pakistan affairs

Basics
 1. Ideology of Pakistan
Definition and Elucidation
The ideology of Pakistan refers to the set of beliefs and principles that led to the creation of
Pakistan as an independent Muslim state. It is based on the concept that Muslims of the Indian
subcontinent are a distinct nation with their own religious, cultural, social, and political identity,
and therefore, they require a separate homeland where they can live according to Islamic values
and principles.

The ideology of Pakistan is primarily derived from the Two-Nation Theory, which emphasized
that Hindus and Muslims are two separate nations with different religions, customs, traditions,
and social values. The demand for Pakistan was based on the idea that Muslims should have the
freedom to practice Islam without interference.

Historical Aspects
Muslim Rule in the Subcontinent and Its Downfall

Muslims ruled the Indian subcontinent for nearly a thousand years, beginning with the conquest
of Sindh by Muhammad bin Qasim in 712 AD and culminating in the establishment of the
Mughal Empire in 1526. The Mughal Empire reached its peak under rulers like Akbar, Jahangir,
Shah Jahan, and Aurangzeb.

However, the decline of Muslim rule began in the late 17th and early 18th centuries due to weak
leadership, internal conflicts, economic decline, and external invasions. The British East India
Company took advantage of this decline and gradually took control of the subcontinent,
culminating in the formal establishment of British rule after the War of Independence in 1857.

Efforts for Renaissance and Reform Movements

Despite the downfall of Muslim rule, several scholars and reformers worked to revive the
Muslim identity and socio-political status in the subcontinent.

Shaikh Ahmad Sarhindi (1564-1624)

Shaikh Ahmad Sarhindi, also known as Mujaddid Alf Sani, opposed the un-Islamic policies of
Emperor Akbar and promoted the idea of a separate Muslim identity. He emphasized the
importance of Shariah and Islamic teachings in governance and society.

Shah Waliullah (1703-1762)

Shah Waliullah worked to revive Islamic teachings and bring social and religious reforms among
Muslims. He translated the Quran into Persian, making it more accessible to the common people.
He also urged Muslim rulers to unite against the declining Mughal Empire and foreign
influences.

Sayyid Ahmad Shaheed (1786-1831)

Sayyid Ahmad Shaheed led a Jihad movement against the Sikh rule in Punjab and fought for the
revival of Islamic governance. His struggle was significant in raising awareness among Muslims
about their declining political power.

Movements for Educational Reforms

Education played a crucial role in reviving the Muslim identity and strengthening their political
struggle. Several institutions were established to promote modern and Islamic education.

Aligarh Movement (1875)

Sir Syed Ahmad Khan established the Aligarh Movement to promote modern education among
Muslims. He founded the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental (MAO) College in 1875, which later
became Aligarh Muslim University. The institution emphasized scientific and Western education
along with Islamic values, preparing Muslims for administrative and political roles.

Deoband Movement (1866)

The Darul Uloom Deoband was established in 1866 to preserve Islamic teachings and counter
British influence. Unlike Aligarh, Deoband focused on traditional religious education and aimed
to protect Islamic values from Western influences.

Nadwatul Ulama (1894)

The Nadwah movement sought to combine traditional Islamic education with modern subjects.
Nadwatul Ulama in Lucknow played a key role in bridging the gap between conservative
religious scholars and modern intellectuals.

Sindh Madrassah (1885)

Sindh Madrassatul Islam was founded by Hassan Ali Effendi in Karachi. It provided modern and
Islamic education and played a crucial role in producing leaders like Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad
Ali Jinnah.

Islamia College Peshawar (1913)

Islamia College Peshawar was founded to provide quality education to Muslims in Khyber
Pakhtunkhwa. It became a center of political and intellectual activities during the Pakistan
Movement.

Ideology of Pakistan in the Light of the Speeches and

Statements of Allama Iqbal and Quaid-i-Azam
Allama Iqbal

Allama Iqbal played a vital role in shaping the ideology of Pakistan. In his famous Allahabad
Address of 1930, he envisioned a separate Muslim state in northwestern India. He emphasized
that Islam is not just a religion but a complete code of life and that Muslims need a separate
homeland to practice their faith freely.

Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah

Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, articulated the ideology of Pakistan in several speeches. He
firmly believed in the Two-Nation Theory and emphasized that Muslims and Hindus are two
separate nations.

Some of his key statements include:

 Lahore Resolution (1940): Jinnah declared that Muslims needed an independent state
where they could live according to Islamic principles.
 March 22, 1948: Jinnah stated, "Pakistan was created because there was a danger of
complete annihilation of the Muslim culture, civilization, and traditions in the
subcontinent."
 August 11, 1947: In his address to the Constituent Assembly, he emphasized religious
freedom and equal rights for all citizens, while maintaining that Pakistan was created to
safeguard Muslim interests.

Conclusion
The ideology of Pakistan is deeply rooted in Islamic principles, the Two-Nation Theory, and the
efforts of great leaders and scholars. It was shaped by historical events, reform movements, and
the struggle of Muslims for a separate homeland. The speeches and efforts of Allama Iqbal and
Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah reinforced the idea that Pakistan was established to
provide Muslims with a sovereign state where they could live according to their religious and
cultural values.
 2. Land and People of Pakistan
Pakistan is a diverse country with a rich geography, vibrant society, abundant natural resources,
and a developing economy. It faces several challenges but continues to make progress in key
sectors like agriculture, industry, and education.

Land boundaries: total: 6,774 km (approx.)

Border countries: Afghanistan, China, India, Iran

Coast line: 1,046 km (approx.) Climate: mostly hot and dry

Natural resources: land, extensive natural gas reserves, limited petroleum, coal, iron ore,
copper, salt, limestone

Geography of Pakistan
Pakistan is strategically located in South Asia, sharing borders with India, China, Afghanistan,
and Iran, and has a coastline along the Arabian Sea.

Geographical Features

 Mountains: The northern and western regions are home to some of the world's highest
mountains, including K2 (8,611 meters), the second-highest peak in the world.
 Plains: The Indus River and its tributaries create fertile plains, which are the agricultural
heart of the country.
 Deserts: The Thar Desert in Sindh and the Cholistan Desert in Punjab have extreme
climates and sparse vegetation.
 Plateaus: The Balochistan Plateau is a vast, rugged region with mineral-rich land.
 Rivers: The Indus River is the lifeline of Pakistan, along with its major tributaries—
Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Sutlej, and Kabul.

Climate

Pakistan has a varied climate, ranging from arid and semi-arid in the south and west to alpine in
the north. It experiences four seasons:

1. Winter (December-February) – Cold in the north, mild in the south.

2. Spring (March-May) – Pleasant weather, good for agriculture.
3. Summer (June-September) – Hot with monsoon rains.
4. Autumn (October-November) – Transition period with mild temperatures.
Society of Pakistan
Pakistan has a diverse society with a mix of ethnic, linguistic, and cultural groups.

Population:

The population of the country is a double faced phenomena is a vital factor in the development
process on one hand while rapid population growth can impede development on the other. Total
population is 170 MILLION (approx)

Two aspects of population: (A) Quantitative, (B) Qualitative

(A)Quantitative population: the quantitative aspects of population include statistics of total

population, density of population, birth and death rates and migration.

(B) Qualitative population: The qualitative aspects refer to the ability and capability of the
people.

Ethnic Groups

 Punjabis (44%) – Largest ethnic group, mainly in Punjab.

 Pashtuns (15%) – Mostly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.
 Sindhis (14%) – Inhabiting Sindh province.
 Baloch (4%) – Residing in Balochistan.
 Muhajirs (7%) – Migrants from India after partition, mainly in Karachi.
 Other Minorities (6%) – Including Gilgit-Baltistan and tribal communities.

Religions

 Islam (96%) – Majority religion, including Sunni and Shia Muslims.

 Minorities (4%) – Hindus, Christians, Sikhs, and others.

Languages

 Urdu (National Language) – Serves as a unifying language.

 English (Official Language) – Used in government and education.
 Regional Languages: Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashto, Balochi, Saraiki, and others.

Social Issues

 Gender inequality and women’s empowerment.

 Population growth and urbanization.
 Poverty and lack of basic services in rural areas.

Current Environmental Issues:

  Water pollution from raw sewage, industrial wastes, and agricultural runoff;
 Limited natural fresh water resources; a majority of the population does not have access
to portable water;
 Deforestation;
 Soil erosion;
 Desertification.

Natural Resources of Pakistan

Pakistan is rich in natural resources, but their utilization remains a challenge.

Mineral Resources

 Coal: Thar coal reserves (estimated at 175 billion tons).

 Natural Gas: Found in Sui, Balochistan, and Sindh.
 Oil: Small reserves in Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
 Copper and Gold: Located in Reko Diq, Balochistan.
 Salt: Khewra Salt Mine is one of the largest in the world.

Water Resources

 The Indus River and its tributaries provide water for irrigation.
 Dams: Tarbela, Mangla, and Diamer-Bhasha (under construction).
 Water scarcity and mismanagement remain major concerns.

Agriculture of Pakistan
Agriculture is the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, contributing around 19% to GDP and
employing nearly 38% of the workforce.

Major Crops

 Food Crops: Wheat, rice, maize, sugarcane.

 Cash Crops: Cotton, tobacco.
 Fruits: Mangoes, oranges, apples.

Livestock

 Pakistan has a large livestock sector, including cattle, buffaloes, sheep, and poultry.

Problems in Agriculture
  Water shortages and poor irrigation.
 Outdated farming techniques and low mechanization.
 Climate change and unpredictable weather patterns.

Industry of Pakistan
Pakistan’s industrial sector contributes around 19% to GDP. It includes manufacturing, mining,
and energy production.

Major Industries

 Textiles and Garments: Pakistan is one of the largest textile exporters.

 Cement and Construction: Growing due to infrastructure development.
 Automobile and Engineering: Car and motorcycle manufacturing is expanding.
 Fertilizers and Chemicals: Supporting the agriculture sector.

Problems in Industry

 Energy shortages and high electricity costs.

 Lack of modern technology and skilled labor.
 Poor infrastructure and security concerns in some areas.

Education in Pakistan
Education is crucial for national development, but Pakistan faces significant challenges in this
sector.

Education System

 Primary Education: Schools for children aged 5-10.

 Secondary Education: Matriculation system (10 years).
 Higher Education: Colleges and universities.

Key Universities

 Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad.

 Punjab University, Lahore.
 Karachi University.
 NUST, LUMS, and IBA (leading private institutions).

Problems in Education
  Low literacy rate (around 59%).
 % Literacy rate: age 15 and over can read and write
 Total literate population: 48.7% (approx.) Male: 61.7% and Female: 35.2%, (approx.)
 Gender disparity in education, especially in rural areas.
 Lack of funding and poor school infrastructure.
 Outdated curriculum and rote learning.

Government:

 Country name: Islamic Republic of Pakistan

 Government type: Federal Republic
 Administrative division: Four provinces, one capital territory, Federally Administrated
Tribal Areas, Federally Administrated Northern Areas, the Pakistani-administered portion
of the disputed Jammu and Kashmir region includes Azad Kashmir.
 Pillars of the Government: System Legislation, Administration, Judiciary Defense,
Media
 Political Pressure groups: military, ulema, landowners, industrialists and small
merchants also influential
 Currency code: PKR Internet country code: .pk
 Radio broadcast stations: AM, 31 and FM,68 (approx.)
 T.V stations: 27 (approx.)
 International Air ports: 08 Airports: 50 (approx.)
 Sea ports: 05 (Baluchistan),03 (Sind)
 Dry ports: 11
 Railway Stations: 34

Agriculture in Pakistan

 About 57% of Pakistan's total land area is under cultivation and is watered by one of the
largest irrigation systems in the world.
 The most important crops are cotton, wheat, rice, sugarcane, corn, pulses, oil seeds,
barley, fruits and vegetables.

Fishing in Pakistan

 Fishery and fishing industry plays an important role in the national economy of Pakistan.
With a coastline of about 1046 km, Pakistan has enough fishery resources that remain to
be fully developed. It is also a major source of export earning. Economy form PKR
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Mining in Pakistan

 The Salt Range in the Potwar Plateau has large deposits of rock salt. Pakistan has
extensive mineral resources, including fairly sizable reserves of gypsum, limestone,
 chromites, iron ore, rock salt, silver, gold, precious stones, gems, marbles, tiles, copper,
sulfur, fire clay, silica sand.

International agreements

 Pakistan is a party to several international agreements related to environment and

climate, the most prominent among them are:
1. Specific Regions and Seas, Law of the Sea, Ship Pollution (MARPOL 73/78)
2. Atmosphere and Climate, Climate Change, Ozone Layer Protection
3. Biodiversity, Environment, and Forest: Desertification, Endangered Species,
Environmental Modification, Marine Life Conservation
4. Wastes: Dangerous Wastes
5. Rivers Indus Waters Treaty

3. Pakistan and the Changing Regional

Apparatus
Understanding Regional Apparatus
A regional apparatus refers to the political, economic, and security framework within a specific
geographic region, shaped by states, alliances, organizations, and geopolitical factors. It includes:

 Political Structures: Governments, regional alliances, and diplomatic policies.

 Economic Framework: Trade agreements, economic cooperation, and resource management.
 Security Alliances: Military coalitions, defense strategies, and regional conflicts.
 Cultural and Social Dynamics: Ethnic and religious influences on regional stability.

In South Asia and neighboring regions, the regional apparatus includes organizations like
SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation), ECO (Economic Cooperation
Organization), OIC (Organization of Islamic Cooperation), and SCO (Shanghai
Cooperation Organization).

Pakistan in the Changing Regional Apparatus

Pakistan’s geopolitical position places it at the crossroads of South Asia, Central Asia, and the
Middle East. Several regional developments influence its policies and strategic decisions.
1. Pakistan’s Role in South Asia

 India-Pakistan Relations: The Kashmir dispute, cross-border tensions, and military conflicts have
shaped the regional apparatus. Recent developments, such as India's revocation of Article 370
(special status of Kashmir), continue to impact bilateral relations.
 SAARC and Regional Cooperation: Pakistan's engagement in SAARC has been limited due to
India-Pakistan tensions. The organization struggles to foster strong regional economic
integration.

2. Pakistan and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)

 Strategic Importance: CPEC, a flagship project under China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI),
connects Gwadar Port to China’s Xinjiang province. It enhances regional trade and
infrastructure.
 Economic Growth: CPEC improves Pakistan’s transportation, energy, and industrial sectors but
also raises concerns about debt dependency on China.
 Regional Connectivity: CPEC enhances Pakistan’s ties with Central Asian states and the Middle
East.

3. Pakistan’s Relations with Afghanistan

 Security Challenges: The Taliban takeover of Afghanistan in 2021 altered regional security
dynamics. Pakistan has sought diplomatic engagement with the Taliban while dealing with
border security concerns.
 Economic and Refugee Issues: Trade with Afghanistan and the influx of Afghan refugees remain
critical issues for Pakistan’s economy and internal stability.

4. Pakistan and the Middle East

 Saudi Arabia and Gulf Countries: Pakistan maintains strong ties with Saudi Arabia and the UAE,
benefiting from economic aid, trade, and employment opportunities for Pakistani workers in the
Gulf.
 Iran-Pakistan Relations: Iran's regional influence and the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline project
remain key issues. Pakistan balances its relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia due to
sectarian and geopolitical tensions.

5. Pakistan’s Growing Ties with Russia and Central Asia

 Defense and Energy Cooperation: Pakistan has improved military and trade ties with Russia.
Central Asian states also see Pakistan as a key partner for energy trade and access to the
Arabian Sea.
 Regional Stability: Pakistan’s participation in the SCO enhances its role in regional security and
economic cooperation.

6. Pakistan and the United States

  Shifting Alliances: U.S.-Pakistan relations fluctuate based on security concerns, particularly
regarding Afghanistan and counterterrorism. Pakistan's growing ties with China affect its
relationship with the U.S.
 Economic and Military Relations: The U.S. remains a key trade partner, but military aid and
cooperation have declined in recent years.

Challenges and Opportunities for Pakistan

Challenges:

 Geopolitical tensions with India.

 Security concerns due to terrorism and border conflicts.
 Economic dependency on external aid and loans.
 Balancing relations between competing global powers (China, U.S., Middle East).

Opportunities:

 Strengthening trade routes via CPEC.

 Expanding regional partnerships with Central Asia and Russia.
 Enhancing diplomatic efforts for regional stability.
 Utilizing strategic location for economic growth and global connectivity.

Conclusion
Pakistan’s role in the evolving regional apparatus is crucial due to its strategic location,
economic projects like CPEC, and engagement with key global and regional players. To navigate
changing regional dynamics, Pakistan must strengthen diplomatic ties, focus on economic
stability, and play a proactive role in regional security and cooperation.

5.Regional Economic Cooperation and

the Role of Pakistan
Regional economic cooperation refers to alliances and organizations formed by countries within
a specific region to promote trade, investment, and economic development. Pakistan is a member
of several regional organizations, including SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional
Cooperation), ECO (Economic Cooperation Organization), and SCO (Shanghai
Cooperation Organization).
1. South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation
(SAARC)
Introduction

SAARC was established on December 8, 1985, to promote economic and regional integration
among South Asian countries. It includes Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal,
Bhutan, Maldives, and Afghanistan.

Objectives

 Promote economic growth and trade in South Asia.

 Strengthen cooperation in agriculture, science, and technology.
 Improve cultural, social, and environmental collaboration.

Challenges

 India-Pakistan tensions: Political conflicts often hinder SAARC's effectiveness.

 Lack of strong economic ties: Intra-regional trade is low compared to other regions.
 Weak implementation of agreements: Many policies remain unimplemented.

Pakistan’s Role in SAARC

 Supports regional trade and economic integration.

 Advocates for peace and cooperation despite tensions with India.
 Promotes projects in energy, education, and security.

2. Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO)

Introduction

ECO was founded in 1985 by Pakistan, Iran, and Turkey and later expanded to include
Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and
Uzbekistan. It aims to enhance trade and economic cooperation among member states.

Objectives

 Develop transport and trade networks.

 Improve energy and agriculture cooperation.
 Strengthen banking and financial integration.
Challenges

 Poor infrastructure and weak trade connectivity.

 Political instability in member countries.
 Limited success in economic integration.

Pakistan’s Role in ECO

 Promotes trade and connectivity through Gwadar Port and CPEC.

 Supports regional energy projects, including the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline.
 Facilitates land trade between Central Asia and the Middle East.

3. Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)

Introduction

SCO was founded in 2001 as a political, economic, and security alliance. Its key members
include China, Russia, Pakistan, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and
Uzbekistan.

Objectives

 Enhance regional security and counterterrorism efforts.

 Promote economic development and trade.
 Strengthen diplomatic and cultural ties among members.

Challenges

 Pakistan-India rivalry: Both countries are members, but political tensions limit cooperation.
 Geopolitical conflicts: China and Russia dominate decision-making.
 Economic imbalance: Smaller economies struggle to benefit fully.

Pakistan’s Role in SCO

 Participates in counterterrorism and defense initiatives.

 Supports economic projects, including regional trade routes.
 Strengthens relations with China and Russia through SCO forums.

Conclusion
Pakistan plays a key role in regional economic cooperation by engaging in SAARC, ECO, and
SCO. Despite challenges like political conflicts and weak economic integration, Pakistan
continues to advocate for regional connectivity, trade, and security collaboration. By improving
infrastructure, trade policies, and diplomatic relations, Pakistan can enhance its position in these
organizations and drive economic growth in the region.

9. Pakistan’s Role in the Region

Pakistan plays a significant role in the South Asian region due to its strategic location, military
capabilities, economic influence, and political relations. The country is actively involved in
regional security, economic cooperation, and diplomatic initiatives. Here are some key aspects of
Pakistan's role in its regional context:

1. Strategic Geopolitical Position

 Located at the crossroads of South Asia, Central Asia, the Middle East, and China, Pakistan's
geographic position makes it a key player in regional and global politics.
 It shares borders with India, Afghanistan, Iran, and China, giving it a pivotal role in security and
economic cooperation in the region.
 Pakistan's relationship with China has grown stronger, especially with projects like the China-
Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which aims to improve trade and infrastructure connectivity
between China and the rest of the world via Pakistan.

2. Security and Counter-Terrorism Efforts

 Pakistan's security concerns are mainly driven by its long-standing rivalry with India, especially
over the disputed region of Kashmir. Pakistan maintains a strong military presence to deter any
potential threats from India.
 Pakistan also plays a crucial role in counter-terrorism operations, especially in its western
border areas, where Taliban insurgents and other militant groups operate.
 It has been actively involved in supporting peace processes in Afghanistan, aiming to stabilize
the country and reduce spillover instability into Pakistan.

3. Role in Regional Organizations

Pakistan is a member of several regional organizations that promote economic cooperation,
peace, and security:

 South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC): Although SAARC's

effectiveness has been limited due to regional tensions, Pakistan plays an active role in
regional economic discussions.
 Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO): As a member of the SCO, Pakistan
cooperates with countries in Central Asia, China, and Russia, aiming to promote
security, counter-terrorism, and regional economic integration.
 Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO): This regional organization includes
countries from Central Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East. Pakistan works within
ECO to enhance economic ties and foster regional integration.

4. Diplomacy and Relations with Neighboring Countries

 Relations with India: Pakistan's relations with India are mainly focused on Kashmir,
security, and trade. While the countries have engaged in several peace talks, tensions
have remained due to the Kashmir dispute and other political issues.
 Afghanistan: Pakistan shares a long border with Afghanistan and has historically been
involved in Afghan peace efforts. Pakistan has faced challenges due to militancy and the
refugee issue, but it has also played a diplomatic role in supporting the Afghan peace
process.
 China: Pakistan’s partnership with China is crucial, particularly in terms of defense,
trade, and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which has brought
significant investment into Pakistan’s infrastructure.
 Iran and Saudi Arabia: Pakistan maintains a balancing act between Iran and Saudi
Arabia. It has diplomatic ties with both nations and often works as a mediator in regional
conflicts.

5. Economic Influence and Challenges

 Trade and Investment: Pakistan is striving to boost its economy by enhancing trade
relationships with neighboring countries and beyond, especially through projects like CPEC.
 However, Pakistan faces numerous economic challenges, such as low industrial growth, energy
shortages, and political instability, which hinder its ability to fully capitalize on its regional
position.

6. Peacekeeping and International Relations

  Pakistan has contributed significantly to UN peacekeeping missions, sending troops to conflict
zones around the world.
 Pakistan is an active member of the United Nations, working on global peace, development, and
climate change issues.

Conclusion

Pakistan’s role in the region is shaped by its strategic location, security concerns, and economic
ambitions. While it faces challenges such as political instability, economic issues, and tensions
with neighboring countries, Pakistan remains a key player in South Asia and the broader region,
actively participating in diplomatic and economic initiatives.