TFD News
KARACHI: The Applied Economics Research Centre (AERC), University of Karachi, on Friday hosted the launch of Blood & Toil, an insightful and thought-provoking book authored by Brigadier Tariq Khalil (Retd), under the auspices of Prof. Dr. Noreen Mujahid, Director AERC.
The event brought together academics, media professionals, retired military officers, and students for an intellectually rich discussion on the book, which reflects on discipline, sacrifice, leadership, and the lived experiences that shape national institutions. The launch marked a significant contribution to Pakistan’s contemporary non-fiction literature, particularly in the context of civil-military understanding and personal narratives of service.
The session commenced with a concise yet compelling introduction by the author, who provided an overview of Blood & Toil, outlining its central themes and the motivation behind documenting his journey. His remarks set the tone for a lengthy and animated question-and-answer session, during which participants actively engaged with the author on issues ranging from leadership challenges to personal resilience and national service.
The discussion was expertly moderated by Dr. Faisal Sultan Qadri, who guided the session with clarity and depth, ensuring meaningful interaction between the author and the audience. His probing questions and structured moderation contributed to a lively and intellectually stimulating atmosphere throughout the event.
Several distinguished participants shared their reflections on the book and the author’s life experiences. Syed Manzar Naqvi, Secretary General, Karachi Editors Club, and Mubashir Mir, President, Karachi Editors Club, highlighted the relevance of Blood & Toil for readers seeking a deeper understanding of discipline, commitment, and ethical leadership. Lt. Col. Mukhtiar Ahmed Butt, TI (M) (Retd), also shared his perspective, emphasizing the book’s authenticity and its value as a firsthand account rooted in lived experience.
In her remarks, Prof. Dr. Noreen Mujahid underscored AERC’s commitment to promoting intellectual discourse beyond economics, noting that platforms such as book launches play an important role in fostering critical thinking, dialogue, and interdisciplinary engagement within academic institutions.
The session concluded with closing remarks and a prayer led by Dr. Faisal Sultan Qadri, bringing a dignified and reflective end to an event that was widely appreciated for its depth, engagement, and scholarly relevance.
The launch of Blood & Toil at AERC stood out as a memorable and enriching occasion, reaffirming the Centre’s role as a hub for meaningful intellectual and cultural dialogue.
