The holy month of Ramadan is a time for spiritual reflection, prayer, and charity for Muslims all around the world. However, in recent years, Ramadan in Pakistan has been marred by the issue of rising inflation, making it increasingly difficult for many to celebrate the month as they would like.
In Pakistan, inflation has been on the rise for several years now, but it is particularly strong and pronounced during Ramadan. During Ramadan, essential items such as fruits, vegetables, and meat become more expensive, which can be burdensome for families who are already struggling to make the ends meet. According to the report by Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) stated on Friday that weekly inflation reached 46.65% on an annual basis during the last week,
One of the main reasons for the rise in inflation during Ramadan is the increase in demand for certain food items. As people prepare to break their fast, they tend to purchase more food than usual, which drives up prices. Additionally, many shopkeepers and retailers take advantage of this increased demand to raise prices, which can lead to a significant increase in the cost of living for many families.
Another factor contributing to inflation during Ramadan in Pakistan is the shortage of certain food items. Due to poor harvests, natural disasters, and other factors, some food items become scarcer during Ramadan, which also drives up prices. This can make it difficult for families to afford even the most basic of necessities, such as bread and milk.
According to official statistics, the price of onions on an annual basis has increased by 228.28% while people have to spend 120.66% more to buy wheat flour. The price of tea has also gone up by 94.60%, bananas by 89.84%, rice by 81.51%; and potatoes by 57.21%.
The PBS statistics reveal that a 20-kilogram bag of flour, one of the most commonly consumed commodities, has witnessed an increase in price from Rs1,817 to Rs2,586. The flour bag was available for Rs1,172 last year in March.
The rising inflation during Ramadan in Pakistan has several negative effects on society. For one, it can make it difficult for many people to afford basic necessities such as food, clothing, and shelter. This can lead to increased poverty and hardship, as well as social unrest and political instability. Additionally, inflation can also undermine the efforts of charitable organizations that seek to provide assistance to the needy during Ramadan, as the cost of providing aid may become prohibitive.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the rising inflation during Ramadan in Pakistan is a serious issue that must be addressed. While there are no easy solutions, there are several steps that can be taken to mitigate the impact of inflation on vulnerable communities. For instance, the government could provide subsidies to help keep the cost of essential items affordable, while also taking steps to stabilize the economy and encourage economic growth. Additionally, charitable organizations and individuals can continue to provide support to those in need, despite the challenges posed by rising inflation. By working together, we can ensure that everyone is able to celebrate Ramadan in peace and comfort, regardless of their economic circumstances.