After the separation of East Pakistan, General Yahya Khan handed over power to Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, Chairman of the Pakistan People's Party on December 20, 1971. Thus, the reign of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto began. After assuming power, he started rebuilding Pakistan. At that time, the people of Pakistan were demoralized and hopeless. Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto encouraged the people and immediately took revolutionary steps for the betterment of the country.
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On April 21, 1972, Martial law was lifted. Under the Interim Constitution (1972), Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto took over the government and focused on national issues. Realizing the need and importance of the Constitution, a Constitutional Committee consisting of 25 members representing all the political parties was formed to draft constitution.
Industrial Reforms
The objective of industrial reforms was to improve the working conditions of the workers and create a better industrial environment. To rebuild the country's economy and for the revival and development of the industry, the workers were given proper and effective representation in the management of the industries.
The share of workers in the profit of industries was increased. Bonus was made mandatory for employees. Health facilities for workers were increased. Compensation to workers in case of injury, death or accident was increased. Group insurance and social security system were implemented.
Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto adopted a strategy of nationalization of various institutions. Major industrial units, banks, insurance companies and educational institutions were nationalized. The purpose and importance of this strategy was to gain control of the country's financial matters and pass on its benefits to the common man. State Life Insurance Corporation of Pakistan was established.
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The Commonwealth is a group of countries that were once ruled by the United Kingdom. This group was established in 1926. Many countries, including Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh, are members of it.
Agricultural Reforms
On March 1, 1972, Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto announced some agricultural reforms. The purpose of these reforms was to improve economic conditions of the people concerned with agriculture, increase agricultural produce and rehabilitate country's economy by improving the agricultural system. The ownership limit of canal irrigated agricultural land was reduced to 150 acres and rain fed land to 300 acres. Agricultural reforms redefined land ownership. Exceeding the prescribed limit, the land became the property of the state. The eviction of tenants from the land was banned. The land acquired from the feudal lords and landlords was distributed free among the landless farmers.
Educational Reforms
Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto announced educational reforms in 1972. Private educational institutions were nationalized and due to this, the salaries of teachers and other employees working in those institutions became equal to the employees of government educational institutions. In order to provide affordable transport to the students, special discounts were given on the fare of buses and trains. This step significantly increased the enrolment of students in educational institutions. Student scholarships were increased. Many universities were established. In 1974, Allama Iqbal Open University (formerly People's Open University) was established in Islamabad, which provided opportunities for students to acquire education through correspondence. Adult education centres were also introduced. Steps were taken to impart higher education. Schools and colleges were upgraded. Teacher training institutions were established.
Health Reforms
Basic health centres were established for free treatment of the poor people and budget for education and health was increased. New medical colleges were established in the country.
Economic Reforms
Economic ReformsZulfiqar Ali Bhutto took many steps for the revival of country's economy. These include nationalization of industries, banks, and reforms for labour etc. The reforms agenda was based on the manifesto of Pakistan People's Party. The popular slogan of party was "Roti, Kapra aur Makan (food, clothing and shelter). Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto's economic reforms were based on the ideas of socialism. His clear slogan was, "Islam is our religion, Socialism is our economy". A network of roads was laid across the country. Public transport sector was upgraded as compare to private sector transport. Railway journey was made comfortable.
Social Reforms
Social ReformsSincere and effective steps were taken to raise the living standards of the people and reduce the difference between the rich and the poor in the society. To end the state of unrest in the country, Z.A Bhutto encouraged the people through his speeches. He introduced five (5) Marla Housing Scheme for the homeless people. Government sent millions of unemployed youths to Middle East. To protect women in Pakistan many social reforms were undertaken. Under the Public Works Programme, several practical initiatives were implemented for the development of rural areas. Electricity was provided to hundreds of villages.