Resource sharing

LAHORE: Resource sharing, in the context of development, refers to the equitable distribution and allocation of resources such as funds, infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other essential services among different regions or areas within a country.

The goal is to ensure that all citizens have access to basic necessities and opportunities, regardless of their geographical location or economic status. Unfortunately, in Pakistan resources are disproportionately allocated to the already developed regions, leading to further disparities between developed and underdeveloped areas.

This policy has perpetuated poverty in ignored areas. The people of deprived regions lack access to education and healthcare, suffer from high unemployment rates, and overall poor quality of life.

We see all civic amenities available in posh residential localities of all big cities with slums across the road that are deprived of even basic amenities like proper sewerage or proper roads and streets.

Providing basic amenities in these slums would require less than 10 percent funds that are annually spent on maintenance of the adjacent posh residential area. One reason cited by many is that these slums are established by the poor near the posh residential colonies as their women and children get engaged as house servants of the rich residents. The civil administration should have stopped this process in the beginning or have arranged funds for its development.

This negligence to develop poor localities is enlarging inequality in the country. To address this challenge, governments must formulate policies and strategies that focus on equitable resource sharing and balanced regional development.

For equitable growth the government should allocate resources based on the specific needs of each region. Care must be taken to assess the needs of underdeveloped areas that may require more investment in basic infrastructure, education, and healthcare to uplift the living standards of the population.

Or more specifically targeted development programmes may be planned aimed at underdeveloped regions to help address specific issues faced by these areas. These programmes must focus on improving education, healthcare, employment opportunities, and overall infrastructure.

Involving local communities in the decision-making process ensures that the development initiatives align with the needs and aspirations of the people living in these areas. Community participation can lead to more sustainable and culturally sensitive development solutions. In fact, the rich residents of adjoining areas should be motivated to contribute in the development process.

To lift people out of poverty investing in human capital is necessary. The youth of the region should be provided training and education to develop a workforce that can empower individuals in underdeveloped areas to participate in the economic development of their regions.

Building basic infrastructure such as roads, electricity, and sanitation facilities can improve connectivity and accessibility, making these areas more attractive for businesses and investments.

To ensure sustainability of development, the state should establish mechanisms to monitor the progress of development initiatives and evaluating their impact on the target communities is crucial. This data-driven approach would help in making informed decisions and adjusting strategies as needed.

Resource sharing in the context of development is essential for creating a more equitable society where every citizen has the opportunity to lead a decent life. It involves not only distributing resources but also addressing the root causes of underdevelopment to break the cycle of poverty and improve the overall well-being of the population.