By Qasim Ali
Lahore : The Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Central Punjab organized a thought-provoking seminar titled “Revisiting the Federation: The Case for Smaller Provinces in Pakistan.” The session featured a keynote address by renowned educationist and visionary leader Mian Amer Mahmood, who presented his comprehensive vision for transforming Pakistan’s divisions into full-fledged provinces to promote efficient governance and improved public service delivery.In his address, Mian Amer Mahmood emphasized that creating smaller provinces would not only help resolve local issues more effectively but also bring governance closer to the people. He noted that smaller administrative units could reduce bureaucratic costs, enhance efficiency, and foster leadership development at the grassroots level. Citing global examples, he argued that the model of smaller regions has proven successful worldwide by curbing dynastic politics and strengthening democratic representation.The seminar was moderated by Dr. Khalid Manzoor Butt, Dean of the Faculty, and featured distinguished panelists including Dr. Ishtiaq Ahmed (Professor Emeritus, Stockholm University, Sweden), Ahmed Bilal Mehboob (President, PILDAT), and Ahmed Nazir Warraich (Governance and Legal Expert).Panelists praised Mian Amer Mahmood’s data-driven and well-researched perspective, describing his proposal for smaller provinces as both logical and actionable. A dynamic Q&A session followed, where students and scholars exchanged views on enhancing Pakistan’s federal structure.The seminar concluded with a consensus that, given Pakistan’s evolving political and administrative landscape, the establishment of smaller provinces is no longer just a proposal—it is a necessity for the country’s future governance and progress.
