Pakistan really needs a census

AFTER a long gap of almost 15 years, the government of Pakistan has finally decided to conduct a population census in the country. The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) has recommended the government to hold a national census either later this year or in March 2015. The previous census was held in 1998, also under Nawaz Sharif’s regime, and estimated Pakistan’s total population at over 130 million people.
Except for the census of 1998, other four population counts were conducted at fairly regular intervals between 1951 and 1981. Under the country’s constitution, a national census needs to be held after every four years before each government completes its term of five years. A recently passed bill in the Parliament, however, makes it binding on the government to conduct a fresh census after every 10 years.
The government’s decision has come at an appropriate time, as the administration is trying to measure and confront different challenges on all fronts. By gaining a better estimate of the population size and its demographics, the government is expected to make well-judged decisions relating to distribution of resources among provinces, delimitation of constituencies and tax collection. Official figures point out that Pakistan’s population is increasing at an annual rate of 2.3 percent, but the exact population size remains unknown in the absence of any recently held census. Therefore, the mammoth task of carrying out a census remains central to future planning of Pakistan, as it would reflect how the country has changed in the previous one and a half decade. Shifts in demographics of the population, coupled with a sharp increase in its total size, have created new challenges and opportunities for Pakistan.
The population census will also help remove apprehensions of major political parties about delimitations of certain constituencies, which may hurt their vote bank. As democratic representation is based on population, the census may auger well for the minorities as well. Minorities in Pakistan often complain about being underrepresented due to which their voice does not reach the corridors of power. By ensuring representation of each community, the government maybe able to develop a sense of nationalism and build a more united Pakistan. Harmony within the community is crucial to the country’s existence as it battles socioeconomic, political and security challenges. In particular, the qualms of smaller provinces about judicious distribution of resources may also be overcome through census results. Distribution of resources for funding of infrastructure development, health care, law enforcement and education programs have for several years marred relations between the center and the provinces.
As is the case with any scientific research, the government of Pakistan must ensure data integrity through appropriate data collection and handling techniques. All Pakistanis must be encouraged to be a part of this national exercise as census results can be fruitful in providing a rationale for new legislation that directly improves the lives of the masses. Accurate and trustworthy information from census will prevent the government from shooting darts in darkness and utilize national resources in the most optimal manner. By launching initiatives for targeted population segments, the government will be in a better shape to achieve the desired economic results that will push Pakistan’s development to newer heights.