DUSHANBE, December 26, 2012, Asia-Plus — A draft strategy for raising wellbeing of the population of Tajikistan designed for 2013-2015 (formerly draft poverty reduction strategy for 2013-2015) has caused a lively discussion.
A regular sitting of the fourth session of the Majlisi Namoyandagon (Tajikistan’s lower chamber of parliament) of the fourth convocation, presided over by its head, Shukurjon Zuhurov, was held on December 26.
Presenting the draft strategy, Minister of Economic Development and Trade Sharif Rahimzoda noted that it had been worked out by representatives of the government and civil society as well as experts from international organizations.
“The strategy is aimed at reducing poverty rate in the country, creating favorable conditions for development of the middle class and increasing the number of representatives of this class in the country,” the minister said.
According to him, the strategy provides for reduction in poverty rate in Tajikistan from 38.3 percent in 2012 to 31.5 percent in 2015 and increase in the percentage of the middle class persons from 19.5 percent of the population in 2012 to 29.4 percent.
“Under international standards, people may believe they are middle class if daily living expenses per each family member are from 7.00 to 10.00 U.S. dollars,” said Rahimzoda. “Tajikistan has not yet worked out its middle-class standard. According to our preliminary calculations, Tajik nationals may be considered middle class if daily living expenses per each family member fluctuate from 2.00 to 3.00 U.S. dollars (10.00-15.00 somoni).”
Meanwhile, MP Shodi Shabdolov, who is also leader of the Communist Party of Tajikistan (CPT), questioned figures mentioned in the draft strategy.
“For example, you plan to increase annual potato production to one million tons but it is impossible under current conditions,” said Shabdolov, “Your indicators for milk and meat production are also unrealistic.”
However, after a comprehensive discussion, the deputies of the Majlisi Namoyandagon unanimously approved the draft strategy for raising wellbeing of the population of Tajikistan designed for 2013-2015.
