BRIDGING THE POVERTY GAP: A COMPARATIVE REVIEW STUDY LEARNING FROM CHINA'S EXPERIENCE FOR BALOCHISTAN-PAKISTAN

Abstract

This study examines the invaluable lessons Pakistan can derive from China's longstanding and highly successful poverty reduction efforts. China's remarkable achievements in poverty alleviation, characterized by political stability, rural development initiatives, and proactive economic policies, serve as a compelling model for nations such as Pakistan. This research primarily aims to unearth the root causes of poverty in Pakistan, analyze the unique challenges encountered by the government, and provide a historical context for Pakistan's poverty alleviation endeavors. It also sheds light on the specific case of Balochistan, a province in Pakistan known for its distinctive challenges in terms of poverty and development. As CPEC promises to revolutionize Pakistan's infrastructure, manufacturing, tourism, and agriculture sectors, the government has initiated various programs, deeply influenced by China's approach. These initiatives encompass housing projects for the underprivileged, interest-free local loans, job creation, institutional reforms, and scholarships for deserving students. The paper adopts a comprehensive approach, involving an extensive review of literature, including academic articles and governmental reports related to poverty reduction in both China and Pakistan, with a specific focus on Balochistan. Comparative analysis helps elucidate the varying strategies employed by these nations. Furthermore, interviews with development economists, government officials, and community leaders in Balochistan enrich the analysis. The main findings pertaining to Balochistan underscore its unique challenges in poverty alleviation, primarily linked to limited infrastructure, geographical isolation, and historical marginalization. However, Balochistan also exhibits immense potential for development, particularly through the strategic implementation of CPEC projects. The paper concludes by outlining a comprehensive roadmap for Pakistan's poverty eradication efforts, emphasizing the need to prioritize Balochistan through targeted interventions, infrastructure development, and inclusive growth strategies.