ripe fruit if those are removed.

Rallies on 9th May: A Gesture of Solidarity with Pakistan Armed Forces

Rallies on 9th May: A Gesture of Solidarity with Pakistan Armed Forces

A year after the incidents of May 9, 2023, the Pakistani nation came out in favor of its valiant security forces, holding rallies across the country to send a clear and strong message to all the centrifugal forces who, under the cloak of politics, want to destabilize Pakistan. Through these rallies, the Pakistani people announced that they trust the Pakistan military not only as an institution but also as a binding force that keeps the state together against all internal and external threats.
Massive rallies were held in almost all major cities, with people from all walks of life participating to express their support and trust in the Pakistan Army and other security forces. May 9, 2023, will remain a Black Day in Pakistan’s history. On this dark day, politically motivated and brainwashed miscreants, in an act of political upheaval, purposely resorted to violence against state institutions, destroying sacred symbols of the state and sites belonging to national heritage. This is certainly not how political parties should behave, and in Pakistan, such an event was previously unthinkable, where mindless and senseless mobs vandalized historic military landmarks across the country.
The federal government commemorated the day to express solidarity with martyrs and their families. In KP, rallies and processions were held across the province, mainly in Peshawar, Mardan, Swabi, DI Khan, Lakki Marwat, Tank, and Charsadda, where people expressed solidarity with Pakistan Army. During their speeches and slogans, they stated that they would not tolerate the desecration of martyrs and that the perpetrators must be punished for such wrongdoings. Sentiments like these were more visible in Swabi, the hometown of Kargil war hero Captain Karnal Sher Khan, whose monument was also vandalized by the rioters on May 9, 2023.
Similarly, in Sindh, rallies were organized by the public in general in Sajawal, Thatta, Badin, Hyderabad, Sukkur, Tando Muhammad Khan, and Kashmore, among other places. In Larkana, Jacobabad, and other cities, people raised slogans in favor of the Pakistan Army. The participants were carrying various placards filled with slogans of love and solidarity with the Pakistan Army. They expressed their emotions and love, stating that the love for the army cannot be erased from the hearts of the people.
Despite the fact that the political party involved in the May 9 mayhem is shamelessly accusing the Pakistan Army and intelligence services of orchestrating this unfortunate incident, Pakistan Army, through a press conference by the DG ISPR, announced they would move on if those involved in this crime seek pardon from the nation and vow not to repeat it in the future. Unfortunately, this was taken as a sign of weakness yet again, and more accusations were raised without an iota of proof. This raises a big question mark over Pakistan’s judicial system and its ability to lawfully deal with such anti-state elements in national politics. The Pakistani nation also seeks justice for its heroes who made the ultimate sacrifices for the safety and security of the motherland.
Questions over the judiciary’s inability to punish the perpetrators of May 9 were also raised during the rallies held across the country. The participants expressed their dissatisfaction and questioned why these evil elements continue to escape punishment under the law of the land. These same sentiments also exist in the rank and file of the Pakistan Army and sister forces regarding these miscreants. Pakistan’s judiciary and government must overcome all the legal loopholes in the legal framework to ensure that not a single person involved in this carnage goes unpunished. Additionally, those tried in military courts must also be put on speedy trials in anti-terrorism courts in light of the evidence gathered by security forces and intelligence agencies. This is critical because no one in the world will respect Pakistan as a sovereign state if the sanctity of its armed forces is compromised, as they are the guardians of the homeland. May 9 was not a protest; it was a mutiny against the state, and mutinies are dealt with an iron fist all over the world.
The government has vowed to bring these people to justice as per the nation’s demand, while the Pakistani masses are looking to the judiciary to swiftly provide justice to the martyrs, veterans, and heroes of the nation. Pakistan has spoken in solidarity with its armed forces, and this trust and bond with the nation is the biggest strength of the Pakistan armed forces, as has been expressed many times by COAS Gen Asim Munir in recent months. InshaAllah, with this trust, Pakistan will continue to move forward, defeating the nefarious designs of evil within and without.
Pakistan Zindabad!

Social Media Propaganda: Challenges & Way Forward

Social Media Propaganda: Challenges & Way Forward

Social media (SM), originally designed as web-based platforms for social interactions, sharing ideas, knowledge, awareness and infotainment, have evolved into powerful tools for propaganda warfare. The Weaponization of SM has drastically increased in recent years. Instead of direct confrontation with the enemy, hostile forces now target the general public, influencing their behaviours and beliefs and eroding their trust in government and state institutions through influence operations—known in military parlance as information operations.  Political forces in Pakistan, benefitting from the magic bullet impact of SM propaganda, are utilising the platforms ostensibly to achieve political objectives. However, the aggressive misuse of SM has significantly disrupted the socio-political fabric of society by brainwashing and manipulating the public, especially the youth.
Several SM platforms including Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat are commonly used in Pakistan for social interaction and communication. According to DATAREPORTAL’s 2024 digital report, 71.70 out of 111 million internet users in Pakistan actively use social media, equivalent to 29.5 per cent of the country’s overall population. The report indicates that by January 2024, YouTube had 71.70 million users in Pakistan, Facebook had 44.50 million, Instagram had 17.30 million, TikTok had 54.38 million (almost triple compared to 2022), Snapchat had 30.21 million and Twitter had 4.50 million users.
Social media is being used for information, entertainment, and product marketing on one hand, while on the other, it is subjected to manipulation, exploitation, and the spreading of false narratives. Politicians, religious extremists, sub-nationalists, and various interest/pressure groups are utilizing social media for their campaigns, mass mobilization, and perception management and control.
The challenges of this hybrid war are multifaceted. Internally sub-nationalists, religious extremists, terrorists, disgruntled political forces, and other agents of chaos utilize social media as a weapon against Pakistan. Externally social networking sites have been found projecting Pakistan negatively, damaging its global image. Countries like India and other hostile nations are at the forefront of using this tool to undermine Pakistan’s interests.
Political forces hostile to the establishment of Pakistan are actively investing in social media not only to promote their political ideologies but also to further their nefarious designs aimed at undermining the credibility of state institutions. Both left-wing and right-wing political factions aggressively use social media to shape political narratives and exert pressure. Anti-state anarchists are using social media not only to amplify their anti-state activities but also to indoctrinate Baloch youth.In 2020, the EU Disinfo Lab has uncovered an Indian-sponsored propaganda network comprising hundreds of fake news and social media outlets operating globally against Pakistan’s interests. India is also known to invest substantial financial resources in Western capitals for social media propaganda. This shift reflects India’s move from conventional warfare towards cyber and information warfare doctrines. For this purpose, not only is state machinery being utilized, but also a vast IT industry has been established. According to some journalistic accounts, the Indian Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) has long operated as an information warfare agency within its structure, responsible for cyber warfare, psychological operations, and various other IT-related advancements.
Today’s members of terrorist organizations represent the first generation to have grown up with access to social media and the internet. These platforms play a critical role in the indoctrination and recruitment of vulnerable youth. Terrorists aggressively exploit these platforms to spread their ideas, incite violence, engage in cyberterrorism, and radicalize a vast, borderless audience—a capability that was previously unimaginable. They can now produce and disseminate rich content on a mass scale while recruiting anonymously.
Pakistan faces numerous challenges in regulating its cyberspace. While enforcing local laws regulators take action against individuals using social media for anti-state activities and attempt to enforce regulations according to domestic laws and societal norms. However, significant challenges emerge when local rules conflict with those of social media giants. Despite formal complaints, official correspondence from authorities, and reporting by social media activists, no significant actions were ever taken against perpetrators.
Pakistan faces these challenges due to imperfect tech infrastructure, limited technological institutions and startups, and a lack of venture capital networks. This places Pakistan at a disadvantage when interacting with social media (SM) giants, who may view the country as having limited market potential amid local laws and their inconsistent enforcement. Moreover, Pakistan’s modest economic growth offers few incentives for SM giants focused primarily on business rather than activism. The fragility of administrative and regulatory frameworks further complicates matters, leading to arbitrary decisions such as banning entire SM platforms.
A practical solution for Pakistan to address these cyberspace challenges involves establishing direct communication channels with SM companies through the Pakistani tech industry. The state should engage with civil society activists, and digital rights networks domestically and globally, and actively participate in digital rights forums to align state policies with international practices. Additionally, hiring lobbying firms in Western capitals could aid in advocating for cooperation with SM companies and governments.
Pakistan should also seek collaboration with like-minded nations such as China, Turkey, and Malaysia to form regional alliances and pool resources for lobbying efforts with SM companies. To counter propaganda and disinformation campaigns effectively, Pakistan could implement counter-narrative and counter-propaganda approaches, employing tactical and strategic messaging. In societies like Pakistan, a firm approach, including strict regulations on SM companies and internet providers, coupled with proactive information influence activities, aggressive lawfare, and both kinetic and cyber operations, could effectively deter hostile actors.