The financial perks and allowances granted to the president and secretary of the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) have recently come under the spotlight, revealing significant expenditures associated with their roles. These details have sparked discussions about the financial management within the federation, especially in light of the ongoing challenges faced by the sport in Pakistan.
Breakdown of Allowances
According to PHF rules, the president of the federation is entitled to a daily allowance of $500 when traveling abroad, while the secretary receives $450 per day. These amounts are intended to cover their expenses during official trips representing Pakistan in international hockey events. However, the cumulative cost of these allowances has raised eyebrows.
During two trips involving the current PHF President Tariq Bugti and Secretary Rana Mujahid, a total of approximately PKR 9.259 million (around $33,250) was spent on their allowances. These trips included participation in a 35-day event and the Nations Cup held in Malaysia. The significant sum has led to questions regarding the necessity and justification of such high allowances, especially considering the financial struggles of the sport in the country.
Long-Standing Policy
Sources within the PHF have defended the allowances, stating that the policy regarding daily allowances has been in place for many years and that the current administration has not altered these rules. They emphasized that the president and secretary are not receiving anything beyond what is stipulated by the federation’s guidelines.
However, this defense has not alleviated concerns among some observers who argue that such high allowances are excessive, particularly when compared to the daily allowances given to players and other officials. According to the PHF’s policy, players receive a daily allowance of $150, while other officials receive $200. In contrast, hockey players are reportedly given a much lower allowance of PKR 20,000 per day, which raises questions about the disparity in treatment between the federation’s officials and the athletes who are the backbone of the sport.
Pakistan Sports Board’s Response
The issue has also brought the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) into the conversation, particularly concerning the allocation of funds to the PHF. The PSB recently refuted allegations made by the Hockey Federation that it had withheld necessary funds. The board clarified that it had already provided PKR 5.5 crore for the visit of 27 players and six officials. However, the PHF had requested an additional $60,000, a demand that exceeded the standard allocation, leading to delays in disbursement.
The PSB’s response suggests that there may be a disconnect between the federation’s financial requests and the board’s funding protocols, further complicating the financial landscape of hockey in Pakistan. This situation underscores the challenges in managing a sport that has historically been one of the country’s strongest, yet now struggles with financial instability and declining performance on the international stage.
The Bigger Picture: Financial Priorities in Pakistani Hockey
The revelation of these allowances brings to light broader issues regarding financial priorities within the Pakistan Hockey Federation. With the sport in dire need of investment in player development, coaching, and infrastructure, the high allowances for top officials may be seen as misaligned with the needs of the sport. Critics argue that these funds could be better utilized in supporting the players and improving the overall standard of hockey in Pakistan.
Moreover, the disparity in treatment between officials and players may have a demoralizing effect on the athletes, who are already competing in a challenging environment. The players, who represent the country on the field, often face financial hardships and lack the necessary resources to perform at their best. In contrast, the generous allowances for officials may create a perception of unequal priorities within the federation.
The discussion surrounding the perks and allowances of PHF officials highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in the management of sports organizations in Pakistan. While the federation operates within its established rules, the broader implications of these financial decisions cannot be ignored. For the future of hockey in Pakistan, it is crucial that the PHF reevaluates its financial policies to ensure that resources are allocated in a manner that prioritizes the development of the sport and the well-being of its players. Only through such measures can Pakistan hope to reclaim its former glory in the world of hockey.
