International Women's Day 2025

 

International Women's Day 2025

Every year, on March 8th, the world celebrates International Women's Day (IWD), a day dedicated to recognizing the incredible contributions of women and advocating for gender equality. The theme for International Women's Day 2025 is "Empower Her: Elevate Voices, Break Barriers," which is itself meaningful.

International Women's Day has its roots in the early 20th century, when women around the world began organizing and demanding equal rights. Since its first official celebration in 1911, IWD has grown into a global movement that continues to inspire change and progress with the slogan "We can do.".

Women have made remarkable strides across various fields. From pioneering scientists like Marie Curie to trailblazing leaders like Margaret Thatcher, women have reshaped our world. In recent years, figures such as Malala Yousafzai, Kamala Harris, and Greta Thunberg have emerged as powerful advocates for education, representation, and climate action. Their achievements highlight the strength and resilience of women everywhere. Women with disabilities also played their roles, like Hellen Keller, Dr. Fatima Shah, Judy Heumann, Rhonda Graham & Arunima Sinha, Frida Kahlo, and Jessica Cox. There is a long list of successful women with disabilities in the world.

Despite significant progress, many challenges remain. Women continue to face disparities in pay, access to education, and representation in leadership roles. Gender-based violence affects millions of women globally. Addressing these issues requires collective effort and commitment from individuals, organizations, and governments.

In countries like Pakistan, girls and women with disabilities face triple discrimination: being women, facing religious misinterpretation about women in Islam, and contending with cultural norms of South Asia. This intersectionality of gender, disability, and cultural barriers creates a particularly challenging environment for women with disabilities. They often experience exclusion from educational opportunities, limited access to healthcare, and restricted participation in economic activities.

Women with disabilities are often overlooked in mainstream gender movements. Despite the efforts of many advocates, their voices are frequently marginalized, and their specific needs are not adequately addressed. This year's theme, "Empower Her: Elevate Voices, Break Barriers," serves as a powerful reminder that the inclusion of women with disabilities within the gender movement and beyond is essential. It calls for a comprehensive approach to gender equality that recognizes and addresses the unique challenges faced by women with disabilities. The inclusion of women with disabilities is not just a matter of justice but a necessity for achieving true gender equality. This International Women's Day, let us commit to raising awareness about the unique challenges faced by women with disabilities and ensuring their voices are heard. By doing so, we can create a world where every woman, regardless of her abilities, can live with dignity and opportunity.

International Women's Day is an opportunity to empower women and elevate their voices. Gender equality is not just a women's issue but a human rights issue. Promoting policies that ensure equal opportunities, creating safe and accessible spaces, and challenging societal norms that perpetuate inequality are essential steps towards a more inclusive world. As we celebrate International Women's Day, let us recognize the achievements of women with and without disabilities and reflect on the work that still needs to be done. Each of us can contribute to advancing gender equality by supporting women's initiatives, challenging stereotypes, and advocating for inclusive policies.

This year, International Women's Day serves as a powerful reminder of the progress we've made and the journey ahead, celebrating women's achievements and advocating for their rights to honor their contributions, pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable world, and remind us of our collective responsibility to create an inclusive world where every woman, including those with disabilities, can thrive by elevating their voices, breaking barriers, and empowering all women to reach their full potential.

According to the theme of this year, together, we can break barriers and build an inclusive world where every woman, regardless of age, race, nationality, or disability, can thrive and reach her full potential.

International Zero Discrimination Day

 

International Zero Discrimination Day

Observed annually on March 1st, the United Nations' Zero Discrimination Day serves as a powerful and poignant reminder of the fundamental human right to live a life free from prejudice, stigma, and marginalization. This day underscores the urgent and ongoing need to combat all forms of discrimination, whether based on race, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, socioeconomic status, or any other status. As we approach Zero Discrimination Day 2025, the call for a more equitable and inclusive world resonates even more strongly. It's crucial to delve deeper into the multifaceted challenges faced by marginalized communities, particularly focusing on the often-overlooked experiences of South Asians with disabilities. Their experiences represent a complex intersection of discrimination, demanding focused attention and concerted action.

The Multifaceted Context of Disability

Disability is not a monolithic concept. It encompasses a wide spectrum of physical, sensory, intellectual, cognitive, and mental impairments, some visible and others invisible. It is an integral and natural part of the human experience, affecting individuals across all demographics and socioeconomic backgrounds because of barriers. Despite its prevalence, persons with disabilities often encounter significant, systemic barriers that impede their full participation and inclusion in society. These barriers are not simply physical; they are often deeply rooted in societal attitudes, cultural norms, and systemic inequalities. They can manifest as inaccessible infrastructure, discriminatory practices, various heartening terminologies, limited access to quality education and healthcare, and pervasive social stigma.

South Asians with Disabilities

South Asians with disabilities often face a double, sometimes even triple, burden of discrimination. They are marginalized not only as members of the disability community but also as individuals belonging to an ethnic minority group or sexual identity. Within their own communities, they may encounter cultural stigma, misconceptions surrounding the causes of disability, and even outright rejection. Disability may be viewed through a lens of shame, superstition, or as a punishment for past transgressions, leading to isolation and a lack of support for both the individual and their family. Furthermore, they often experience discrimination in the broader society due to their ethnicity, language, religious beliefs, or cultural practices. This intersectional discrimination, where multiple forms of prejudice converge, creates a complex web of disadvantage, leading to profound social exclusion, economic hardship, limited access to essential services, and diminished opportunities for personal growth and development.

The challenges faced by South Asians with disabilities are often exacerbated by poverty, lack of access to assistive technologies, limited availability of rehabilitation services, and inadequate representation in decision-making processes. These factors contribute to a cycle of marginalization, making it difficult for individuals to overcome the barriers they face and realize their full potential. The lack of disaggregated data on disability within South Asian communities further complicates the issue, making it difficult to accurately assess the prevalence of disability and develop targeted interventions.

Unraveling the Roots of Disability Discrimination

Disability discrimination is a complex phenomenon with roots in a variety of interconnected factors, including:

• Lack of Awareness and Understanding: A fundamental cause of discrimination is the widespread lack of accurate information and understanding about disability. Misconceptions, stereotypes, and fear often fuel prejudice and negative attitudes. Many people are simply unaware of the diverse range of disabilities and the challenges faced by individuals living with them.
• Cultural Stigma and Misconceptions: In some cultures, disability is shrouded in stigma and viewed through a lens of shame or misfortune. This can lead to discrimination and exclusion of individuals with disabilities, preventing them from accessing support and resources.
• Fear and Discomfort: Some individuals may feel uncomfortable or even fearful around people with disabilities due to a lack of familiarity or understanding. This discomfort can lead to avoidance, exclusion, and discriminatory behavior.
• Systemic Barriers: Beyond individual attitudes, systemic, policy and institutional barriers play a significant role in perpetuating disability discrimination. These barriers can include inaccessible infrastructure, discriminatory hiring practices, limited access to education and healthcare, and a lack of representation in decision-making bodies.
• Socioeconomic Condition: Poverty and socioeconomic disadvantage can exacerbate the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, limiting their access to resources, opportunities, and support.

Solutions for Disability Discrimination

Combating disability discrimination requires a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach, involving individuals, communities, governments, and organizations working together. Key strategies include:

• Raising Awareness and Education: Public awareness campaigns and educational programs are essential for challenging stereotypes, dispelling misconceptions, and promoting a more inclusive understanding of disability. These initiatives should target schools, workplaces, communities, and the media.
• Universal Design: Ensuring that physical and digital environments are accessible to persons with disabilities is crucial for their full participation in society. This includes accessible buildings, transportation, websites, and assistive technologies. The principles of universal design, which aim to create environments that are usable by everyone to the greatest extent possible, should be incorporated into all aspects of design and planning.
• Implementation of Legal Framework: Robust legal frameworks that protect the rights of persons with disabilities are essential for ensuring equality and justice. These laws should prohibit discrimination in all areas of life, including employment, education, healthcare, and housing. Effective enforcement mechanisms are crucial for ensuring that these laws are implemented and that individuals with disabilities have access to redressal mechanisms.
• Empowerment: Supporting persons with disabilities to advocate for their rights, participate fully in their communities, and contribute their talents and skills is vital for promoting inclusion. This includes providing access to education, training, employment opportunities, and leadership development programs.
• Inclusive Education: Inclusive education, where students with and without disabilities learn together in the same classrooms, is essential for fostering understanding, breaking down stereotypes, and creating more inclusive classrooms.
• Support Services: Access to quality rehabilitation services, assistive technologies, and support services is crucial for enabling individuals with disabilities to live independent and fulfilling lives.
• Disability Data: Collecting disaggregated data on disability within South Asian communities is essential for understanding the specific challenges faced by this population and developing targeted interventions. Further research is needed to explore the cultural and social factors that contribute to disability discrimination in these communities.
• Partnerships: Addressing disability discrimination requires collaboration and partnerships between governments, NGOs, community organizations, and individuals with disabilities. By working together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

On Zero Discrimination Day 2025, let us not only reaffirm our commitment to building a world free from discrimination but also amplify the voices of South Asians with disabilities. Let us move beyond mere tolerance and embrace a culture of inclusion, where everyone, regardless of their abilities or background, can live a life of dignity, respect, and opportunity. By working together to dismantle barriers, challenge prejudices, and promote inclusion, we can create a more just and equitable society for all. This requires a sustained effort, a commitment to listening to and learning from the experiences of marginalized communities, and a willingness to challenge our own biases and assumptions. Only then can we truly achieve a world where zero discrimination is a reality, not just an aspiration.

Grants Opportunities for DPOs in Pakistan

 

Disability Grants for DPOs in Pakistan

Securing funding is a constant challenge for Disabled Persons' Organizations (DPOs) in Pakistan, especially given the country's complex socio-economic landscape. While government support exists, DPOs often need to explore diverse funding avenues, including local resources, INGOs, UN agencies, and international donors. This guide focuses on how grassroots DPOs can effectively approach grant acquisition and fundraising, moving beyond a simple charity-based model.

Funding Sources

Local philanthropy offers significant potential for DPOs in Pakistan.  To tap into this resource, DPOs should proactively identify and cultivate relationships with local philanthropists, businesses, and community groups that share an interest in disability rights.  A strategic approach involves showcasing the DPO's impact through compelling narratives and data, demonstrating how their work aligns with the philanthropic goals of potential donors.

DPOs in Pakistan can explore Zakat and Waqf as potential funding sources.  Collaboration with local religious leaders and communities can be particularly helpful in understanding the distribution mechanisms and eligibility criteria for these funds.  Raising awareness within the community about the DPO's work and how it benefits persons with disabilities can also increase the likelihood of receiving support from Zakat and Waqf resources. In this regard DPOs may approach HANDS Foundation for technical support.

Although navigating the bureaucratic processes can be complex, government grants represent a potential funding source for DPOs in Pakistan like Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPD) is doing in Sindh.  DPOs should prioritize engaging with provincial social welfare departments and thoroughly research available programs that support disability inclusion. Cultivating relationships with key officials can be beneficial in navigating the application process.

INGOs represent a diverse range of funding opportunities for DPOs in Pakistan.  Organizations like the CBM, SightSavers, and others working on disability-related issues offer various grant programs and partnerships.  DPOs should conduct thorough research to identify INGOs whose funding priorities align with their specific needs and project goals.

The UNCT's growing emphasis on inclusion in Pakistan creates a favorable environment for DPOs to collaborate with UN agencies in pakistan. These agencies often have disability rights projects and may offer funding or partnership opportunities.  Building relationships with UN staff and participating in UN-organized events focused on inclusion can open doors to collaboration.

International foundations and donor agencies offer valuable funding opportunities for DPOs in Pakistan, often through calls for project proposals.  DPOs should proactively research organizations like the Disability Rights Fund, the Open Society Foundations, and other European and North American foundations that focus on disability rights or inclusive development.  Careful review of their guidelines and targeted proposal development are crucial for success.

 Connecting with the Overseas Pakistanis can be a powerful way for DPOs to access funding.  Many overseas Pakistanis feel a strong connection to their homeland and may be particularly interested in supporting causes that benefit their fellow citizens, especially those with disabilities.  DPOs should actively engage with diaspora organizations and individuals, highlighting the shared identity and purpose of empowering persons with disabilities in Pakistan.

Building Capacity for Grant Acquisition

DPOs should prioritize proposal writing training to enhance their fundraising efforts.  Seeking out workshops offered by experienced grant writers or organizations specializing in capacity building can be particularly helpful.  Focus on developing a proposal template and practicing writing different sections to build confidence and competence.

While local funding opportunities may not always require English proficiency, strong English language skills are essential for accessing international grants.  Investing in English language training for key staff members involved in fundraising and proposal writing provides a significant strategic advantage in the competitive international funding landscape. Using Artificial Intelligence (AI) can help DPOs to overcome on their English language skills.

Networking is crucial for DPOs, but it's not enough to simply collect business cards.  Following up after conferences, workshops, and events is essential for nurturing relationships and turning connections into potential funding opportunities.  DPOs should send personalized emails, share relevant information, and schedule follow-up meetings to continue the conversation.

While internal financial management training is crucial, DPOs should also strive to have independent audits conducted regularly.  This provides an additional layer of accountability and demonstrates a commitment to transparency to donors.  Smaller DPOs can explore partnerships with local accounting firms to make audits more affordable.

Securing funding is only the first step; effective project management is crucial for successful grant implementation.  Recognizing that many DPOs, particularly smaller organizations, may lack formal project management training, targeted support is essential.  Training should focus on practical skills in project planning, monitoring, and evaluation, tailored to the specific needs and capacity of the DPO.  Mentorship programs pairing DPOs with experienced project managers can be particularly valuable. HANDS could be a best platform to provide such technical support including trainings.

Moving Beyond Charity

The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and Pakistan's local legal framework provide a strong foundation for promoting a rights-based approach to disability.  DPOs should frame their proposals and fundraising efforts around this framework, emphasizing the inclusion, empowerment, and dignity of persons with disabilities.  Avoid portraying persons with disabilities as objects of pity or charity, instead focusing on their rights and potential.

Demonstrating impact is crucial for attracting funding, but effectively communicating this impact can be challenging for many DPOs.  While data and testimonials are important, crafting compelling stories that resonate with donors can be difficult.  Training and mentorship in storytelling, impact reporting, and basic photography/videography can be invaluable for DPOs.

A fundraising strategy is not a static document; it should be regularly reviewed and adapted as needed.  The funding landscape is constantly changing, and DPOs must be flexible and responsive to new opportunities and challenges.  Regularly evaluating the effectiveness of fundraising activities and making adjustments to the strategy is essential.

Diversifying funding sources is essential for DPO sustainability.  By cultivating relationships with multiple donors, including individuals, foundations, corporations, and government agencies, DPOs can create a more stable and predictable funding stream.  This diversification allows the organization to focus on its mission without being overly dependent on any single source.

Tangible Suggestions for Grassroots DPOs

Starting local is a smart strategy for DPOs. Building relationships with local philanthropists and businesses provides a solid foundation for fundraising efforts. Small grants or seed money can be invaluable in these early stages, allowing the organization to demonstrate its impact and build a credible track record.

Peer learning is ideal but challenging in Pakistan.  Explore alternative learning avenues like conferences, online forums, and mentorship programs. Given the challenges of peer learning in Pakistan, focusing on mentorship and capacity building may be more effective.  Connecting DPOs with experienced fundraisers, grant writers, and project managers can provide valuable guidance and support.  Investing in training programs offered by established NGOs or development organizations can also build DPO capacity. Even intermediary organizations,  like HANDS Foundation, Doaba Foundation or other national NGOs or INGOs like CBM, SightSavers, HI or other development support organizations, can play a key role in facilitating peer learning among DPOs.  These organizations can act as conveners, bringing DPOs together for workshops, training sessions, and networking events. The networks like CBID Network Pakistan, ADDTF, NFWWDs, PILC Network can be used a support platforms for this purpose.

Mentorship is not just about short-term fixes; it's about long-term development.  DPOs should seek mentors who are committed to supporting their growth over time, providing ongoing guidance and encouragement.  Organizations like HANDS Foundation are facilitating these long-term mentoring relationships in Pakistan.

Online resources play a crucial role in DPO capacity building.  Platforms like GrantStation and FundsforNGOs offer valuable training materials and resources on proposal writing, fundraising strategy, and financial management.  DPOs should leverage these resources, along with others listed below, to strengthen their organizational capacity.

Foundation Center (Candid)

Instrumentl

GrantWatch

ProFellow

Devex

UNDB Online (United Nations Development Business)

ReliefWeb

Those DPOs are interested in training or capacity building can use 

TechSoup: Offers discounted software and resources for nonprofits, including training materials.

NonprofitReady: Provides free and low-cost online courses on various nonprofit management topics.

Idealist: Offers resources for nonprofits, including job postings and training materials.

In Pakistan DPOs can explore these online resources

BrightSpyre and Rozee.pk, Indeed Pakistan, LinkedIn, Mustakbil.pk,  or WorkNomad.pk

last but not least you can visit All Sanghar Handicaps' Association (ASHA) or subscribe Virtual Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities (VRCD) on web, WhatsApp and Facebook for updating you with such useful information in future.

Beyond using existing platforms, DPOs should prioritize developing their own online presence.  A professional website and active social media profiles are essential for showcasing their work, communicating their impact, and attracting potential donors.  The website should include information about the DPO's mission, programs, achievements, and contact details.  Regularly updating the website and social media channels with news, stories, and calls to action is crucial for engaging audiences and building support. 

Navigating the funding landscape in Pakistan requires persistence, strategic thinking, and capacity building. New funding opportunities are posted regularly, so it's important to check online resources frequently. By embracing a rights-based approach, demonstrating impact, and building strong relationships, grassroots DPOs can secure the resources they need to empower persons with disabilities and promote inclusion. Finding funding can take time and effort. Don't get discouraged if you don't get funded right away. Keep searching and applying for grants that are a good fit for your organization.

Celebrating Love for People with Disabilities

 Celebrating Love for People with Disabilities

Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love and connection. However, in many Asian communities, people with disabilities often face barriers to pursuing relationships due to stigma and societal neglect.

Many mistakenly believe that individuals with physical disabilities lack romantic desires or the ability to form meaningful relationships. I experienced this firsthand before my marriage and even after, as colleagues often questioned how a person with a physical disability could live with a partner. Our research in Pakistan’s urban and rural areas found that families often view girls with disabilities as fragile or incapable, negatively impacting their lives. Some are even exploited in false relationships, left abandoned after having children. These harmful stereotypes label people with disabilities as “incapable” or “unsuitable” partners, leading to their exclusion from romantic and marital opportunities. Some also assume that relationships should only exist between people with the same disabilities, such as deaf individuals only dating other deaf people or blind individuals only dating the blind.

Others infantilize people with disabilities, treating them as if they are children who don’t need or shouldn’t have romantic relationships. This attitude disregards their right to experience love and intimacy like anyone else, including those with Down syndrome.

The Need for Inclusive Education

Change begins with schools. Schools must provide disability-friendly relationship education, families should support autonomy, and media should represent individuals with disabilities as capable of love. Campaigns like Love Without Limits in South Korea showcase inspiring stories of couples who challenge societal barriers.

Sex education is often considered taboo in many Asian countries. Without proper sex education, not only are people with disabilities discriminated against, but young children also become more vulnerable to abuse. Relationship education rarely accommodates their needs, leaving them unprepared to navigate relationships safely. Worse, materials often lack accessibility features such as sign language support or simplified guides for those with learning differences. Studies show that individuals with disabilities face higher risks of abuse, highlighting the urgent need for inclusive resources.

Breaking the Dating Taboo

In many Asian cultures, dating is considered sinful, leading to resistance from society. In India, for example, extremist groups have attacked couples in public. Even in more developed Asian countries, families and caregivers sometimes discourage people with disabilities from dating, fearing harm or misunderstanding. Interviews across Asia reveal that many individuals have been told to “wait until you’re older” or to “focus on other things.” A 40-year-old man with a developmental disability shared, “My parents told me I wasn’t ready for a relationship—even at my age.” Such attitudes reinforce the myth that people with disabilities don’t understand love or deserve companionship, emphasizing the need for independent living in Asia.

Despite these challenges, activists and organizations are working to change perceptions. In Japan and India, workshops on relationships for disabled youth are becoming more common. Online communities across Southeast Asia are creating safe spaces where people with disabilities can share their stories and experiences.

Valentine’s Day reminds us that love is for everyone. As one young woman with cerebral palsy put it, “Love isn’t about ability—it’s about connection.” By challenging stereotypes and improving education, we can ensure that people with disabilities are included in the conversation. This Valentine’s Day, let’s celebrate love in all its forms and work toward a world where everyone, regardless of ability, can experience it fully.

 This Valentine’s Day, let’s celebrate love in all its forms—and work toward a world where everyone, regardless of ability, can experience it fully. Valentine's Day is to show love to loved ones, including family, relatives, parents, offspring, spouses, and partners.

Tips for People with Disabilities are not in any relationship to Celebrate Valentine’s Day:

• Spend time with your loved ones.
• 
  
• Practice self-love and schedule a self-care day.
• 
  
• Make plans with friends.
• 
  
• Volunteer with your favorite NGO/DPO.
• 
  
• Exchange gifts with friends and family.
• 
  
• Join or organize a group activity.
• 
  
• Take a break from social media, screens, and alcohol for the day.
• 
  
• Call friends you haven’t spoken to in a while.
• 
  
• Socialize and meet new people.

Love is universal, and everyone deserves to experience it in their own way. Let’s make this Valentine’s Day a celebration of inclusivity and acceptance.

International Day of Women and Girls in STEM

 

                             Photo with thanks to UN

International Day of Women and Girls in STEM 

Every year on February 11th, we celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. This day recognizes the important role women have in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). It was created by the United Nations to encourage more women and girls to join these fields.

In 2025, the theme is “Unpacking STEM Careers: Her Voice in Science,” which means showing how important it is for women to be represented in STEM. Although progress has been made, countries like Pakistan still have a lot of work to do. Many women face big challenges when trying to get into these fields.

In Pakistan, there is a big difference between men and women in STEM. More women enroll in humanities than in science. Gender inequality in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) field is considered a feminist issue in modern times because, overall, women are likely to enroll less in the STEM education field in comparison with men. Statistics show that forty-six percent of women are enrolled in the Humanities discipline in Pakistan, whereas enrollment in scientific and technical subjects is comparatively low. Pakistan ranks at 145 positions out of 146 with a gender gap index of 0.057, which has decreased by 3 points from last year.

In Pakistan, people often think STEM is for men, and girls are guided to other roles. Schools in rural areas often lack good facilities and trained teachers, and families tend to prioritize boys' education. Even when women enter STEM fields, they face negative attitudes, lower pay, and fewer chances to become leaders.

For women with disabilities, the barriers are even greater. Physical accessibility in labs and opportunities for those with visual and hearing impairments are often not available. Society often sees disabilities as incompetence, adding to the gender bias.

Governments need to support inclusive STEM education. Companies should check for bias in hiring. Teachers should receive training to support all students, regardless of gender or ability. And everyone should challenge the idea that STEM is not for women.

As 2025 continues, let's make real progress. It’s about supporting the deaf girl coding her first app, the rural teenager building solar panels, and the chemist in a wheelchair creating new drugs. Their futures—and ours—depend on it.

دالوں کا عالمی دن

 

دالوں کا عالمی دن

دنیا کے دوسرے خطوں کے مقابلے میں برصغیر میں دالوں کا سب سے زیادہ استعمال کیا جاتا ہے۔ دال کو اکثر غریب شخص کی خوارک سمجھا جاتا رہا ہے۔ تاریخی لحاظ سےدالوں کا ذکر ہندوؤں کی ایک مقدس وید میں بھی ملتا ہے۔ اردو ادب میں دالون پر شاعری بھی کی گئی ہے جیساکہ

   

ایک لڑکی بگھارتی ہے دال

دال کرتی ہے عرض یوں احوال

(اسماعیل میرٹھی)

ٹپکے اُن پر رال برابر

گھر کی مُرغی دال پرابر

(شفیق خلش)

مونگ چھاتی پہ جو دلتے ہیں کسی کی دیکھنا

جوتیوں میں دال ان کی اے ظفرؔ بٹ جائے گی

(بہادر شاہ ظفر)

اسکے علاوہ بہت سے محاورے بھی مشہور ہیں جیساکہ دال میں کالا، دال نہ گلنا، یہ منہ اور مسور کی دال، آٹے دال کا بھاؤ معلوم ہونا  یا پھر سندھیوں میں کہتے ہیں منھہ میں مونگ وغیرہ۔ ہمارے ہاں دال کی کئی ڈشز بھی ہیں، کچھڑی ہو یا، دال چاول یا دال چنا، چنے کی دال کا حلوہ، بھُنی دال، کڑاہی دال،  سبز مونگ کی دال، شامی کباب، حلیم، یا مسور کی دال کا شوربہ اور کئی ڈشز ہیں جو دال ملا کر بنتی ہیں، دال پالک، دال قیمہ، انڈا چنے کی دال، دال گوشت، وغیرہ۔ ایک رپورٹ کے مطابق امریکہ کے دارالحکومت واشنگٹن کے پُلمین کے علاقے میں دالوں کا ایک تہوار بھی ہوتا ہے۔ نیشنل لینٹل فسٹیول نامی اس تہوار کا آغاز سنہ 1989 میں ہوا تھا اور اس میں 25 ہزار سے زیادہ لوگ شرکت کرتے ہیں اور لوگ یہاں اپنے اپنے انداز میں دالیں پکانے کا مظاہرہ بھی کرتے ہیں۔

 دالوں نے ہمیشہ اپنا لوہا منوایا ہے اپنی غذائیت اور ذئقہ کے طفیل بوڑھوں اور بچٌوں میں یکساں مقبول رہی ہیں۔ یہ دالوں کا ہی کمال ہے کہ ہم صرف دو اجناس کو استعمال کر کے دنیا کے سادہ ترین کھانے جھٹ پٹ تیار کر لیتے ہیں، دال چاول یا دال روٹی، آپ کی مرضی جو کھائیں۔ ہمارے ہاں 

 مہمانوں کو دال پیش ہی نہیں کی جاتی  اور اگر گوشت والے پکوانوں کی بجائے دال پیش کرنا پڑ جائے تو لوگ ہچکچاتے تھے۔  دال کو لوگ غم کی علامت بھی سمجھتے ہیں اور کچھ لوگ جمع یا جمع کی رات کو دال پکانے سے گریز کرتے ہیں۔ اب تو دالوں کا علامی دن منایا جاتا ہے۔ 

ہر سال 10 فروری کو دنیا بھر میں عالمی یوم دال منایا جاتا ہے، جس کا آغاز 2013 میں اقوام متحدہ نے خوراک کی عدم تحفظ، غذائی قلت، اور موسمیاتی تبدیلیوں جیسے چیلنجز سے نمٹنے کے لیے کیا۔ دس فیبروری دالوں کا عالمی دن کی بنیاد 2016  میں ڈالی گئی 

 جب کے  اقوام متحدہ نے دالوں کو پائیدار ترقی کے اہداف ایس جی ڈی کے حصول کا اہم ذریعہ قرار دیا ہے۔  فوڈ اینڈ ایگریکلچر آرگنائزیشن

 کی قیادت میں چلائی گئی بھوک کے خلاف جنگ کی مہم نے دالوں کی اہمیت کو اجاگر کیا-  سابق ایف اے او ڈائریکٹر جوزے گرازیانو دا سلوا  کے الفاظ میں: *"دالوں کی طاقت ان کے سائز میں نہیں، بلکہ ہماری دنیا کو بدلنے کی صلاحیت میں ہے۔  دالیں  سستی غذائیت سے بھرپور کھانے اور پروٹین کا ذریعہ ہیں۔  یہ دن ہمیں یاد دلاتا ہے کہ دالوں جیسے چنے، مسور، مونگ، اور مٹر میں وہ صلاحیت ہے جو نہ صرف غذائی قلت دور کرسکتی ہے بلکہ پائیدار زراعت کو بھی فروغ دے سکتی ہے۔  

دالوں کے عالمی منظرنامے میں پاکستان ایک منفرد مقام رکھتا ہے۔ چنے اور مسور جیسی فصلیں کاشت کرنے کے باوجود، ملک اپنی ضرورت کا 50% سے زائد دال درآمد کرتا ہے۔ یہ تضاد کیوں؟  

1.  محدود پیداوار: 24 کروڑ کی آبادی کے لیے سالانہ 500,000 میٹرک ٹن دالیں درآمد کی جاتی ہیں جن کی لاگت 1.2 ارب ڈالرہیں۔  

2. پانی کے بحران: چاول اور گندم جیسی فصلیں 43% زیادہ پانی استعمال کرتی ہیں، جبکہ دالیں کم پانی اور کم کھاد پر پنپ سکتی ہیں۔    

4. غذائی قلت: پاکستان میں 5 سال سے کم عمر کے 40% بچے کم غذائیت کا شکار ہوتے ہیں، جبکہ دالیں آئرن، زنک اور پروٹین کا سستا ذریعہ ہیں۔  

پاکستان کے لیے دالوں کی پیداوار بڑھانا محض معاشی مسئلہ نہیں بلکہ قومی سلامتی کا معاملہ ہے۔ اس کے لیے درکار اقدامات کرنے ہونگے جیساکہ 

خشک سالی برداشت کرنے والی اقسام (جیسے "نیاب-2016" چنا) کو متعارف کروانا،  

سبسڈیز کا صحیح استعمال،  

 کسانوں کو تربیت دینا 

 کولڈ اسٹوریج یونٹس قائم کرنا   

     

 پاکستان کو چاہیے کہ

 دالوں کی برآمدات بڑھانے کے لیے معاہدے کریں۔  

زرعی تحقیق کے اداروں (جیسے  کو فنڈز دیں۔  

صارفین کو سستی دالوں تک رسائی یقینی بنائیں۔  

 دالوں کا عالمی دن صرف ایک علامت نہیں، بلکہ ہمیں عملی اقدامات کی ترغیب دیتا ہے۔ ہر شہری کو چاہیے کہ اپنی خوراک میں دالوں کو شامل کرے، کسانوں کو سپورٹ کرے، اور پائیدار مستقبل کی بنیاد رکھے۔ یہ عاجز دانے ہی ہماری نسلوں کو بھوک اور موسمیاتی تباہی سے بچا سکتے ہیں۔