Chapter # 4

POPULATION, SOCIETY AND CULTURE OF PAKISTAN

Short Question/Answer
Q1. What is meant by University Education?
Ans. University Education commences after Higher Secondary Education. Universities in Pakistan offer
undergraduate, post graduate programs of studies in general and professional education. This education
includes the degree of BS, MS, M.Phil., and Ph.D. etc.
Q2. Identify the three major features of Pakistan’s culture.
Ans. Three major features of Pakistani culture:
1. Religious Uniformity: Pakistan came into existence to provide its people a system of life based on
Islam. Islam is the religion of majority of the people of Pakistan.
2. Cultural diversity: Cultural diversity in the form of regional languages, dressed, food etc. is an
important feature of Pakistan’s culture.
3. Social Values: In all the provinces and areas of Pakistan, excellent and distinct social values are
found. Respect for elders, love for the children and showing respect for women are our values.
Q3. Give a brief analysis of the gender composition of population in Pakistan.
Ans. Gender-wise distribution means division of population based on male or female. According to the
facts and figures of 2018-19 male population constitutes about 51% while female population constitutes
49% of the total population of Pakistan. Due to rural-urban migration of labor force, urban areas have lager
number of males than the rural areas.
Q4. Which problems arise due to overpopulation?
Ans. The load of overpopulation is increasing continuously to an alarming level in cities. Problems arising
due to overpopulation include strain on resources, environmental degradation, increased competition for
jobs and housing, inadequate access to healthcare and education, and heightened social tensions.
Q5. What is the density of population in different provinces of Pakistan?
Ans. Density of population in the provinces of Pakistan:
1. The Punjab is the largest province of Pakistan by population. 54% of Pakistan’s population lives in
Punjab. On average, 499 persons live in a square km in the Punjab.
2. In Sindh the average number of persons per square km is 318.
3. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa it is 339.
4. In Balochistan there are on average 28 persons live in a one square km.
Q6. Write a short note on the increasement of Pakistan’s Population.
Ans. In 1951 Pakistan had a population of 33 million. By 1998 the country’s population had grown to 130.6
million and in 2010, it exceeded 170 million. It means that in 63 years the population has increased by five
folds. Now a days Pakistan is one of the most populous countries in the world, with a population exceeding
220 million people.
Q7. Enumerate three primary reasons for rural-to-urban migration in Pakistan.
Ans. The three main reasons for rural-to-urban migration in Pakistan:
1. Economic Opportunities: People migrate from rural areas to urban areas in search of better job
prospects, higher wages, and improved economic opportunities.
2. Access to Services: Urban areas typically offer better access to education, healthcare, transportation,
and other essential services compared to rural areas, motivating people to move to cities for improved
quality of life.
3. Urbanization and Industrialization: Rapid urbanization and industrial growth in Pakistan attract rural
migrants seeking employment in factories, businesses, and service industries located in urban centers.
Q8. Write down three important steps to reduce poverty in Pakistan.
Ans. Poverty is an important problem of Pakistan. Following measures should be taken to reduced it.
1. Availability of jobs opportunities in different departments.
2. Issuance of loan schemes for youth to establish their own business.
3. Provision of basic facilities to the citizens by the state.

Q9. Narrate any three important problems, most of the Pakistani educational institutions are facing.
Ans. 1- The budget allocation for education in Pakistan is insufficient. There is a scarcity of trained
teachers as well.
2- The facilities of co-curricular activities are very limited.
3- Most of the educational institutions in Pakistan face shortage of basic facilities like clean drinking water,
electricity shortage, faulty system of sanitation, hostels, and transport problems etc.
Q10. Which problems arise because of overpopulation?
Ans. Many problems arise because of overpopulation e.g. Unemployment, low per-capita income, lack of
facilities, low standard of living, environmental pollution, health, transport problems, increase in crime
ratio etc.
Q11. Which factors affect the distribution and density of population among Pakistan’s provinces?
Ans. Factors affecting the distribution and density of population include:
1. Physical Geography: Terrain, climate, and natural resources influence where people settle.
2. Economic Opportunities: Regions with job prospects, industries, and resources attract more inhabitants.
3. Cultural and Social Factors: Historical trends, cultural ties, and social networks impact population
distribution.
4. Government Policies: Policies regarding immigration, land use, and urban planning shape population
patterns.
5. Infrastructure and Services: Access to transportation, healthcare, education, and utilities affects where
people choose to live.
6. Environmental Conditions: Environmental conditions such as the risk of natural disasters or damage to
the environment can make it hard for people to live in certain places.
Q12. What do you know about the Urban and rural distribution of population in Pakistan?
Ans. As of the early 2020s:
1. Overall Population: Pakistan is one of the most populous countries in the world, with a population
exceeding 220 million people.
2. Urban Population: The urban population of Pakistan has been steadily increasing due to rural-to-urban
migration and natural population growth. Major cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad contribute
significantly to the urban population.
3. Rural Population: While the urban population is growing, a substantial portion of Pakistan's population
still resides in rural areas. Agriculture is a key economic activity in many rural regions.
4. Urbanization Trends: Urbanization has been a notable demographic trend, with more people moving
from rural to urban areas in search of better economic opportunities, education, and healthcare.
Q13. What are the three main challenges that most educational institutions encounter in Pakistan?
Ans. The three main challenges that most educational institutions encounter in Pakistan are:
1. Access and Equity: Many areas lack adequate educational infrastructure, and marginalized groups,
particularly girls and children from low-income families, face barriers to accessing quality education.
2. Quality of Education: Educational institutions often struggle with outdated curricula, insufficient
resources, and poorly trained teachers, leading to disparities in the quality of education provided.
3. Funding and Infrastructure: Limited government funding, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of
modern facilities hinder the improvement and expansion of educational institutions across the country.
Q14. How can the educational problems be solved in Pakistan?
Ans. Suggestions for the Solution of Educational Problems:
1. Enhance educational facilities to ensure better access and quality.
2. Allocate a higher budget for education to improve resources and infrastructure.
3. Rectify flaws in the examination system to ensure fairness and accuracy.
4. Revise and update the curriculum to make it more relevant and effective.
5. Implement a unified education system across the entire country for consistency and equity.
Q15. How has the Government of Pakistan addressed educational challenges?
Ans. The Pakistani government has undertaken various initiatives to address educational issues in the
country. Some of these actions include:
1. The government has introduced reforms aimed at improving the quality of education, including
curriculum revisions, teacher training programs, and infrastructure development.
2. Increased allocation of the national budget to education.
3. Launched initiatives to promote girls' education.
4. The government has encouraged partnerships with private organizations and NGOs to expand
access to education, particularly in underserved areas.
5. Introduced technical and vocational training programs.
6. Efforts have been made to address socio-economic barriers to education, such as poverty, child
labor, and lack of infrastructure, to ensure that all children can attend school.
7. Implemented systems for monitoring and evaluating the educational system.
Q16. Briefly explain the educational structure of Pakistan.

Ans. The educational structure of Pakistan is divided into three stages:

1. Prep and Primary education: The education before class 1 is called Prep. This usually includes
children aged between 3 and 5 years. From class 1 to 5 is called Primary education which is
imparted in primary schools and masjid schools. The federal and provincial government are trying
to establish primary schools in every village so that all citizens are given similar educational
opportunities.
2. Middle, Secondary and Higher secondary schools: In Pakistan, middle education is from class 6 to
class 8. Secondary education is from class 9 to class 10. Higher secondary education comprises class
11 and 12. The exams of class 9 to class 12 are held under the supervision of the Board of
Intermediate and Secondary Education.
3. University Education: After Higher Secondary Education the University education commences.
Many universities in the country have been established for education of this level. Universities in
Pakistan offer undergraduate, post graduate programs of studies in general and professional
education. This education includes the degree of BS, MS, M.Phil., and Ph.D. etc.
Q17. Why does Pakistan have a low literacy rate?
Ans. The literacy rate in Pakistan has historically been lower, particularly among women and in rural areas.
Factors contributing to this include limited access to education, poverty, cultural barriers, political
instability, and inadequate infrastructure.
In Pakistan, the government is trying to help more people learn how to read and write, especially in places
where it's hard to get to school. But there are still problems like not enough money for schools, not very
good education, and things that make it hard for some people to go to school. Learning to read and write is
really important because it helps the country grow and makes people stronger. We need to keep working
on making sure everyone can go to school and learn well.
Q18. Write down the problems of the health sector. Give solutions to health problems.
Ans. Problems of Health Sector:
1. There is an abundance of diseases and the facilities for treatment are limited and below standard.
2. High rates of preventable diseases and inadequate health education. Each year, many people die
from diseases like malaria, cholera, tuberculosis, heart issues, cancer, and high blood pressure.
3. Poor nutrition and bad health weaken people's ability to fight off diseases.
4. One important cause for diseases in Pakistan is the adulteration of food items. This lads to lower
health standards in people.
5. Limited access to healthcare services, especially in rural areas.
6. Shortage of trained healthcare professionals.
The health problems can be solved by:
i) Keeping maximum budget for health
ii) Providing medical facilities to the people
iii) Providing health institutes in rural areas.
iv) By creating awareness among the people
v) By controlling population
vi) By eradicating the adulteration
vii) By discouraging untrained doctors (quacks)
Q19. What did Quaid-e-Azam say about the minorities on 11th August 1947?
Ans. On 11th August 1947, the Quaid-e-Azam (RA) while making a speech regarding the place of minorities
said:
"After the partition of India, for minorities to be in one state or the other was inevitable. Every one of you
whether the first, second or last citizen of this state has equal rights, privileges, and obligations. No matter
what relation someone had with you in the past, no matter what his color, caste or creed is, no matter to
what community he belongs, there will be no end to the progress you make. In this stage of Pakistan, you
are free, go to your temples. mosques or other places of worship. The running of the state has nothing to
do with the religion, caste, creed, or faith you belong to”.

Q20. What do you know about the development of Urdu language? Write any three names of Urdu
in its evolutionary stages.

Ans. The Urdu language developed over centuries through the fusion of Persian, Arabic, and local Indian
languages. Urdu was known with different names in its evolutionary stages. For example, Hindvi,
Hindustani, Reekhta, Urdu-e- Muala and Lashkari. It became more standardized during the Mughal Empire
and evolved further during British rule in India. Today, Urdu is one of Pakistan's official languages and is
widely spoken and written in South Asia.

Q21. How is Urdu language creating cohesion in Pakistan?

Ans. Urdu has a vital role in producing cohesion in Pakistan. The language is not associated with a specific
region or racial group. It is spoken and understood all over Pakistan. It has become the language of
communication. It has been the medium of education.
Q22. How important are languages for creating unity and cohesion in Pakistan?
Ans. Languages play a crucial role in building bridges across diverse communities, preserving cultural
identities, and fostering a sense of national unity in Pakistan. Languages are vital for creating unity and
cohesion due to several reasons:
1. Communication: People in Pakistan speak many different languages. Urdu is one language that helps
everyone understand each other.
2. Preservation of Cultural Heritage: Each language spoken in Pakistan represents a unique cultural
heritage and identity. Each language represents a different part of Pakistan's culture. We want to make
sure all these cultures stay alive and strong.
3. National Identity: Urdu, as the national language of Pakistan, plays a significant role in shaping the
country's national identity. Urdu is the main language of Pakistan. When we speak Urdu, we feel like we're all part
of the same country.

4. Inclusivity and Representation: We should respect and accept all the languages spoken in Pakistan. This
helps everyone feel welcome and important.
5. Literature and Expression: Languages are vehicles for literature, poetry, and artistic expression.
Pakistan's rich literary traditions in languages like Urdu, Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashto, and Balochi contribute to
its cultural diversity and serve as platforms for creative expression and storytelling. This helps us share our
feelings and experiences with each other.
Q23. How did Sachal Sarmast play his role in the spread of Sindhi language?
Ans. The highly esteemed poet Sachal Sarmast wrote poetry in Sindhi, Urdu, Saraiki, Punjabi and Persian
languages. Sachal Sarmast contributed to the spread of the Sindhi language through his poetry, which
celebrated Sindhi culture, traditions, and spirituality. His works helped popularize Sindhi literature and
fostered a sense of pride in the language among the people of Sindh. He was a man with sufi qualities. In
mysticism, his special topic was wahdat-ul-wajood.
Some notable books associated with Sachal Sarmast include:
1. Sur Sarang: A collection of Sachal Sarmast's poetry, reflecting his philosophical and spiritual insights.
2. Risalo: Another compilation of Sachal Sarmast's poetry, containing verses that explore themes of love,
mysticism, and human nature.
3. Jeebho Ji Tahqiq: offers deeper insights into Sachal Sarmast's poetry by analyzing and interpreting his
literary works and philosophical ideas.
Q24. How did Rehman Baba play his role in the spread of Phusto language?
Ans. Rehman Baba played a crucial role in spreading the Pashto language through his poetry. His poems
were written in Pashto and reflected the beauty, culture, and values of the Pashtun people. Through his
popular verses, Rehman Baba helped to promote the Pashto language and preserve its rich heritage for
generations to come.
1. Diwan-e-Rehman Baba: This is a collection of Rehman Baba's poetry, containing his famous Pashto
verses on various themes such as love, spirituality, and human emotions.
2. Kulliyat-e-Rehman Baba: A comprehensive compilation of Rehman Baba's complete works,
including his poetry, letters, and other writings.
Q25. How did Baba Bhulley Shah play his role in the spread of Panjabi language?
Ans. Baba Bulleh Shah, a Punjabi Sufi poet from the 18th century, embraced love, unity, and equality in his
verses. His poetry rejects religious rules and focuses on deep spiritual truths. Bulleh Shah's work is admired
for its beauty and wisdom, making him a revered figure in Punjabi literature and culture, still cherished
today. Some of his famous poetic collections include:
1. Kafiyan: This is a collection of his poetry, which consists of his mystical and spiritual verses known as
"Kafis."
2. Bulleh Shah Diwan: Another collection of his poetry which includes a wide range of themes such as love,
spirituality, and social commentary.
Detailed Q/Ans
Q1. Analyze the Pakistan’s basic social problems of Pakistan.
Ans. Pakistan is an ideological state. It was created to set up a system based upon social justice, equality
and fair play the real spirit of Islam. Unfortunately, our society is suffering from several problems as a
result of deviation from our basic ideology.
Some big social problems of Pakistan are given below:
1. Inflation
The fast-growing population of Pakistan is showing negative effects on its per capita income. Opportunities
for savings are getting fewer and the standard of living is falling.
2. Disorderly state of health and cleanliness:
Many precious lives are lost each year due to the disorderly state of health and cleanliness. Despite
scientific development, people lack awareness of the rules of good health.
3. Illiteracy and ignorance
Illiteracy and ignorance are major problems faced by Pakistan. People cannot differentiate between right
and wrong due to illiteracy and cannot play an important role in the economic development of the
country.
4. Weak economy
A lot of people are unemployed because of the country's weak economy. This leads to turmoil in the
country.
5. Poverty
There is a lack of appropriate employment opportunities and due to poverty, the standard of living of
people is low. For the eradication of poverty, it is important that new employment opportunities should be
created, and resources should be improved.
6. Unequal distribution of wealth
Unequal distribution of wealth leads to the rich getting richer and the poor becoming poorer. This is
creating many problems.
7. Food and Water Crisis
The majority of people living in some remote areas are facing food shortages and clean drinking water.
8.Unemployment
Every year thousands of students graduate from universities, but the government and private sectors do
not offer them jobs which results in an increase in unemployment.
Q2. Trace the role of minorities in Pakistan with specific reference to Quaid’s speech of 11th August 1947.
Ans. The role of minorities in the creation and development of Pakistan is very significant. Pakistan was the
first country in the world to assure its minorities about their future by specifically allocating a portion of
the national flag the white colour which traditionally represents purity and innocence and which the
minorities have kept so, over many decades.
Quaid-e-Azam, the founder of Pakistan reminded us again and again that Pakistan will treat its minorities
with justice, equality and respect.
Religious Freedom and Equality to Minorities: The Quaid at the Constituent Assembly on 11 August 1947
under the chairmanship of Jogendra Nath Mandal declared, "You are free to go to your temples. You are
fee to go to your mosques or to any other place of worship in this state of Pakistan. You may belong to any
religion, caste creed that has nothing to do with the business of the state..........We are starting with this
fundamental principle that we are all equal citizens; and equal citizens of one state”.
On 11th October 1947, Quaid said he would repeat it again and again in public and private statements that
"we will treat minorities with justice." His choice of Jogendra Nath Mandal as the first Law Minister in his
cabinet expressed his will to give equal rights to minorities.
Role in Judiciary: After the independence, minorities in Pakistan contributed to make the country strong
and powerful. They have always tried to perform prominently in all fields. In judiciary, the name of Justice
AR Cornelius does not need any introduction. He has rendered invaluable services. He had expertise in
Shariah and Fiqh. He was the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. He played a major role in compiling the
1973 Constitution. Justice Badi-uz-Zaman Kakaos had great knowledge of the Quran and Sunnah. He
remained the judge of the Supreme Court for eight years. Justice (Retd.) Rana Bhagwan Das was a judge in
the Supreme Court too.
Role in Military: Group Captain Eric Gardenhall, Wing Commander Marvin Middlecoat, Squadron Leader
Peter Christie and Flight Lieutenant William D. Harrow Leigh received high civil and military awards for
their excellent performances. Harcharan Singh was the first Sikh officer to be included in the Pakistan
Army. Recently, Dr. Kailash Kumar has been promoted to the rank of Lieutenant colonel in Pakistan Army.
Similarly, Rear Admiral Lesley Norman Gavin has been awarded Sitara- e-Basalat and Sitare-e-Imtiaz.
Role in Social Services: Minorities play an important role in social services. Doctor Ruth Pfau worked for
the leprosy patients till her death. Doctor Drago of Mirpur Khas was famous especially for treating poor
patients.
In the Field of Sports: In the field of sports, there are prominent names who represented Pakistan at
international level; like Anil Dalpat, Danish Kaneria, and Anthony D'Souza in Michael Masih in football and
in yachting, Behram D. Avari.
Conclusion
National cohesion demands equality for all. Pakistan is a multicultural bouquet of many religions,
languages and cultures and the difference only add to its beauty.
Q3. State the basic features of Pakistani society and culture.
Ans. Meaning of Culture:
The identity of a country is due to its culture. When the people of a nation live together for a long period of
time, they have many similar points. They have the same traditions and customs, local laws, entertainment
sports, arts, and rules of community life. These special aspects make a nation different and distinct from
other nations.
Definition of Culture (Edward Tyler): Culture is related to all types of knowledge and arts, laws and beliefs,
traditions, and customs. It is also related to the thoughts and actions of humans.
Features of Pakistani Culture: The main features of culture and society are given below:
1. Social Values: In all the areas of Pakistan, excellent social values are found. Respect for elders, love for
the youth and showing respect for women are our values. People share each other's grief and joy. In rural
areas. Panchayats solve many disputes at the local level.
2. Foods: Different areas of Pakistan have different food preferences. In the Punjab and Sindh vegetables,
pulses, meat and rice are favorites. In Baluchistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa people eat meat, dry and fresh
fruits wheat, barley and rice. For drinking, people prefer milk and laban (lassi m Punjab. In Baluchistan and
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, people prefer green tea (kehwa). Half a century back Sajji and Karahi Gosht were
dishes limited to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the Northern Punjab. Now these dishes are appreciated from
Peshawar to Karachi. and Quetta, Pakistani people enjoy eating meat.
3. Religious Uniformity: There is religious uniformity in Pakistan Pakistan's most important recognition is
Islam We give comparatively little importance to caste and creed, color and race and regional classes. The
constitution of Pakistan gives complete protection to the minorities.
4. Mixed Culture: In the past, people who settled in areas which now comprise Pakistan came from
different areas. Whichever group came, it brought with it its customs, traditions, festivals, dress, food, and
style of living. These groups had an influence on each other, and a mixed culture emerged.
5. Dress: Pakistani dresses are made keeping in mind climatic and religious needs. In the rural areas of
Punjab, men wear dhoti, kurta, shalwar, kameez and turban. Women like to wear dupatta, shalwar and
kurtas. In urban areas shalwar kameez, pant and coat, sherwani and waist coat are preferred. A shalwar
with many folds is preferred in Baluchistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Sindh. Women like to wear
embroidered clothes. On the occasion of a wedding, the bridal dresses are very beautiful.
6. Fairs and Urses: Countless fairs and urses are organized each year in Pakistan. These fairs and urses
reflect our culture. The urses of the great saints Hazrat Data Ganj Baksh Ali Hajvery, Hazrat Farid-ud-Din
Shakr Ganj. Hazrat Shah Rukn Aalim Multani, Hazrat Baha-ud-Din Zikriya Multani, Hazrat Madhu Lal
Hussain (Mela Charaghan). Hazrat Sayedin Shah, Hazrat Sachal Sarmast in Sindh, Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif
Bhitai in Sindh are held yearly. The annual fair of Sibbi is also very famous.
7. Sports: The Pakistani teams of cricket, hockey, squash etc. is world famous. The tournaments of
different sports are held at district, divisional, provincial and the national level. Polo is extremely popular in
Gilgit and the Northern Areas.
8. Religious Festivals: The majority of the population of Pakistan is Muslims. They celebrate their different
religious and social festivals with favor. These festivals include Eid-ul-Fiter, Eid-ul-Azha, Eid-Milad-un-Nabi,
Shab-e-Meraj and Shab-e-Baraat. Youm-e-Ashur is observed with religious respect and dignity.
9. Customs and Traditions: Pakistani citizens behave according to specific customs and traditions on
different occasions. Marriage is an Islamic obligation and on a specific day the custom of Nikah is observed.
As soon as a Muslim child is born the Azan (call to prayer) is recited in his/her ear so that he/she realizes
that due to the blessings of Allah Almighty he/she is born into a Muslim family. When a Muslim passes
away, relatives, near and dear ones and acquaintances gather at the deceased's house. After Namaz-e-
Janaza, the deceased is buried.
10. Different Arts: Some important buildings of Pakistan, which are an attraction for tourists, such as
Mausoleum of the Quaid-e-Azam (Karachi), Alfalah Building. Badshahi Mosque, Shahi Qila, WAPDA House
(all in Lahore), Faisal -Mosque (Islamabad), Mosque Mohabat Khan and Qila of Bala-Hisar (Peshawar),
Quaid-e-Azam Residency (Ziarat) and Qila of Qallat. Handicrafts have great importance in Pakistan. Men
and women make handicrafts. These handicrafts are much appreciated in foreign countries. The art of
painting in Pakistan unique. It is considered Pakistan's identity. Works of art of painting and calligraphy
belonging to Mughal times and modern times are displayed in the Lahore Museum and Shahi Qila.
Q4. Why is Urdu called the national language of communication in Pakistan?
Ans. We express our thoughts and feelings through language. The present form of any language is the
result of a long intellectual and continuous effort. Right from the beginning, man used language to express
his internal passions, but later on changes continued to follow in view of social, economic, physical and
religious needs. In this way, the language of every region and society took their own specific forms.
Urdu Language: Urdu is a Turkish word which means 'camp'. Urdu is such a vast language that is spoken in
different accents and discourses. (This is the very reason why it is regarded as an international language).
Urdu is the national language of Pakistan. Regional languages like Sindhi, Punjabi, Balochi, Kashmiri,
Barahvi and Saraiki are spoken other than this language.
Urdu as a Language of National Integration: Urdu is one of the sources of communication as a national
language among four provinces. History, politics, civilization, literature, values, and religious teachings of
Muslims are attached to this language.
Commonly Spoken Language: Urdu language enjoys the privilege that it is used in all provinces as a
commonly spoken language. It is spoken and understood in far and wide corners of Pakistan. No other
language enjoys the same privilege.
Easy and Comprehensible: Urdu language is very easy and comprehensible. Everybody can speak and
understand it with a little effort because the words of Arabic, Persian, Hindi, and English are frequently
used in it, and its formulation and construction brings convenience to its learning.
Enormous Thesaurus: Urdu language is rich in enormous thesaurus and its vocabulary is ever increasing
day by day. Owing to this rich thesaurus, it is capable of presenting different essays and thoughts.
Islamic Studies and Literature: This is only Urdu language, after Arabic and Persian, that holds the
distinction of having stored the vast priceless assets of our religion. A vast and precious asset of exegesis,
Hadith, Jurisprudence, Biography of Prophet (PBUH), History of Islam, Stories of elders and thoughts of
Saints is stored in the folds of Urdu language.
Legacy of Muslim Civilization and Assets: History of Urdu is rich in our literature, civilization and heritage
other than religious asset. We can proudly present this precious asset in front of the world.
Vast Storage of Knowledge and Literature: History of Urdu is rich in the best samples of art of composition
and scriptures, Khat-e-Nastaliq is the best calligraphic hand. Its knowledge treasure is not less than any
international language.
Importance at International Level: Importance of Urdu Language has been accepted now at international
level. In Middle East and Central Asian Estates Urdu language is gradually growing as a public language,
even in Turkey and Japan a separate department of Urdu language has been setup by the Universities of
respective countries.
Language of Heritage: Along with being a language of communication, Urdu language is also a guarantee
to heritage. People belonging to different castes and creed used to live in the subcontinent. So Urdu is
pioneer of this entire heritage.
National Identity: Urdu is the national identity of the people living in Pakistan. The importance of Urdu is
undeniable for stability, progress, and national unity of Pakistan. Urdu-Hindi controversy laid the
foundation of Two Nation Theory in subcontinent and Pakistan came into being on the basis of this very
ideology, and Urdu was declared national language of Pakistan.
Q5. Write a detailed note on the gradual development of Urdu language.
Ans. Urdu, Pakistan's national language, symbolizes national identity and serves as a means of
communication. During Muslim rule in South Asia, soldiers from diverse backgrounds mixed, forming a new
language, Urdu, derived from the Turkish word for "army."
Gradual development of Urdu: Originally known as Hindwi, Hindi, and Hindustani, Urdu later became
Reekhta, taking on different names over time. Amir Khusro was a notable early poet. During the Reekhta
period, Mushafee gained popularity, while poets like Mirza Ghalib and Zauq flourished in Urdu-e-Muala. In
1647, Shah Jahan's shift of capital to Delhi led to the coexistence of Lashkari and Delhi languages, leading
to the term Urdu-e-Muala. The language spread to Deccan and Gujarat, known as Deccani and Gujrati
respectively. Wealthy patrons supported its growth, transforming Urdu from a spoken language to a
literary one.
Beginning of Urdu Poetry: Early Urdu Poetry: Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah of Golkanda compiled the
first poetry collection. Wali Deccani from Deccan and poets like Mirza Muhammad Rafi Sauda, Mir Taqi
Mir, and Khawaja Mir Dard from Delhi broadened Urdu literature. Urdu's popularity extended to Oudh and
Lucknow. Alongside Ghazal, Marsiya telling thrived with poets like Anees and Dabir. The 19th century saw
significant development in thematic poetry, with poets like Zauq, Mirza Ghalib, and Bahadur Shah Zafar.
Mirza Ghalib's prose was also influential. Maulana Haali's Musaddas shook the nation, while Allama Iqbal's
poetry emphasized South Asian Muslims' cultural heritage in both Urdu and Persian. His works were deeply
memorized by many. Following Iqbal, modern literature spurred a progressive movement in Urdu
literature.
Role of Prose Writers in Urdu Development: After the 1857 War of Independence, significant political and
social changes occurred, reshaping Urdu literature. Sir Syed Ahmad Khan's Aligarh Movement spurred Urdu
prose development alongside Muslim social progress. Sir Syed and his peers innovated Urdu Nazm and
prose, reflecting collective national sentiments. Maulana Shibli reimagined Islamic history. During
independence struggles and Pakistan's creation, Urdu literature flourished with authors contributing to
research, criticism, poetry, novels, dramas, and stories.

Q6. Write detailed notes on the following regional languages.

Sindhi Punjabi Pushto Balochi Kashmiri
Ans. Punjabi Language: Punjabi is ancient, with roots in Darawari or Harrapai. It has six major
accents/dialects: Shah Puri, Majhi, Chachi, Saraiki, Dhani, and Pothwari. Majhi, spoken in Lahore, is
considered the best. Punjabi literature traces back to Mahmood Ghaznavi's era, focusing on mysticism,
love, romance, and patriotism. Notable poets include Baba Farid Ganj Shakar, Sultan Bahu, Baba Bulley
Shah, and Khawaja Farid, reflecting social and political influences. Folk tales by poets like Waris Shah are
famous, portraying Punjab's history and life. Dabir Singh, Meeran Singh, and Sayedan Buksh Minnas are
renowned novelists. Punjabi literature captures life's nuances through various forms like Waar, Dhol, and
Tappay. Post-20th century, novel writing, drama, research, and criticism flourished, with Punjab University
offering MA and Ph.D. in Punjabi.
Sindh Language: Sindhi, spoken in Sindh province, has roots in the Ariyal Family and the Indus River Valley.
Influenced by Greek, Turkish, Persian, Arabic, and Sanskrit, it's written in Arabic script. English words were
incorporated during British rule. Variants include Kohistani, Saraiki, and Vicholi. Sindhi was the first
language to translate the Holy Quran and has a rich literary history, dating back to 1050-1350. Shah Abdul
Latif Bhitai and Sachal Sarmast enriched Sindhi literature, focusing on patriotism, spirituality, and folk tales.
Abdul Hassan Sindhi and Makhdoom Muhammad Hashim contributed significantly to Sindhi prose and
script development. During British rule, Sindhi developed notably. Mirza Qaleech Beg wrote 400 books.
Sindhi journalism thrived, and Maulvi Malaah translated the Quran into verse in 1870. Modern Sindhi
writers blend classical and contemporary styles, supported by language institutions. Research and criticism
progressed.
Balochi Language: Balochi Language: Spoken in Balochistan, Pakistan, Balochi is related to the Aryan
language. It has two accents: Sulemani and Makrani. Famous Balochi literature includes tales of Mir Chakar
Khan and others. Sher Kamsir Marri wrote the first Balochi book. Post-Pakistan, a Balochi script developed
from Urdu letters. Balochi literature flourished with magazines and journals, and Balochistan University
offers a Ph.D. in Balochi language.
Pushto Language: Pashto Language: Spoken in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pashto originated in Afghanistan. It
started with poetry, then prose like "Patah Khazana" in the late 18th century. Pashto absorbed Arabic and
Persian words. It has three accents: northeast, southwest, and Zai tribe. Khushal Khan Khattak and Rahman
Baba are famous poets, discussing liberty and mysticism. Folk songs like chaar beeta and tappa are
popular. Pashto prose grew in the 20th century, post-Pakistan, with works in dictionary, grammar,
biography, short story, novel, and drama writing.
Kashmiri Language: Kashmiri Language: Modern research links Kashmiri to the language of the "Indus
Valley". Popular dialects include Musalmanki, Hindki, Gandoro, and Gami, with Gandoro being more
literary. Kashmiri literature has five eras. The first focused on folk songs expressing collective Kashmiri
sentiments. The second era explored Ilahyat topics, with "Shati Kanth" being famous. The third era
introduced romance-themed poetry, led by poetess Hiba Khatoon. In the fourth era, poetic stories were
incorporated. The fifth era emerged under the influence of modern literature.
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Prepared By: Ms. Arshi Shahnawaz
Subject Coordinator
Senior Section
APS Gulmohar, Malir Cantt