Abstract
Balochistan has witnessed rapid social change since the 1970s. These changes were augmented by the national and international political situation. The traditional, tribal, and largely pastoral nomadic society of Balochistan gradually transformed into a modernizing agrarian society. On 1st July 1970, when ‘One Unit' was dissolved, Balochistan gained the status of a province and the bureaucratic expansion required educated work force. Thus, the Government of Pakistan expanded educational facilities in Balochistan, but this expansion continued at a very slow pace. Unfortunately, Balochistan is still the most backward province in terms of socioeconomic development in Pakistan. Though, it is the largest province in Pakistan, almost 44% of Pakistan's total area. It also possesses one of the largest blocks of juniper forests in the world. Along with it, Balochistan is rich in biodiversity and possess natural resources in abundance, like copper, gold, lead, zinc, iron, coal, and marble. This article focuses on the various factors affecting the socioeconomic development in Balochistan.
TopGeographical Features Of Balochistan
Balochistan is the largest province of Pakistan in terms of geographical area, and the smallest in terms of population. It is spread over an area of 347,190 km2, i.e., almost 44% of Pakistan’s total area. The population of the province is approximately 33.16 million, while Pakistan’s population exceeds 200 million (World Factbook - CIA, 2017).
Key Terms in this Chapter
Ethnic Diversity: The presence of different ethnic backgrounds or identities.
Natural Resources: Resources that exist in the world without the input of humans.
Dilemma: An unpleasant situation.
Development: It is a process that creates growth, progress, positive change in a society.
Biodiversity: It is the variety and variability of life on Earth.
Social Change: Any significant alteration over time in behavior patterns, cultural values and norms.
Urbanization: It refers to the population shift from rural to urban areas.