Balochistan, the largest province of Pakistan in terms of area is less developed in the socio-politico-economic troika. As one can witness, literacy rate and job opportunities are quite low in Balochistan, this validates social issues. The HDI index projects that the economy in the past was also in a faltering position. Specifically, the third component of this troika, the political sphere, is one of the major reasons behind the backwardness. Balochistan in the 21st century is still facing the predicament of the Sardari system and differences between the factions cause instability. As far as the positive aspect is concerned Balochistan is nurtured by resources, minerals and strategic disposition but the people of the province are handicapped due to the issues in the social, political and economic sector which have been dealt with rigorously in the past. The failure lies in the inefficacy of the past provisional government and the resistance from feudal lords faced by the Government of Pakistan. The efficient research of PILDAT (2012) indicates that the literacy rate of Balochistan which is 51.5 percent needs to be focused on. The annual growth is quite low due to urbanization and high volume of unemployment.
Having a bird’s eye view on history, the progress and development in Balochistan remain low and uncertain as the British rulers were keen on making railways and roads network to get connected to Central Asia, Afghanistan and Iran. This overambitious gambling leaves Balochistan’s infrastructure undeveloped. After Pakistan emerged on the map of the world, Balochistan was treated as an ignorant child in the family. Balochistan came into limelight when the five years plan was introduced in early 1960’s and late 1970’s. Ultimately, it didnot bring luck to Balochistan as the infrastructure was in an outrageous position and things were not institutionalized. That was the start of grievances among the Baloch as the two, five years plans were working for other parts of the country but not Balochistan. The socio-economic indicators did not rise much, and the dissatisfaction of the people of Balochistan went to a higher level. To alleviate the grievances of the Baloch, the central government in succession has been taking various politico-economic measures but the capacity of provincial governments and tribal resistance has impeded progress.
Analyzing the current situation vis-a-vis the socio-politico-economic triad, the situation is much better as compared to that of the past. The current government is laying special emphasis on the development and progress of Balochistan. A number of projects are being undertaken with the help of Pakistan Army and with the cooperation of the provincial government. It has brought relief to the people. Balochistan is the linchpin of CPEC. The Chinese companies are creating job opportunities for the people of Pakistan. The HDI index of Balochistan is rising, the literacy rate is increasing as the Pakistan Army has started a scheme of primary schools in so-called remote areas as well. It is pertinent to mention that insurgency is taking its last breath in Balochistan and the people of Balochistan are realizing who the real culprits are. Not to mention, Brahamdagh Bugti and Hyrbyair Marri are living with high standards abroad, while the citizens of the province deal with the problems. These outliers do not have the courage to come to Pakistan because they have committed atrocities in several Baloch tribes. Serving Home Minister Sarfraz Bugti has also been a victim.
From many of the milestones achieved by the CPEC, the pertinent one was two days ago when Kiran Sindhwani, a Thari female engineer jumped in the coal project of CPEC. She started working for the project and posted her pictures even on social media. These indicators are one of many which show that Balochistan is going on the path of peace and development.
