LAHORE: It can outrun a horse and kick like a piston rod but at Mashooq Ali’s shop on Lahore’s sprawling Ferozpur Road, the lone ostrich can barely move or even spread its wings.
Ali bought the bird for Rs52,000 ($370) from a farm in Okara ten days ago . Since then, though patrons have thronged to his store for a glimpse of the African giant -- many marvelling at his magnificent size or tossing him things to eat -- there are few buyers.
Ostriches, the largest species of bird, were hunted for their meat, feathers and tough skin in the wild and now survive around the world mostly on special farms.
On average, a single ostrich can provide up to 33 kilograms of meat. The Punjab government’s fixed price per kilogramme is Rs1,300 ($9.5). A placard outside Ali’s shop announces that only large orders will be entertained.
“I cannot afford to make a loss by slaughtering it too early,” Ali told Arab News, pointing to the ostrich cowering in the corner of the shop and visible through a glass wall. “What if the rest [of the meat] doesn’t sell?”
Ali is one of hundreds of ostrich meat vendors in Pakistan’s richest and most populous province of Punjab, drawn to the business in 2017 when the provincial government granted a Rs14.5 million subsidy to farmers to breed and farm the birds. At the time, the government also promised to pay Rs10,000 per ostrich to those willing to rear between 25 to 100 chicks.
Initially, about a dozen farms cropped up in Punjab and ballooned to 275 in number. But two years later, despite government support and the best of intentions, the business has not taken off.
For many Pakistanis, ostrich meat is still as strange and exotic as it is expensive, so returns have been disappointingly low as supply has far outstripped demand. Also, hoping for high profit margins, farmers quickly jumped into the business without much knowledge of breeding practices., causing over-saturation of the market. This combined with the government’s unwillingness to renew subsides grounded the industry even before it could take off.
This is bad news for a government that had envisioned replacing beef with ostrich meat, which many say tastes like beef but is low in fat and cholesterol, and planned to rear enough birds to export eggs, skin and feathers.
“Pakistan has been trying to establish this business for the last 20 years,” Dr. Nasir Mukhtar, assistant professor at the Ostrich Research and Development Centre in Rawalpindi, said. “But unfortunately each attempt has failed.”
The Centre was set up to facilitate farming and train farmers in rearing and breeding the birds.
According to the Centre, Pakistan first imported 53 ostriches in 2013. The number shot up to 3,000 last year. But a lack of funds has meant the Centre has had to freeze many of its research initiatives.
“We were moving to our second phase of development, which included seeing what different products can be made from ostrich skin,” Dr. Muhammad Talha Sajjad, a project director at the Centre, said. “But the new government has not authorised new subsidies or grants for the industry. This has put farmers under a lot of stress.”
Dr Asif Rafiq, communications director at the Punjab ministry of livestock, confirmed the government had withdrawn the subsidy but that the ministry was in talks with the farmers’ association about a new grant. Before the funds could be released, he said, the gap between demand and supply needed to be closed.
Colonel (r) Maqsood Qureshi, who invested Rs1.8 million to start an ostrich farm but failed to make a profit, said the large number of farmers who initially flocked to the business had over-saturated the market.
“Many of these farmers had no know-how on how to rear the birds,” Qureshi said.
Rafiq at the ministry of livestock agreed that a majority of the farmers had not bothered to study the birds, breeding practices or the market before investing. But the industry could still, perhaps, take off, he said.
One measure to bolster the industry was setting up an ostrich farm on the periphery of Lahore’s old city where meat would be sold even on the meatless days of Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
“We are working on launching a marketing campaign to promote the bird,” Rafiq said. “This time we need maximum results.”
In Pakistan’s Punjab, big bird farms yield small dividends
In Pakistan’s Punjab, big bird farms yield small dividends
- Two years after the government announced a Rs14.5 subsidy for ostrich farmers, the business has failed to take off
- Over-saturation of the market and government unwillingness to renew subsides has grounded the ostrich industry
Pakistan condemns Israeli raid in West Bank, calls for ‘concrete plan’ for Gaza’s reconstruction
- Gunfire, explosions rocked the Jenin refugee camp on Wednesday as the Israeli military continued its large-scale raid
- The operation in the West Bank was launched just days after a ceasefire paused more than a year of Israel’s war in Gaza
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Thursday condemned a raid by the Israeli military that killed 10 Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, calling for a “concrete plan” to rebuild Gaza following a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
Gunfire and explosions rocked the Jenin refugee camp on Wednesday as the Israeli military continued its large-scale raid for a second day, the AFP news agency reported.
The operation, launched just days after a ceasefire paused more than a year of Israel’s war in Gaza, has killed at least 10 Palestinians, according to Palestinian health authorities.
Israeli officials have said the raid is part of a broader campaign against militants in the West Bank, citing thousands of attack attempts since the Gaza war erupted in October 2023.
“[We] unequivocally condemn the latest Israeli raid in the Jenin refugee camp of the West Bank, resulting in killing of ten Palestinians,” Shafqat Ali Khan, a spokesperson for Pakistan’s Foreign Office, said at a media briefing in Islamabad.
“Such actions potentially undermine the precarious ceasefire in Gaza and international community should take note of it.”
Israeli officials have said the raid is part of a broader campaign against militants in the West Bank. The operation has raised fears of a return of fighting and chaos to occupied Palestinian territories, undermining chances of peace in the region.
Khan said the ceasefire in Gaza was a “milestone” that was achieved through a patient and persistent mediatory role of Egypt, Qatar and the United States.
“We urge the international community to develop a concrete plan for reconstruction of Gaza in line with UNSC [United Nations Security Council] resolutions,” he told reporters.
“We call for accountability of Israeli crimes committed in this brutal war, describing it as an essential element in restoring international legitimacy.”
Israel launched the war on Gaza soon after the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks by Hamas on Israel, killing more than 47,000 Palestinians and laying waste to large swathes of the territory.
Pakistan does not recognize nor have diplomatic relations with Israel and calls for an independent Palestinian state based on “internationally agreed parameters.”
The South Asian country has dispatched several relief consignments for Gaza, besides establishing the ‘Prime Minister’s Relief Fund’ that aims to collect public donations for the war-affected people.
Pakistan establishes ‘challenge fund’ for climate-resilient infrastructure
- The South Asian country has seen erratic changes in its weather patterns which have led to frequent heat waves, untimely rains, cyclones and droughts in recent years
- Pakistan has since launched various initiatives to build resilience against climate change, including the launch of a satellite this month to predict natural disasters
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s climate change ministry has established a “challenge fund” for climate-resilient infrastructure in the country, Pakistani state media reported on Wednesday.
A challenge fund is a competitive funding mechanism that allocates resources to projects that address social or environmental challenges. Designed to encourage innovation and collaboration, these funds can be used to support small businesses, public sector and, other organizations.
The “Challenge Fund for Climate Resilient Infrastructure” would be funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), and jointly implemented by GIZ Pakistan, a German organization working on sustainable development projects, and Adam Smith International (ASI) global advisory firm.
Pakistani officials say the initiative is designed to reinforce Pakistan’s adaptive capacity in the face of increasing climate challenges, the Radio Pakistan broadcaster reported.
“This initiative aims to bolster the country’s infrastructure resilience against the impacts of climate change and support the construction of sustainable and adaptive infrastructure across vulnerable regions,” Aisha Humera Moriani, secretary of the Pakistani climate change ministry, was quoted as saying.
Pakistan has seen erratic changes in its weather patterns which have led to frequent heat waves, untimely rains, cyclones and droughts in recent years. Scientists have blamed the events on human-driven climate change.
In 2022, devastating floods, blamed on human-driven climate change, killed more than 1,700 Pakistanis, affected another 33 million and caused the country over $30 billion in economic losses.
The South Asian country has since launched various initiatives to build resilience against climate change, including the launch of a satellite this month to help predict natural disasters and monitor resources.
Romina Khurshid Alam, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s coordinator on climate change, said the fund’s launch marked a “significant milestone” in the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen Pakistan’s capacity to adapt to climate change.
“This innovative fund will empower provinces and local governments to develop and implement innovative infrastructure projects that are not only climate-resilient, but also contribute to sustainable development goals and the well-being of local communities,” she said.
Pakistan, Saudi Arabia resolve to further strengthen economic ties
- Finance Minister Mohammad Aurangzeb briefed his Saudi counterpart on Pakistan’s economic reforms on World Economic Forum sidelines
- Both Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are close regional partners and allies, and signed 34 agreements worth $2.8 billion in Oct. last year
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb held a meeting with his Saudi counterpart Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Jadaan in Davos, wherein the two figures agreed to further strengthen economic ties between the two countries, Pakistani state media reported on Thursday.
The meeting took place on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum (WEF) summit which is being held on Jan. 20-24 under the theme, ‘Collaboration for the Intelligent Age’.
Aurangzeb briefed his Saudi counterpart on structural reforms, fiscal discipline and regulatory improvements that had contributed to improved investment climate in Pakistan, the Radio Pakistan broadcaster reported.
“Both the sides reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the economic and financial ties between the two countries for shared prosperity,” the report read.
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are close regional partners and economic allies, and both countries signed 34 agreements worth $2.8 billion in October last year. The Kingdom is home to over 2.7 million Pakistani expatriates, serving as the top destination for remittances for the cash-strapped South Asian country.
On Tuesday, Aurangzeb also met Saudi National Bank Chairman Saeed bin Mohammed Al-Ghamdi in Davos and discussed with him banking sector partnerships between the two countries, Pakistan’s finance ministry said.
“The two leaders discussed potential financial cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, particularly focusing on strengthening partnerships in the banking sector,” the finance ministry said in a statement.
The Saudi Export-Import Bank and Pakistan’s Bank Alfalah have also signed a $15 million financing agreement on the WEF sidelines, strengthening access to Pakistani markets and boosting trade and economic ties.
Pakistan joins global shipping line connecting it directly to Europe amid efforts to boost trade
- The INX weekly shipping service will begin its operations from Karachi on February 5
- The service will streamline logistics, enhance connectivity and drive economic growth
ISLAMABAD: South Korean shipping company, HMM, on Wednesday launched the India North Europe Express (INX) weekly shipping service in Pakistan, providing the South Asian country direct access to Europe.
The service, launched in collaboration with Ocean Network Express (ONE) container liner and Pakistan’s United Marine Agencies (UMA), will ensure timely and efficient delivery of Pakistani goods to the destined European ports and beyond, according to HMM.
The development comes amid Pakistan’s efforts to boost trade and seek international partnerships to expand its maritime activities, according to Pakistani officials. The initiative will streamline logistics, enhance connectivity, and drive economic growth in the region.
“Our country has abundance of marine, fisheries, mineral and energy resources that can generate additional revenues,” said Vice Admiral Faisal Abbasi, Pakistan Navy commander in Karachi, noting that Pakistan was located at the crossroads of three geographical locations: the gateway to Central Asia, Southwest Asia and the Arabian Gulf.
He said the sea lines of communication (SLOCs) allow nations to stretch beyond their land borders, facilitating access to and exchange of raw materials and trade goods.
“Today, as much as 75 percent of international trade takes place over water and same is expected to continue growing in foreseeable future,” Vice Admiral Abbasi added.
The service, which was launched at a ceremony in the port city of Karachi, will begin operations on Feb. 5. It will directly link western India to northern Europe, according to HMM. The maiden voyage will begin from Karachi under the port rotation: Karachi–Hazira–Mundra–Nhava Sheva–Colombo–London Gateway–Rotterdam–Hamburg–Antwerp–Karachi.
“The INX service promises a robust, direct maritime connection from Western India to Northern Europe, turning around in just 11 weeks with a fleet of 6,000 TEU container ships,” said Sohail Shams, CEO of the United Marine Agencies (UMA), the HMM agent in Pakistan.
“This development not only diversifies maritime service portfolio in the region but also amplifies opportunities for regional trade and global transshipment through this strategic hub.”
He said UMA is dedicated to providing outstanding shipping services and plays a crucial role in strengthening Pakistan’s maritime trade through its representation of leading global shipping lines and handling of cargo to destinations worldwide.
“This service signifies more than just a route, it represents progress, innovation, and the shared commitment of our global partners to simplify and enhance international trade,” Sohail said. “This strategic network underscores the significance of Karachi as a vital trade hub and gateway to global markets.”
Yang Jungmo, a top HMM official for Southwest Asia, also addressed attendees at Wednesday’s launch, highlighting the significance of the INX service for global trade and emphasizing the company’s commitment to offering reliable and efficient shipping solutions.
Earlier this month, Dubai-based logistics giant DP World, in collaboration with Pakistan’s National Logistics Corporation, launched a feeder service to transport shipping containers from Dubai to Karachi, Pakistani state media reported. Pakistani officials and DP World have also finalized terms for a freight corridor project from Karachi Port to the Pipri Marshalling yard in southern Pakistan.
Pakistan is currently on a tricky path to economic recovery since avoiding a default in June 2023. The South Asian country last year secured a new $7 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and has been actively pursuing trade and investment opportunities to put the economy back on track.
In southern Pakistan, septuagenarian artist fights to keep century-old ‘Matka Dance’ alive
- Traditional “Matka Dance” involves dancing while balancing earthen pot, attached to a pole, above one’s head
- Performing arts expert urges provincial government to support traditional dance, warns it may become extinct
KARACHI: Sain Dad, 73, expertly balances a round earthen pot, also known as a “matka” in the local language, four feet high above his head attached to a metal rod. Dad dances to the beat of the drums, using his hands not once to steady the rod as he performs a century-old art only a handful of people in southern Pakistan can perform.
The “Matka Dance” is a traditional folk dance performed in Pakistan’s southern Sindh province which involves expertly balancing an earthen pot above your head. The trick is to not use your hands as you dance while balancing the rod atop your head.
While the exact origin of the matka dance remains unknown, Dad traces its lineage back to Saleh Muhammad Shah, one of Sindh’s earliest known practitioners. Over a century ago, Dad says Shah pioneered the technique of lifting the earthen pitcher using a bamboo stick.
The skill was passed down through generations, until Mehrab Dad, Sain Dad’s father, ultimately taught his son the dance when he was 13 years old. It has been 60 years since then and Dad continues to keep the legacy alive.
“You cannot hold it and then have to control your neck,” Dad told Arab News, demonstrating how to execute the dance. “It is practice. It takes almost ten years to learn this.”
In six decades, Dad has graced various stages across 18 countries, even performing before the late Princess Diana during his tour of the United Kingdom in 1995.
While he is proud of the craft, it is a dying one and Dad lives an impoverished life in Khuda Bux Goth, a Karachi suburb, in a shanty house that only has a mat for a roof.
Apart from him, Dad says only his two sons and two students can perform the matka dance in Sindh.
Sheema Kermani, a renowned classical dancer and performing arts expert, said the matka dance is a “dance of joy and celebration” that was traditionally performed before nomadic communities left one area for another.
“All these folk dancings are rooted in people’s lives, in their work, in the kind of labor that they do,” Kermani explained.
She lamented the lack of government support for the craft, saying that the art form would die unless it received support from authorities.
“You see these people who are still practicing, they are the ones, they need to be supported,” Kermani told Arab News. “This is our heritage. This is the beauty of this culture.”
‘WEALTH OF RESPECT’
Muhammad Saleem Solangi, deputy director of culture in Sindh government, says his department actively promotes traditional artists by sending them overseas to perform at international festivals.
“I personally had our legendary artist, Sain Dad sahib, recommended for the Presidential Award in Islamabad,” Solangi told Arab News, adding that artists receive “substantial remuneration” for their performances at festivals.
“The department, within its limited resources, also provides him with an annual stipend,” he said. “In times of illness or financial crisis, they continue to support him, and they also look after his children.”
Dad’s 30-year-old son Muhammad Iqbal is a skilled drummer who accompanies his father and brothers to their performances. He says they typically perform three to four times a month, and during peak seasons, even six. Their earnings range up to Rs 30,000 [$107.66] per performance, which they divide among themselves.
“Whenever there is an exhibition or a wedding program, or a mehndi event, we perform in these programs,” Iqbal said.
But earnings hardly matter for Dad, who says the respect he enjoys from performing means the world to him.
“We may not have wealth in terms of money, but the wealth of respect is immense,” he said.
While the art form may be a dying one, Dad is already teaching his 15-year-old grandson how to balance a water bottle on his head.
And so far, Mehtab Ali is determined to master the matka dance.
“Just like my grandfather and uncle lift the pitcher, I will also, God willing, be able to lift it in four months,” Ali said.
