Introduction

There is a need to develop a tradition of authorship in Pakistan, particularly in scientific and technical disciplines. In addition to that, the  lack of detailed information on several topics of syllabi for students needs to be dealt with effectively. There is also serious shortage of quality textbooks and other supporting material. The available imported books are very expensive and are thus beyond the purchasing power of teachers and students.

Although local publishers in Pakistan are providing the requisite services at college and school levels, they are reluctant to enter the field of publications at the university level. Therefore, in order to cater to the publication needs at university level, Higher Education Commission has embarked upon a publication scheme of "Monograph and Textbook Writing" based on national curriculum topics in all disciplines including specialized subject areas. The 5 year PC-1 based scheme, approved at a capital cost of Rs.35.3 million comprises of national curriculum topics in all disciplines as well as specialized subject areas. The Scheme has been especially developed to provide high quality literature reagarding various topics.  

The Monograph and Textbook Writing Scheme aims to rectify the shortage of textual and support materials and encourages academicians to write high quality monographs/text book, giving them due recognition as writers. This publication scheme, therefore, attempts to create a cadre of authors.