The global shift towards digitization is transforming public administration, particularly within Customs workflows. This study examines how Information and Communications Technology (ICT) is revolutionizing Customs operations through automation, digital declarations, and risk management. Emphasizing the role of digital Customs, the paper explores how ICT tools like big data, AI, and blockchain are improving efficiency in revenue collection and operational management. This research identifies key areas for improvement, such as advancing AI capabilities, expanding blockchain use, and fully integrating Geographic Information System (GIS) technology. Recommendations include enhanced staff training, better interdepartmental coordination, and improved technological integration. The findings aim to provide actionable insights for optimizing Customs operations and facilitating legitimate trade and border management.
_________________________Subsidies, a form of financial assistance from governments or organizations, aim to reduce production costs and enhance affordability of goods and services, particularly for vulnerable populations. They can manifest as direct aid, tax incentives, or support for research. While intended to drive economic growth, reduce poverty, and promote sustainable development, subsidies have complex impacts. The United Nations views them as tools to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), while the IMF highlights potential economic inefficiencies and trade distortions. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), subsidy programs have shown promise in improving living standards but face challenges such as limited financial inclusion, ineffective targeting, and corruption. To address these issues, recommendations include increasing funding, improving distribution, enhancing financial inclusion, and strengthening transparency and accountability. Addressing these challenges through a multifaceted approach is crucial for the sustainability and effectiveness of subsidy programs in KP.
_________________________Pakistan's economic landscape is characterized by persistent fiscal deficits driven by structural and cyclical factors. The 18th Constitutional Amendment, which decentralizes fiscal responsibilities to provincial governments, has introduced both opportunities and challenges for the country’s economic governance. This amendment has compounded existing issues such as low savings rates, inadequate financial sector development, and high security-related expenditures. It has also impacted debt management and fiscal sustainability, constraining federal borrowing capabilities while increasing provincial autonomy in financial matters. Consequently, Pakistan faces intensified challenges in managing public debt and ensuring financial stability. Effective public debt management is crucial for optimizing costs and risks, while the new fiscal responsibilities require robust provincial fiscal policies and enhanced coordination between federal and provincial governments. Addressing these challenges through comprehensive reforms and improved fiscal practices is essential for achieving sustainable economic growth.
_________________________In 2018, the provincial government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan, initiated a significant administrative restructuring to enhance governance efficiency, promote development, and improve service delivery. This initiative merged several administrative units, including tribal areas and Frontier Regions (FRs), into adjacent settled districts, abolishing the colonial-era Frontier Crimes Regulation (FCR) and integrating these areas into KP's mainstream administrative framework. This study examines the budgetary landscape for development initiatives in the merged districts, analyzing resource allocation, utilization, and project execution. The findings highlight the need for strategic policy interventions to address administrative integration, equitable resource distribution, and institutional capacity building. The paper provides actionable recommendations to optimize budgetary allocations and enhance development outcomes, emphasizing transparent allocation mechanisms, efficient fund utilization, tailored development initiatives, strengthened monitoring and evaluation, capacity building, and sustainable development practices. These measures aim to promote inclusive growth and sustainable development in the newly integrated regions of KP.
_________________________Domestic violence, a global issue affecting millions, encompasses physical, emotional, sexual, and economic abuse. This paper examines frameworks across regions, highlighting the impact of social norms, economic dependency, and cultural practices on abuse reporting and escape. It identifies critical gaps in legal protections, prevention strategies, and support services. The need for fostering gender equality, promoting human rights, and addressing underlying social determinants is emphasized. The paper also addresses honor killings, prevalent in certain regions, as an extreme form of violence. A multi-faceted approach involving legal reforms, community engagement, and educational initiatives is essential to dismantle patriarchal norms and empower women and children. Comprehensive, evidence-based policy interventions are recommended to ensure justice and dignity for survivors, ultimately aiming to create a safer, more equitable society. The conclusion underscores the importance of sustained political will, resource allocation, and collective action to end violence against women and children.
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