Paper reviews (urban planning) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Paper reviews (urban planning) - Essay Example In a real sense, the urban areas are fast growing, and there are others that continue to come up by the day. Some of the developers are never oblivious of the fact that the cities are at some point able to expand (Levy, 14). Urban areas expand for two reasons, one being on development basis and the other in terms of population. The two should be examined critically to identify areas of basis planning. The bias is actually about having a well-planned and designed place that really makes it comfortable for people to operate. To some extent many experts ignore or have ignored the essence of proper planning. Some are never concerned about the future of the urban set ups. Their only focus is on the present and not in the future. This has since become a serious problem of concern as poor designs and planning have ruined the nature and well-being of several urban centers something that could otherwise have been dealt with properly (Levy, 43). Computer and video games have been discredited before as being nothing, but time wasters. However, this has been to the contrary, to popular beliefs. Video and computer games have become important tools for coming up with designs on the most well thought out manner. The games do not just act as playing materials, but also help people to think through some issues and the best ways. Some of the best developers have been said to be people who spend most of their time on the computer playing games. Some do not really play games, but rather try to come up with different designs and developments that can otherwise be adopted in real life. The most fascinating thing about the games is that they are not in any way binding, as one has to prompt actions by self. This is very critical because one is able to come up with designs just as a thought. Some of the designs can be fitted according to need and expectations. In the

Architectural Designing Firm Business Plan Marketing Essay

Architectural Designing Firm Business Plan Marketing Essay Contemporary Island Designers Associates (C.I.D.) will be an Architectural Designing as well as Cost Estimating, Building Construction, Project Management and Consultations business specializing in residential and small commercial structures in the Jamaican domestic and commercial market, temporarily based out of my home in the Kingston 10 Area of Jamaica. The business will provide consultation and Draughting services using technologically superior processes, providing greater value for clients and enhanced  design and construction. The target clients are segmented into three categories; potential and existing home owners and developers initially. Contemporary Island Designers competitive edge will be the knowledge of digital-based design resources, creativity and results orientated. Superior customer service will also be  a point of firm differentiation. First year profits are expected to reach $xxxxx and increase to $xxxxx by the third year of operation. We will be profitable within three years of starting. The most significant challenges ahead include: (a). securing a suitable location (b) establishing the initial client base and (c)  positioning the business to be able to have a presence in a larger market. This business plan outlines the objective, focus, and implementation of this start-up firm. 1.1 Mission Contemporary Island Designers Associates will offer a new type of digital interactive media for both the client and the builder. This media will clearly show the client and the builder exactly what the design will look like in a three dimensional (Animated) perspective and the method(s) of construction. With this new form of media, the client does not have to know anything about Architectural designing graphics or terminology (floor plans, sections, elevations construction documents) to have a clear understanding of what the end result will look like. This is possible through the use of computer-rendered images and interactive video. This media will be taken one step further by using it in the construction documents as well. The builder(s) may be provided with an interactive video rendering of the entire building containing both visual photographic quality images and construction specs. Specific details will be worked out in three dimensions in such a way that anyone who knows how to use a computer will be able to access and understand this new means of Architectural presentation. 1.2 Keys to Success Provide a service that is technologically superior to the competitions. Utilizing the skills and knowledge gained in a competent and efficient manner through a diverse staff of Architectural Technologist/Draughtsman to provide a wide variety of product styles. A large array of connections and associations with reputable professionals and business executives. Objectives To establish and keep satisfied a vast client base. To provide quality workmanship to satisfy costumer(s) needs and to sustain the reputation of designing and construction in the Jamaican industry. Sales of at least $540,000 in  Year 3  and $725,000 by Year 4. Market expansion of 20% per year via the  Internet and other mediums. Creating new niche in market by  Year 4  of three dimensional construction documents and interactive digital presentation to clients. Company Summary Contemporary Island Designers Associates will provide a service of Architectural designs via digital media to the limits of technology. This approach will  offer optimal efficiency to the firm and superior value, design processes, and construction methods to the client. 2.1Businnes Ownership Contemporary Island Designers will be created as a Kingston operation based initially in the Molynes Road area. It will be  owned by its principal investor and operator, Mr. Miguel Wood. 2.2 Start-up Summary Contemporary Island Designers start-up costs total $xxxxx. The most significant purchases needed are a plotter, office printer, and desktop and laptop computer. Five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000) will be needed in cash to sustain the business for the first  year to cover rent and wages until a profit is made. 2.3 Company Locations and Facilities The  interim office of Contemporary Island Designers Associates will be located at my home at Tamarind Avenue, Kingston until dedicated office space is secured. Services Contemporary Island Designers Associates will provide many levels of service such as Architectural Designing and Planning, Cost Estimating, Building Construction, Project Management and Consultations to cater to large and small  corporations and entities, along with making it affordable for middle and upper socioeconomic classes. 3.1 Service Description In order for Contemporary Island Designers Associates to provide this new innovative service of digital media, the company will use high speed computers running programs such as AutoCAD, AutoCAD Architecture Rivet Architecture and 3D Max. To keep up with changes in technology, Contemporary Island Designers will investigate all up and coming software related to digital 3-D design to stay at the forefront of the market.   Again, this is a key strategic component to differentiate the firm and to optimize productivity and efficiency. Market Analysis Summary Contemporary Island Designers Associates will provide its service to home owners who are looking to start new construction, remodel, as well as  developers and contractors and other private parties in the domestic markets. Although we are going to cater to a relatively broad scope of customers, the business will decide what the target market is based on sales and trends experienced in the initial months of operation. 4.1 Market Segmentation Potential clients for Contemporary Island Designers Associates market are broken down into four categories: home owners, developers and contractors. Home owners and potential home owners are the largest group based on shear population and this will be emphasized in  all of the business marketing and promotional efforts. Targeting the remaining  two groups will be dependent upon establishing meaningful relationships, and responding and qualifying for request for proposals. 4.2 Service Business Analysis The Architecture/Designing business across the country is primarily made up of small- to mid-sized firms specializing in a particular architectural/design type. But there are also a few large firms that have almost dominated the design of large commercial and industrial facilities.   Initially, Contemporary Island Designers main competitors will be the small to midsized firms.   Strategy and Implementation Summary In the first year of business, Contemporary Island Designers will focus on the Kingston and St. Andrew and the Portmore area of St. Catharine. As the business grows, sales will expand throughout these areas and across the country, eventually spreading regionally. 5.1 Sales Strategy Sales in this  business is a direct result of exceptional client service. It is based on the firms  image and the referrals that result. The more clients this company pleases, the more referrals are given. We will work to provide a positive experience in all cases so our clients will refer and return to us for future work as well. 5.1.1 Sales Forecast Sales are broken down into three categories: Consultations, Design and Supervision of the construction. These three categories put together, may make up one architecture/design project. The totals for each project are based on a 10% cut from the total construction costs of each job. The following table and chart provides an overview  of our  forecast sales.   Actual sales could vary depending on the project size and budget. 5.2 Competitive Edge This business will have a competitive edge over both the larger and smaller firms because it will be composed of the  new generation of Architectural Technologists which are fluent in the digital world. Many firms today employ personnel of which find the computer 3D modeling a mystery, and most of those that do use the computer only have the ability to design in 2-D. Management Summary This business will start with one Architectural Technologists/Designer. In August of 2011, a clerical position will be added. By 2012, Other Architectural Technologists will be hired to compensate the increased work load. 6.1 Personnel Plan The following table summarizes our personnel expenditures for the first three years of operation. Financial Plan Contemporary Island Designers will increase growth and technology with cash flow as it increases through the years. Further money will be set aside to pay for further consulting as needed. 7.1 Important Assumptions The annual assumptions made in the following table are based on a stable economy. We will adjust these assumptions as changes occur in the now tumultuous economy the Bay Area is experiencing. 7.2 Key Financial Indicators The following benchmark chart indicates our key financial indicators for the first three years. 7.3 Break-even Analysis The following chart and table summarize our break-even analysis. Break-even Analysis Monthly Revenue Break-even $80,348 Average Percent Variable Cost 1% Assumptions: Estimated Monthly Fixed Cost $80,246 7.4 Projected Profit and Loss Net profit is virtually nonexistent for the first two years of operation, with respectable increases after that time. Our projected profit and loss is shown on the following table, with sales starting at $102,000 for the first year and climbing to $500,000 the third year. Pro Forma Profit and Loss 7.5 Projected Cash Flow Cash flow is vital to the well being of this company because of the duration of payment. The following chart and table below show cash flow projections. 7.6 Projected Balance Sheet The following table shows our projected Balance Sheet and net worth over the next three years. 7.7 Business Ratios Business ratios for the years of this plan are shown below. Industry profile ratios based on the Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code 7383, Independent Artists (including Architects), are shown for comparison.

The Renaissance Essay -- History Renaissance Europe

During the 1400s and 1500s in mainly Italy there was a major change that took place in all aspects of life. This was called the Renaissance and was a movement that helped give rebirth to culture and the arts. This movement went away from the medieval times that had forced a feudalist system on its people. The Medieval times were a dark period in European history that saw a major decline in arts and government. This declining can be attributed to a number of different reasons. One of which was the Bubonic Plague that spread throughout Europe and Asia and killed millions of its inhabitants. This was the final nail in the medieval coffin. Throughout these times the major focus for government and the arts were all religion oriented. The Black Death killed with no discrimination and took the lives of priest and thieves alike. This caused many to question their religion. After all, how could one preach that good people will be held in high regards with their lord when they can die from the same vicious disease as hookers or evil people? The Black Death was also somewhat of a cleansing for many societies. Although it was a horrible epidemic it took care of the rapid population expansion and just like a with brush clear-cut the undergrowth to allow for more growth to occur. This in fact did happen and after the Plague has resided new ideas and policies grew from it. There were now more areas that people could be skilled in and housing and work were in great need which caused and economic boom. With this prosperity allowed more time for positive thinking and this thinking lead people to go back and study their humanity and to see how they could improve themselves. The rebirth started in northern Italy and gave rise to many great improve... ...eans saw it first in action during this time. The Renaissance saw many improvements in everything from conditions of living to ideals and perception. This time was exactly that, a shift in perspective. It demonstrated how growth is good and how crisis's can turn out to be helpful in the long run although they may see tragic at the time they occur. During the Medieval period, there were two focal points to European society: feudalism and the Church; the first to govern the material world, the second to govern the spiritual world. Both feudalism and the Church were highly-structured and rigid systems, intolerant of change, and both clearly supported the proposition that the rights of the individual be lower than the rules of society. The thing that eroded the power of these institutions, and was central to the Renaissance, was the rebirth of the individual in society.

Research proposal for Risk Management Essay

Introduction: The increasing pace of change, customer demands and market globalization all put risk management high on the agenda for forward thinking companies. Risks cause cost overrun and schedule delay in many projects. The effectiveness of risk management becomes an important issue in project management. To make risk management more efficient and effective, all parties must understand risk responsibilities, risk event conditions, risk preference, and risk management capabilities (Wehrung et al. 1988; Al-Bahar and Crandall 1990) Different parties involved in a construction project face a variety of uncertain factors. These factors can be compiled under the category of risk. Making decisions on the basis of assumptions, expectations, estimates and forecasts of future events involves taking risks. Risk and uncertainty characterize situations where the actual outcome for a particular event or activity is likely to deviate from the estimate or forecast value (Raftery 1994). The definition of risk management varies; risk management is generally defined as, ‘A formal orderly process for systematically identifying, analysing, and responding to risk events throughout the life of a project to obtain the optimum or acceptable degree of risk elimination or control’ (Al-Bahar & Crandall 1990). The objective of my research is to present the perception of typical Chinese contractor towards construction risk. The result of surveys should further clarify the current perception of contractors regarding current construction circumstance in the industry. The data and information will be collected from published statistics, individual interviews and questionnaires, and the data will be used to compare with previous published surveys. The purpose of this comparison is  to identify perception and trends in construction risk management. A basic understanding of current attitudes and trends therefore will be indicated. Then I will adopt some appropriate case to enhance my understanding of my view point. The following proposal presents the ‘What’ and ‘How’ of my study, using an integrated approach to study risk and its management in Chinese construction industry. Brief introduction of Chinese construction industry China’s economy has shown remarkable growth over the past several years and many foreign economists predict a healthy growth in the near future. According to the Chinese Statistical Yearbook 2002, China’s construction industry achieved 646.2 billion yuan in total output value in 2001, accounting for 6.7 percent of the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP). China’s construction industry realized 704.7 billion yuan in total output value in 2002 — an increase of 10.54 percent from the previous year’s 637.5 billion yuan — accounting for 6.9 percent of the national GDP. Construction enterprises reached 45,893 by the end of 2001, employing 21,106,600 people and generating 1,536.156 billion yuan in output value and 402.357 billion yuan in added value. Areas under construction totaled 1,883,286,800 square meters; completed areas covered 976.99 million square meters. Profits totaled 29.439 billion yuan in the year, with taxes at 49.903 billion yuan. Of the enterprises, 44,997 were Chinese with 20,986,800 staff members. The companies reaped 1,518.595 billion yuan in output value in 2001 and 398.022 billion yuan in added value. Areas under construction numbered 1,874,480,800 square meters and completed areas completed covered 972.532,300 square meters. Profits reached 28.83 billion yuan, with taxes at 49.392 billion yuan. (China Statistical Yearbook, 2002) Recent trends of risk management in Chinese construction industry For years, the Chinese construction industry has had a very poor reputation for coping with risk, with many projects failing to meet deadlines and cost targets. This can be traced to many causes as Lu mentioned, including: Technical, quality or performance reasons, such as employment of inexperienced designers, changes to the technology used or to industry standards during the project. Organizational problems, such as cost, time and scope objectives that are internally inconsistent, lack of prioritization of projects, inadequacy or interruption of funding, and resource conflicts with other projects in the organization. External problems, such as shifting legal or regulatory environment, poor geological conditions and weather, force majeure. Project management, such as poor allocation of time and resources, inadequate quality of project plan, and poor use of project management disciplines. (Lu 2003) Risk management is still new to China; it was introduced and applied in construction industry for a relative short period. Survey showed that Chinese contractors are often responsible for most risk factors, meanwhile, the use of risk analysis techniques for managing and controlling risk are generally low among the Chinese construction industry. Basically, most contractors still resort to the subjective judgment and practice experience for perceiving and managing risks. However, according to Chinese Statistical Yearbook 2004, situation was improving. During the Tenth Five-Year Plan, China’s construction industry has so far enjoyed a good opportunity for development, more and more parties involved in the construction projects raised their perception of risk and the attitude towards risk management improved. (China Statistical Yearbook, 2004) Literature Review The literature review in this part is mainly about the identification of risk resources, classification of risk, perception of risk and basic theory of risk management as well. Sources of risk There are many resources of risk that an organization must take into account before a decision is made. It is therefore important that these sources of risk are identified allowing the necessary analysis and response to take place. According to Merna and Smith, sources of risk to business from projects including as follows: political, environmental, planning, market, economic, financial, natural, project, technical, regulatory, human, criminal, safety, legal. (Merna and Smith 1996). A source of risk is any factor that can affect project or business performance, and risk arises when this is both uncertain and significance in its impact on project or business performance. Classification of risk It is helpful to try to categorize risk associated with projects both as a guide to identification and to facilitate the selection of the most appropriate risk management strategy. Merna and smith proposed one method to separate the more general risks which might influence a project but may be outside the control of elements; these are referred to as global and elemental risks. Global risks originate from sources external to the project environment. They are often predictable but not always controllable. Global risks can be subdivided into four sections: political, legal, commercial and environmental risk. Elemental risks are those risks associated with elements of the project, namely implementation risks and operation risks, and for some projects there will be financial risks and revenue risks. These risks are more likely to be controllable or manageable by project parties. (Smith 2003) Perceptions of risk Different people will respond to seemingly similar risky situation in very different ways. Risk perception has a crucial influence on risk taking behavior. The perceived importance attached to decisions influences team  behavior and the consequent implementation methods. Subjectivity, according to Merna, is a key factor in assessing risk. Whether a problem is perceived in terms of potential gains or losses will not be assessed as a simple mathematical calculation of the problem, but as a subjective fear, often linked to consequences of outcomes. Furthermore, he stated that risks are perceived by different stakeholders at different business level. Risk management process In construction projects each of the three primary targets of cost, time and quality is likely to be subject to risks. In terms of project implementation, managers need to be able to undertake or propose action which reduce or eliminate the effects of risks. To achieve this aim, a suggested systematic approach to the management of risk is followed: *Risk Identification: To identify the risk resource; *Risk Analysis: To quantify the effects; *Risk Response: To develop management response to risk Methodology In order to collect data and information for the research and examine the main questions raised, the following methodology will be possibly employed: Secondary Analysis Since direct observation is not very accessible in construction industry in China, secondary analysis is more preferable. Secondary analysis is the reanalysis of data that was originally compiled by another researcher for other purposes than the one the present researcher intends to use it for. The sources that I would use include archives, newspaper, and magazine articles. I will try to choose the sources which are more objective. I will adopt appropriate methods to find the useful data and information for my  research on risk management. Questionnaire Questionnaires are an inexpensive way to gather data from a potentially large number of respondents. Often they are the only feasible way to reach a number of reviewers large enough to allow statistically analysis of the results. For my study, the questionnaire is designed to collect data. The data will be compared with data collected from a similar survey conducted in 1979 by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). The purpose of this comparison is to identify ant trends in construction risk that will facilitate risk management. The reasons for me to choose questionnaire as research method as follows: Firstly, a Questionnaire can save resources and money. Although preparation may be costly, any data collection scheme will have similar preparation expenses. The administration cost per person of a questionnaire can be as low as postage and a few photocopies. Time is also an important resource that questionnaires can maximize. Secondly, Questionnaires are easy to administer confidentially. Thirdly, in studies that have resources to pursue other data collection strategies, questionnaires can be a useful confirmation tools. Thus, questionnaires are versatile, allowing the collection of both subjective and objective data through the use of open or closed format questions. Modern computers have only made the task of collecting and extracting valuable material more efficient. Individual Interviews Interviews will enable me to do most of the qualitative part of my research, and the information gained here is usually more realistic. I plan to interview some engineers, some project management team and some experienced project managers as well. In addition, Individual interviews by a way of structured questionnaire will also be used to collect information about the risk management perception. The interview is especially important for some proposed examining questions. I will also attempt to interview some  professional journal editors relating to construction industry. Case Study Case study research is the most common qualitative method used in risk management. As Yin (2002) defined, the scope of a case study as follows: A case study is an empirical inquiry that: *investigates a contemporary phenomenon within its real-life context, *especially when the boundaries between phenomenon and context are not clearly evident. For my research on risk management, I will choose some recent cases which relating to risk management as a way of identifying the perception and trends of risk management in construction industry in China. I will select both success and failing cases in Chinese construction industry. Proposed research Timetable I will spend about 4 months for my studies. I plan to spend the first month developing my proposal and methodology and completing the literature review. During this time, I will also try to obtain relevant published data and information. Then I plan to spend about one month in China obtaining statistics, doing questionnaires and interviews. I will spend the next two months in China so as to do some intensive fieldwork, and some follow-up jobs as well. May 2005 – June 2005 *Develop proposal and methodology and complete the literature review *Obtain relevant published statistics June 2005 – July 2005 *Intensive fieldwork in China *Analysis the statistics and data obtained July 2005 – August 2005 *Follow-up questionnaires and interviews and fieldwork in China August 2005 – September 2005 *Mainly work on the thesis (Details see attached Gantt chart) References: Al-Bahar, J. F., and Crandall, K. C. (1990) Systematic risk management approach for construction projects. Journal of Construction Engineering Management, 116~3, 533-546. China Statistical Yearbook, 2002, China Statistics Press. China Statistical Yearbook 2004, China Statistics Press. Lu, Y. J. (2003) Risk Management for Large-scale Infrastructure Projects in China, 11 Merna, A. and Smith, N. J. (1996) Projects procured by privately financial concession contracts, vol.1. Asia Law and Practice, Hong Kong. Raftery, J. (1994) Risk Analysis in Project Management. E & FN Spon, London. Smith, N. J. (2003) Appraisal, Risk and Uncertainty. 6, 42-43 Wehrung, D. A., Lee, K., Tse, D. K., and Vertinsky, I. B. (1988). Adjusting risky situations: A theoretical framework and empirical test. Journal of Risk Uncertainty, 2, 189-212. Yin, R. K. (2002) Case Study Research, Design and Methods, 3rd ed. Newbury Park, Sage Publications.

Suicide Bombing On The National Front Essay

Suicide bombing in Pakistan started after 9/11. Today Pakistan is the biggest victim of terrorism. After 9/11 incident, Pakistan supported the war on terror in Afghanistan. That war effected Pakistan very much. As border was not sealed so most of the Talibans ran away from Afghanistan to Pakistan. They were given shelter by the people of tribal areas of Pakistan because of their tradition of hospitality and clan bonding. As already Afghans were in refugee camps in Pakistan, so it was difficult to differentiate Talibans and Afghan refugees. Pakistan became a target as we found friends in Taliban’s enemy. Suicide bombing started in Pakistan. Initially, only the security forces were targeted but now even the common public is not spared. The war has spread to every nook and corner of Pakistan. First suicide attack in Pakistan was done in Islamabad in 1995. A truck full of explosives entered the Egyptian embassy and 14 people were killed. After investigation it was found out that bomber was Egyptian. Second suicide bombing was in Karachi. French engineers were attacked outside Sheraton Hotel in May 2002. In this attack 14 people were killed in which 11 were French engineers. Another attack in June 2002 was done outside American embassy. In 2003 President General Musharraf was targeted. In 2004 there were five suicide attacks including one attack on Prime Minister. In 2005 only 2 suicide attacks occurred. In 2006 suicide bombing again started to increase as there were 6 suicide attacks in which American embassy and Pakistan security forces were also targeted. In2007 these attacks were increased and total suicide attacks were done. In these attacks was on Former Prime Minister on Benazir Bhutto. In 2008 59 suicide attacks were done. In year 2009 till November 19, 70 suicide attacks were done. During Afghan jihad against Russia, America and Pakistan joined hands to fight it together. After the war, the U.S.A left the region in distress and civil war started in Afghanistan. The idea to use religion as a  tool to convince people to fight this war and organizing private militias resulted in destruction of Afghanistan after the war. It did not stop there. Pakistan continued on using religion as a tool and helped Taliban to form a government in Afghanistan. The whole episode of Al-Qaeda taking refuge in Afghanistan and 9/11 attack gave rise to a new fear. Previously, the whole world had their eyes closed to this Frankenstein they themselves created. Suddenly there was a hue and cry everywhere. Islam was said to be the threat to the whole world. Muslim bashing started happening and things got from bad to worse. America got dragged into this war and Pakistan along with it. Now after fighting it for this long, there seems no going back. There is no victory in sight and it cannot last forever. So it is a confusion which has found no solution. CAUSES OF SUICIDE BOMBING IN PAKISTAN One reason of suicide bombing in Pakistan is a tradition of Pushtoons called† badal†(revenge). This is the tradition according to which if a person of its tribe is killed by the person from other tribe then revenge is being taken from the killer tribe and that revenge is called badal. So similar to this happened in Afghanistan and tribal areas of Pakistan. People of those tribes were killed by American and Pakistani army. So reply to that they started targeting the check posts of army but later on they changed their target and now their target is innocent public of Pakistan. They considered it their right to kill the people in order to take revenge. Another reason of suicide bombing is American involvement in Pakistan. Pashtoons have got a history that they do not allow the foreign forces to occupy their land. American involvement in Pakistan is also not liked by Pushtoons and Taliban of Afghanistan and Tribal areas. Taliban has targeted Pakistan for their commitment to America. America’s drone attacks within Pakistan territory is one of the reasons for the increase in suicide attacks. Bajaur incident and Lal Masjid operation has helped Taliban by providing them new recruits for suicide bombing. In both incidents innocent students were killed. In retaliation there have been a lot of suicide  attacks in Pakistan for the last three years. American invasion of Islamic countries has contributed a lot to the common hatred in the Muslim world. Economic bondage was already there and then war was imposed on independent and sovereign countries. The feeling of resentment giving rise to Al-Qaeda and their extreme philosophies did not help the situation. Palestine, Iraq, Kashmir, Chechnya, Bosnia and Kosovo are all examples of Muslim occupied territories. Things were fine for the western world as long as there was no organized retaliation. It was bound to happen someday and it did happen. The result is that the world is very unsafe today and there is a lot of hatred which can result in a clash of civilizations. Injustice is one of the foremost factors that breed terrorism. When the grievances of the people are not redressed they resort to violent actions. So this is the case with Pakistan where timely justice has always been a far cry. Hence, the delayed justice is working as incentive for victims and dragging them to the swamp of terrorist organisations. Illiteracy is the root causes of extremism and terrorism. More than one in five men aged 15 to 24 unable to read or write, and only one in 20 is in tertiary education. such a high illiteracy rate has made Pakistan vulnerable to terrorism. furthermore, technical and vocational education, and adult literacy, are especially important but unfortunately have been neglected the most in Baluchistan, Khyber Pukhtunkhwa and the Tribal Areas. Illiteracy and lack of skills provide fertile ground for those who wish to recruit young men and women to their cause, especially when significant monetary payments are attached. Regarding poverty, it is also an incubating cause of terrorism. And it is said that â€Å"a hungry man is an angry man.† Notably, majority of people in Pakistan are living below poverty line. While especially for the youngsters, unemployment has made the matter worse. In these adverse circumstances, some people go to the level of extremism and even commit suicide. These are the people whose services are hired by the terrorist  groups and they become easy prey to terrorism. Food insecurity is also linked with militancy and violence. When people remain unable to afford food and cannot meet their basic needs civil strife grows. A report by the Islamabad-based Sustainable Development Policy Institute The highest levels of food insecurity, for instance, exist in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas, according to the report, where 67.7 per cent of the people are insecure. The next highest level is in Baluchistan, with food insecurity at 61.2 per cent, and then in Khyber-Pukhtunkhwa, 56.2 per cent. In Pakistan some extremist forces are exploiting the feelings of lower and lower middle class food insecure people. They are motivating their unemployed youth to commit heinous crimes such as suicide attacks against innocent people. REMEDIES In view of the root causes described in above paragraphs, the possible remedies could include: †¢ To begin with, a national commission needs to be set up, which identifies the fault lines and the root causes of the rise of extremism in Pakistan taking into consideration the post-Nine-Eleven developments. †¢ It should also take up the question of reforming the madrassas. The heads of all the major religious groups should be contacted and engaged to explore short-term and long-term solutions. †¢ Our universities and research institutes should take up the intellectual task of re-interpreting the Islamic injunctions in the light of modern knowledge and 21st century challenges (with emphasis on social justice). †¢ The government must improve its performance. Bad governance and corruption have lowered its credibility and clout, †¢ Parliament must debate Pakistan’s present relationship with the US, with  particular reference to the American war in Afghanistan and operations in Pakistan. †¢ Our government should make efforts to develop sector. Without any doubt, these efforts will play a crucial role not only in providing employment to the millions of people but will also eliminate poverty in the country. †¢ Pakistan’s government should particularly emphasise the need of technical education by promoting it. In this respect, more institutes should be opened in order to promote technical education. †¢ It is mentionable that there are two types of terrorists, extremists and moderates. In order to cope with terrorism, our government should neutralise the moderate terrorists through reconciliation by offering them general pardon and asking them to renounce terrorism. Even extremist insurgents can be offered mediation. Nevertheless, those militants who reject the offer could be fought through military operations. †¢ Nonetheless, for their on global and regional interests, US-led western allies must not only increase the military and economic aid of Pakistan but also provide direct market access to Pak products on zero rate duty to help stabilise the country’s bleak economy in the wake of the war against terror. †¢ As Pakistan has been successfully coping with the menace of terrorism, US-led some western countries including India should also give up their propaganda campaign against Islamabad and blame game against its intelligence agency ISI. †¢ US should help in resolving the Kashmir dispute to deal with the problem of militancy in the region. †¢ In order to fight terrorism, Pakistan’s media should play a key role. It must point out the criminal activities of the militants like hostage-taking, killing of the innocent people? torching the government buildings including girl schools and car-snatching. It should also indicate that Islam is a  religion of peace and does not allow suicide attacks. †¢ As Pakistan is already facing various crises of grave nature in wake of terrorism, so our politicians must stop manipulating the same for their own self-interests. By setting aside their differences and by showing power of tolerance, both our rulers and opposition parties need to act upon a policy of national reconciliation to cope with the problem of terrorism and to stand before external pressure. †¢ Finally, our politicians, general masses and security forces must show a strong sense of unity to fight terrorism. CONCLUSION Pakistan is a peace loving nation and playing its important role in combating terror. Recognition of efforts to fight menace of terrorism and sacrifices rendered thereof are testimony to the commitment and resolve to bring peace in the region. Unfortunately sometimes its commitment is doubted by some of its allies. Mistrust can lead to diversion of efforts, which will not be beneficial to common objective of peace in the region. Pakistan is a responsible nation; fully capable of defending its territorial integrity. Pakistan has singularly committed large forces to combat menace of terrorism more than any other country. No foreign troops are either present or deployed on Pakistan soil. All citizens of Pakistan must propagate moderate vibrant culture of Pakistan to promote good will of world community and shun misconstrued beliefs. Attacks on security forces personnel are executed at the sponsorship of hostile intelligence agencies. Such anti state elements must be singled out and brought to lime light to defeat evil agendas of our enemies. Pakistan has sacrificed the most in the ongoing war on terror; criticizing Pakistan’s efforts at national/international forum will be counter-productive to the overall objectives of war on terror.