Abstract
Almost 50% of the population of Pakistan is women. They are not only poor but are doubly
marginalized. Majority of them are illiterate and economically dependent. Social and economic
indicators show that their condition is deplorable e.g. female literacy is only 15% in Balochistan.
Data in various studies show high maternal, infant mortality and morbidity. Chronic malnutrition
among girls, poor nutrition status and high mortality rate among the women is observed. Mostly
women in the society are dependent and powerless. Their participation in various walks of life is
limited due to prevalent cultural norms which carry with them specific cultural codes of honour
and shame. The male dominance is a distinct feature all over the country and is specifically
reflected with all its strength in all spheres of life in the tribal set-up of Balochistan. The male
dominance in society is manifested in male female discrimination in all fields of life and
specifically in the field of health and education. The province is otherwise far behind in all these
fields and there are less opportunities available to the male population and, therefore, even lesser
to the female.
