Land of Balochistan: A Historical Perspective

Abstract

Four provinces namely, Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtoon Khwa [previously known as NWFP (North West Frontier Province)], Balochistan, Azad Jamu & Kashmir and Gilgat Baltistan constitute the Islamic Republic of Pakistan along with Federally Administered Tribal Areas. Balochistan is the largest province of Pakistan but thinly populated and it occupies much significance not only in the geo-politics of Pakistan, rather it enjoys great strategic importance in this part of the globe. Balochistan’s strategic position is unique in the world. Balochistan is a gate way to South Asia, Middle East and Central Asia. Balochistan has potential to become an international energy corridor and transit route for trade and commerce. The objective of this research paper is to discuss general characteristics of the land of Balochistan and give a detailed historical perspective of the land of Balochistan during various periods of history.