A rainy day

A Rainy day in summer always brings a lot of enjoyment for the people. In summer there are intense heat and hot winds. The scorching sun mars the efficiency of the people. They get tired very soon and like to stay indoors especially during midday. If such is the situation, a dark cloud or a shower of rain is always welcome.

It was the 20th of July. It was very hot in the night. Not a single member of the family could sleep well. But in the morning, as I got up, I found that a pleasant wind was blowing and clouds were gathering in the sky. My joy knew no bonds.

Soon there was lightning and thunder and within moments it started drizzling. It was really a veiy pleasant morning. Soon the drizzling turned into heavy rain. There was a beautiful smell of the earth in the air. People were mad with joy.

Their hearts were filled with delight. Little children were dancing in the rain. They were all getting wet. They were having fun in the rain. They were splashing water on one another. Some looked busy in floating paper boats in the running waters. It was very pleasant to watch their activities.

Rain brings great changes in nature. A few moments before everything were dry. The grass had become withered and insufficient. But as soon as it rained, nature took a fresh look. There were pools of water here and there. Houses and streets washed off their dirt.

Trees and plants took a new life. The grass now raised its head filled with water. The cuckoo started singing from mango trees and the peacocks started dancing to welcome rain. The frogs made a very pleasant noise after the rain. They began to croak.

By the afternoon the rain stopped. There was only a light drizzle. The clouds had nearly cleared by now and a beautiful rainbow had appeared in the sky. People especially small children were in double spirit now. They came out of the houses with bat and ball to play cricket.

The cattle that found grazing ground dry due to intense heat and had not sufficient water to drink now quenched their thirst and got enough greenery to fill their stomach.

Thus rain brought a welcome relief from the hot summer days. The weather became cool and pleasant. Now nobody was tired or in bad mood. Instead people were seen standing outside enjoying the cool breeze.

A rainy day in summer is really full of joy. It brings soothing effect on us. But it does not last for long. The clouds break up and the sun begins to shine even more brightly. And then again comes miserable situation the same intense heat, the same uneasiness, the same dryness. But nothing can be done. Nature is changeable and we have to face its various moods.

Application to Councillor for unsanitary conditions in area

To,

The Councillor,

A.B.C Area,

Karachi.

Subject : complaining against the unsanitary conditions in the area

Respected Sir,

we,the residents of a.b.c area have been facing the problem of unsanitary conditions in our area for a long time.now,rubbish heaps and dirty water containing filth can be seen every where in our area while broken roads are adding to this painful situation.due this many diseases are producing and childrens are particularly effecting by diseases like cholera, dysentery,malaria,dengue etc.

sir we have complained you before this but no satisfactory step has been taken by your authority.kindly situation a serious notice of this situation immediately otherwise we shall approach to the higher authorities.

                                                                  thanks and regards.

                                                                                                                  your's truly,

                                                                                                               The residents of 

                                                                                                                  a.b.c area

Date:01-01-2013

Letter on load shedding

Karachi,

Date:28-9-2013.

The Editor,

Daily 'Dawn',

Karachi.

Dear Sir,

It has now become an everyday affair in our town that the people have to live in complete darkness for long hours-in absence of electricity. The State Electricity Board seemed to be careless and rather indifferent about the difficulty felt by the dwellers of the town.

So I would request you to ventilate the evils of load-shedding through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, so that the concerned authority comes to its senses and takes immediate steps to remove this undesirable hazardous problem.

During the dark hours of the night, we, the students, suffer much in our studies for want of light; the old and the sick, and especially the children also suffer in many ways. The anti-socials become more active, taking advantage of the darkness, and it becomes risky for one to be on the dark streets at night.

The curse of load-shedding has become like a chronic disease that damages the normal life of the people. Yes, if it were an occasional event, no one would have bothered about it, because a sudden breakdown of a generating station might cause it. But it has now become almost a regular occurrence, which goes to prove mere negligence and inefficiency of the State Electricity Board. It is not known what can be their excuse on this kind of major lapse.

We must, by all means, get rid of this kind of load-shedding that is going to almost paralyze our normal life, especially after dusk. All of us must be united to do something about this. So I request for your kind interference into the matter which is required to be highlighted before the public eye with your valuable suggestion or criticism.

                                                            your truly, 

                                                       x.y.z.

                                                                           A citizen of Karachi. 

Letter on street crimes

Karachi.
Date:3-2-213.

The Editor,
Daily 'Dawn',
Karachi.

Dear Sir,

Street crime is a loose term for criminal offences taking place in public places. Nowadays street crimes are commonplace in Pakistan. Usually this occurs in busy business areas and highways. Which include pick pocketing, mobile snatching, wallet snatching, cars and auto snatching on gun points, target killing, purse snatching from women’s these all are street crimes.

Street crimes effect our neighborhood and our society. These crimes are contributing to the destruction of our society, our cities and our streets.

Nowadays every individual has its own story of mobile and wallet snatching. Mostly people’s experienced street crimes. But police takes no action against these thieves and it has become a spreading menace for the citizens. No one’s life and their property is not safe nowadays.

The major causes are unemployment, illiteracy, poverty but there are some other factors like lawlessness, fundamentalism, backwardness and double standard prevailing in the society.

Government should take serious steps to control these street crimes. For example sincere steps must be taken to solve the unemployment, provide education to poor peoples and police authorities needs to be more alert in safeguarding citizen’s life liberty and pursuit of happiness to make Pakistan a peaceful country.                                                 
                                                                             
                                                                                                           your sincerely,
                                                                                                                x.y.z 
                                                                                                           A citizen of Karachi.     

letter on my hobby

                                                                                               The Examination Hall,

                                                                                                     a.b.c area,       

                                                                                                      Karachi,                 

                                                                                                  Date:2-2-2013.                     

     

Dear John,

Thanks for your letter. It has since long time that I did not receive your letter. I was glad to read your letter. It gives me all the pleasure that you have joined a coaching institute of table tennis. Certainly it is good. It will give you a change from reading and refresh you for all the hard work. Above all, it is both entertaining and rewarding, for table tennis is fast gaining popularity. It is the best use of leisure time.

I have also found new ways to utilize my leisure time. As you know, nature has been a source of pleasure for me. It is really an interesting hobby. It keeps you engaged as well as fit and healthy. When you dig and prepare ground for plants, a lot of physical work is involved. As the plants grow, you find pleasure. Your heart blooms to see a blooming plant. Garden also brings you closer to nature. I have maintained my garden. When you will be in my garden, you cannot stop appreciating me.

It is interesting to know how I chose gardening as my hobby. I happened to visit my uncle who lives in America. He has a big well-maintained garden. My uncle has devoted lots of his time, energy and money in his garden. I was impressed to see the beauty of nature there. It was at his inspiration that I chose gardening as my hobby. Really, it was the best decision and I enjoy it.

I have lots to discuss. But we will discuss more when we meet.Remember me in  your prays.Take care of yourself.

                                                                                                                                           

                                                                                                        your loving friend,

                                                                                                                x.y.z.

letter on taffic problems

                                                                                       

 Karachi, 

 Date:2-2-2013.

The Editor,
Daily 'Dawn',
Karachi.

Dear Sir,

Through the esteemed column of your newspaper, I want to draw the attention of concerned authorities towards the traffic problems in our city.

Its the matter of fact that traffic problem is increasing day by day which is going to be much dangerous for the lives of citizens.

Traffic problems in our city making such hazard situations that are quiet difficult to solve by ordinary people.Road accidents are increasing day by day.More and more traffic jam can be seen which is making the situation more critical. Pedestrians face a lot of trouble in crossing roads.People are getting use to break traffic rules and signals for their own cause but it become dangerous for others as well.

These problems lead to another big problem of noise pollution especially in the areas where certain sensitive places are located like hospitals and parks.

Its my humble request to the concerned authorities to take an immediate action and let us give a chance to thanks. 

                                                                                                      your sincerely,

                                                                                                           x.y.z.
                                                                                                      A citizen of Karachi.

    

National hero

A great man is one who serves humanity heart and soul. But no man is great who is great only in his life time. The test of greatness is the page of history. History is replete with the noble deeds of men whose sole and sacred aim of life was to help and guide their fellow men. We read and recall, commemorate and commend the names of great scientists, artists, philosophers, politicians, poets and sages whose tireless and selfless efforts brought comfort and peace to the suffering humanity. They die but their death makes them immortal because they live in our hearts. Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah is one of them.

Quaid-e-Azam was born in Karachi on December 25, 1876. After his matriculation, he was sent to England for studying law. He became a bright and brilliant Barrister. He returned to India where he joined the Indian National Congress. He wanted to unite the Hindus and the Muslims against the English so that India could win freedom. But soon he realized that the Hindus were trying to safeguard their own interests negating the interests of Muslim. So he joined All-India-Muslim League to fight for the rights of the Muslim. In his fourteen points he presented the demands of the Muslim of India in detail. The Congress rejected these demands. This made it clear that the Hindus wanted to keep the Muslims in permanent subjugation. Keeping in view the nefarious designs of the Hindus, the Muslim League passed a resolution demanding a separate homeland for the Muslim. Quaid-e-Azam provided the most sincere and dynamic leadership and after a long and hard struggle the Muslim of India succeeded in achieving their goal. The dream of Pakistan became a reality on the 14th of August, 1947. He became the first Governor General of Pakistan.

Quaid-e-Azam was a thin and lean man, but he was full of vim and vigor  He was determined  diligent and undaunted. He always stuck o his guns and stooped to none. He had a sharp intellect and a profound political insight. He was not narrow-minded or biased. He was not proud or arrogant. He was against all social evils. He wanted to see Pakistan a peaceful, powerful and prosperous country. He died of September 11, 1948, but his courage, hard work, fearlessness, oratory, fortitude and his services for the Muslim of the Subcontinent will keep him alive in our hearts. But he question is whether we will be able to keep the creation of his dream i. e. Pakistan alive. Seen in the present horrible political and religious scenario it all seems impossible. Men I uniform and the men with beards are the real menace to the integrity, solidarity and sovereignty of Pakistan. Both have a strong desire for unbridled power. To achieve their sole objective one uses the Martial law and the other sectarianism. Quaid-e-Azam was deadly against both dictatorship and theocracy. Let’s then sit together, analyse our attitude and decide whether we need Pakistan or not.

An exciting cricket match

Cricket is one of the most popular and exciting out door sports. Some of us get the opportunity to play first class cricket, but there are millions who enjoy seeing it being played. It gives us moments of leisure and pleasure and fills us with a competitive spirit. I witnessed the demonstration of the greatest excitement and determination at National Stadium, Karachi. 

It was a fine day. A large number of people including men, women and children from all walks of life gathered there to enjoy the match between Pakistan and Newzealand .To be a good sports team, one has to be aggressive and this was shown in the final between the two teams. New Zealand won the toss and invited Pakistan to bat first. This was a big blunder that their captain had made. Shahid Afridi and Saeed Anwar were sent as openers. It was a right decision by the captain, because Shahid Afridi slammed the ball over the field. It was due to his hard hitting that Pakistan achieved a good start. Saeed Anwar was very careful and most of the time simply obstructed. The bowling was quite strong, due to which Saeed Anwar was not able to score a single run for the first fifteen minutes. But as time passed, he grasped the strategy of the bowlers and began to fully support Afridi. He completed his half-century by playing keen and beautiful shots. When he was at a score of 88, the first slip caught him smartly. In this way, the first wicket of Pakistan fell at a total of 130. After him, Shahid Afridi could not steadily face the bowlers and proceeded towards the pavilion in a short time. 

Ejaz Ahmed began his batting when the Pakistani team was playing at 135. Along with Inzamamum ul Haq, he pulled up the score to 170. The next four men were dismissed very quickly – two bowled one caught and one out leg before wickets. However Moin Khan made a stand and was able to increase the score to 218. At this moment, 10 overs remained to bowled and three wickets in hand. Wasim Akram played a beautiful inning and Pakistani team snatched a total of 269 for 8. 

This terrifying score marked down the morals of the Newzealand Team. They made a poor start, as their first wicket fell when the score was only ten. However, their middle order batsmen made a great effort and cheered the Kiwi Team. Inzamam ul Haq was the person who caught the second middle order batsman at 70. The following batsmen also played quite well and raised up the score to 220 for 5. This situation was exciting and pointed out to the defeat if Pakistan. However, when Wasim Akram came to bowl, the hopes of Pakistanis revived. He bowled extraordinary well and just after 5 overs, the New Zealand team had reached to 260 for 7. The rival needed barely 10 runs to win in 1 over. The down order batsmen shook up well. Score kept on increasing gradually and they reached to 266. It was the last ball; New Zealand requiring 4 runs to win and Waqar Younis was on the other side of the wicket. As soon as he bowled, the wickets were slammed and Pakistan was granted another exciting victory over New Zealand. The crowd went in mad uproar, congratulating their national champions for the great success.

Independence day of U.S.A

It is amazing that a political document written 227 years ago could cause such argument, confusion, and pride in its history and still have any value in today’s society. The Declaration of Independence is just that document. The Declaration of Independence is a living document in the sense that its contents have been interpreted throughout America’s history to provide freedom and meaning to life.

When America’s forefathers sat down to write the Declaration of Independence they had no idea they were about to write something of such great importance. In fact John Adams stated that the Declaration was “dress and ornament rather than Body, Soul, or Substance,”. What they had not realized was that this Declaration was going to be a “national icon” to set moral standards to forever to come. Thomas Jefferson, Robert Livingston, John Adams, Roger Sherman, and Benjamin Franklin finished the Declaration of Independence on July fourth, 1776, just two days after America declared it’s independence from Britain. In July, 1777, congress had not thought of celebrating the Independence Day until it had already passed. In order to not let this great day be passed noncelebrated, they celebrated it on the day that the Declaration of Independence was approved and passed out to the new nation. As a result, America has the July fourth holiday

The Declaration however, did not stimulate an immediate positive reaction from everybody. There was a lot of confusion for a long time about what the Declaration really meant. When blacks started asking for equal rights people argued with them that when the Declaration of Independence stated “all men are created equal” that this did not include blacks. For the most part this was true. Jefferson himself owned slaves during and after the writing of the great Declaration. People argued that equal creation was “a falsehood, and a most pernicious falsehood” and that “the principle, although lovely and beautiful, cannot obliterate those distinctions in society which society itself engenders and gives birth to.” However, a man named Benjamin Franklin Wade was a strong opponent of slavery and persisted otherwise. The “great declaration cost our forefathers too dear” and it was “worth the sacrifice of all else on earth, even life itself”. He also stated that “no man has a right to trample on another” and that all rights be “restored without delay.” Lincoln, who had just served his first term in congress, believed that the Declaration “contemplated the progressive improvement in the condition of all men everywhere.” Lincoln was going to fight for this belief.

Not only did the Declaration of Independence cause a lot of confusion to fresh Americans, but it also paved the way for many great changes that were yet to come. Americans started using the Declaration of Independence to “justify their quest for equality”. Slavery was slowly starting to be abolished in some areas such as in New York and New Jersey, not surprisingly, on July fourth, 1799 and 1804 respectively. The end of slavery was getting closer. On September 22, 1862 Lincoln stated in his Emancipation Proclamation that “slaves within any State or designated part of a State the people whereof shall then be in rebellion against the United States shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free”. Lincoln looked toward the Declaration for guidance and believed that the Declaration of Independence was the “father of all moral principles,”. The addition of the thirteenth, fourteenth, and fifteenth amendments into the U.S. Constitution by Lincoln’s party provided a guarantee to the protection and rights of black people in America. Blacks now had their freedom. If the Declaration of Independence was never composed these changes certainly would not have come so soon, if at all.

As a whole, the Declaration of Independence has brought many great things upon this country. Through times of war, conflict and through celebration the Declaration has kept us not only sincere to ourselves and to our fellow Americans, but to people all over the world. The Declaration has inscribed in us all, a true sense of morals.

Pakistan independence day

It was the 14th of August when the Muslims of the subcontinent were able to get a land of their own, where they could live life according to their religion. 14th August 1947, Pakistan gained Independence after remarkable efforts made my Mr. Muhammad Ali Jinnah who was a man of great caliber and had the belief that Muslims could only live happily when they would own a country led by their own people and a country that would be according to the ideology of Islam. The Muslims of the subcontinent gave many sacrifices for several years as they were not allowed to practice their own religion with freedom as they were the minority. However, the efforts made by people like Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Allama Iqbal and Sir Syed Ahmed Khan made sure that their sacrifices did not go in vain and they were able to provide the Muslims an independent homeland.

Independence day for any country is like a festival and the people of Pakistan celebrate this festival with enthusiasm and joy. They unite together under the green and white flag of Pakistan and rejoice their happiness with friends and family. People from all over the country have different ways of celebrating the Independence Day. Some people dress up in green and white to show their love for the country while others visit national monuments like Minar e-Pakistan and Quaid-e-Azam's Mausoleum. Many people also use this opportunity to meet up with relatives and give gifts to their loved ones.

Children also enjoy this day to the fullest. There are functions arranged across all schools in the country where children sing national songs, dress up in green and white and enjoy scrumptious meals. They do not have regular classes on this day which allows them to have free time off due to which children look forward to the Independence Day. There is also a trend in many homes to decorate their houses with flags and paper flags and from adults to children everyone participates in doing the decorations. Such is the spirit of the people of Pakistan as patriotism runs in their veins.

It is necessary that people of the country pay tribute to their heroes as it was only their efforts which allowed them to have an independent nation. The people of Pakistan also remember and pay tribute to those who dedicated their lives to earn freedom for them. A change of guard ceremony is conducted on the national monuments of the country including the mausoleum of Muhammad Ali Jinnah the founder of Pakistan and at the Mausoleum of Allama Iqbal who was also the father of the ideology of Pakistan. There are various Independence Day programs aired on the television throughout the day and multiple concerts held during night time in various parts of the country.

Although the people of Pakistan celebrate the Independence Day with patriotism and great passion, they should remember what Jinnah's dream was and they should always questions themselves whether they have made this country according to his dreams or they have forgotten the reason for the formation of Pakistan

Indian independence day

15th of August 1947 is an important day for all Indians. On that day Indians got freedom from the British. The Union Jack was brought down and for the first time, our National Flag, flew over the Red Fort, Delhi. Achieving independence was not easy. It was achieved by great efforts made by leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhai Patel, Subhas Chandra Bose, Moulana Abdul Kalam Azad, Tanguturi Prakasam, C. Rajagopalachari and many others.

Many young men like Bhagat Singh, Chandrasekhar Azad, Alluri Seetharama Raju and Katta Bomman scarified their lives for the cause of freedom. It was an occasion of jubilation for the entire nation. On 15th of August, 1947 people throughout the country celebrated the day in a festive fervor. Throughout the country, houses, offices, streets, temples and all important places were decorated and illuminated. Patriotic songs were on the air throughout the day. Young and old danced in the streets, enjoying the newly won freedom. Sweets were distributed everywhere. We were no longer British subjects but we became free citizens of free India.

Since then, the Independence Day is celebrated every year on 15th August throughout the country. That day is a national holiday for all including workers in shops and factories. Independence Day celebrations are conducted on a set pattern every year. The main function is held at the Red Fort, New Delhi. The Prime Minister takes the ceremonial salute and guard of honor from the three wings of the defense forces. After that he unfurls the National Flag on the ramparts of the Red Fort. National Anthem is sung, and a 21 gun-salute is given.

The Prime Minister addresses the nation. Earlier he pays homage to martyrs at various places like 'Unknown Soldier', Rajghat etc. In his address, he explains the policies of the government, what it did and what it proposes to do and wishes all peoples a happy Independence Day.

Similar functions are held at State capitals of every State, where the Chief Minister unfurls the National Flag and the National Anthem is sung. Then the Chief Minister inspects a police parade and addresses a public meeting. At the headquarters of the districts, the district collector unfurls the National Flag, takes the police salute and addresses the gathering. Unfurling the National Flag, singing of National Anthem and addressing the audience take place in schools, colleges, offices and at all other establishments.

Special cultural programs are arranged for the occasion. 'Kavi Sammelanams' and 'Mushairas' are also organised. In the evening there is a get together at Rashtrapathi Nilayam and at Governors residences to meet the distinguished and eminent persons. Greetings are exchanged on that occasion.

Independence Day is celebrated by Indian embassies all over the world and greetings are exchanged. Heads of Governments of other countries greet the President, Prime Minister and the people of India on that occasion.

It is a happy occasion for school children. Sports and cultural competitions are conducted to mark the occasion and prizes are awarded to the winners. Sweets are distributed to all. 'Freedom is our birthright' said Bala Gangadhar Tilak, the great freedom fighter. They got us the freedom. It is for us to safeguard it by our unity and integrity. It is a day to pay homage to martyrs and stand by the ideals, for which i hey sacrificed their lives.

A visit to an exhibition

Exhibitions are held to give an impetus to art, industry and agriculture. For holding an exhibition a suitable site is generally selected. In an-exhibition are we the rare opportunity of knowing many things, and new things I had heard of exhibitions on Science, arts and crafts but was not aware of agricultural exhibitions. The exhibitions organised by Government or some institutions show us the improvement of our country in many fields. I had been to a book exhibition.

The exhibition I visited during the last part of February was an agricultural one. The place was not very far from the town of mine. The opening date and closing date had been announced in all popular newspapers. The police officials of our town rendered great help in conducting the exhibitions.

The students of nearby schools and college acted as volunteers. The agricultural products were of numerous kinds and had been brought by cultivators. The vegetables included brinjals, gourds, bitter gourd, cucumber, potatoes, chilies and vegetables of unusual size. The exhibition acted as a help for the producers to advertise their goods.

Some people received medals for their agricultural exhibits. In addition to the agricultural exhibitions there were exhibitions on shoe making, needle work, embroidery work. The exhibition was organised for the promotion of agriculture and it was a great success. The stalls were decorated with great care. A temporary fencing was there for enclosing the vast waste land outside the town.

I had been to the exhibition accompanied by my friends. From the agricultural exhibition I purchased a big mango. The rush was heavy in the exhibitions. The exhibition continued for about three weeks. It was an opportunity to buy seeds, plants and vegetables at discounted rate. The exhibition was a delightful one.

Taj mahal

India has many wonderful monuments of exquisite beauty and great artistic charm. Among these, the greatest and the most fascinating is the monument called Taj Mahal. It can be regarded as a love story written in marble. Rabindranath Tagore called it, “A Dream in Marble”. For many others, it is a “poem written in marble” and “symphony in stone”. Today, it is reckoned as one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

This great monument built in pure white marble was erected by Shahjahan, the Mughal emperor in memory of his beloved queen Mumtaz Mahal. He had loved her deeply while she was alive and when she died he wanted to perpetuate his eternal love for her by erecting a spectacular tomb.

He took more than seventeen years to complete this splendid edifice in memory of his beloved wife. Therefore, this historical monument stands as a monument of love between Shahjahan and Mumtaz Mahal.

Taj Mahal stands on the banks of river Yamuna, in the city of Agra. The monument has an arched doorway which opens a panorama of awe-inspiring view of Taj Mahal. The entire monument has a fine layout each fitting to the overall majestic setup.

A beautiful footpath surrounded by a lawn with green tufts of grass and a line of sky-high cyprus trees on both sides lead to a raised rectangular shaped platform called the mausoleum. A series of enchanting water fountains in the middle of the paved footpath make the entry to the main mausoleum, a memorable experience of pomp and show.

The raised platform has four tall minarets or towers at its four corners. These four minarets stands like four sentinels guarding the precious enclosure. Within the enclosure lie the tombs of Mumtaz Mahal and Shahjahan.

The tombs within are enclosed by sculptured walls of pure white marble, artistically painted and inlaid with precious stones. Couplets from the holy book of Quran, written on the sidewalls give a divine touch to the monument.

The whole structure shines like a dream in the backdrop of calm Yamuna. No wonder why thousands of people flock to this wonderful monument of eternal love carved on stone. It is the best legacy left behind by the Great Mughals who once ruled our land.

The Taj Mahal has been described as “a dream in marble, designed by fairies and finished by jewelers . The closer one examines it, the more one realizes its splendid charm.

The reflection of the whole structure in the still waters of the Yamuna, on a moonlit night is said to be an unforgettable sight unseen anywhere else in the world. Taj Mahal is a relic of India’s glorious past. Let us, therefore, preserve this noble monument of love in its original charm and splendor for our future generations.

History of Pakistan

The Islamic Republic of Pakistan is bordered in the north-west by Afghanistan, north by the former USSR and China, east by India and south by the Arabian Sea.

The Muslim state that emerged from partition of British India on 14 August 1947 included an eastern wing comprising mainly the eastern half of Bengal province and parts of Assam. (The name Pakistan is coinage representing 'Punjab, the Afghan border states, Kashmir, Sing and Baluchistan')

For nine years Pakistan remained a dominion. It was proclaimed an Islamic republic on 23 March 1956. A federal parliamentary system functioned until-Field -Marshal Muhammad Ayub Khan seized power in a coup in October 1958. Ayub proclaimed a presidential system in the constitution of 1962 and ruled until March 1969, when he was deposed by Gen. Yahya Khan.

In the first free elections in December 1970, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto's Pakistan People's Part dominated the west, while Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's Awami League swept the board in the east, winning 160 of the 162 seats.

East Pakistan proclaimed sovereignty and formed the People's Republic of Bangladesh on 26 Narcg 1971. Civil war followed after Yahya, supported by Bhutto, ordered troops to arrest Mujib and put down the Bengali uprising. The east-west war ended in December 1971. Yahya handed over power to Bhutto, who ruled until July 1977, before being over-thrown after an opposition campaign against alleged rigging in general elections. Gen. Zia-ul-Haq took over-initially to hold elections and transfer power to a civilian regime. But elections were twice postponed and Bhutto was tried for the murder of a political opponent and executed.

Gen. Zia was killed in a plane crash on August 17, 1988 and Senate Chairman Ghulam Ishaq Khan took over as Action President. The country was placed under emergency rule.

In the general election held on November 16,1998 the Pakistan People's Part (PPP) led by Benazir Bhutto won the largest number of seats (92). Benazir assumed office as the PM on December 9. Ghulam Ishaq Khan was elected President on December 12.

Benazir was dismissed in Aug. '90 and Nawaz Sharif of Islami Jamhoori Ittehed took over as Pakistan's 11th Prime Minister on November 5. Sharief was dismissed in 1993. The Supreme Court annulled the dismissal leading to constitutional impasse. Moeen Qureshi took over as caretaker Prime Minister in July. PPP returned to power in Oct. '93 and Ms. Bhotto took over as PM once again. In Apr. ;96, Imran Khan launched a new part 'Movement for Social Justice'. In Nov., Ms. Bhutto was dismissed as PM, the National Assembly dissolved, and M.M. Khalid appointed caretaker PM. On Feb. 17, 1997, Nawaz Sharif was sworn in as Pakistan's 13th PM.

Tensions between the military and PM Sharif ended in a coup by army chief. Gen. Pervez Musharraf on Oct. 12, 1999. Nawaz Sharif was later exiled to Saudi Arabia. he was convinced and sentenced to 25-year-long life sentence on charges of hijacking and terrorism. Pakistan was suspended (Oct. 18, 19999) from the Commonwealth.

A milestone in Indo-Pak relations was the Lahore bus ride by Indian PM Vajpayee in Feb. 1999.

Ethnic and communal conflict that had been raging in Karachi intensified in 1995. The Urdu-speaking Muhajirs are demanding equal rights and autonomy. in Jan-Aug, '97, over 150 persons were killed in Shia-Sunni violence, and at least 250 were shot dead in Karachi. In Aug., government enacted a new law to combat the growing sectarianism and terrorism.

Elections are to be held in Oct. 2002, as per Supreme Court order and judgment.

Kashmir: Pakistan controls the northern and western portions of Kashmir, an area of about 84,160 sq km with a population of about 2.8m. in 1985. The pak-occupied Kashmir has its own Assembly, its own Council, High Court and Supreme Court. There is a Parliamentary form of Government with a Prime Minister as the executive head and the President as the constitutional head. The seat of government is Muzaffarabad.

The Pakistan Government is directly responsible for Gilgit and Baltistan (the north). On May 28, 1998, Pakistan tested five nuclear devices and this was followed by a sixth one on May 3.

Agriculture )including forestry and fishing) is the mainstay of Pakistan's economy, employing about 50% o the working population and providing about 25% of the country's gross domestic product (GDP).

The entire area in north and west is covered by great mountain ranges. The rest of the country consist soft a fertile plain wintered by five big rivers and their tributaries. Agriculture is dependent almost entirely on the irrigation system based on these rivers. The main crops are wheat, cotton, maize, sugar-cane and rice, while the Quetta and Kalat divisions (Baluchistan) are known for their fruits and dates. Pakistan is self-sufficient in wheat, rice and sugar.

Industry employs about 10% of the population. Manufacturing contributes about 20% to GNP. Refined sugar, vegetable products, jute textiles, soda ash, sulphur acid, caustic soda, chip board and paper board, bicycles, cotton cloth, cotton yarn, cement and steel. Main exports are cotton cloth, cotton yarns, rice, leather, carpets and tapestries. There are international airports at Karachi, Islamabad, lahore, Peshwar and Quetta.

Christmas celebrations

Christmas is a sacred festival of the Christians. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm and gaiety all over the world. It is observed on 25th December to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.

It is largely characterized by exchanging gifts within families and by gifts brought by Santa Claus or other mythical figures.

Christmas was not among the earliest festivals of the Christians. The exact date of the birth of Christ was unanimously fixed some two centuries after his death, as the Catholic Church began to establish its tradition. Now Christmas is celebrated on 25th December in Catholic, Protestant and most orthodox churches.

The period of celebration varies in different countries. In the United Kingdom, the Christmas season traditionally runs for twelve days following the Christmas Day. These twelve days of Christmas are a period of feasting and merrymaking which ends on Twelfth Night the feast of the Epiphany.

Christmas period has grown much longer in some countries including the United States. It begins many weeks before. During Christmas people enjoy shopping and meet one another. The celebration continues up to New Year's Day.

The numerous customs related to Christmas vary from country to country. Most of the familiar traditional practices and symbols of Christmas, such as the Christmas tree, the Christmas ham.

The Yule Log holly, mistletoe and giving of presents, were adapted or appropriated by Christian missionaries from the earlier Asatru pagan midwinter holiday of Yule.

The Christmas tree is believed to have first been used in Germany. Gift giving is a near-universal part of Christmas celebrations. The concept of a mythical figure that brings gifts to children derives from Saint Nicholas, a good-hearten bishop of Asia Minor.

Besides this, in the UK and many Western African countries, 'Father Christmas' is more common. In Anglo-American tradition, he is believed to arrive on Christmas Eve.

In many countries, offices, schools and social communities organize Christmas parties and dances during the several weeks before Christmas Day. Christmas pageants, which include the retelling of the story of the birth of Christ, are common in Latin America.

People sing Carol and visit neighborhood homes and exchange gifts. Traditional feasting with special meal of Christmas dishes is also a part of Christmas.

Customs of India

India is a hierarchical society. Within India’s culture and customs-whether in the north, south, east or west-whether in Hindu, Muslim or other communities-whether in rural or urban areas, virtually all things, people and groups of people are ranked according to certain essential attributes. If one is attuned to the theme of hierarchy in India, one can discuss its manifestations everywhere. Although India is the biggest democracy in the world, yet in daily life the notions of equality are not present.

Castes, ethnic groups with which all the Indians are associated are also ranked. Within most cities, towns and villages, everyone knows the relative rankings of each locally represented caste. People’s behavior towards one another is primarily shaped by this knowledge.

There is even disagreement at times, between the people of extremes of very high and very low castes .which till recently has been the bane of Indian society-a social evil that has been declared illegal and practicing it considered a cognizable offence-was based on caste division. Castes are mainly associated with Hinduism but they do exist among other religious groups as well. Although the Muslims deny the existence of castes, yet some caste-like groups exist in them. However, these groupings are not rigid in them. Among Indian Christians, differences in caste are acknowledged and maintained. 

Throughout India, individuals are ranked according to their wealth, status and power. There are ordinary people and influential people. The socialists were irked by the division of society into ‘haves’ and ‘have-nots’, i.e. those who possess luxuries apart from necessities, and those who do not possess even the necessities of life. In India, such divisions exist to a large extent. Out of the total population of 106 crores, nearly 2.5 crores live below the poverty line; the top five per cent of the population own over fifty per cent of the countries privately- owned wealth. As per possession of assets there are common people and the big shots or influential men.

The latter category wields power and has a say in the political affairs of the locality, the city and even the region. The common people are generally obedient and respectful of the powerful people. The latter category also includes people who are at high posts and positions. 

Within families and kinship groupings also there are many distinctions of hierarchy. Men outrank women of the same or similar age, while the seniors outrank the juniors in age. Besides, other kinship relations involve formal respect. For example, the son-in-law is the most respected person in the house whenever he visits his in-laws. Similarly, the daughter-in-law of a household shows respect to a daughter of a household. In some parts, the younger siblings do not address the elder sibling by name as a mark of deference. 

In business and academic setting, in some areas the colleagues maintain traditional observance of ranking based on caste and age. A senior clerk may be addressed as chachaji or a Brahmin employee may be called Panditji. This is a graceful acknowledgment of superior position of the older colleague or a high caste colleague. It is pertinent to mention here that this practice is fast disappearing in the new corporate environment where performance and other parameters hold sway and man is considered more like a working machine. The persons belonging to younger generation these days are also more forthright in their approach and do not hesitate to address senior employees by their name. 

Many status differences in Indian society are expressed in terms of ritual purity. Such notions are, however, are extremely complex. They also vary greatly among different castes, religious groups, communities and regions. Broadly speaking, high status is associated with purity and low status with pollution. Some kinds of purity are inherent in some castes just as gold is purer than copper by its nature. Other kinds of purity are more or less transitory. A person who is neatly dressed is purer than the one who is shabbily dressed. But when the neat dress is soiled, the purity is lost, when the dirty dress is washed or is replaced by a clean one, the purity is associated with that person. Purity is also associated with eating habits in certain communities. For example, non-vegetarian food is prohibited in certain castes, communities and religions.

Those who eat such food are considered polluted. Those who take alcoholic drinks are treated as morally degraded. If a Brahmin commits such transgressions of dietary code, he would be considered more deeply polluted and have to go various purifying rites to restore his purity. In some castes, not only the contents of the food but also who has prepared it and who is serving it also become important. For example, food, traditionally, was accepted only from the hands of someone of higher or equal caste ranking.

These and a great many other traditional rules pertaining to purity and pollution constantly impinge on interaction between people of different castes and ranks in India. To non-Indians these rules may seem strange but to most of the Indians they are accepted part of life-not all the rules to everybody-but some of them to most of the people, in varying degrees. Keeping these rules in mind is necessary to maintain one’s own status in society. Every act of human life in our society serves as a constant reminder of the importance of hierarchy in Indian society. 

However, there are a large number of people in our society, particularly among the educated urban elites who do not follow these traditional rules of purity. Eating in each other’s homes and in restaurants is common among well-educated people of diverse backgrounds, especially when they belong to the same economic class. For these people knowing who has prepared the food and who is serving it is not important until the basic rules of cleanliness and hygiene are not violated. Meat and other non- vegetarian dishes are not a taboo. Even alcohol to an accepted limit where one does not lose one’s mind is not prohibited. India is called a melting pot of various castes, creeds, communities and religious groups.

It is extremely difficult to maintain such rigid divisions. Those caste divisions were revealed by Manu in his famous work Samriti. The traditional Hindu society was divided into Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Sudras as per the duties performed by them. In today’s vastly different society, the divisions are more or less on economic condition and social status. Although a totally egalitarian society is unthinkable, yet the traditional rules shall hold some importance.

We must change with the changing time but this does not mean that we should be carried away in the name of progress and forget what has been the base of our society. On the other hand, sticking to irrational rules and keeping a rigid attitude is also not desirable. Changing with the changing times is the key to progress. Modern life demands that we should give up old views and redundant ideologies and accept the challenges that lie ahead. We must maintain a unity even though we may follow different religious faiths because, despite the existence of various themes, India is one.

Library and its uses

The root-meaning of the word library is a room or building containing a collection of books for reading. But as there are now circulating or travelling libraries in many countries, the world has undergone a change in its meaning. By the word now indicated a collection of books for reading or reference;

There are kinds of libraries personal, public and institutional.

A personal library is one which belongs to a private person, generally of sufficient means. Such libraries grow out of such person’s taste for knowledge and, sometimes, for fashion. There are, of course, small scale private libraries owned by solvent lawyers, educationists and persons of literary taste. But such libraries contain books on some particular subject or subjects chosen according to the taste and interest of their owners.

A public library is one which is open to the public. In order to cater to the taste and interest of all classes of people, a public library has to contain books on different subjects and varieties. Such libraries may be seen in large numbers in every country. Most of these libraries are managed or subsidized by their states. The British Museum library of London and the Central library of Moscow are instances of public libraries. Again, many such libraries have been set up in England and America by philanthropic people like Mr. Carnegie, the American millionaire.

An institutional library is one which belongs to an institution such as a university, a college, a school, a chamber of commerce, a club or a governmental department. Such a library is open to the members of the institution concerned and, therefore, generally contains hooks which are needed by them most.

As acquisition of knowledge depends mostly on reading, man has to read as necessarily as he has to eat. It adds to what he has already learnt and makes him strong and fit for rude battle of life. But for financial difficulties most of the persons who are keen on reading cannot purchase the books they need to read. Hence arises the importance of libraries. Had there been no libraries, both public and institutional, such persons would have been deprived of their reading. The teachers and the students, in like manner, would be badly affected if their institutions had no libraries of their own.

Libraries attract people to read and thus create the habit of reading and- stimulate the thirst for more and more knowledge. But for the libraries, there would be no authors, no poets, and no thinkers. The libraries thus help in the advancement of learning and expansion of knowledge.

The library has another very important use. No research work is possible without a well equipped library containing valuable books of all ages, rare manuscripts and old records. A library of this type is thus of incalculable help in throwing light on unearthed subjects. Time passes in an unbroken continuity as does the water of the river. The books of the libraries are a record of this continuity. They thus enable us to know how human society has developed in thought and action step by step.

The value of newspaper

It is our natural instinct to know what is happening around us. Nobody wants to live in ignorance. Hence newspapers have become part and parcel of our life. We cannot live without them.

The morning newspaper is as indispensable for a good start to our day as the morning cup of tea. It is our mental breakfast and unless we go through the headlines' we feel uneasy. What to talk of the city-dwellers, even the people living in the villages are seen eager to go through the newspaper to know what is going on in the world. Therefore, a newspaper is the basic need of the common people.

A newspaper in the modern society has great social and educative value. It is a common media of giving news along with views. Its principal aim is to supply news, information with different views through comments, articles and editorials.

It is therefore, called the 'people's university'. Different people expect different things from the newspaper. A business man wants to know the market trends, a farmer is eager to know the weather report; a book reader wants to know about the latest arrivals. A newspaper satisfies them all like an intimate friend.

It is evident that a newspaper is a great power in a democratic country. It maintains a close connection between the government and the people. It deeply influences public opinion. It spreads political awareness among the mass, the most important function done by the newspaper in a democracy.

It exists such tremendous influence that it can not only bring about major changes to the lives of ordinary people but can even overthrow a government. The editors of the newspapers have therefore a heavy responsibility.

A newspaper becomes a power of evil if it distorts truth, presents only the negative side of a thing. Sometimes it has been said that the newspaper publishes false reports which result in hatred and enmity between communities and nations, subjects and sovereigns.

Some of the newspapers take interest in provoking class hatred. They poison the mind of public with communal-ism  In order to win cheap popularity, baseless gossip is spread. This misleads the public. A good newspaper should not misquote or misrepresent the facts. It should promote the feeling of national integration instead of encouraging fissiparous tendencies.

Overall, newspapers have become a thing of necessity in modern times. Therefore the government should give as much liberty to them as it may be possible to give.

The only restriction that the government should impose on them should be that they should not be allowed to publish sensational news and dirty advertisement. If this is done, newspapers will surely do valuable service to the country by maintaining its objectivity and fair standard.

Muslim festival

The Islamic festival of Eid Al-Adha, or "Festival of Sacrifice" follows close on the heels of the first Eid festival of the year, Eid Al-Fitr. The Arabic word "Adha"means "sacrifice",having its root in the word "duha", which also means "light" or "illumination". After Ramadan, the month of Shawwaal ensues, in which most Muslims fast 6 days. This month is followed by Dhul Qa'dah, which is the month in which most of the Muslims who intend to perform Hajj, start their preparations for the trip, and eventually reach Saudi Arabia. After the month of Dhul Qa'dah, comes the month of "Dhul Hijjah", which literally means, "Of the Hajj". This is the month in which Muslims perform Hajj, which is closely linked to the global festival of Eid Al-Adha celebrated by other Muslims all over the world.

On the tenth of Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims in Mina, Saudi Arabia, sacrifice an animal for the sake of Allah. Please refer to the article How To Perform Hajj for more details about the Hajj and its rituals. On the same day, Muslims elsewhere in the world celebrate the festival of Eid Al-Adha, in which those who can afford to, also sacrifice an animal to gain Allah's pleasure, embodying the sacrifice made by Prophet Abraham [peace be upon him] when he was ordered by Allah in his dream to sacrifice his son Ismael [peace be upon him], to which he complied. His spirit of unflinching submission to Allah is epitomized every year as Muslims indulge in a similar sacrifice.

Eid Al-Adha is celebrated in more or less the same way as Eid Al-Fitr, except that an animal is sacrificed on this Eid.

Buy and rear a sacrificial animal:

The Muslim who can afford to, should buy a sacrificial animal well before Eid. This could be a male ram, goat, sheep, cow, or a camel. The more beloved and dear the animal is to its owner, the more meaningful will be its sacrifice.

This animal should be taken care of, fed well, respected (it should not be harmed, or ridiculed in any manner) and nurtured until the time of sacrifice. Alternatively, if the Muslim can not afford a separate ram or goat for himself (or herself), scholars have allowed 7 Muslims to share in one cow. 

Gain knowledge of the sacrifice ritual: 

Muslims should be well-aware of the correct etiquette and steps of religious sacrifice, by seeking knowledge of Islam pertaining to this ritual. That is, the owners should educate themselves in the Islamic rules of slaughter, and be present to supervise this ritual. The basic guidelines are as follows: 

- The sacrifice 

should be performed during the day-time, not at night. 

- The knife to be used to cut the animal's throat should be very sharp, so much so that the least amount of force or pressure is needed to slice the animal's jugular vein, so it feels the least amount of pain when its skin is thus cut. 

- The knife should not be shown to the animal, but the latter should be fed well and laid down facing the direction of the "Qiblah" (Muslim direction of prayer - the Ka'ba) in Makkah. 

- The person who will perform the sacrifice should be well-versed in their job, and should not hurt the animal by clumsily jabbing away at the latter's throat with a blunt knife, causing pain and fear. The one performing the sacrifice should be swift and deft. He should say "Bismillah Allahu Akbar" before slicing the animal's throat.

The owner of the animal should recite the following dua (invocation) before the sacrifice (translation):

"Indeed I turn my face towards The One Who originated the heavens and the earth; upon the way of Abraham, the unswerving one, and I'm not of those who commit shirk [polytheism]. Indeed my salah, my sacrifice, my living and my dying is for Allah, the Sustainer of the worlds. There is no associate with Him, and so I have been commanded, and I am from the ones who submit. O Allah! (This sacrifice) is from me, for You." 

- The animal dies due to loss of blood. The blood should be allowed to drain completely from its body before it is skinned, disembowelled and chopped. This takes a good half-hour or so. The test to see whether the animal's blood has drained is to touch the animal's body; if it is still warm, it means the blood has not drained completely.

- It is absolutely forbidden to start skinning and cutting the animal when it is still alive or writhing. Some butchers, especially the amateur ones, who want to make the maximum amount of money on Eid Al-Adha by slaughtering as many animals as possible, commit grave errors in the process of slaughter. They should not be allowed by the animal-owners to thus abuse the animal. Moreover, it is impermissible for Muslims to consume blood in any form. If the blood has not drained from the animal's body completely before it is cut up, it will remain in the veins inside the meat, thus rendering the meat "haraam" for consumption.

- For larger animals such as cows and camels, only expert butchers should try to slaughter them on Eid Al-Adha, and should be booked well in advance. It has been noted that when inexperienced people try

to slaughter these large animals themselves (as expert butchers are very busy on this Eid), the latter get scared and become difficult to tie down and subdue, at times dashing off, causing injuries and harm.

Go for Eid prayer after the Fajr prayer: 

This prayer is performed exactly the same way as for Eid Al-Fitr. The entire household awakens early and atakes a full bath or ghusl, putting on new clothes and proceeding to the Eid open prayer-ground, for the early-morning Eid prayer. The whole family should attend this prayer, reciting the following "takbeer" all the way:

Allahu Akbar Allah-u- Akbar - Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest!

Laa ilaaha illallaahu Allahu Akbar - There is no god except Allah, Allah is the Greatest!

Allahu Akbar wa lillaahil Hamd - Allah is the Greatest and for Allah is The Praise!

The Eid prayer is a couple of units or rak'ah's, followed by a sermon, or khutbah, by the imam (in some schools of jurisprudence, the sermon precedes the Eid prayer).

The one major aspect of this Eid is not to eat anything on 10th Dhul Hijjah until the meat of the sacrificial animal is cooked, and to partake from it as the first morsel of food for the day. The Prophet Muhammad [may peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] would thus fast from morning till the sacrifice, and break his fast with the meat of the animal. This fast is not compulsory; it is a sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad [may peace and blessings of Allah be upon him], and is thus highly recommended.

Perform the animal sacrifice as soon as possible after returning home from Eid prayer:

After the family returns home, the animals should be sacrificed. This can be done in the home verandah or courtyard, or in a neighborhood ground. In Muslim countries, animals are slaughtered everywhere, from the roads to the streets. In non-Muslim majority countries, however, animals can only be sacrificed at designated places, with prior permission.

If, for some valid reason, the sacrifice can not be performed on 10th Dhul Hijjah, it may be performed on the 11th or 12th (the days of stay in Mina for the pilgrims in Saudi Arabia). The reward will diminish with each passing day, though.