N O

DEVELOPMENT ADVOCATE I T I D E L A I C E

PAKISTAN P S

BALOCHISTAN: Challenges & Opportunities DEVELOPMENT ADVOCATE PAKISTAN © UNDP Pakistan

DEVELOPMENT ADVOCATE Development Advocate Pakistan provides a platform for the exchange of ideas on key development issues and challenges in Pakistan. Focusing on a specific development theme in each edition, this quarterly publication fosters public discourse and presents PAKISTAN varying perspectives from civil society, academia, government and development partners. The publication makes an explicit effort to include the Disclaimer voices of women and youth in the ongoing discourse. The views expressed here by external contributors or the members of the A combination of analysis and public opinion articles editorial board do not necessarily reflect the official views of the promote and inform debate on development ideas organizations they work for and that of UNDP’s. while presenting up-to-date information. Editorial Team Maheen Hassan Umer Akhlaq Malik Editorial Board

Mr. Ignacio Artaza Design Resident Representative a.i., UNDP Pakistan Hasnat Ahmed

Mr. Shakeel Ahmad Printed by: Assistant Resident Representative/Chief Gull Awan Printers, Islamabad Development Policy Unit, UNDP Pakistan United Nations Development Programme Pakistan Mr. Aadil Mansoor Assistant Resident Representative/Chief 4th Floor, Serena Business Complex, Crisis Prevention and Recovery Unit, UNDP Pakistan Khayaban-e-Suharwardy, Sector G-5/1, P. O. Box 1051, Mr. Kaiser Ishaque Islamabad, Pakistan Assistant Resident Representative/Chief Democratic Governance Unit, UNDP Pakistan For contributions and feedback, please write to us at: [email protected] Mr. Amanullah Khan Assistant Resident Representative/Chief ISBN: 978-969-8736-24-8 Environment and Climate Change Unit, UNDP Pakistan The issue has received significant overall support from the UNDP Balochistan team including, Mr. Zulfiqar Durrani (Provincial Representative), Ms. Saman Bakhtawar Ms. Fatimah Inayet (Economic Sector Analyst), Mr. Habibullah Nasar (Social Policy Analyst), Mr. Communications Analyst, UNDP Pakistan Dawood Nangyal (Provincial Liaison Officer), Ms. Shumaila Kamil (Admin & Finance Associate), Mr. Zahoor Ahmed Taran (Monitoring and Evaluation Officer) and Mr. Muhammad Marri (Communication Officer). December 2018 CONTENTS

Analysis Interviews

Balochistan: Challenges and Sardar Babar Khan Musakhel 02 Opportunities 27 Deputy Speaker Provincial Assembly of Balochistan

28 Sana Durrani Chairperson, Balochistan Women Business Association Opinion Executive Member, Chamber of Commerce and Industry 29 Komal Shah Afridi 12 Lack of Investment in Human Capital: President, Transgender Society Quetta A Limiting Factor in Socio-economic Ghazala Development in Balochistan Member, Transgender Community Mahfooz Ali Khan 30 Zia Khan 14 China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Founder, Quetta Online and Balochistan Online and Balochistan Social Activist Rafiullah Kakar

16 Balochistan’s Social Sector Prof. Dr. Ruksana Jabeen Youth Voices 18 Water Resources and Management in Balochistan – Key Issues Dr. Shahid Ahmad 31 Murad Kakakhel Sangeen Khan Gender and Balochistan 21 Akbar Sardar Rehana Khilji Gusho Durrani 23 Opportunities in Balochistan: Sana Afridi Promise for the Future Asra Baloch Muhammad Naveed Iftikhar

25 Youth: The Forgotten Priority Fatima Nangyal Khan

/undppakistan

w us www.twitter.com/undp_pakistan Saleem Mandviwalla

ollo www wwwPr.pkovincial.undp nominee.org for NFC - Sindh F © UNDP Pakistan Editorial Balochistan’s Development Paradigm

Balochistan is the largest province in terms of size and smallest in governance remains the linchpin: an empowered city Mayor backed terms of population. These distinguished features offer both up by a well-articulated and well dened city governance structure is challenges and opportunities for development. On the negative key to developing Gwadar as a modern and sustainable city. side, Balochistan bears the second highest incidence of multi- dimensional poverty after the erstwhile Federally Administered Balochistan has the lowest population density in the country. This Tribal Areas. On the positive side, the province houses abundant makes the provision of public social services highly expensive. natural resources which could drive prosperity in the province. Cultural constraints notwithstanding, there are examples from other However, the province has not been able to optimally capitalize its countries that the government could refer to, like Australia, for potential, owing to a myriad of issues, some narrated below. providing economic and social services to a thinly spread population. The development of economic and social nodes to The planning and nancial management process in the province incentivize the population to live in central areas is another model, needs a major shift. The 7th National Finance Commission (NFC) has which will require the government’s attention towards the increased the ow of nances from the central government to development of second tier cities. Balochistan from 7 percent in the 6th NFC to 9 percent in the 7th NFC. However, the socio-economic indicators of the province are yet to Besides natural resources, livestock is the key source of livelihoods improve considerably. The allocative efficiency of the provincial especially for the rural population. Concerted efforts should be Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) has remained quite made to transform livestock husbandry into a meat industry. Given low. For example, while education remains one of the main that the province bears a livestock population of nearly 34 million, development challenges in Balochistan, its share in PSDP has which is almost 40 percent of the total national livestock population, declined overtime from 23 percent in 2014-15 to 14 percent in 2018- the sector offers huge potential for poverty alleviation and 19. The allocation under PSDP should be informed by a prioritization economic growth. Developing the meat industry around the CPEC exercise of the development challenges in the province. If such a route will connect meat production to national and international process is used, health and education will emerge as the top priority markets. sectors for resource allocation. Lastly but most importantly, strong political institutions are the The second issue to be addressed with regards to planning and backbone of long term and sustainable development in Balochistan. management is the lack of a proper evaluation and impact Unfortunately, at 45.3 percent, Balochistan had the lowest voters assessment system. Financial allocations are mostly done on the turn out ratio among all the four provinces in the general elections basis of what could be best described as an incremental approach: a 2018 (58.6 for Punjab, 47.6 for Sindh and 45.5 for Khyber specic percentage is added to the departments’ previous years’ Pakhtunkhwa). Women participation was equally poor, at 40 allocation every year without a rigorous analysis of the development percent, again the lowest among all provinces. Among other needs and the impact of previous allocations. The prioritization interventions, an empowered local government system will go a exercise for the Sustainable Development Goals undertaken by the long way in establishing sustainable political institutions in the Planning and Development Department indicates a step in the right province. The local government system is an effective instrument in direction as this analysis could be used for decisions on the inter- mobilizing and developing political leadership at the grassroot level. departmental and sectoral allocation of funds from the provincial It has also been extremely useful in enlarging inclusion, especially of budget and particularly PSDP. women and other marginalized groups, in politics and nation building. The China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) could play an instrumental role in the socio-economic development of the Balochistan harbours the potential for steering growth and province, as the Western Route passes through the most development, even at the national level. What it needs is strong impoverished regions of Pakistan and Balochistan. CPEC will institutions, both inside and outside the government. The concerted generate signicant results if it connects the most deprived districts efforts of all stakeholders, both public and private, is imperative in and regions to markets and social services. thrusting the province forward. It is encouraging to note that some steps are being undertaken towards this direction. The Balochistan The development of Gwadar city as an engine of growth for CPEC Comprehensive Development and Growth Strategy, currently under could not be overemphasized. In this regard, China’s experience of preparation, should be used to provide an overarching institutional developing their second-tier cities will be highly instructive. The city framework for long term sustainable development in Balochistan.

01 Analysis Balochistan: Challenges and Opportunities

Introduction to Balochistan: Table 1: MPI Provincial Comparison (%) Signicance to Pakistan Value Province/Region Constituting 43.6 percent of the total land- MPI Incidence (H) Intensity mass of Pakistan, Balochistan offers Sindh 0.231 43.1 53.5 immense potential for the future. However, in terms of population, it makes up only 6 Punjab 0.152 31.4 48.4 percent of the total population in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 0.250 49.2 50.7 country. To add to this, human develop- ment indicators in the province have long Balochistan 0.394 71.2 55.3 been the worst in the country. 71 percent of Azad Jammu & Kashmir 0.115 24.9 46.3 the people in the province live in multi- dimensional poverty. Hence, much Gilgit Baltistan 0.209 43.2 48.3 attention has not been paid to the development of the province. intensity of 55.3 percent) (Table 1). percent). ⁵

However, the province is a land of opportu- Overall head-count poverty in Balochistan This mirrors national trends, where years of nity. It is rich in minerals such as uranium, at 71.2 percent, is highest amongst all the schooling (29.7 percent) followed by access copper, coal, gold, silver, platinum and provinces of Pakistan. There is also a stark to health facilities (19.8 percent) and child aluminum, and provides nearly one-third of rural urban divide in the incidence of school attendance (10.5 percent), contrib- the country’s natural gas. These reserves poverty: headcount poverty in rural areas is ute most to the MPI. A similar trend is also accumulate to form nearly 20 percent of the 84.6 percent compared to 37.7 percent for seen at the dimensional level, where country’s total mineral and energy urban areas. When compared with the deprivations in education are the largest resources. national aggregate-38.8 percent poverty contributor to the MPI (42.8 percent) headcount, 54.6 percent urban poverty and followed by living standards (31.5 percent) In recent times, the province has gained 9.4 percent rural poverty-it indicates that and health (27.7 percent).⁶ This is an importance through the China Pakistan the province lags behind severely and indication that these priorities require Economic Corridor (CPEC) under the ‘One requires a systematic overhaul in order to addressal at both levels. However foremost, Belt One Road Initiative’. While there come at par with the rest of the country. it is important to improve these indicators remains debate regarding the true Moreover, in terms of the intensity of at the provincial level, which will ultimately fruitfulness of this ambitious agenda for the poverty, at 55.3 percent, Balochistan also add up to improvement at the national people of the province, there is no doubt does not perform well when compared to level as well. that this initiative, coupled with its sea other provinces.⁴ ports, will aid in placing Balochistan as a ii. Human Development Index (HDI) strategic player in national and regional The district with the highest incidence of The recent Pakistan National Human development. poverty in Pakistan-Killa Abdullah-lies in Development Report 2017 reects Balochistan. Other districts in the province disparities across the country. The national Development Progress in also have a high MPI, indicating that HDI has consistently improved since 2005, Balochistan poverty is widespread across the province. and Pakistan has transitioned from a low i. Multidimensional Poverty (Table 2). medium level of development to the According to the Multidimensional Poverty medium level. It is interesting to note that Index (MPI), multidimensional poverty is At the provincial level, the indicators which while Punjab moved from a low medium to highest in Balochistan and lowest in Punjab. contribute most to the MPI are years of a high medium level of development, It reects stark disparities in poverty within schooling (28.3 percent) followed by access Balochistan has been unable to transition, the country. Urban poverty is signicantly to health facilities (17.3 percent) and child and has remained on the outskirts of lower than rural poverty. The report also school attendance (10.5 percent). At the development. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) mirrors provincial disparities: MPI dimensional level, deprivations in and Sindh have also made strides in headcount ratios ranged from 31.4 percent education are the largest contributor to the improving their development levels over in Punjab (with an intensity of 48.4 percent) MPI (42.9 percent) followed by living the last decade, as shown by their transition to 71.2 percent in Balochistan (with an standards (27.1 percent) and health (24.4 to the medium level of development. Urban

1. Government of Balochistan, ‘About Balochistan’. Available at https://www.balochistan.gov.pk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=37&Itemid=783 2. Planning Commission and UNDP Pakistan (2016), “Multi-Dimensional Poverty in Pakistan.” Available at http://www.pk.undp.org/content/pakistan/en/home/presscenter/pressreleases/2016/06/20/ pakistan-s-new-poverty-index-reveals-that-4-out-of-10-pakistanis-live-in- multidimensional-poverty/ 3. Ibid 4. Ibid 5. Ibid 6. Ibid 02 Table 2: MPI District Comparison⁷ schooling is 7.4 years, compared to the national aggregate of 9.4 years. Apart from MPI Incidence (H) Intensity Balochistan erstwhile FATA, the expected years of 2014/15 schooling is the lowest in Balochistan when Awaran 0.415 77.2% 53.8% compared to other provinces and regions of the country. Similar is the case with mean Barkhan 0.627 93.6% 67.0% years of schooling, which in the case of Bolan/ Kachhi 0.414 73.1% 56.7% Balochistan is 2.6 years compared to the national aggregate of 4.5 years.⁸ Poverty, Chagai 0.546 89.2% 61.2% and the unstable law and order situation Dera Bugti 0.499 88.4% 56.4% are some factors that contribute towards poor education outcomes in the province. Gawadar 0.293 60.8% 48.2% Plummeting fee levels cause several families to take their children out of school Harnai 0.633 94.2% 67.2% and into employment. Inadequate capacity Jaffarabadd 0.404 75.0% 53.8% of teachers is another reason. Jhal Magsi 0.528 89.7% 58.9% Signicant levels of disparity in terms of Kalat 0.275 57.1% 48.1% gender equity are reported in Balochistan. Levels of male and female literacy stand at Kech/ Turbat N/A N/A N/A 72 percent and 54 percent in Punjab; 67 Kharan 0.454 78.4% 57.9% percent and 44 percent in Sindh; 72 percent and 36 percent in KP; and, 56 percent and 24 Khuzdar 0.285 57.5% 49.6% percent in Balochistan.⁹ National aggre- Killa Abdullah 0.641 96.9% 66.2% gates of 70 and 48 percent literacy for males and females, respectively, mirrors similar Killa Saifullah 0.386 79.3% 48.7% trends of females still not being Kohlu 0.503 86.8% 58.0% mainstreamed in the education sector. The situation is not as bad in the provinces as is Lasbela 0.395 68.1% 58.0% in the case of Balochistan. Societal attitudes and cultural constraints, exacerbated with Loralai 0.320 68.5% 46.7% the uctuating security situation, are all Mastung 0.302 62.0% 48.7% factors that account for this trend. Moreover, a lack of employment opportuni- Musakhel 0.351 66.9% 52.4% ties also compel several females to drop Nasirabad 0.413 77.0% 53.6% out. The female youth literacy rate, at 29.9 percent, reects a similar trend as well. Nushki 0.316 64.0% 49.4% Panjgur N/A N/A N/A Disparities in education outcomes is also explained by the lack of education related Pishin 0.453 82.2% 55.1% expenditure. The total expenditure on Quetta 0.213 46.3% 46.0% education in 2016-17 was PKR 699,22 million. Within this, Balochistan’s expendi- Sherani 0.526 90.6% 58.1% ture was PKR 47,698 million, Punjab’s PKR Sibi 0.324 57.5% 56.3% 260,642 millon, Sindh’s PKR 146,732 million and KP’s PKR 136,121 million.⁰ While other Washuk 0.466 81.9% 56.9% provinces appear to be faring well on the spectrum, Balochistan’s situation is quite Zhob 0.514 82.8% 62.1% opposite. Ziarat 0.575 90.3% 63.7% Pakistan falls in the medium category with a districts such as Lahore, Islamabad, Among regions and provinces, besides health index (HI) of 0.79 for 2015. However, Rawalpindi, Karachi, Sialkot, Jhelum and erstwhile FATA, Balochistan has the worst provincial, regional and district health Hyderabad fall in the highest HDI category. HDI in Pakistan. Azad Jammu and Kashmir indices show inequalities across the Quetta, Peshawar, Multan and Faisalabad has the highest HDI of 0.734, surpassing country. Health outcomes in FATA are are in the medium category. Punjab with an HDI of 0.732; followed by extremely poor, and fall in the very low Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit- category, while Balochistan is second from While the highest HDI growth rate was Baltistan - 0.640, 0.628 and 0.523 respec- the bottom and falls in the low category. In recorded for a district in Balochistan (Killa tively. These variations reect signicant Balochistan, 16 out of 28 districts fall in the Saifullah), it must be noted that this was disparities between regions and provinces very low or low health category, whereas largely due to the extremely low levels of reecting inequality in human develop- only one district–Kalat–makes it to the high initial HDI in that district of Balochistan. In ment across Pakistan. HI category. Punjab is the best performer absolute terms, Killa Saifullah still belongs and falls in the high medium category, to the low HDI category. Unfortunately, the In terms of education, Balochistan does not while Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJ&K), best performing districts in Balochsitan fare well when compared with the rest of Sindh, and KP are placed at the medium perform poorly in the HDI (Table 3). the country. The expected years of level of development.

7. Ibid 8. United Nations Development Program (2017), “Pakistan Human Development Index Report.” Available at http://www.pk.undp.org/content/dam/pakistan/docs/HDR/HDI%20Report_2017.pdf 9. Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, Economic Survey 2017-18, Education Chapter. Available at http://www.nance.gov.pk/survey/chapters_18/10-Education.pdf 10. Ibid 03 Table 3: HDI Comparisons

Best Performing Districts Punjab Sindh Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Balochistan

Lahore 0.877 High Karachi 0.854 High Abbottabad 0.761 High Medium Quetta 0.664 Medium

Rawalpindi 0.871 High Hyderabad 0.716 High Medium Peshawar 0.756 High Medium Mastung 0.459 Low

Sialkot 0.834 High Naushehro Feroze 0.665 Medium Haripur 0.732 High Medium Gawadar 0.443 Low

Jhelum 0.829 High Sukkur 0.659 Medium Mardan 0.703 High Medium Noshki 0.441 Low

Gujrat 0.795 High Medium Larkana 0.618 Medium Nowshera 0.697 Medium Sibi 0.441 Low Least Performing Districts Punjab Sindh Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Balochistan

Bahawalpur 0.645 Medium Thatta 0.377 Low Tank 0.459 Low Chaghi 0.210 Very Low

Bhakkar 0.628 Medium Tando Muhamad 0.377 Low Shangla 0.438 Low Washuk 0.188 Very Low

Muzaffargarh 0.584 Low Medium Sujawal 0.326 Low Upper Dir 0.375 Low Harnai 0.184 Very Low

Dera Ghazi Khan 0.535 Low Medium Umerkot 0.322 Low Tor Ghar 0.240 Very Low Jhal Magsi 0.183 Very Low

Rajanpur 0.506 Low Medium Tharparkar 0.227 Very Low Kohistan 0.229 Very Low Awaran 0.173 Very Low

Looking at the health index over time for illustrate a very promising picture for the Unemployment in Punjab is 5.97 percent, the last ten years shows that a substantial province. Balochistan exhibits a score of 7.16 percent in KP, 4.92 percent in Sindh and number of districts have experienced a 33.9 percent in the LSI, which is again at the 4.09 percent in Balochistan (see Figure 1). decline in health outcomes throughout lowest level in the country when compared The per capita income (average household Pakistan. In Balochistan specically, 12 out with other provinces of Pakistan. Punjab, income divided by average household size) of 28-for which decade-old data is Sindh and KP have scores of 83 percent, 67.6 in Balochistan is PKR 1,538. With the available, including Quetta, have experi- percent and 67.1 percent, respectively. support of a few coordinated policies and enced a decline in their health index. The strategies, the provincial government can situation in KP is also not that encouraging, At the district level, Balochistan experi- potentially and positively address youth where the HI of 10 out of 24 districts has ences the greatest deprivation in terms of unemployment in the province. Public- declined over time. Same is true for 11 out the LSI. Out of 28 districts, 17 fall under the private partnerships also offer promise in of 34 districts in Punjab. In Sindh, only 6 out category of very low, 10 in low, and only one this regard and the private sector can of 16 districts demonstrated an improve- – Quetta, which is far ahead of other parts of immensely boost employment ratios in the ment in their HI. Broadly speaking, at the Balochistan-falls under the category of high province. Moreover, focus on vocational provincial level, 2 out of every 5 districts in medium LSI. Pishin, Sibi, Noshki and training can also add to improving Balochistan, Sindh and KP have recorded a Lasbela are among those districts that are employment with the utilization of skilled decline in their health outcomes over the performing relatively better in the workers for various sectors in the industry. last decade. Zhob, Kharan and Jhal Magsi province. Low LSI is undoubtedly due to a (Balochistan), Bahawalnagar and Sahiwal lack of infrastructure facilities (piped water, iii. Other Development Indicators (Punjab), Mirpurkhas and Tharparkar sanitation, and electricity), semi- Balochistan lags behind in several other (Sindh), and Battagram and Dera Ismail permanent dwellings, low livestock, and development indicators when compared to Khan (KP) are some of the districts that have lack of household assets, among other the national level (Table 4). From the done particularly poorly on HI over the last factors. extremely high maternal mortality rate to decade. weak nutrition indicators amongst In contrast, the unemployment rate in children, the social indicators of the Deciency of trained doctors and Balochistan is the lowest in Pakistan. province require profound analysis and a paramedical staff in government hospitals, high fees in private hospitals, lack of 14 transport facilities and low public sector Figure 1: Unemployment & Labour Force Participation in Balochistan expenditure on health are all reasons that account for the deteriorating health Unemployment Labour Force situation in the province. According to the (10 years and above) (10 years and above) break-up of federal and provincial share in total public spending on health during July- February 2017-18, the major share of 17.02% 63.8% spending on health has been observed in 4.09% 39% Punjab (84.8 percent) followed by Sindh (41.4 percent), KP (17.6 percent) and Balochistan (11.3 percent). 2.81% 7.9% The last indicator for HDI, the living Male Female Male Female standards index (LSI), also does not

11. Supra 8 12. Ibid 13. Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, Economic Survey 2017-18, Health Chapter. Available at http://www.nance.gov.pk/survey/chapters_18/11-Health.pdf 14. Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, Labour Force Survey 2017-18. Available at http://www.pbs.gov.pk/sites/default/les//Labour%20Force/publications/lfs2017_18/TABLE- 15_perc_R.pdf 04 Table 4: Other Indicators (%) MDGs. At the national level, only 3 targets were achieved out of a total of 21. Punjab (Percent) National Balochistan and Sindh achieved only one target each, Birth registration 34 7.7 whereas, Balochistan and KP achieved none. Balochistan’s performance was the Early marriage (marriage before age 18) 21 35 ⁵ worst in the country as it was off track on 18 Full immunization coverage 54 16 out of 21 targets; followed by KP which was off track on 15 out of 21 targets; Sindh on 14 Out of school children (age 5-16) 47 70 out of 21 targets; and, Punjab was off track on 12 out of 21 targets.⁵ The lack of political NER secondary (secondary stage enrollment) 11 13 oversight, awareness among citizens, no NAR primary 59.9 41.6 indigenous research and lack of local ownership of development programs, were NAR secondary 37 19.5 among some of the major reasons why the Received treatment for ARI 64.4 53.5 MDGs were not met in the province. Received treatment for diarrhea 61 43.4 Way Forward for Sustainable Stunting 44 52 Development in Balochistan Wasting 15 16 Underweight 31.5 40 Social, economic and other development indicators, as delineated above, paint an Use of improved drinking water sources 93 67.2 unfortunate picture of Balochistan. Not Use of improved sanitation 59.5 46.2 only does the province lag behind, but its performance is the worst compared to Child labour (children age 5-14 years) 17 ⁵ N/A other regions and provinces of Pakistan. As Child labour (children 10-14 years) 9.66 ⁷ 9.58 ⁷ a result, development in the province has suffered immensely, with dire impacts Maternal mortality rate – MMR (per 100,000 live births) 276 ⁵ 856 ⁵ upon the citizens. Infant mortality rate – IMR (per 1,000 live births) 74 97 While to some extent terrain plays its part, Neonatal mortality rate – NMR (per 1,000 live births) 55 63 the low population density makes it difficult to deliver services across the Under-ve mortality rate (per 1,000 live births) 89 111 province. To a large part, poor management Children with anemia 56.8 62 and lack of concerted efforts for the development of the province has contrib- Women with child bearing age with anemia 49.7 51 uted to the current development crisis in Children with iron deciency 32.5 44 Balochistan. Poor planning and manage- ment has manifested itself in many ways. Children with vitamin-A deciency 54 73.5 Firstly, Balochistan has faced resource Children with zinc deciency 39.5 39 constraints to address its development needs. Dr Qaiser Bengali in his recent Population food insecure 58 63.4 analysis “A Cry for Justice: Empirical Insights Drinking water in schools (primary) 50 ⁶ 52 ⁶ from Balochistan” has identied that Balochistan has been receiving merely 3.9 Sanitation (latrines) facilities in schools (primary) 56 ⁶ 16 ⁶ percent of the total development expendi- Population with no toilets/open defecation 21 30 ture, translating to only 0.18 percent of GDP. Similarly, despite being the poorest

Sources: 1. Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey (PDHS 2012-13) province, only 3.7 percent of the Benazir 2. Pakistan Education Statistics 2014-15 Income Support Programme beneciaries, 3. National Nutrition Survey (NNS) 2011 are from Balochistan. Low scal transfers 4. PSLM 2014-15 from the federation are accompanied by an 5. Balochistan MICS 2010 incapacity of the province to generate its 6. WASH Deprivation analysis – UNICEF own resources. This is partly because there 7. Pakistan Labour Force Survey 2015 has not been any major economic development in Balochistan that can help mobilize internal revenues for the province. renewed plan of action. Immunization early marriages. Nevertheless, poverty Post the 7th NFC award, Balochistan’s share coverage in the province is also very low appears as a constant through all: lack of from the federal divisible pool has when compared to the national coverage. A nancial resources in households compels increased- from 7 percent in the 6th NFC to lack of awareness-for instance polio families to focus on acquiring their next 9 percent in the 7th NFC-however, higher vaccinations or regular check-ups during meal, over all other necessities. resources have yet to translate into pregnancy or the importance of good improved development outcomes. hygiene-then emerges as a key deciency iv. Balochistan’s Performance in the in the province. Moreover, weak implemen- Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) Second, public-sector institutions have not tation of laws also emerges as a challenge, Balochistan and KP were the worst been able to adequately allocate and utilize especially when relating to child labour or performing provinces when it came to the the resources available. For example, while

15. Planning Commission and UNDP Pakistan, “Pakistan Millennium Development Goals, Report 2013.” Available at http://www.pk.undp.org/content/dam/pakistan/docs/MDGs/MDG2013Report/nal%20report.pdf 05 PSDP allocations in Balochistan have access to small loans, strengthening that could transform the landscape of the increased overtime, however the failure to livestock and shery value chain by province. While there is a lot of buzz on improve development outcomes reect encouraging the building of processing investment facilitation, building of inefficiency. Productive sectors of the units etc. can help encourage the private infrastructure and provision of public economy for instance mines and minerals, sector to explore massive business services, there exist confusions in coordina- for which the province has immense opportunities in these sectors. tion, management and implementation. potential, receives the lowest priority (0.06 Currently, there are several investment percent) of PSDP allocation. Same is the The province also houses reserves of regimes operational in the city such as, case with the livestock and sheries sector, copper, gold, iron, coal, marble, sulphur etc. Special Economic Zones, Export Processing which despite having huge potential in While both the public and private sector Zones, Industrial Estate, to name a few. terms of accelerating economic growth and might not have sufficient resources to Similarly, there are several stakeholders, generating jobs, are again on low priority. explore these opportunities on their own, including the Gwadar Development While education, health and other sectors one way to invite and facilitate the Authority and local administration in related to social development have participation of the private sector is public charge of city development. Lessons need historically received a higher percentage of and private partnerships (PPPs). PPPs to be learnt from other international cities, resources, these have not translated into present a huge opportunity to transform like Shenzhen in China, who have over time, any meaningful impact. It is imperative that the economy and achieve social uplift, developed as hubs of innovation and allocations under the PSDP are based upon keeping in view the fragile and underdevel- manufacturing. development challenges and the economic oped infrastructure of the province, and its potential of the province. For resources to huge reserves of natural resources. An The province can also generate a lot of be truly effective, strict monitoring and example of a tried and tested PPP approach revenue via tourism. Ziarat valley, a small control is also a necessity. A proper is the Lahore-Islamabad Motorway (the M-2 yet scenic town located 130 km to the north evaluation and impact assessment system Motorway), which was delivered on the of Quetta, surrounded by mountains and to evaluate performance and utilization of Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) modality. lush green forests, offers huge potential for previous allocations is important in order to Engagement of the private sector will not tourism in the province. Same is the case for not reiterate mistakes made in the past. The only help aid the demand for development coastal areas. However, these require provincial Planning and Development in crucial sectors such as physical infrastruc- development of infrastructure so as to Depar tment has been working on ture, services etc, but also aid job creation attract tourists. Likewise, the ‘Cottage’ developing a Balochistan SDG framework and improve social indicators. industries of the province, home to a n d B a l o c h i s t a n C o m p r e h e n s i v e exquisite embroidery of an international Development and Growth Strategy. The The China Pakistan Economic Corridor standard, can not only help empower documents will help identify challenges (CPEC) is estimated to create huge women in the province, but also become a and opportunities for Balochsitan, which economic and social development source of revenue. can inform targeted interventions. opportunities for Pakistan in general and Balochistan in particular. Amongst the Given Balochistan’s richness, signicant Private sector contribution to Balochsitan’s three major routes of CPEC, the western progress can take place provided that the economic development is limited. This is route linking Gwadar, Panjgur and Quetta, right policies are formulated and reforms mainly because of a lack of conducive has huge potential for social and economic are implemented. More importantly, environment for the private sector to development as it passes through several of consistent policy frameworks, enhanced operate in. Private businesses can only the worst pover ty afflic ted areas. capacity of public sector organizations, ourish when the cost of production is low, Comparing the western route with other engagement of private sector for develop- nancial services are available, infrastruc- routes, it passes through 14 districts-8 from ment, evidence based development ture is sound etc. Unfortunately, no such Balochistan and 6 from Khyber Pakhtun- planning and an improved law and order incentives are present in Balochistan. A few khwa, with incidence of poverty greater situation, can bring about tangible and avenues where private sector can contrib- than 70 percent. In contrast, the central and sustainable development in the province. ute include, livestock, sheries, minerals eastern route of CPEC cuts across 3 and 2 and renewable energy. Balochistan has a districts respectively, with incidence of Overall, given Balochistan’s economic major share in Pakistan’s livestock popula- poverty greater than 70 percent. potential and availability of resources, an tion, especially sheep and goats. Its share of accelerated social and economic progress total small ruminants’ population is around Balochistan’s multiple trade avenues, huge can take place provided all stakeholders 40 percent. Similarly, the 770 km long natural resources and the Gwadar Port have make a concer ted effor t. Political coastline provides an ideal opportunity for the potential to attract public and private leadership and bureaucratic machinery establishing the shing industry. While sector investments under the scope of the need to take the lead by formulation and both livestock rearing and shery is being CPEC initiative. CPEC provides a good implementation of sound development practiced in Balochistan, these are more on opportunity for social and economic uplift policies, reforms and programs. The process traditional lines, without much sophistica- in general, however, it is important to needs to be supported by the private sector tion and in need of modernization to strategize and make targeted interventions to make meaningful investments for generate signicant economic returns and in a few sectors. Developing Gwadar into a economic growth, employment generation large scale employment. Measures such as modern port city could be one such avenue and social development.

06 An Analysis of Public Investments in Balochistan

The Public Sector Development Figure 1: Trend in PSDP Programme (PSDP) Yearly PSDP Analysis: 2013-14 to 2018-19 PSDP is the most important development 100 and growth tool of the province in terms of 90 86.0 88.2 its huge allocation of development funds 80 for different sectors. After the 18th 71.1 amendment, powers were devolved to the 70 provincial government and hence, sole 60 54.5 50.7 responsibility for formulating the PSDP, 50

channelizing funds and making develop- Allocations 40 43.9 ment interventions, now lies in the (PKR in billions) 30 purview of the provincial governments. 20 T rend of Funds Allocation in 10 PSDPs 0 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 An increase in funds allocation to different projects has been witnessed from 2013-14 requirement really calls for the opposite. and communication being a constant to 2018-19: The PSDP has grown at a rate of Therefore, development allocations have priority (Table 2). 100 percent (Figure 1). Unfortunately, this shown a mixed trend over the past decade. growth has not been complimented with Considering focus has largely been on the an improvement in social and economic An Analysis of the Current PSDP (2018- social sector, stagnancy in economic outcomes. 19) growth in the province can be attributed Allocation of Funds The provincial budget of 2018-19 has a to ignoring some of the most important total nancial outlay of PKR 352.3 billion, departments of the province in terms of Over the past 10 years, different sectors with PKR 88.3 billion allocated to PSDP economic productivity. For instance, the have received different PSDP allocations projects. PSDP 2018-19 gives priority to province is rich in mineral resources and (Figure 2).

PKR (in millions) Figure 2: Sectoral Allocation (Past 10 years) 16000

14000

12000

10000

8000

6000

4000

2000

0 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 AGRICULTURE COMMUNICATION WATER EDUCATION HEALTH PUBLIC HEALTH ENG:

Source: Planning and Development Department, Government of Balochistan

The government of Balochistan under- some very important departments, has immense potential to be a hub of stands that investment in the education including education, water and public economic activity in terms of minerals, but sector is key to human resource develop- health engineering (PHE) (Table 1). it falls in the least priority sectors in terms ment. The sector’s funding saw a massive However, at the same time it attributes of PSDP allocation. Same is the case with increase in 2013-14, however, it has been least priority to sectors that have the several other sectors (Table 3). uctuating since then. The construction of potential to contribute to the economy, roads for improving access and mobility, including minerals, environment and S ectoral Allocation of Key falling under the ‘communication and industries . Sectors (2015-16 till 2018-19) works’ sector, has also secured high i. Public Health Engineering (PHE) allocations over the past decade. However, PSDP analysis between 2013-19 delin- Department certain sectors such as health have eates that focus of allocation has largely The mandate of the PHE department is to witnessed a decrease in funds, when the been on the social sector, with education ensure the healthy well-being of the

07 Table 1: Sector Wise Allocation in PSDP (%) public through the provision of safe drinking water, sanitation services, 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 consultations for developing safe healthy Other schemes 12.29 3.96 4.78 27.29 17.75 1.58 practices in daily chores and improving the environment. PHE 5.42 9.01 8.49 21.43 7.87 9.80 Communication 18.61 19.62 19.91 13.50 19.69 22.88 In PSDP 2018-19, there is a total allocation of PKR 8.64 billion with a total of 1009 Education 23.12 23.13 18.71 9.34 10.65 14.11 development schemes (Table 4). There is a Water 6.37 6.96 5.43 5.58 8.53 9.98 substantial increase in the number of schemes in the PHE Department as Agriculture 5.21 6.88 7.71 5.10 5.71 4.36 accessibility of safe drinking water is a growing issue in Balochistan. The mandate Health 9.21 8.64 7.04 5.09 7.10 8.41 of PHED directly contributes to SDG 6 on PP&H 4.09 6.50 5.36 3.56 7.21 6.65 Water and Sanitation for all. Power 6.14 6.57 6.54 3.51 2.39 3.10 ii. Irrigation Department Local Govt. 0.68 1.10 10.70 2.07 4.80 2.57 Despite signicant funding on water related departments like PHE and Sports 0.38 3.57 1.02 0.73 1.40 1.57 irrigation/water, the province is lagging Fisheries 2.18 0.76 0.38 0.51 0.58 0.34 and is off-track towards ensuring accessibility to safe drinking water and Culture 0.14 0.61 0.39 0.39 0.52 0.57 sanitation by 2030. The water sector needs Industries 0.06 0.50 0.08 0.39 0.23 0.35 greater attention and resources need to be supported by improved nancing IT 0.64 0.29 0.34 0.38 2.00 1.42 mechanisms that can leverage the sector’s Social Welfare 0.23 0.39 0.17 0.34 0.65 1.67 declining situation. Livestock 1.19 0.56 0.70 0.28 0.67 0.61 Funds allocation increased manifold from 2015-16 till now (Table 5). This delineates Forestry 0.14 0.24 0.11 0.17 0.46 0.41 commitment on part of the government of Urban P&D 0.09 0.62 0.76 0.11 1.18 1.31 Balochistan in alleviating one of the most immediate challenges faced by the Minerals 2.43 0.30 0.09 0.09 0.02 0.06 province: that of water scarcity. Manpower 1.25 0.29 0.28 0.08 0.16 0.24 iii. Communication and Works Women Development - - 0.02 0.02 0.16 0.08 Department Tourism 0.07 0.11 0.00 0.02 0.10 0.02 The function of the Communication and Works Department is to construct and Information - - 0.02 0.00 0.00 0.00 maintain infrastructure i.e. roads and Environment 0.06 0.40 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.13 government buildings. The trend illustrates increase over time, both in Population Welfare - - - - 0.16 0.06 allocation as well as schemes (Table 6). Food - - - - - 0.03 Road networks have shown steady improvement, especially in major cities. Forestry 0.14 0.24 0.11 0.17 0.46 0.41 iv. Health Sector The Government of Balochistan is Table 2: Top 5 Priority Sectors (According to allocation in %) committed to providing integrated and 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 sustainable healthcare delivery. The focus is on areas such as maternal, neonatal and Other schemes 12.29 - - 27.29 17.75 1.58 child health, polio, vaccination and in Communication 18.61 19.62 19.91 13.50 19.69 22.88 reducing the prevailing rate of major diseases, as well as to support infrastruc- Education 23.12 23.13 18.71 9.34 10.65 14.11 ture of hospitals and other health facilities. The trend depicts that allocations have Water 6.37 6.96 - 5.58 8.53 9.98 wavered over time (Table 7). Considering Health 9.21 8.64 - - - 8.41 this sector is a signicant component of overall development indicators, more focus should be attributed to it. Table 3: Lowest 5 Priority Sectors (According to allocation in %) v. Education Sector 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 The Education sector has the second- Industries 0.06 - 0.08 - - - highest share, of PKR 12.45 billion, in PSDP 2018-19. The government of Balochistan Minerals - 0.30 - - 0.02 0.06 has increased the number of schemes for Tourism 0.07 0.11 0.00 0.02 0.10 0.02 the current year, along with a substantial increase in the budget as compared to Information - - 0.02 0.00 0.00 0.00 previous years (Table 8). The government’s Environment 0.06 - 0.00 0.00 0.01 - commitment to improving the literacy rate and ensuring that SDG 4 on ensuring 08 Table 4: PSDP Allocation for PHE Department

Public Health Funds Allocation Ongoing Schemes Funds Allocation New Schemes Total Allocation Total Schemes Engineering PHE Ongoing Schemes New Schemes 2015-16 1507.72 58 3119.80 187 4627.53 245 2016-17 2389.85 96 12765.60 152 15255.52 248 2017-18 2969.51 66 3802.87 204 6772.39 270 2018-19 2262.18 88 6386.55 921 8648.73 1009

Table 5: PSDP Allocation for Irrigation Department

Irrigation/ Funds Allocation Ongoing Schemes Funds Allocation New Schemes Total Allocation Total Schemes Water Ongoing Schemes New Schemes

2015-16 672.71 64 2286.81 135 2961.53 199 2016-17 741.58 98 3226.96 83 3968.54 181 2017-18 4089.88 77 3250.38 145 7340.26 222 2018-19 4301.07 92 4510.05 269 8811.13 361

Table 6: PSDP Allocation for Communication and Works Department

Communication Funds Allocation Ongoing Schemes Funds Allocation New Schemes Total Allocation Total Schemes and Works Ongoing Schemes New Schemes

2015-16 5374.14 289 5480.46 211 10854.61 500 2016-17 4748.74 329 4858.05 166 9606.79 495 2017-18 9106.14 286 7827.68 276 16933.82 562

Table 7: PSDP Allocation in Health Sector

Health Funds Allocation Ongoing Schemes Funds Allocation New Schemes Total Allocation Total Schemes Ongoing Schemes New Schemes

2015-16 2235.86 66 1603.98 65 3839.84 131 2016-17 2489.85 96 12765.66 152 15255.52 248 2017-18 3725.41 79 2381.64 68 6107.04 147 2018-19 3114.18 100 4306.00 172 7420.18 272

Table 8: PSDP Allocation in Education Sector

Education Funds Allocation Ongoing Schemes Funds Allocation New Schemes Total Allocation Total Schemes Ongoing Schemes New Schemes

2015-16 4436.38 127 5740.49 169 10196.87 296 2016-17 2827.26 72 793.65 52 3620.91 124 2017-18 6636.25 190 2527.88 141 9164.13 331 2018-19 5704.47 205 6747.83 449 12452.31 654

Table 9: PSDP Allocation in Women Development Department

Women Funds Allocation Ongoing Schemes Funds Allocation New Schemes Total Allocation Total Schemes Development Ongoing Schemes New Schemes

2015-16 8689.00 1 0.00 0 8689.00 1 2016-17 1.50 1 15.00 1 16.50 2 2017-18 10.96 1 125.00 3 135.96 4 2018-19 12.00 1 55.00 4 67.00 7

09 inclusive and equitable quality education Ÿ Balochistan Economic Report 2008 feasibility study and cost benet and promoting learning opportunities for analysis, not face budget cuts during all, appears to be on high priority. Ÿ Balochistan Development Need their life cycle. Assessment (BDNA) 2012 vi. Women Development 4. General lack of knowledge–data and The trend of funds allocations and total Ÿ Balochistan Comprehensive Develop- information–on available resources, number of schemes for Women Develop- ment Strategy (2013-18) systems and research in the public ment Department has remained signi- sector, is another important factor cantly low (Table 9). Ÿ Sustainable Development Goals which impedes the ability of the (SDGs) g o v e r n m e n t t o p r o p e r l y One of the reasons for this trend is that contextualize planning and make certain initiatives for women are placed Ÿ Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) optimal use of available resources. under other sections of the PSDP. In PSDP This impediment coerces the 2016-17 for instance, the department Ÿ Other relevant sectoral policies and departments and the planning hub attempted to establish separate women strategies (P&DD) with no other option but to units in different jails in Quetta, Mach, Dera plan in the absence of evidence. Murad Jamali, Khuzdar and Giddani, which In order to address issues of coordination Modern planning is based on is reected under another section in the among sectors while formulating PSDPs, research and empirical evidence. The PSDP. Other important projects/schemes the government delegated nancial same lack of k nowledge also under the department in PSDP 2018-19 powers to departmental sub committees contributes to restraining the include: for approval of development schemes. In capacity of the departments and the this connection, the nancial powers of P&DD to develop and ne-tune PC-I’s a. Establishment of women centers at the Departmental Sub Committee (DSC) and the PDWP to ensure thorough the divisional level at Kech, Loralai were enhanced from PKR 10 million to PKR and critical review. This lack of and Naseerabad – PKR 5 million (total 100 million, for approval of development evidence and capacity for planning cost is PKR 120 million) schemes. and development is also a factor that accounts for the reason as to why b. Establishment of sales and display Although huge public investment is made certain sectors, though signicantly center at Quetta – PKR 7 million in Balochistan, yet the socio-economic funded, do not show growth and indicators have not radically improved, as development. c. Establishment of Directorate of compared to other provinces. Several Women Development, Quetta – PKR factors, such as law and order situation in 5. Intentional non-utilization by the 10 million the last few years, lack of adequate department to have the scheme cost transparenc y and accountabilit y revised in subsequent year(s). d. Working Women Hostel, Quetta – PKR mechanisms, governance problems etc 15 million account for this. Other challenges include: 6. Late release of funds by the nance department (due to paucity of funds 1. Lack of ownership of certain schemes or other reasons). Rising Trend of Throw-Forward by the departments. and its Impact 7. Development constraints (Vastness 2. Political interference and poor of province). Figure 3 demonstrates the details of planning causes certain sectors to ongoing and new schemes, and the rising not receive top priority in policy and 8. Need to improve human resource trend of ‘throw forward’ under the PSDPs. decision making. development for CPEC. The rising trend of throw forward liability of projects has impacts which include the 3. Repeated change of schemes even 9. Public nance management reforms wastage of resources (wearing, escalation after the approval of the PSDP, is also a – improving nancial discipline. and opportunity cost), wear and tear of challenge. It is also important that constructed structures, escalation due to projects once initiated post a pre- 10. There is a lack of proper detailed time lapse and increasing constraint on the introduction of new innovative schemes of public interest. Therefore, it is Figure 3: Trend of Throw-Forward important that throw forward in PSDPs be Ongoing Schemes New Schemes Throw Forward reduced by using alternative nancing 180 modes. 160 Monitoring of Funds’ 140 Disbursement 120 It is important to ensure that the PSDPs are 100 monitored and aligned with development frameworks, which keep SDGs in consider- 80 ation. This facet has been kept in view by 60 the Planning and Development Depart- ment, Government of Balochistan, which 40 announced that proposed projects in 20 PSDP 2018-19 must be in line with the 0 following strategies and plans: 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17

Source: Planning and Development Department, Government of Balochistan

10 planning by all actors involved in 3. There are also some other good steps government, if it wants to accelerate identication, preparation and undertaken by the government of progress on the abysmal socioeconomic implementation of a scheme. Balochistan for optimization of the indicators of the province. In the short planning and development process. term, a good starting point is to turn 11. Changing trends and priorities in Few such initiatives include avoiding around into an institutionalized approach f a v o r o f c e r t a i n t y p e s o f the block allocation schemes to the wherein concerned technical institutions schemes/persons. maximum level. Moreoever, it was are empowered to plan and implement also decided that the repair/purchase development schemes based on 12. Enhancing the province’s own source schemes will not be entertained in systematic empirical evidence. In the of revenue, for instance, through tax new PSDPs. medium term, PSDP reformation must be reforms. followed by transformation of the 4. Another good step taken by the development model that is based on 13. Budget decit. provincial government was conduct- economic growth and trickle-down effect ing pre -budget consultation philosophy. The model can be trans- 14. Lack of interest in timely utilization of workshops at the divisional level, and formed by placing human development funds by the executing depart- the formulation of citizen budget on priority. Human development must ment/agency in certain cases-one of from the last two years. This initiative become an end in itself and not a means to the reasons could be because of the will build public trust and develop a an end. Simultaneously, participatory and intention of re-appropriating the sense of empowerment among the democratic approach ought to be added withheld funds to some other public. It will also allow the masses to to the planning and development schemes. comprehend the government’s processes by devolving political, adminis- service delivery plan for the upcom- trative and nancial powers and roles, to Lessons Learnt ing nancial year, and to participate the grassroots level. in policy making. 1. To have effective PSDPs, it is pivotal that the political intervention in Reforming public sector is not a new idea. selecting projects and its design Modern governments and state institu- should be curtailed by relevant t i o n s c o n s i d e r g o v e r n a n c e a n d institutions. policymaking dynamic processes; hence, a routine and periodic review and reform is 2. Progress reviews at regular intervals, the result. Reforming PSDP and the overall both by P&DD, and the departments development model ought to be the involved. number one priority of the incumbent

11 Opinion Lack of Investment in Human Capital: A Limiting Factor in Socio-Economic Development in Balochistan

no working knowledge of British adminis- Unfortunately at the moment, with the trative work. Another jolt came in October exception of two or three dysfunctional or 1955, when all ve units were merged into semi-functional training institutions-Rural One Unit of erstwhile West Pakistan. Hence, Academy, Balochistan Academy for College the province was unable to build its own Teachers and Judicial Academy-there is no administrative structure and officers well-organized institutional training working in the province had neither an system in place. The province is either interest, nor an understanding about the dependent upon INGOs-run training region. courses, or federal government institutions. Occasionally, officers avail training facilities There was hardly any representation of in other provinces. It is important to local workforce at the middle and higher understand that training and development levels. Following the dissolution of the One is an ongoing process. Each functionary Unit, officers got repatriated to their needs to be exposed to training and Mahfooz Ali Khan adopted or home provinces, and since capacity building courses throughout their Balochistan lacked a provincial service career. structure, its entire edice came down Coordinator, Governance and Policy Project (GPP), (World Bank-MTDF), P&D crumbling. Since 1948 until 1970, For harnessing the potential of youth, the Department, Government of Balochistan did not receive any attention in province needs a chain of professional and Balochistan institution building by the central govern- vocational training institutions in all major Former Secretary Finance, Government ment and functioned on a meagre budget disciplines. Redundant structure of existing of Balochistan of PKR 600 million. As a result, the rst technical and vocational training institu- Member NFC, Balochistan priority of successive governments was to tions needs to be scratched in order to build economic infrastructure and while make room for modern technology based Balochistan is described as the richest the creation and development of an trades. These institutions require services of province with the smallest available efficient human resource should have been highly qualied and motivated instruc- resource base. Out of the total minerals of utmost importance, it received no tional staff drawn from the market. Despite being mined from Pakistan, around 70 investment. the fact that the provincial government did percent are from Balochistan. It has a 740 create a provincial civil service structure to km coast line with huge potential in Natural resources can only be exploited man and manage the civil secretariat and tourism and sheries, as well as two gainfully, when there is efficient manpower. district administration post 1970, yet, it still international borders with Afghanistan and Many countries in contemporary history faces huge capacity issues and signicant Iran. But the moot question is, why is it the progressed by harnessing their manpower. funds are wasted as a result. poorest and least developed of the Singapore and China are living examples. If provinces? There are multiple factors which this resource is not utilized for productive Another stumbling block that hinders impeded its socio-economic development, purposes, its energy can power anti-social efficiency in civil service is the redundant but the biggest impediment was and still is, elements for destructive purposes. and outdated legal framework. The the lack of investment in human capital. province is running its day to day business Like natural resources, Balochistan has Utilization of this resource requires a well according to rules, regulations and been endowed with human resource as thought out plan. This objective could be procedures which are incompatible. For well. Unfortunately, this potential could not achieved rst by building the capacity of example, before promulgation of the be harnessed since the beginning. civil servants and then developing youth Balochistan Public Procurement Rules for future responsibility. Unless this two 2015, each department was managing When Balochistan acceded to Pakistan in pronged strategy is adopted, this will procurements based on purchase manuals, October 1948, unlike other provinces of always be a limiting factor in the socio- which did not cater for services and Pakistan, it consisted of British Balochistan, economic development of the province. consultancies. Similarly, delegation of Kalat, Kharan, Mekran and Lasbela states. Rather it may contribute negatively. nancial power rules of 1964 were in British Balochistan had the British adminis- operation. No efforts were ever made to trative structure, whereas the other four For existing civil servants, there is a dire concurrently update these rules and states all had their own administrative and need to build their capacity. Good regulations which provide the entire legal legal systems. Soon after accession to governance requires competent civil framework for civil service. Pakistan, four states were merged into service. To achieve this end of making the Balochistan State Union (BSU) and later in workforce efficient and effective, an Over time, not only was there an increase in June 1954, BSU was further merged with institutional training system is needed. In government functions, but changing British Balochistan. These two mergers all spheres of civil service, professional technologies brought new challenges for brought disruptions in the administrative training institutions with highly skilled and civil servants, for which they were neither structure as officials of princely states had motivated trainers are required. equipped nor prepared. Today, just regular

12 government employees in all tiers of tribal force with a different outlook and coupled with capacity issues, the monitor- administration have crossed the gure of their merger into police created diarchy ing system is almost non-existent. 270,000 and public servants in autono- and inner conicts. In the process, not only mous bodies are over and above this were billions lost, but discipline was also For any meaningful socio-economic number. The number of districts has grown compromised. change in the province, the only way is to from 8 to 34. invest in human capital. Prudent invest- Existing police and levies force also lacks ment will yield positive results in the not- Governments are in the practice of adding standard training facilities. Initial basic so-distant future. Balochistan has already new administrative units without planning induction training is provided and lost many opportunities and any further for trained manpower to run and manage thereafter no regular or periodical training indifference will yield a damaging effect. them. During the Musharraf era, an effort exists. With the entire workforce also Our youth is drifting away, inaction will was made to convert ‘B Area’ into ‘A Area’ adhering to a set of age old rules with no further alienate it. The existing civil service under police jurisdiction, by merging levies formal training, it is not difficult to imagine structure needs capacity building very force into police. A new Police Order was the impact upon socio-economic develop- badly. They are unable to face daunting also promulgated. While introducing this ment and in achieving the Sustainable challenges that lay ahead. There is pressing change, the government overlooked the Development Goals (SDGs). need for an efficient Operations and most vital factor-that of training and Maintenance (O&M) setup for updating old, developing capacity of those functionaries A common reason for failure of develop- redundant and obsolete rules, regulations who were to manage the eld and ment projects is the presence of shortcom- and statutes. While taking these steps, it is secretarial work of the increased workforce. ings right from the beginning. This lack of imperative that we should also focus on our working knowledge inicts bigger losses to youth, that is our future hope and they have As a result, owing to a lack of capacity the edgling economy than nancial potential to make or break. Their building, the police were stretched from 5 corruption. In fty years, the Planning mainstreaming is vital for any sustainable percent area to 100 percent area. It Department could not develop its own socio-economic development. backred and the scheme reversed after planning manual and major work is carried spending billions of rupees. Levies was a out on discretion. Due to a lack of training

13 Opinion China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and Balochistan

province has a long coastline and large a threat to the development initiatives reserves of natural gas, chromite, coal, envisioned under CPEC. Economic copper, gold, marble and other minerals. development cannot proceed without rst achieving a minimum level of peace and Balochistan has been at the low end of stability. A segment of the local population development progress. Currently, it fares continues to contest the legitimacy of state the worst of all provinces when it comes to authority through violent means. Providing the state of connectivity, energy access and opportunities for social and economic industrial development. Despite account- development is one way to achieve peace ing for nearly half of Pakistan’s total and security in Balochistan. An alternate territory, the province’s roads represent opinion is rst to resolve security issues and only about one-fth of the country’s total then promote economic development road network. Road density is only 0.05 programmes. The role of the state is km/square km as compared to the national essential, especially in discouraging the use Raullah Kakar average of 0.30 km/square km. The of force and coercive tactics and instead province does not have a single expressway opting for political reconciliation. Many or dual carriageway highway. Similarly, Baloch fear that CPEC will intensify their Public Policy and Development Specialist Balochistan has one of the poorest grid oppression and isolation. connectivity and lowest transmission and The multi-billion dollar China Pakistan absorption capacity in the country. The Second, CPEC investments are skewed Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a agship entire Makran region, including Gwadar, is heavily in favour of Punjab and Sindh. Of project of China’s One Belt One Road not connected to the national grid. Existing the nearly USD 50 Billion CPEC portfolio, (OBOR) initiative. CPEC has evoked mixed transmission and grid network in the only USD 4 Billion is planned to be spent in emotions and generated a highly polarised province can carry and absorb only up to Balochistan between 2015 and 2030. A debate in Pakistan. On one hand, the 800 MW of electricity whereas the actual major chunk of this tiny amount is meant federal government has called it a ‘game requirement stands at 1600-1700 MW on for energy generation and development of changer’ and on the other, provincial elites average. Moreover, the per capita con- Gwadar port with nearly negligible are concerned that it may become another sumption of energy for industrial use in nancing for improving the port’s East India Company. The truth is that CPEC is Balochistan is nine times less than the connectivity to the rest of the province. This neither a game changer nor bound to turn national average. needs to be looked into if Balochistan is to into a modern East India Company. CPEC be integrated within the economic will help address major gaps in the CPEC can trigger growth by addressing framework of the country. infrastructure and energy sectors—two some of the gaps mentioned above. CPEC potential growth enablers in the context of Long Term Plan (LTP) and Monographic CPEC’s monographic study on transport Pakistan. Nevertheless, Pakistan will have to Study on Transport Planning entails planning (2014-2030) had provided for the undertake a whole lot of complementary building of Gwadar port, upgradation of upgradation into four lane highway of the reforms and corrective measures to road network from Gwadar to Dera Ismail existing road from DI Khan to Surab (750 translate these gains into economic growth (DI) Khan and establishment of rail links KM) by 2020. As of December 2018, and to ward off negative distributional between Gwadar, Khuzdar and Quetta. progress on this road remains virtually non- consequences. Moreover, CPEC LTP envisages the easing of existent. Even worse, nearly three-fourths power shortages and relocation of Chinese of this road (Zhob-Quetta-Surab section) is One of the key aspects of public debate on Industries to Special Economic Zones in the not even included in the CPEC infrastruc- CPEC is focussed on how CPEC may province. If all this materialises, CPEC can ture portfolio. The only section that is exacerbate horizontal inequality in the open up and connect the underdeveloped officially on the CPEC infrastructure agenda country. In particular, stakeholders from the districts of Balochistan with national and is the D.I. Khan-Zhob section (205 km) but province are concerned that the province is international markets, thus promoting here too, no progress has actually been not getting its fair share in the total peace and stability and fostering industrial made. The proposed rail links between investments committed under the development. Gwadar and Khuzdar and Quetta also seem umbrella of CPEC. unlikely to materialise. In contrast, A thorough evidence-based review of CPEC construction work on what is publicly Balochistan is a key pillar of CPEC because projects in Balochistan, however, reveals known as the eastern alignment of CPEC, is of its strategic location and natural resource that the reality on the ground is far from the likely to be completed by 2019. Similarly, endowments. The province is home to official rhetoric about CPEC. Two major Balochistan is also unlikely to benet from Gwadar port and provides the shortest issues seem to be thwarting the realisation the energy produced under CPEC owing to physical route for connecting the land- regarding CPEC’s growth potential. its low grid connectivity and weak locked Central Asia and western part of transmission and absorption capacity. China with the Indian ocean. Moreover, the First, the security issues in Balochistan pose 14 As far as industrial development is Gwadar as an asset that will bring prosper- 4. Balochistan’s energy transmission and concerned, Balochistan does offer ity to the entire province. The current absorption capacity needs to be at opportunities for private investment in the scheme of things suggests that Gwadar least doubled in order for it to meet the sectors of mining, sheries, livestock and port will be developed into an entrepot current energy demand and to benet agriculture, and coastal tourism. Of the 9 with little benets to the rest of the from the surplus energy that will be priority Special Economic Zones (SEZs), 2 province. produced through CPEC. are in Balochistan i.e. Gwadar and Bostan. The Gwadar SEZ has the potential to attract CPEC cannot be a substitute for domestic 5. Government of Balochistan shall Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). Literature development strategies and programmes. develop a comprehensive plan and on FDI suggests that it is expected to accrue In order to realise the actual growth strategy for developing its mining benets to the host country in the form of potential of CPEC, the government of sector and removing key regulatory increased employment opportunities and Balochistan and Pakistan need to under- and structural bottlenecks. A Mineral transfer of skills and technology. The take several corrective measures. These Development Board comprising a mix Chinese FDI, however, is unlikely to result in include, but are not limited to: of experienced individuals from the signicant boost in gainful employment public and private sector shall be because China, being a labour intensive 1. A minimum level of peace is pre- constituted to provide strategic country, brings along its own labour. requisite for economic development. direction and oversight. Moreover, Balochistan’s human resource is The state should make efforts to make too underdeveloped to be eligible for any long-lasting peace. 6. Government of Balochistan should technical jobs arising out of FDI. Similarly, initiate reforms to improve the overall the Bostan SEZ is at a very early stage of 2. Federal government must use business environment in the province development and the government of resources from its Annual Develop- and make it more conducive for Balochistan lacks the capacity to develop it ment Programme to improve Gwadar private investors. into a state of the art SEZ. Because of its lack port’s connectivity to potential growth of competitiveness and discouraging points in the province i.e. the minerals- 7. Government of Balochistan shall investment climate, the relocation of rich Chaghi region in the northwest, formulate a comprehensive strategy Chinese industries in the short and medium the hub of horticulture, agriculture to harness its untapped solar and wind term, seems an unrealistic prospect. and minerals in north and the potential. agriculture-rich region in eastern Summing it up, CPEC is not a game changer Balochistan. 8. Government of Balochistan and but likely to have some second round Pakistan shall allocate resources for benets for the economy of the province. 3. Federal government must ensure social development and poverty There is also a high risk that CPEC will connectivity of Makran region to alleviation in Gwadar and the province exacerbate regional inequality and national grid. Moreover, the govern- at large. This may include programmes intensify feelings of deprivation and ment shall explore the option of on skills development, livelihoods marginalisation in Balochistan. The people importing Iran’s cheaper electricity. support and provision of drinking of Balochistan regard their coastal belt and water facilities.

15 Opinion

Balochistan’s Social Sector

Figure 1: Human Development Index: Provincial Comparisons 1.0 Balochistan KP Sindh Punjab Pakistan 0.9 0.8 0.7 0.6 0.5 0.4 0.3 0.2 Prof. Dr. Ruksana Jabeen 0.1 0 Vice Chancellor 2005 2007 2009 2011 2013 2015 Sardar Bahadur Khan Women’s University, Quetta of the dire situation of the province when Sindh and KP are 62 percent, 55 percent and compared to the rest of Pakistan. Signi- 53 percent respectively. Only 12,600 Balochistan is at a signicant disparity with cant investments in education and health primary, middle and high schools exist in other regions of the country, especially in are required to produce the human and the province for over 22,000 settlements. terms of the social sector. Among regions social capital needed to propel economic With 2.3 million children out of school out and provinces, Azad Jammu and Kashmir development of the province. of 3.6, the province needs to establish has the highest Human Development Index 10,000 additional schools just to ensure (HDI) of 0.734, surpassing Punjab with an The social sector in the province has provision of education to children across HDI of 0.732; followed by Sindh and Khyber suffered neglect since years. Education and the province. It has 57,000 government Pakhtunkhwa (KP)- 0.640 and 0.628 health have remained a low priority on the teachers, while it needs 60,000 teachers respectively. Erstwhile FATA has the lowest government’s agenda. more. Net enrollement and gross HDI in Pakistan at 0.216, followed by enrollment rates also depict Balochistan at Balochistan and Gilgit Baltistan with HDI With a literacy rate of 41 percent, education the end of the spectrum (Figure 2 & 3).⁴ scores of 0.421 and 0.523 respectively in the province remains much lower when (Figure 1). These numbers are a reection compared to other provinces: Punjab, Poor education reduces the productivity of

Figure 2: Net Enrollment Rates Figure 3: Gross Enrollment Rates 100 87% 93% 90 88% % 80 78% 33 54 % 70 National 60% 60

Punjab %

8 50

KP 4

40

5

Sindh 9 30 % Balochistan 20 10 0 National Punjab KP Sindh Balochistan

1. United Nations Development Program (2017), “Pakistan Human Development Index Report.” Available at http://www.pk.undp.org/content/dam/pakistan/docs/HDR/HDI%20Report_2017.pdf 2. Fajar Nadeem (2018), “Illiteracy in Balochistan.” Available at https://voiceofbalochistan.pk/opinions-and-articles/social-development/illiteracy-in-balochistan/ 3. The statistics in this paragraph have been taken from, Syed Fazal e Haider (2018), “Health and Education: Key Issues Confronting Balochistan.” Available at http://www.pakistaneconomist.com/2018/11/12/health-and-education-key-issues-confronting-balochistan/ 4. The News (2018), “Pakistan’s literacy rate stands at 58pc.” Available at https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/309542-pakistan-s-literacy-rate-stands-at-58pc 16 investments and weakens governance. Low lines needs to be eliminated in the Social sector institutions in the province enrolment, retention, and completion has province. Only then can the overall need to be strengthened in order to resulted in increasing unemployment: job education scenario improve in the improve the effectiveness of public and vacancies often go unlled due to a lack of province. private social service delivery. In education, trained personnel. in addition to provision of basic education, Health indicators depict a similar story in the focus should be upon on-job training An effective and sustained educational the province, especially indicators of programs, technical and non-technical reform hinges on a combination of policy maternal and infant mortality, which are education, secondary level education for and institutional changes. Equally much worse when compared to other development of critical skills, infusion of important is to invest in different types of provinces. Balochistan stands rst in terms technology and innovation, recruitment of education, including vocational trainings. of Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) as qualied teachers, instructors and trainers The province lacks skilled and trained compared to other provinces of the who offer value added knowledge and labour to channelise its natural resources. country. Long distances, poor communica- critical thinking. For the health sector, a re- As a result, its resource potential remains tion systems and lack of basic health analysis of priority areas that need urgent untapped. facilities compound the problems of attention should be focused upon women. A large number of women lose the immediately. While the provincial govern- Lack of education also perpetuates the battle for life during pregnancy. Out of ment has in the past paid attention towards cycle of poverty. Poor households in the 100,000 women, 785 die in Balochistan as the sector- Former Chief Minister province, on average, have 75 percent more compared to 272 in rest of the country.⁷ announced opening of 300 new schools, children than the non-poor households. Water borne diseases are also a common upgradation of another 300 schools, Majority of these children are not receiving occurrence in the province, owing to poor establishment of three medical colleges, any formal education and thus the vicious water and sanitation facilities and absence and, purchase of new and latest medical cycle of poverty leading to illiteracy, of proper sewerage disposal and waste equipment and machinery to better equip remains ongoing. A strong correlation management system leading to water the Basic Health Units-there is still a long between household income and school contamination. Almost 32 percent of way to go. Nonetheless, these steps enrollment has also been seen. According people living in the province have zero delineate promise for the future, however, it to a report, the poorest wealth quintile in access to basic health facilities.⁸ A healthy is imperative to ensure that quality also the 6-10 years age group are 4 times more population is essential for economic goes hand in hand with quantity, be it in the likely to be out of school than children in progress and to fully utilizing the capabili- health sector or the education sector. the richest wealth quintile.⁵ Income based ties and skills of the workforce. In inequalities are thus a leading cause of low Balochistan, the health situation in rural The provincial government must prioritize access to school education in the province. areas gets worse-there is near absence of the social sector in its annual budget female health staff. planning. Despite the fact that the In terms of gender, the province bears a education sector has remained a priority in poor record in educating girls. 81 percent of Development in health and education provincial budgets since the last 3 years, it girls did not complete primary school in sectors in Balochistan is not only required still requires more focus. Finally, efforts can 2014-15, as compared to 52 percent of to improve human development outcomes only bring fruit if these funds are properly boys.⁶ Balochistan’s gross primary school but also for human resource development utilized and channelized. Therefore, enrollment rates show a signicant and economic progress of the province. The institutional development is key in disparity between male and female provincial government must focus on achieving social development in the enrollment. Tribal attitudes have a major improvement and formation of human province. role to play in inhibiting girls from acquiring capital to tap internal and external markets, education or taking up employment. The and capitalize on market-driven economic social divide in enrollment along gender growth in the province.

5. World Bank (2013), “Determinants of School Enrollment in Balochistan.” Available at http://documents.worldbank.org/curated/en/351191468286790485/pdf/761150NWP0Fina00Box374362B00PUBLIC0.pdf 6. The Guardian (2018), “Pakistan's schools crisis has 'devastating impact on millions of girls.” Available at https://www.theguardian.com/global- development/2018/nov/13/pakistan-failing-to-provide-millions-of-girls-with-an-education-report-says 7. DAWN (2014), “Maternal mortality: Balochistan's women suffer in silence.” Available at https://www.dawn.com/news/1139853 8. Rashid Syed (2018), “Healthcare a luxury for people in Balochistan.” Available at https://www.geo.tv/latest/189971-only-30-to-32-per-cent-of-balochistan-have-access-to- medical-facilities 17 Opinion Water Resources and Management in Balochistan – Key Issues

Figure 1: Water Availability from Different Sources ⁵ ⁶

2.21 billion m 5.22 billion m Accord Groundwater Perennial Share

10.79 billion m Internally Generated 5.7 billion m Accord Dr. Shahid Ahmad Floodwater Non-perennial Share

Water Resources Management and Development Expert territory. water of 24 billion m per annum, just 45 percent was utilized in 2017. Water Scarcity During the last three decades, Balochistan’s Scarcity of water is a critical constraint to agricultural development has largely been The Pakistan Water Accord of 1991 development in Balochistan. While some 87 driven by expansions in irrigated agricul- establishes clear entitlements for provinces percent of Pakistan's total available water is ture through increases in canal-commands to waters of the IBIS. Balochistan’s current contributed by the Indus Basin Irrigation and spread of tubewells. While this strategy perennial IBIS ows are 4.78 billion m, System (IBIS), Balochistan lies at its has achieved notable success, such as the increased by an additional 0.44 billion m periphery and relies largely on non- growth of high value horticulture, it post the Mangla dam raising project. The perennial and some perennial sources of favoured a fraction of the population, and is perennial ow is restricted to the two water (from IBIS and minor perennial no longer sustainable. Excessive mining of districts of Naseerabad and Jaffarabad. sources outside IBIS). According to the groundwater has lowered the water table Annual non-perennial supplies from the estimates of the Balochistan Economic and resulted in water deciency in major Indus, available during ood years and the Report, water availability in Balochistan basins. While there is scope to increase brief monsoon season, are estimated to be during 2005 was 556 m/ha per annum and current use of canal water supplies in line another 5.7 billion m. Yet, the present is almost same today (2018), simply with the Pakistan Water Accord, capacity of capacities of the Pat Feeder and Khirthar reecting the low population who has irrigation infrastructure has already canals allow the utilization of only 3.8 access to water. In real terms, variability in exhausted.⁴ In Balochistan, 16 river basins billion m of the overall allocated ow of water availability is far higher than the face small and uctuating water availability, 10.9 billion m, as per the Water Accord. national average and per capita water where water scarcity is a common After completion of the Kachhi Canal, storage is only 20 percent of the (grossly phenomenon. utilization is projected to increase to 4.57 inadequate) national value. As a result, not billion m for perennial water and 1.94 only is Balochistan the least water-secure Balochistan’s Water Resources billion m for non-perennial water. Even province, but in fact, it is most at risk from In spite of water scarcity, Balochistan fails to after these investments, Balochistan IBIS climate change, in addition to being least make the most out of its available utilization would still be around 60 percent able to cope with water-related develop- resources. Three major sources of water are: of total available water resources (peren- ment challenges. And while Pakistan's a) IBIS: consists of perennial and non- nial/non-perennial). water economy is highly integrated, perennial ows as per Accord; b) Internally allowing for risk pooling, Balochistan’s generated oodwater (Spate ows): The province generates total surface ows water economy is highly segmented, with comprised of seasonal ood ows; and, c) of internally generated oodwater of 3.25, 16 river basins accounting for its vast Groundwater (Figure 1). Out of the available 10.79 and 25.23 billion m at 75, 50 and 25

1. World Bank, ADB and Government of Balochistan (2008), “Pakistan’s Balochistan economic report 2008”. Report No. 40335 Pk. Volumes I and II. 2. ha – hectare equivalent to an area of 10000 m 3. S. Tareen, B. Sani, K. Babar and S. Ahmad (2008), “Re-assessment of water resources availability and use for the major river basins of Balochistan – major ndings, policy issues and reforms.” Vol. (4), No. (7), TA-4560 (PAK), Quetta, Pakistan. 4. World Bank (2005), “Pakistan economy running dry: Country water assistance strategy”. Pakistan Resident Mission, Islamabad, Pakistan. 5. Government of Pakistan (1991), Pakistan water apportionment accord. 6. Government of Balochistan and ADB (2007), “Water resources availability and use. ADB-TA 4560, Supporting Public Resource Management in Balochistan”.

18 Figures 2: Internally Generated Floodwater ⁷ Figures 3: Groundwater Availability Levels ⁷

3.25 billion m 10.79 billion m 3.3 billion m 1.38 billion m at 75% Probability at 50% Probability at 25% Probability at 75% Probability

25.23 billion m 2.21 billion m at 25% Probability at 50% Probability percent probability levels, respectively also plays a critical role. For example, peak operated tubewells during 2014-15 as well, (Figure 2). This indicates an increase of 134 water demand in Quetta, which is mostly a but it is expected that the actual number is percent during wet year from that of mean fruit growing district, is ve times as high much more than reported owing to and ows decrease by 70 percent during during the month of July (161 mm) as is in unreliability of available data. the dry year. January (28 mm), corresponding to a monthly variation of power needs from 3 to Investment in Water Sector and Groundwater availability depends on two 16 hours per day (Figure 5). Apart from Recovery factors; recharge and storage in aquifers. electric tubewells, there were 10,860 diesel The Government of Balochistan’s major Normally, it is based on average annual recharge. The increase in recharge is 49.5 percent during wet year and decrease of 37 Figure 4: Growth of Tubewells in Balochistan⁸ percent during dry year. Figure 3 exhibits Number of Tubewells in Balochistan average annual recharge in Balochistan at 3 levels of probability. 50000 40000 Groundwater, which accounts for only 9 30000 percent of Balochistan’s total water resources, is the most intensely utilized 20000 water resource in Balochistan. Over- 10000 abstraction of groundwater is 20 percent of 0 the recharge through tubewells and dugwells. The lowering of the water table is a common phenomenon in Balochistan, as 1970-71 1973-74 1976-77 1979-80 1982-83 1985-86 1688-89 1691-92 1994-95 1997-98 2000-01 2003-04 2006-07 2009-10 farmers are now pumping beyond the depth of 300 m. A study of the Quetta sub- Electric Tubewells Diesel Tubewells Totall Tubewells basin indicated that total annual discharge was 97.6 million m, as opposed to an annual recharge of 61.1 million m, Figure 5: Hours of Daily Power Needed to Meet resulting in an annual decit of 36.5 million Water Demand for Quetta⁹ m. In the three major basins (Pishin-Lora, Nari, and Zhob Rivers), the rate of utilization 16 is so high that it could lead to severe depletion. 14

The depletion of the water table is a result of 12 rapid growth of electric tubewells fueled by the government's subsidy. The number of 10 electric tubewells increased rapidly since 8 the introduction of the National Electricity Grid System in the 70s (Figure 4). There were 6 around 41,517 tubewells as of 2014-15, out of which 30,013 were electrically operated. 4 The share of electric out of overall tubewells increased from just under one third in 1970- 2 71, to 72 percent in 2014-15. Farmers pay a xed monthly tariff of PKR 6000 per 0 tubewell, irrespective of usage and size. The January March May July September November availability of electricity at the right time Period (Months)

7. Government of Balochistan and ADB (2007), “Water resources availability and use.” ADB-TA 4560, Supporting Public Resource Management in Balochistan. 8. Government of Balochistan (2014), Agriculture statistics of Balochistan, department of agriculture. 9. S. Ahmad (2005), “Policy Briengs: Irrigation and Energy Nexus – Managing Energy and Water Use for Reducing Subsidy on Electric Tubewells in Balochistan.” Vol. (1), No. (1), TA-4560 (PAK), Quetta.

19 focus of investment was on surface the government maintains only a few units formulated an IWRM⁰ Policy, approved by irrigation and dams. The investment on and the private sector has not been the Cabinet of Balochistan in March 2006. these schemes during 2016-17 was around involved in the provision of these services However, some critical policy actions have PKR 6.5 billion. The major investment, on to farmers. not been implemented owing to inade- dams, amounts to PKR 4.1 billion. Overall, quate institutional framework, inadequate the budget saw a reduction of 40 percent Water entitlements: Reliability of water capacity of existing institutions, awed from 2011-12 to 2016-17. supply is linked to a transparent delineation institutional structures and inadequate and enforcement of water entitlements so political will. Introduced in colonial times, the provincial that water can be effectively and equitably revenue department charges water fees allocated among stakeholders. Pakistan has The IWRM Policy 2006 puts emphasis on the (abiana) from farmers for supply of canal an unusually long and well-established adoption of basin approach for the water on the basis of size of cropped area tradition of water entitlements for the IBIS. management of water resources starting and type of crop. ‘Abiana’ rates are The 1991 Water Accord was a landmark from the three over-drawn river basins of extremely low and their collection is poor. achievement that clearly dened Pishin-Lora, Nari and Zhob. Guidelines and As a result, the amounts eventually entitlements for each province and within action plans have been developed for collected are considerably below the costs each province at the canal command level. Pishin – Lora Basin, while that for Nari and of operation and maintenance of the However, the non-transparent implemen- Zhob basin are underway. Adoption of irrigation infrastructure. The situation has tation of this accord has meant that, as in basin and integrated approach is a step in not changed much since the last decade or the rest of the IBIS, there is considerable the right direction and these guidelines and so. distrust in Balochistan among the various action plans are facilitating developing users, particularly among the small and such an approach. However, these need to Water Productivity large farmers, and among tail-end and be executed and implemented. Agriculture in Balochistan, whether head-end users. Water entitlements for irrigated or sailaba, uses too much water as oodwater or groundwater are not well- The Groundwater Administration Ordi- farmers do not pay the ‘social cost’ of water. dened. There are no restrictions on the nance was promulgated in 1978 in There are two main areas which can pumping of groundwater by tubewells - the Balochistan. Water Committees have been contribute to boosting water productivity: right to exploit this resource rests entirely established in various regions and districts i r r i g a t i o n t e c h n o l o g y a n d w a t e r with the tubewell farmer, and although for the award of licenses for the installation entitlements. there are Water Committees at the district of new tubewells. The real issue lies in and provincial levels for licensing of effective enforcement and implementation Irrigation technology: Improved water groundwater, their role is largely limited to of the IWRM Policy and Groundwater application techniques through better regulating the spacing of tubewells. Users Administration Ordinance. Furthermore, it timing of water supplies and improved on- are also free to abstract any amount of is imperative to revise the policy based on farm water management could greatly water from minor perennial surface new and emerging issues. increase the amount of output/unit of irrigation schemes, springs, and karezes, water. Timing and reliability of water are without consideration of downstream The IWRM Policy recommended establish- critical to provide farmers with the usage or environmental consequences. ment of Balochistan Water Resources incentives to make necessary investments Even then, Balochistan is the only province Management Authority (BWRMA) and in seeds, fertilizers, land preparation to having the Groundwater Administration Basin Water Boards (BWBs) for the major improve yields, and to ensure water Ordinance, which has hardly been basins in Balochistan, but no action was availability at critical crop-growth stages. implemented since 1978. This Ordinance taken till 2017. In 2018, the Government of The current authorized water allocations of needs to be critically reviewed and Balochistan re-initiated establishment of various canal commands are not in line with modied, and workable ways of enforcing it BWRMA. Likewise, institutional framework evapotranspiration requirements, should be developed. Annual registration for BWBs has also been developed but not cropping patterns, or cropping intensity, of tubewells and issuing permits for implemented yet. Furthermore, the resulting in low productivity and wastage abstraction of groundwater on annual basis BWRMA will be the custodian of implemen- of water. There is also excess irrigation at the are also important steps that should be tation of the IWRM Policy and Groundwater farm level due to poor surface irrigation taken. The challenge is how to implement Administration Ordinance. Until this hydraulics and unlevelled elds, which such reforms in a tribal society. authority is well functioning, it is not forces farmers to apply enough water to possible to manage water at the basin level. cover the highest point in the eld. Access Policy, Institutions and Capacity to laser levelling is to date, very limited, as Balochistan is the only province that has

10. Integrated Water Resources Management 20 Opinion

Gender and Balochistan

At about 72 percent, the province bears the women, enhancing leadership role of highest level of poverty incidence, with women in humanitarian crisis and ending rural poverty greater than urban. It also has violence against women (as a cross cutting the highest rate of maternal mortality, not theme). However, this policy is not backed just in Pakistan, but across South Asia. The up by a costed implementation plan, which high maternal mortality ratio is a sign of limits its efficacy to only being ‘present on social injustice and discrimination. Experts paper’. indicate that a lack of proper nutrition and safe drinking water, as well as lack of Though women labour force participation required basic health facilities, is a major has increased over the years, there is still a contributor to infant and maternal huge gender gap. The province also lacks mortality in the province. There are gender supportive facilities like working women gaps in education, employment, voter hostels, day care centers and a gender registration, access and control over responsive transport system. Though Rehana Khilji resources and enabling technologies, and traditionally, women have been seen to be so on and so forth. Climate change has more employed in the education and devastating impacts, in par ticular health sectors, their representation is Social Activist droughts, on the lives of women and negligible in the rule of law and other vulnerable groups. Water scarcity has nontraditional sectors. The protection of Gender equality is at the heart of the increased the burden and work load of homebased workers is also lacking. sustainable development goals to which women, who are mainly responsible for Pakistan has committed. Not fullling our fetching potable water from far ung areas. There is a general voter gender gap in the commitments will also mean losing our country, but the situation in Balochistan is opportunity to integrate inclusion and The Afghan war and post 9/11 situation has worse. Though there are 11 reserved seats leaving no one behind. Though our taken a devastating toll on the security for women in the provincial assembly, yet constitution guarantees equal rights for situation in Balochistan. The province also local women need to be encouraged to women, discrimination patterns in all hosts a large number of Afghan refugees, take part in direct elections as candidates. spheres of life, along with poor governance which further poses challenges related to Women´s sound representation needs to and prevailing societal attitudes, do not livelihood security and natural resource be encouraged and strengthened in provide suitable conditions to foster use. The security situation is in part, political parties at the decision making gender equality and women´s empower- attributed to Balochistan´s long term level, as well as in the provincial cabinet, ment. problems of governance and deep sense of Standing Committees and Local Govern- deprivation, neglect and denial of rights. ment. Balochistan is the largest province of Women are particularly affected by all this Pakistan with the least population. It is the as they are excluded from decision making Women´s economic empowerment is key ‘resource rich’, yet extremely deprived and and lack access to redress mechanisms and to the growth of the economy, prosperity under developed region of Pakistan. peace making processes. and sustainable development in the Gender indicators, particularly on health, province. Such empowerment is requisite if education, employment, access to enabling At present, the Women Development women are to reap benets from upcoming technologies and access to justice sectors, Department Balochistan caters to women opportunities such as the China Pakistan do not delineate good results. Gender related issues at the grass root level by way Economic Corridor etc. Policy reforms and inequality and the low status of women is of planning, and keeping liaison with introducing supportive legislations to deep rooted and imposed both by the various NGOs as well as national and guarantee and boost women’s economic patriarchal system of male dominance, international agencies involved in the uplift rights with dignity and respect, are feudal exploitation, tribal mindset, and development of women in the required. It is important that equitable misinterpretation of religion, lack of province. The department is also responsi- access and opportunities to people of education and awareness, as well as ble for the implementation of the National Balochistan be assured. Women should structural exclusion from mainstream Plan of Action for Women and various have their due share and gain from such institutions. The province, being largely a provisions of the Convention on the initiatives. There is a need to assist local tribal formation, generally does not allow Elimination of all forms of Discrimination populations to build and develop their women shares in family property as this is against Women (CEDAW). The department capacities whilst including their voice, considered exclusive male territory, despite has taken some proactive steps towards pro participation and priorities in shaping their the fact that it is contradictory to both women legislation in the province. The own development paradigm. national and religious laws. Illegal and implementation of these laws and policies parallel systems of justice often act as need to be ensured. Balochistan Gender Any region’s development process should instruments of further subjugation and Equality Policy 2013 focuses on social, be shaped in a way that it is responsive to exclusion. economic and political empowerment of the practical as well as strategic gender 21 interests of the people. Same is the case domains in any development policy Power structures need to be challenged with Balochistan. Provision of safe and programmes for the province. Social and through institutional reforms. Since secure environment, health, education and political space need to be enhanced for political will is important for inclusive training facilities, clean drinking water, women. To tackle attitudinal and behav- development, it is hoped that the govern- employment opportunities, infrastructure ioral issues, a counter narrative needs to be ment takes concrete steps in this regard. connecting far ung rural areas to main collectively developed. Role of media, town and cities, electricity, proper nutrition academia and a vibrant civil society is of key and true participation, should be key importance in this regard.

Key Recommendations to the Government

1. Balochistan requires a comprehensive gender equality and women´s empowerment policy and legislation. The basic work has already been done by the Women Development Department over the last few years. The policy should be supported by a practical implemen- tation plan.

2. A multi sectoral Women Empowerment Package for Balochistan should be announced along similar lines as in the case of Punjab and the required resources should be allocated for it.

3. Support legal and administrative actions for sound women protection laws. e.g. prohibition of early marriages, home based worker protection, anti-acid throwing and rehabilitation, right to inheritance, youth empowerment policy and girl child protection.

4. Policy for home-based worker protection should be approved and implemented.

5. Gender policy needs to be mainstreamed in all other policies so that all departments are accountable to identify gender gaps in their area of responsibility and be able to plan concrete measures to bridge the said gender gap. Similar mainstreaming is important in policies related to peace, security and trade.

6. Ensure implementation of current job quota for women and further enhance this quota to 10 percent.

7. Provincial strategy needs to be in place for integration and participation of women in CPEC and other economic empowerment initiatives.

8. Women Development Department needs to be strengthened in terms of capacity, resources and outreach so that it can technically guide and support other departments on gender responsive policy, planning and programme management.

9. Women´s representation should be improved in the rule of law sector to support access to justice and protection. Balochistan’s rule of law roadmap needs to be implemented.

10. Enhance the use of enabling technology for women and girls.

11. Local government system needs to be reformed for enhanced accountability, improved service delivery and gender responsive sustainable development. Women led institutions at the grass root level need to be encouraged at the community level. These community level organizations should then connect to district and provincial levels for policy advocacy and improved governance and accountability mechanisms. The new government needs to take steps to introduce a sound model of local government. All plans should be made at the very local level and full participation of women and all vulnerable segments of the community should be ensured.

22 Opinion Opportunities in Balochistan: Promise for the Future

for the rst time in its history, through the Development of Gwadar port and the city development of road networks that will aid are certainly important for Balochistan and connectivity and boost business. The Pakistan’s economy. However, the historical geostrategic location of Balochistan for deprivations of the Makran coastal region transit trade routes to central Asian has left a mark on the people of this region republics can be exploited depending in terms of underdevelopment. In order to upon Pakistan’s enabling of trade regula- make Gwadar a ‘win-win’ for all stake- tions and capacity and peace in Afghani- holders, it is important to pursue people- stan. The previously poor performance of centric development in the region. Gwadar Afghan Transit Trade in terms of leakages of lacks access to water, education and health transit goods and cumbersome custom facilities. Very recently, the Pakistan Army clearance procedures can inform many took some initiatives to provide health and lessons to reform our future trade, transport education facilities; however, the gap is and logistic facilities and regulations. huge, and needs to be lled by collabora- Muhammad Naveed Iftikhar Similarly, the linking of Quetta and Gwadar tive efforts of both federal and provincial with Karachi and other cities of Sindh, governments. The 7th National Finance through improvement and expansion of Commission could have helped to improve Public Policy Advisor existing road networks can unearth new service delivery, however, so far, the results opportunities for domestic commerce as are still sub-optimal. A new dawn appears to be awaiting well. Balochistan, through the various develop- The original plan of Gwadar city included ment avenues opening up. While these While trade routes will undoubtedly bring relocation of the local population to avenues will present opportunities, but to large benets, the social side of develop- another place so as to allow space for port be able to actually utilize all these opportu- ment needs to be given top priority. It is and ground transportation operations. This nities, is the question. The China-Pakistan especially important to ensure education, was indeed a detrimental plan in many Economic Corridor (CPEC) is destined to health, mobility, law and order and skill ways. A new master plan is now being focus on Balochistan as this trade route will development for the people of Balochistan. developed. It is hoped that sufficient culminate at the newly developed port of They will only be able to reap benets from measures will be taken to provide the rst Gwadar, which is located in the province emerging opportunities provided they right of living to people of Gwadar in the itself. However, it is yet to be ascertained have the sufficient skill set. Otherwise, the newly developed city. The old town should how and when the people of Gwadar will potential marginalization of Balochistan be transformed into a cultural village which reap benets of CPEC and its associated from these opportunities will create can serve to boost the tourism industry. trade and economic activities. This piece is complexities for future development. There is a need to develop a robust cultural focused on such opportunities and analysis strategy to safeguard the culture and of much needed efforts for the province of Traditional models of education and skill heritage of old Gwadar, and to integrate the Balochistan. development may not serve the purpose to younger generation into the new economy deliver services to this large land. There is a being shaped by the CPEC. The city Balochistan’s sparsely populated land has need to initiate public private partnership government will have to play an active role been posing complex challenges to socio- (PPPs) and non-traditional ways to deliver in this regard: greater autonomy and economic and political developments in educational content across the province. responsiveness of the local government the province. Service delivery indicators in IGNITE of the Federal Ministry of Informa- will play a key role in uplifting the locals. critical areas such as education, health, tion Technology has established a National Property speculation has already created employment and income inequalities Incubation Center in Quetta which is due to bottlenecks. Before the situation gets delineate the unique challenges faced by commence operations soon, to incubate worse, the time is ripe to develop Gwadar as this region. Historical efforts to develop the and mentor startups and young rms in an economic city, with appropriate land use Pakistan region (e.g. irrigation and rail/road Balochistan. This is indeed quite promising policies, instead of developing it as a networks) largely remained concentrated for the province to promote local entrepre- speculative market for real estate. in Punjab and Sindh. Partly, these efforts neurship. The government of Balochistan were concentrated in these regions due to needs to support these initiatives to The opening of trade routes may also boost natural resource endowment, industrial develop regional hubs to train and develop Balochistan’s mineral industry. However, activity and population density. However, young entrepreneurs across Balochistan to the province lacks a comprehensive with CPEC, there is hope that Balochistan connect them to the value chain within and mapping of minerals, which might cause will be receiving its share of such initiatives across Pakistan along the new trade routes. problems in attracting foreign investment.

1. Professor Saleem H. Ali of the University of Delaware has a global experience of researching and advising mineral industries. He believes most of the estimates of minerals and mines are based on a rudimentary analysis. He wrote in a piece published by National Geographic in 2013, “Pakistan’s media should consult more deliberately with international geological experts who do not have any particular vested interest in the development of the project rather than interviewing hyper-nationalist geologists that have limited substantiation of facts and grossly exaggerate value of the reserve as well as Pakistani technical expertise to extract the resource”. 23 To truly harness this intrinsic potential of decision makers. The fact is, there are very agriculture products, such as apples, dates, the province, Pakistan should become part few economic opportunities in the rst apricots, peach, plum etc. The province can of international forums to exchange place. The government of Balochistan will prove to be vital for cash crop production, knowledge and resources to develop its have to gear its public expenditures and such as the cultivation of zafran. Livestock mineral sector in Balochistan. For instance, policies towards creating such economic (export of halal meat) is another potential the United Nations Mineral Development opportunities in areas of trade, mineral area to enhance exports. However, in Program implemented in the African, development and agriculture, alongside contrast to all this, water scarcity and Caribbean and Pacic group of states with harping on tax mobilization. efficiency, tube well subsidies, lack of the support of the European Union, has awareness about new technologies, power brought tremendous benets for these As foreign and domestic investments is shortages and inefficient marketing of regions. expected to increase in Balochistan, it agricultural products, remain huge would be advisable to develop a framework challenges. There is an urgent need to Moreover, Pakistan’s international to provide benets to local communities utilize modern technologies and farming credibility after the cancellation of the Reko where these projects will be implemented. methods to improve water efficiency in the Diq gold mine contract has been severely Several global examples delineate how agriculture sector which may help improve hampered. It is important to understand foreign investors have been supporting access and equity in the water sector. that without the participation of the private local communities. An OECD report, for sector both locally and internationally, example, emphasized the importance of Balochistan’s long coast provides an these resources cannot not see their full engaging and supporting local communi- excellent opportunity for tourism. Resorts potential. A case in point is Chile, which ties in port cities: “The support of a local should be developed alongside the Arabian offers a lot of opportunities for Pakistan to population is essential for ports in order to sea, next to the Makran Coastal Highway. learn and collaborate. keep their “license to operate” and remain This can reap excellent revenues for the legitimate economic actors…What province. Balochistan’s new Public-Private Partner- distinguishes successful port-cities from less ship (PPP) law indeed provides an opportu- successful and more polarised port-cities is Thus, in a gist, Balochistan needs to focus on nity to explore partnerships in various the sense of pride and “ownership” of the port partnerships and innovation in basic economic and social sectors, especially in by the population and business community.” education and skill development for exploiting the natural resources of the This is not only true for port operations in younger generations, better governance of province. However, it would be crucial to Gwadar, in fact, the same principle should Gwadar city, integration of local commu- emphasize here that the major chunk of apply to other foreign and domestic nity with the new economy, productivity benets of such resource exploitation investments in Balochistan. However, the and marketing of agriculture, tourism, should be transferred to the local commu- public sector cannot absolve itself from the mineral industry and sharing the dividend nities. Unfortunately, this has not been the responsibility to undertake radical steps of prosperity with the local population. case in the province previously, which has towards the development of the deprived Urban centres providing improved living resulted in a huge trust decit amongst the regions of Balochistan. experiences and economic opportunities people of Balochistan, who now get wary of to attract population from the rural areas, any positive development in the province. The potential of agriculture development in should also be developed. There is a need to Balochistan is yet to be exploited, given its develop a robust framework to achieve The government of Balochistan also needs large land mass. Agricultural development these goals with the partnership of to develop its professional capacities to is one of the seven areas of cooperation different sectors and agents. Further analyze and develop key economic policies under CPEC. Therefore, a huge potential for research and inclusive consultation is for the province. The recent move to the establishment of food processing and needed for an in-depth exploration of some establish the Balochistan Revenue packaging zones along CPEC routes exists. of these ideas. Authority indicates cognizance among the It will add value to locally produced

2. Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development 24 Opinion

Youth: The Forgotten Priority

Figure 1: Youth Development Index

YOUTH DEVELOPMENT INDEX (YDI)

High YDI 0.600 or more GILGIT-BALTISTAN

NORTHERN KP Medium YDI 0.500 - 0.599

Low YDI 0.400 - 0.499 CENTRAL AJ&K KP FATA Very Low YDI 0.399 or less ISLAMABAD NORTHERN PUNJAB

SOUTHERN EASTERN PUNJAB KP CENTRAL PUNJAB

NORTHERN BALOCHISTAN Fatima Nangyal Khan WESTERN PUNJAB

Human Rights Activist, SOUTH-EASTERN Development Practitioner CENTRAL BALOCHISTAN PUNJAB

WESTERN Youth development in Balochistan is SINDH extremely poor, in fact the poorest as compared to the rest of the country (Figure SOUTH-EASTERN BALOCHISTAN EASTERN SINDH 1). A major reason for this is the lack of HYDERABAD education and employment. To begin with, KARACHI not many youth get the opportunity to enroll into educational institutes. Those who do end up receiving degrees, face a paucity of employment opportunities. And Source: UNDP (2017), ‘Pakistan National Human Development Report 2017’ so the cycle continues. opportunities and in terms of stability. gone. In search of greener pastures, the youth then go on to explore education and Despite the existence of a draft youth Over time, several ideas have been employment opportunities in other policy, its approval is still pending. No presented to the government. A Youth provinces and major cities. However, owing allocation has been made for the Youth Employment Policy was designed that to issues of domiciles and settling down, Development Program post the NFC suggested selecting the top 10 scorers from they eventually either return, or get Award. There are limited provisions and the top 7 public sector universities in the employed in under paid jobs in the cities. opportunities for youth scholarships, province and engaging them in different Resultantly, the youth labour force career counselling, capacity building etc. government departments. It was also participation rate for Balochistan at 44.44 No provincial youth assembly exists, no recommended to pay some stipend to the percent, has been historically lower long- term youth development plan exists. selected candidates. This will not only compared to other provinces and there has In the absence of even basic youth provide them with a sum of money, but will been no youth employment strategy or initiatives, the discussion on facilitating and also help train and hone the skills of youth, policy over the last 70 years. engaging disabled or female youth does whilst building a pool of trained resource not even appear on the spectrum. for the future. The policy also recom- There are two tiers of youth in the province. mended that the youth be provided Those who have inherited a feudal and/or Honour killing, early marriages, drug abuse, vocational trainings that equip them to political background and those who hail involvement in violent extremism etc. are work along the huge coastal belt, in shing from common families. For the former, life is all consequences of the youth being and other industries. This area presents a relatively easier and opportunities are deprived of opportunities. Trafficking is also land of opportunity for the province, and it many, along with an abundance of nancial rampant. To save the province, action needs was recommended to use this young resources. It is the latter who suffer the to be done now, before this window of resource to utilize and channelize this most, in terms of money, in terms of opportunity of the youth bulge, is long opportunity.

1. UNDP (2017), ‘Pakistan National Human Development Report 2017’. Available at http://www.pk.undp.org/content/dam/pakistan/docs/HDR/PK-NHDR.pdf 25 The China Pakistan Economic Corridor should also be made part of this process so opportunities for the development of the presents another area of opportunity, for their side of the story-when it comes to local economy. If the government creates Balochistan. In the long run, this could being unable to send their children to local opportunities to meaningfully engage mean additional job opportunities in the school etc-be heard. In November last year, these youth, then not only will the province. The youth can be part of this the government of Balochistan began a economy benet, but in fact, this will change, only if they are instilled with the series of consultations to create a youth reduce the brain drain, help empower these requisite skills that these jobs will demand, development strategy in collaboration with youth and spur development in the in particular, good quality jobs. That is why the Prime Minister’s Youth Program. province. vocational training for the youth should be However, no signicant advancements an area of focus. have occurred since then. Finally, awarding jobs on merit should be a prime focus. The province has extremely Political ownership and the government’s Another integral aspect that government capable youth, with a ourishing potential will is an essential ingredient for the planning needs to keep in consideration, and a motivation unlike no other. But many infusion of youth in the development should be to engage youth within the a times, they are often unable to proceed discourse. This process should involve province, instead of shipping them abroad ahead owing to favouritism/nepotism. It is youth, right from the grass root level. Local via schemes and scholarships. While the time to translate this inherent energy and level youth consultations are essential to initiatives that focus on training youth and potential into positive, constructive ensure youth are involved in the decision then sending them abroad for job outputs for the province. making process. Simultaneously, parents placements are good, they offer limited

26 Interview

say that again

“...public participation is being ensured through local bodies. “

Sardar Babar Khan Musakhel Deputy Speaker Provincial Assembly of Balochistan

What is the situation of employment in the province? What are other challenges the government is trying to resolve?

There are almost 30-35 thousand public sector jobs available at the The foremost priority is the water crises. The government is working moment where we intend to appoint people. These include jobs in a towards setting up a dedicated team to address the issue. variety of sectors such as health, education etc. Hence, the govern- ment is trying to ensure eradication of poverty through providing Security and maintenance of law and order is also a major concern employment opportunities. So in terms of the number of jobs and the biggest concern for private investors as well. Rest assured, available, there is not an issue. the government is working with our security officials to create ease in this regard. The issue is of course as to why these jobs are still vacant. The reason for this trails in delays from the previous government. We are now Last but certainly not the least, development of improved trading working to get them through and hire suitable people. routes that will aid connectivity and travel are also in the pipeline.

What policy or course of action is the government following to Finally, complete digitization of the province-in terms of records, achieve this target? processes, systems etc. is also a key area of action.

Currently, the government is in its infancy. Quality results require To what extent are the general public involved in the decision- time. We are planning ahead and working alongside all ministries. making processes? We should see results in a couple of months. Public participation is being ensured through local bodies’. Duties The province harbours several opportunities including Gwadar will be assigned to District Nazims, Naib Nazims and further down to Port, copper mines, huge land mass, CPEC etc. Are these being councilors. They will be accountable to ensure that the public is kept optimally utilized? What impact can these have on the develop- not only well aware but also well involved in all processes pertaining ment of the province? to the development of the province.

Utilizing and channelizing these opportunities is the biggest With a rising number of university graduates, what are plans for challenge. For instance, for CPEC, more than 200 people were chosen the youth? to be sent to China in order to learn the Chinese language. However, most of these were simply selected from Punjab. The new provincial Our prime focus is on creating jobs for the youth. One suggestion we government is committed to reaping benefits from CPEC and have in mind is to establish a cadet college for the youth. Moreover, intends to allocate designated space and resources for its institu- establishing more universities is also imperative to counter the high tional setup. The project promises improvement in the employment levels of illiteracy in the province, a gap which we intend to cover in 5 rate by up to 40 percent. Same applies for the Gwadar Port. The key years. Skilled people will be the need of the hour in the time to come. lies in creating internal platforms to serve these initiatives which will in turn create job opportunities. Simultaneously, the government is also committed towards creating opportunities in the education sector. Same is the case for the mining industry.

27 Interview

say that again

“...There are not many incentives to setup business here, especially for the private sector. “

Sana Durrani Chairperson, Balochistan Women Business Association Executive Member, Chamber of Commerce and Industry

What is the status of employment in the province? hours, however, their work is largely unrecognized as they do not possess the proper knowledge to market their products. This is Balochistan does not have any major industrial zone, hence this in where they require the government’s support to assist them in itself limits the scope of employment. There are not many incentives maximizing their skills. In addition, entrepreneurial skills training is to setup business here, especially for the private sector. In addition, also requisite, both for males and females. there is a lack of raw material and logistic infrastructure to support new businesses. Moreover, there is dire gender imbalance in terms of Other than public sector jobs, what other avenues offer promise active labour force. Most females are engaged in temporary in terms of female employment? employment opportunities. The hospitality sector is a fast emerging sector. There are several Given the fact that there are several females who graduate each females employed in the sector working as chefs or on front desk year, however, a majority of them do not enter the workforce. jobs. However, the acceptability of women working on front desk What is the reason behind this? jobs is still rare in the society, as a result of which women often face hurdles. Apart from this sector, women are also contributing towards The reason is the lack of adequate facilities for women at work places. the gem stone business, livestock and in the beauty industry, and The case study of civil service is an interesting one. Despite the fact nearly 84 percent are working from home through small startups. that several women pass out of civil service yet the irony is that there is not a single ladies restroom or a day care in the Civil Secretariat. In your opinion, how will CPEC aid in creating employment Hence, when basic setups do not exist for women at workplaces, opportunities in the province? how then would more women be seen in the workforce? We are not yet prepared for CPEC. We do not possess the requisite Does the government have any plans in place to support the education or technical skills, or language capacities. How then will creation of employment? What sectors is it focusing on? CPEC be able to bear fruit for the locals? It is also important to prepare the youth from now so that the future can be bright for them The government does appear to be focusing on sectors of health and as well as for the province. education in order to make them more lucrative. They are planning to re-publish vacant posts with suitable and able people. However, The CPEC will open new avenues of trade and connectivity. For effort is not being done to ensure the gender dimension is taken care starters, the 18 hour route from Quetta to Gwadar is now reduced to of. 9 hours. There will also be more opportunities in the Khuzdar region, especially in terms of industrial development. Public-private What are some of the challenges being faced by women and how partnership will also likely flourish and indigenous resources such as can these be overcome? the wool industry will also develop.

Majority of women have started small ventures from their homes. However, the CPEC will only yield positive results if strict rules of There need to be proper policies to support and uplift these ventures business are defined. The province lacks proper legislation along and these policies should be legislated formally. For instance, the with proper implementation. These are crucial if any benefits are to province has an excellent embroidery industry. Women toil long be reaped.

28 Interview

say that again

“... The local district police officer should be engaged and a strict plan of action to protect our interests and our rights needs to be implemented.“

Komal Shah Afridi Ghazala President Member Transgender Society Quetta Transgender Community

What challenges does the transgender community face in How can opportunities be created for the transgender commu- Balochistan? nity?

Being transgender is considered a taboo in the society so the title Suitable arrangements for health need to be made for our commu- itself poses a lot of challenges for our community. Owing to that, we nity. There should be separate medical wards for us. People from our are very restricted in our societal interactions. We face issues while community should be imparted vocational trainings so that they can going out, even for mundane things like grocery. We are treated like be employed to serve not only our own community, but also the criminals, viewed with suspicion and mistrust. We face issues in larger society. There is a lot of ambition and motivation in the acquiring education, in accessing health services and in approach- transgender community, it needs to be channelized. ing law enforcement authorities. We do not have any seats reserved for our community in the assembly. When our own government or Separate shelter homes should be made for our community where our own people do not look out for us, then who will? we can reside peacefully.

Another issue that is becoming increasingly common nowdays is Public awareness is also very integral to the cause. The public should other communities posing to be transgender. We are a respected be educated to accept our existence and to engage with us as equal community and we do not indulge in obscene acts. However, these citizens. communities have no regard for their honour and are defaming our name in the society.

In your opinion, how can these issues be overcome?

It is important to involve police authorities. We need protection. The local district police officer should be engaged and a strict plan of action to protect our interests and our rights needs to be imple- mented.

29 Interview

say that again

“... Youth exposure tours should be planned by the government to create awareness and expose our youth to the list of possibilities and opportunities.“

Zia Khan Founder, Quetta Online and Balochistan Online Social Activist

How does education and employment for youth in Balochistan What platforms for youth engagement exist in the province? fare with other provinces? Universities often arrange sports events and other co-curricular When compared to the rest of Pakistan, youth opportunities and activities to keep the youth engaged. However, apart from such engagement is extremely low. One of the major reasons for this is the ventures, there really exist no opportunities, especially on part of the lack of a provincial youth policy. The youth is completely missing government. The only other options that then remain are platforms from the development debate in the province: just look at the state like ours. of education. What is the quality? Are there any significant universi- ties in the province, unlike the other provinces? No. There are just 2 What steps should be taken to uplift youth? universities, who are indeed working overtime to fill the gap and offer quality education. Similar is the case with the availability of jobs The first priority should be enhancing youth education. Merit should - equal to none. Where will those youth who graduate, end up at or be strictly followed so well deserving youth do not remain left out. do with their hard earned degrees? The youth also do not have any The public youth department should revitalize itself. It should plan provision of skill development programs or avenues that can offer and execute meaningful youth initiatives that also serve as learning them self-employment opportunities. This is the situation of the experiences for them. Master trainers (on any specific skills) should capital, Quetta. We can just about imagine the situation of the rest of be available in each district and should then train the youth of that the province. particular area. Skills and entrepreneurship training is also very important in fields such as information technology and programs to In terms of recreation, again the province lags way behind. No sports offer these skills should be planned. Youth exposure tours should be grounds, only 2 cricket stadiums, no proper cinemas or restaurants planned by the government to create awareness and expose our or parks. Where then will the youth divert to? Easy answer. It is youth to the list of possibilities and opportunities. Ofcourse, the unfortunate that our instrument of development has become our government cannot uplift the youth on its own-other sectors of the biggest challenge. Here, I try to play whatever part I can in aiding the society also need to step up and participate in the process. This youth, through the online volunteer platform that absolutely any includes social groups such as ours, and the private sector. youth can join and stay engaged with whatever community development work we take on.

30 Youth Voices How can the youth be engaged in the development discourse of the province?

I graduated last year and am still Provision of vocational unemployed. Some programs that education is important to open absorb youth as soon as they new opportunities for us. graduate, even if on a minimal stipend, should be initiated. Sangeen Khan Murad Kakakhel

Youth bodies should be created at the city level, which promote youth oriented interests and activities. These should be of the CPEC oriented technical skills or youth and for the youth. programs are what the youth needs now. The CPEC will bring many avenues Gusho Durrani of opportunity, so the youth need to be prepared for them. Akbar Sardar

Some sort of nancial support and Patriarchal attitudes need to change. guidance should be provided to youth 90 percent of my friends either left who wish to launch a startup. My university in the middle or wasted sisters and I do all sorts of embroidery their degree once they graduated. and want to take it ahead but owing to Change should begin at home. a lack of nancial resources and guidance, we cannot. Asra Baloch Sana Afridi

31