Introduction to Pakistan:

• Geographical Location and Significance:

Geographical Location:

Pakistan is strategically located in South Asia, sharing borders with several key countries:

• India to the east

• Afghanistan and Iran to the west
• China to the north
• The Arabian Sea to the south

Geographical Highlights:

• Area: Approximately 881,913 square kilometers

• Capital: Islamabad
• Major Rivers: The Indus River and its tributaries dominate the landscape
• Topography: Varies from the towering Himalayan and Karakoram mountain
ranges in the north to the flat Indus plains in the center and arid Balochistan
Plateau in the west
• Coastline: Around 1,046 kilometers along the Arabian Sea

Significance of Pakistan’s Location

1. Bridge Between Regions

Pakistan connects South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East. This makes it an
important travel and trade route.

2. Access to the Sea

Pakistan has a coastline along the Arabian Sea. This helps in sea trade, especially
through Gwadar Port.

3. CPEC (China-Pakistan Economic Corridor)

A road and trade project between China and Pakistan. It helps both countries trade faster
and grow economically.

4. Important Neighbors

Pakistan shares borders with big countries like China, India, Iran, and Afghanistan.
5. Role in World Affairs

Pakistan helps in keeping peace in the region and works with other countries to stop
terrorism.

6. Natural Disasters

Pakistan faces floods and earthquakes, so it needs to be ready for emergencies.

Historical Background: Ancient Civilizations in the Region

1. Indus Valley Civilization (Around 2500–1500 BCE)

The Indus Valley Civilization, also called the Harappan Civilization, is one of the oldest
and most advanced civilizations in the world. It was mostly located in what is now
Pakistan, especially in Sindh and Punjab provinces.

• Major cities: Mohenjo-Daro, Harappa, and Kot Diji.

• These cities had planned streets, brick houses, drainage systems, and even
public baths.
• The people were skilled in trading, farming, pottery, and metalwork.
• They used seals and symbols for writing, though their script is still not fully
understood.

This civilization shows that people in this region lived in well-organized and clean cities
more than 4,000 years ago.

2. Mehrgarh Civilization (Around 7000–2500 BCE)

Before the Indus Valley Civilization, there was the Mehrgarh Civilization in Balochistan.
It is one of the earliest known farming villages in South Asia.

• People in Mehrgarh grew wheat and barley and raised animals like sheep,
goats, and cattle.
• They lived in mud-brick houses and made simple tools and pottery.
• They also made jewelry from seashells and stones.

Mehrgarh is important because it shows the beginning of agriculture and settled life
in this region.
3. Gandhara Civilization (Around 1st millennium BCE to 5th century CE)

The Gandhara Civilization was in the northern areas of Pakistan, especially around
Taxila and Swat Valley. It became a famous center of Buddhist culture and learning.

• Gandhara was known for Gandhara Art, which mixed Greek and Buddhist
styles.
• The region had many monasteries, universities, and stupas (Buddhist religious
buildings).
• It attracted students and monks from all over Asia.

This civilization played a big role in spreading Buddhism to other parts of Asia, including
China and Japan.

4. Arrival of the Aryans (Around 1500 BCE)

After the fall of the Indus Valley Civilization, a group of people called the Aryans came
from Central Asia and settled in the region.

• They brought a new language called Sanskrit, and their beliefs formed the basis
of Vedic religion, which later developed into Hinduism.
• The Aryans lived in tribes and wrote the Rigveda, one of the oldest religious texts
in the world.
• They practiced cattle rearing and used horses and chariots in war.

Factors Leading to the Creation of Pakistan

The creation of Pakistan in 1947 was not a sudden event. It was the result of many
political, religious, social, and historical factors that developed over time. Below are the
major reasons that led to the demand for a separate country for Muslims of the Indian
subcontinent:

1. Religious Differences

• The biggest difference between Hindus and Muslims was their religion.
• Muslims believed in one God (Allah), while Hindus worshipped many gods.
• Their cultures, traditions, food, festivals, and ways of life were also very different.
2. Two-Nation Theory

• The Two-Nation Theory was introduced by Sir Syed Ahmed Khan and later
promoted by Allama Iqbal and Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
• It said that Muslims and Hindus are two separate nations with different religions,
cultures, and values.
• Therefore, Muslims should have their own homeland where they could live
according to Islamic principles.

3. British Rule and Injustice

• During British rule (1858–1947), Muslims were often treated unfairly and had fewer
opportunities in jobs and education compared to Hindus.
• Important government posts and seats in schools were mostly taken by Hindus.
• Muslims wanted equal rights and a fair share in the country’s future, which they
believed was only possible in a separate state.

4. Role of Muslim Leaders

• Leaders like Sir Syed Ahmed Khan encouraged Muslims to get modern
education.
• Allama Iqbal, in his famous Allahabad address (1930), suggested a separate
Muslim state.
• Muhammad Ali Jinnah led the All India Muslim League and worked hard to
protect Muslim rights.
• These leaders united Muslims and made them aware of their political power.

5. Failure of Congress-Muslim League Cooperation

• The Indian National Congress, which claimed to represent all Indians, was
mostly led by Hindus.
• Muslims felt ignored in decisions made by Congress.
• The Muslim League was formed in 1906 to protect Muslim interests.
• Political cooperation between Congress and the Muslim League often failed,
especially after events like the Nehru Report (1928) and Congress ministries
(1937–39), which showed clear Hindu bias.

7. Lahore Resolution (1940)

• On March 23, 1940, the Lahore Resolution was passed by the Muslim League
under the leadership of Quaid-e-Azam.
• It clearly demanded a separate country for Muslims in the northeastern and
northwestern parts of India.
• This was the turning point in the Pakistan Movement.
8. World War II and British Decision to Leave

• After World War II, the British government was weak and decided to leave India.
• But Hindus and Muslims could not agree on how to share power.
• The only solution was to divide the country into India and Pakistan.

Political History of Pakistan

◼ Formative Phase (1947–1958)

The formative phase refers to the early years after Pakistan’s independence
when the country was trying to build its political system, create a strong government, and
deal with many challenges. This phase lasted from 1947 to 1958 and was marked by
instability, struggle, and important developments.

Key Features of the Formative Phase:

1. Creation of a New State (1947)

• Pakistan was created on August 14, 1947, after the division of British India.
• It was made up of two parts: East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) and West Pakistan
(present-day Pakistan), separated by 1,600 km of Indian territory.
• The country started with limited resources, weak institutions, and no proper
government setup.

2. Death of Quaid-e-Azam (1948)

• Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder and first Governor-General of Pakistan, died
in September 1948, just one year after independence.
• His death left a huge leadership gap, as he had been a unifying figure.

3. Early Leadership and Political Instability

• After Jinnah, Liaquat Ali Khan became the first Prime Minister.
• He tried to build strong institutions and introduced the Objectives Resolution
(1949), which laid the foundation for an Islamic state.
• However, after his assassination in 1951, the country saw a series of weak and
short-term governments.

4. Struggle to Make a Constitution

• Pakistan did not have its own constitution at first and used the Government of
India Act 1935 as a temporary law.
 • There were many differences between East and West Pakistan over language,
power-sharing, and representation.
• After many delays, Pakistan finally adopted its first constitution in 1956,
declaring itself an Islamic Republic.

5. Role of Bureaucracy and Military

• In the absence of strong political parties, the bureaucracy (government officers)

became very powerful.
• The military also started playing a big role in politics during this time.
• This would later lead to military rule in Pakistan.

6. Growing Tensions Between East and West Pakistan

• People in East Pakistan felt they were not treated equally and had less political
power.
• These tensions started early and became worse over time.

7. First Martial Law (1958)

• Due to political chaos and weak governments, President Iskander Mirza, with the
help of General Ayub Khan, imposed Martial Law on October 7, 1958.
• This ended the first phase of democracy in Pakistan and began military rule.

Military Interventions and Democratic Transitions in Pakistan:

Since its creation in 1947, Pakistan has struggled between military rule and
democratic governance. The country has experienced several military takeovers and
periods of democracy. This has affected the growth of political institutions and stability in
the country.

1. First Martial Law – General Ayub Khan (1958–1969)

• In 1958, Pakistan’s first President Iskander Mirza declared martial law due to
political instability.
• Soon after, General Ayub Khan took over and removed Iskander Mirza.
• Ayub became the first military ruler of Pakistan.
• He introduced a new constitution in 1962 and became President through
controlled elections.
• His rule ended in 1969 after public protests and pressure.
2. Second Martial Law – General Yahya Khan (1969–1971)

• After Ayub Khan stepped down, General Yahya Khan became the new military
ruler.
• He promised elections, which were held in 1970 — Pakistan’s first general
elections.
• However, tensions between East and West Pakistan increased.
• The refusal to transfer power to the winning party in East Pakistan (Awami
League) led to a civil war.
• As a result, East Pakistan separated and became Bangladesh in 1971.
• Yahya Khan resigned after this national tragedy.

3. Civilian Rule – Zulfikar Ali Bhutto (1971–1977)

• Zulfikar Ali Bhutto became the civilian leader and later Prime Minister.
• He introduced the 1973 Constitution, which is still in use today.
• His government brought reforms but also became increasingly authoritarian.
• Accused of rigging elections in 1977, his rule faced protests.

4. Third Martial Law – General Zia-ul-Haq (1977–1988)

• In 1977, General Zia-ul-Haq overthrew Bhutto’s government.

• Zia ruled for 11 years, the longest military rule in Pakistan.
• He Islamized the legal system, introduced strict laws, and banned political
activities.
• Bhutto was executed in 1979 after a controversial trial.
• Zia died in a plane crash in 1988, ending his rule.

5. Democratic Period (1988–1999)

• After Zia’s death, democracy returned.

• Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif became Prime Ministers in alternating terms.
• However, their governments were repeatedly dismissed by the President or
military for corruption and inefficiency.
• Political instability and weak democratic institutions continued.

6. Fourth Martial Law – General Pervez Musharraf (1999–2008)

• In 1999, General Pervez Musharraf overthrew Nawaz Sharif’s government in a

military coup.
• He became President and ruled for nearly a decade.
• Musharraf allowed some democracy but kept strong military control.
• He faced growing public opposition and resigned in 2008.
7. Return to Democracy (2008–Present)

• In 2008, civilian rule returned with the election of Asif Ali Zardari as President.
• In 2013, Nawaz Sharif became Prime Minister again.
• In 2018, Imran Khan and his party came to power through elections.
• Despite democratic governments, the military still holds influence over national
security and foreign affairs.

Geography of Pakistan

◼ Physiography: Mountains, Plains, Plateaus, Deserts, Valleys, and

Coastal Areas

Pakistan has a diverse landscape made up of mountains, plains, plateaus, deserts,

valleys, and coastal areas. This variety affects the climate, vegetation, and way of life in
different parts of the country.

1. Mountains

• Pakistan has some of the highest mountain ranges in the world.

• Himalayas and Karakoram ranges are in the north and northeast.
• The famous K2 (8,611 meters) is the second highest peak in the world, located in
the Karakoram.
• The Hindu Kush mountains lie in the northwest, mainly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
• These mountains are important sources of rivers and glaciers.

2. Plains

• The Indus Plain is the largest plain area in Pakistan.

• It stretches along the Indus River and its tributaries through Punjab and Sindh
provinces.
• The plains are very fertile and support most of Pakistan’s agriculture.
• Major cities like Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, and Hyderabad are located in the
plains.

3. Plateaus

• The Balochistan Plateau covers much of western Pakistan.

• It is a dry and rocky area with low mountains and hills.
• The plateau has harsh climate conditions but rich mineral resources.
• The Potohar Plateau is in northern Punjab, known for its uneven terrain and small
hills.
4. Deserts

• Pakistan has several deserts, the largest being the Thar Desert in southeastern
Sindh and extending into India.
• The Cholistan Desert is located in southern Punjab.
• These deserts have hot, dry climates with sparse vegetation and nomadic
communities.

5. Valleys

• Pakistan is home to many beautiful valleys.

• The Swat Valley and Neelum Valley are famous for their natural beauty, rivers,
and forests.
• The Hunza Valley in Gilgit-Baltistan is known for its high mountains and historic
forts.
• Valleys are important for tourism and agriculture.

6. Coastal Areas

• Pakistan’s coastline stretches about 1,046 km along the Arabian Sea.

• Important coastal areas include Karachi (the largest city and port), Gwadar, and
Port Qasim.
• The coastline has sandy beaches, mangroves, and fishing communities.

River Systems of Pakistan

Indus River and Its Tributaries

The Indus River is the most important river in Pakistan. It is the lifeline of the
country because it provides water for farming, drinking, and industry. Many smaller rivers
join the Indus, making it a large river system.

1. Indus River

• The Indus River starts in the Tibet Plateau (China) and flows through India into
Pakistan.
• It flows about 3,180 kilometers through Pakistan from north to south.
• The river passes through Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, and
Sindh provinces before emptying into the Arabian Sea near Karachi.
• It is the main source of water for irrigation and supports the country’s
agriculture.
2. Major Tributaries of the Indus River

The Indus has five important tributaries, mostly coming from the Himalayas and Hindu
Kush mountains. These are:

• Jhelum River
o Originates in Indian-administered Kashmir and flows through Azad Kashmir
and Punjab.
o Passes through the famous Mangla Dam area.
• Chenab River
o Formed by the joining of two rivers, Chandra and Bhaga, in Indian Kashmir.
o Flows through Punjab and is a key river for irrigation.
• Ravi River
o Starts in Indian Punjab and flows into Pakistani Punjab.
o Known for the historic city of Lahore nearby.
• Sutlej River
o Originates from Lake Rakshastal in Tibet and flows through India and
Punjab before joining the Chenab to form the Panjnad River.
• Beas River (mainly in India, joins Sutlej before the border)

Importance of the Indus River System

• The Indus and its tributaries form the Indus Basin, which is the backbone of
Pakistan’s agriculture.
• The river provides drinking water, hydroelectric power, and supports fisheries.
• It also holds cultural and historical significance for the people of the region.

Climate Regions of Pakistan

Pakistan has different types of climate because of its varied geography. From high
mountains to deserts and coastal areas, each region has its own weather patterns.

1. Northern Mountain Climate

• Found in Gilgit-Baltistan, Chitral, Skardu, and other high mountain areas.

• Cold and snowy winters, sometimes below freezing.
• Summers are cool and short.
• This region gets heavy snowfall and some rainfall.
• Popular for glaciers and snow-covered peaks.

2. Plains Climate

• Covers Punjab, Sindh, and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

• Summers are hot and dry, with temperatures often above 40°C (104°F).
 • Winters are mild and cool.
• Most rain falls during the monsoon season (July to September).
• This climate supports farming and agriculture.

3. Desert Climate

• Found in Thar Desert (Sindh and Punjab) and Cholistan Desert (Punjab).
• Very hot and dry summers, temperatures can reach above 50°C (122°F).
• Cold nights and very little rainfall.
• Vegetation is sparse, with mostly thorny bushes.

4. Plateau Climate

• Found in Balochistan and the Potohar Plateau.

• Summers are hot, but less humid than the plains.
• Winters are cold, sometimes dropping below freezing in the hills.
• Rainfall is low and irregular.

5. Coastal Climate

• Found along the Karachi coast and the Arabian Sea.

• Generally warm and humid throughout the year.
• Temperatures are moderate, rarely too hot or too cold.
• Monsoon brings moderate rainfall.
• Sea breezes keep the climate pleasant.

Summary

Pakistan’s climate ranges from cold mountain weather to hot deserts and humid
coastal areas. This diversity influences agriculture, lifestyle, and natural vegetation
across the country

Society and Culture of Pakistan

◼ Socio-cultural Diversity

Pakistan is a country rich in diversity. Its people belong to many different ethnic
groups, speak various languages, follow different traditions, and practice different
religions. This diversity makes Pakistan’s society vibrant and unique.
1. Ethnic Groups

• Pakistan has many ethnic communities such as Punjabis, Sindhis, Pashtuns,

Baloch, Muhajirs, and Gilgitis/Baltis.
• Each group has its own customs, dress, and language.
• For example, Punjabis mostly live in Punjab and speak Punjabi; Pashtuns live in
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and speak Pashto.

2. Languages

• Pakistan is a multilingual country with over 70 languages and dialects.

• The main languages are Urdu (national language), Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashto,
Balochi, and Saraiki.
• Urdu is spoken and understood by most people and is used in official
communication.

3. Religions

• The majority of Pakistanis are Muslims (about 96%).

• Islam shapes many aspects of daily life and culture.
• There are small minorities of Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, and others who live
peacefully alongside Muslims.

4. Traditions and Festivals

• Different regions have unique traditions in dress, music, dance, and food.
• Important festivals include Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Adha, Ramadan, and Muharram
for Muslims.
• Minorities celebrate festivals like Christmas, Diwali, and Guru Nanak’s birthday.
• Weddings and cultural events are colorful and lively, with traditional music and
dances.

5. Social Structure

• Family is very important in Pakistani society, often with joint family systems
where extended families live together.
• Respect for elders and hospitality are key values.
• Rural and urban lifestyles differ, but community bonds are strong everywhere.

6. Arts and Crafts

• Pakistan has a rich heritage in music, poetry, calligraphy, and handicrafts.

• Traditional arts include truck art, embroidery, pottery, and carpet weaving.
• Famous poets like Allama Iqbal have shaped Pakistani cultural identity.
Languages and Literature of Pakistan

Pakistan is a country with a rich variety of languages and a deep literary tradition.
Language and literature play an important role in expressing the culture, history, and
identity of its people.

1. Languages of Pakistan

• Pakistan is home to many languages — more than 70 are spoken across the
country.
• The national language is Urdu, which is understood and spoken widely, even
though it is the mother tongue of only a small percentage of people.
• English is also an official language and is used in government, education, and
business.
• Major regional languages include:
o Punjabi (spoken mainly in Punjab)
o Sindhi (spoken in Sindh)
o Pashto (spoken in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa)
o Balochi (spoken in Balochistan)
o Saraiki (spoken in southern Punjab)
• Each language reflects the culture and history of its speakers.

2. Literature of Pakistan

• Pakistan has a rich literary heritage that includes poetry, prose, and folk tales.
• Urdu literature is famous worldwide for its beautiful poetry and prose. Poets like
Allama Muhammad Iqbal, Faiz Ahmed Faiz, and Mirza Ghalib (before
Pakistan’s creation) are celebrated.
• Literature often explores themes of love, freedom, social justice, and
spirituality.
• Regional languages also have strong literary traditions, with poetry and stories in
Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashto, and others.
• Folk literature, including songs, epics, and proverbs, is important in rural areas.

3. Modern Literature and Media

• Pakistani writers and poets continue to produce work that reflects modern life and
social issues.
• Literature is published in print and digital forms, and Pakistan has many literary
festivals and book fairs.
• Pakistani literature also includes novels, short stories, and plays in various
languages.
Economic Development of Pakistan

◼ Agriculture and Industrial Sectors of Pakistan

Pakistan’s economy mainly depends on two important sectors: agriculture and

industry. Both play a big role in creating jobs, producing goods, and supporting the
country’s growth.

Agriculture Sector

• Agriculture is the backbone of Pakistan’s economy.

• It provides food for the people and raw materials for many industries.
• Major crops include wheat, rice, sugarcane, cotton, maize, and fruits like
mangoes and citrus.
• Pakistan has a large irrigation system based on the Indus River and its canals.
• Millions of people work in farming, livestock, and fishing.
• The sector faces challenges like water shortages, outdated farming methods, and
climate changes.

Industrial Sector

• The industrial sector includes manufacturing, mining, construction, and energy

production.
• Major industries in Pakistan are:
o Textile and garments (largest export sector)
o Sugar mills
o Cement factories
o Steel and chemical plants
o Food processing
o Automobile and electronics assembly
• Pakistan also has rich mineral resources like coal, salt, and natural gas.
• Industrial growth is important for urban jobs and economic diversification.
• Challenges include energy shortages, lack of modern technology, and
infrastructure problems.

Summary

Agriculture and industry are key parts of Pakistan’s economy. Agriculture feeds the nation
and supplies raw materials, while industry adds value and creates jobs. Both sectors need
improvements to help Pakistan grow faster and become more prosperous.
Economic Challenges of Pakistan

Pakistan faces several problems that slow down its economic growth and
development. These challenges affect the country’s ability to create jobs, reduce poverty,
and improve living standards.

1. Energy Shortages

• Pakistan struggles with power cuts and not enough electricity to meet demand.
• This affects factories, businesses, and homes.
• Energy problems cause industries to work less efficiently.

2. Inflation and Price Rise

• Prices of food, fuel, and other basic goods often rise quickly.
• This makes life harder for poor families and reduces their buying power.

3. Unemployment and Poverty

• Many people, especially young people, find it hard to get jobs.

• Poverty remains a big issue, with many living below the poverty line.

4. Dependence on Imports

• Pakistan imports many essential goods like oil, machinery, and food items.
• This creates a trade deficit, meaning Pakistan spends more on imports than it
earns from exports.
• It puts pressure on the country’s foreign currency reserves.

5. Weak Tax System

• Pakistan collects low taxes compared to its economy size.

• Many people and businesses do not pay taxes properly.
• This reduces government revenue needed for development projects.

6. Political Instability and Corruption

• Political changes and corruption affect economic policies and investment.

• Uncertainty makes businesses and foreign investors cautious.

7. Infrastructure Problems

• Roads, railways, and communication networks need improvement.

• Poor infrastructure limits industrial growth and trade.
Summary

Pakistan’s economy faces many challenges like energy shortages, inflation,

unemployment, and political issues. Solving these problems is important for building a
stronger, more stable economy.

Contemporary Issues

◼ Foreign Relations of Pakistan

Pakistan’s foreign relations are important for its security, economy, and regional
peace. The country maintains ties with many nations and plays a key role in South Asia
and beyond.

1. Relations with India

• Pakistan and India have a complex and tense relationship since both became
independent in 1947.
• They have fought several wars, mainly over the region of Kashmir.
• Despite tensions, there have been peace talks and efforts to improve relations.
• The Kashmir dispute remains a major issue between the two countries.

2. Relations with China

• Pakistan has a strong friendship and strategic partnership with China.

• China supports Pakistan economically and militarily.
• The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a major project connecting
China to Pakistan through roads, railways, and energy projects.
• This relationship helps Pakistan’s development and regional influence.

3. Relations with the United States

• Pakistan and the U.S. have a long history of cooperation, especially in defense
and counterterrorism.
• However, the relationship has faced ups and downs due to differences over
security and foreign policies.
• The U.S. has provided Pakistan with economic and military aid.

4. Relations with Middle Eastern Countries

• Pakistan has close ties with many Middle Eastern nations like Saudi Arabia, UAE,
and Iran.
 • These countries are important for trade, investment, and support of Pakistan’s
Muslim population.
• Pakistan sends many workers to Gulf countries, which helps the economy through
remittances.

5. Role in International Organizations

• Pakistan is a member of organizations like the United Nations (UN),

Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), South Asian Association for
Regional Cooperation (SAARC), and others.
• Pakistan actively participates in peacekeeping missions and international
diplomacy.

Summary

Pakistan’s foreign relations focus on security, economic development, and regional

stability. Its key partners include China, the United States, Middle Eastern countries, and
neighbors like India and Afghanistan.

Security Challenges of Pakistan

Terrorism, Extremism, and Regional Conflicts

Pakistan faces many challenges related to security. These problems affect the
safety of people and the country’s progress. The main challenges are terrorism,
extremism, and conflicts in the region.

1. Terrorism

• Terrorism means the use of violence and fear to achieve certain goals.
• In the past, Pakistan has faced many terrorist attacks by different groups. These
attacks target innocent people, government offices, and military places.
• Terrorism has caused many deaths, injuries, and damage to property. It has also
harmed Pakistan’s economy because it scares investors and tourists.
• The Pakistani government and army have worked hard to fight terrorism. They
have carried out many military operations to remove terrorists from different parts
of the country, especially in the tribal areas and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
• Security has improved over recent years, but the threat still exists and needs
continuous efforts to keep the country safe.
2. Extremism

• Extremism means holding very strong and extreme views, especially in religion or
politics, which do not accept other opinions.
• Some extremist groups in Pakistan use violence and hate speech to spread their
ideas.
• Extremism affects schools, society, and culture by promoting intolerance and fear.
• It can also divide people and cause conflicts between different communities.
• Many efforts are being made by the government, religious leaders, and civil society
to promote peace, education, and moderate thinking.
• Teaching tolerance and respect for all religions and cultures is very important to
fight extremism.

3. Regional Conflicts

• Pakistan faces conflicts with some neighboring countries and within its own
regions.
• The conflict with India over the region of Kashmir is a major and long-standing
problem. Both countries claim Kashmir and have fought wars over it.
• Tensions in Kashmir sometimes lead to violence and affect the relationship
between Pakistan and India.
• The situation in Afghanistan also impacts Pakistan’s security. There are problems
like cross-border terrorism and the movement of refugees from Afghanistan to
Pakistan.
• Inside Pakistan, some areas like Balochistan have experienced political and
ethnic conflicts. These conflicts sometimes result in violence and unrest.
• Pakistan works with other countries and international organizations to promote
peace and resolve conflicts through dialogue.

Environmental Problems and Sustainable Development (SDGs) in

Pakistan

Pakistan faces many environmental challenges that affect health, economy, and
future growth. To protect nature and ensure a better life for everyone, the country works
on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are global targets set by the United
Nations.

1. Environmental Problems in Pakistan

• Air Pollution: Many cities in Pakistan have dirty air caused by smoke from
factories, vehicles, and burning waste. This causes health problems like asthma
and lung diseases.
 • Water Pollution and Shortage: Rivers and lakes are polluted by industrial waste
and sewage. Clean drinking water is not always available. Water shortage is a big
problem, especially in dry areas.
• Deforestation: Cutting down too many trees for wood and farming has reduced
forests. This leads to soil erosion, floods, and loss of animal habitats.
• Climate Change: Pakistan is affected by climate change, causing extreme
weather like floods, droughts, and heatwaves. This harms farming and lives.
• Waste Management: Many cities struggle with garbage disposal and recycling,
which creates dirty environments and health risks.

2. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

• The United Nations created 17 goals called SDGs to improve the world by 2030.
• Pakistan is working to achieve these goals to fight poverty, protect the
environment, improve education, and promote health.
• Some important SDGs for Pakistan are:
o Clean Water and Sanitation: Providing safe drinking water and better
sanitation.
o Affordable and Clean Energy: Using renewable energy like solar and wind
to reduce pollution.
o Climate Action: Taking steps to reduce the effects of climate change.
o Life on Land: Protecting forests, wildlife, and natural resources.
o Sustainable Cities: Making cities cleaner and more livable.

3. Pakistan’s Efforts for Sustainable Development

• Pakistan has started tree-planting campaigns like the “Billion Tree Tsunami” to
restore forests.
• The government promotes solar and wind energy projects to produce clean
power.
• Water conservation programs help reduce water waste and improve irrigation.
• Awareness campaigns educate people about recycling and protecting nature.
• Pakistan works with international organizations to get support for sustainable
projects.

Media and Social Change in Pakistan

Media plays an important role in shaping society. It includes television, radio,

newspapers, and social media like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. Media helps people
learn about news, ideas, and different opinions, which can lead to social change.

1. Role of Media
 • Media informs people about local and global events.
• It raises awareness about social issues like education, health, women’s rights, and
poverty.
• Media helps promote positive changes by encouraging discussions and giving a
voice to different groups.
• It can also entertain and educate people through programs, documentaries, and
talk shows.

2. Media and Social Change

• Media has helped spread awareness about important topics like women’s
empowerment, child education, and environmental protection.
• Social media platforms allow young people to share their views, organize events,
and support causes they care about.
• Media can challenge old traditions and promote modern ideas about equality,
democracy, and human rights.
• It also helps expose corruption and injustice, leading to demands for better
governance.

3. Challenges of Media

• Sometimes media can spread false information or biased news, which can confuse
people.
• There are concerns about media freedom and censorship in Pakistan.
• Sensational news and negative stories can increase fear or hatred in society.

Summary

Media is a powerful tool that can bring social change in Pakistan by spreading knowledge,
promoting fairness, and giving people a platform to express themselves. However, it also
needs to be responsible and truthful to help build a better society.