We and They (Bangladesh and Pakistan)
By Zubeida Mustafa
I wouldn't like to burden readers with seemingly dull data. But it is too important to be shoved under the rug: the population growth rate for Pakistan is two percent, for Bangladesh it is 1pc; TFR (children per woman) is 3.5 in Pakistan and 2 in Bangladesh; the contraceptive prevalence rate (which includes unreliable conventional methods) is 34pc in Pakistan and 65pc in Bangladesh.
In 1971, Bangladesh had a bigger population (65.5m) than the western wing, with a count of 59.7m. In 2020, the picture had reversed with Bangladesh standing at 164.6m and Pakistanis numbering 220.8m.
More data has a direct bearing on the economy: GDP for Pakistan in 2020 was $263.6 billion and $324.2bn for Bangladesh. Bangladesh has achieved this miracle by investing in its human resources, especially women, who are potential agents of change in family matters. The difference between Pakistan and Bangladesh in gender parity in the social sectors is staggering. Likewise, their female literacy rates are 46pc and 72pc respectively. The female labor participation rates are 20.1pc and 38.5pc respectively.
Research says until we haven't a plan to control our big matter of every problem is increasing population, if there is no reaction, the least chance for development of country.