Naseerabad District: The Agricultural Heart of Balochistan
Naseerabad
When I first traveled through Jaffarabad and Naseerabad, I wasn’t just crossing into any ordinary part of Balochistan, I was entering the heart of its only Irrigation and Agricultural zone. My journey along the Bolan Road was long — a narrow single carriageway with no divider, just two tight lanes that barely allowed for safe overtaking. This makes the route dangerous and often a cause of deadly accidents. Still, the road matters because it connects southern Balochistan to Sindh, serving as a crucial artery of life and movement.
The Naseerabad Division was created in 1987 after the bifurcation of the Sibi Division, and its Divisional headquarters is Dera Murad Jamali. It’s the only administrative division in the Province of Balochistan that thrives agriculturally due to proper irrigation systems — rare for this part of Pakistan. The division consists of five districts, each playing a role in the region’s survival and significance.
The name “Naseerabad” itself holds a story. It was notified in 1974, separating it from Kalat. The District was named after Naseer Ahmad, who served as Deputy Commissioner and later became a Commissioner. His influence is still felt today — a rare tribute in a region where legacy doesn’t always follow the man. The CNIC Code assigned to this area is 53, marking its identity officially.
According to the 2023 Pakistani census, the population of Nasirabad Division now stands at 2,044,021, with Naseerabad District alone holding 565,315 people. The region may still lag behind in infrastructure, but its role in agriculture, especially in feeding other provinces, is unmatched. This is why Naseerabad matters—not just to Balochistan, but to Pakistan as a whole.
List Districts
| # | District | Headquarter | Area(km²) | Pop.(2023) | Density(ppl/km²)(2023) | Lit.rate(2023) |
| 1 | Sohbatpur | Sohbatpur | 802 | 240,106 | 299.6 | 41.02% |
| 2 | Nasirabad | Dera Murad Jamali | 3,387 | 563,315 | 166.1 | 28.96% |
| 3 | Usta Muhammad | Usta Muhammad | 953 | N/A | 280 | 35.53% |
| 4 | Jafarabad | Dera Allahyar | 1,643 | 594,558 | 361.1 | 35.53 % |
| 5 | Jhal Magsi | Gandava | 3,615 | 203,368 | 56.2 | 30.14% |
| 6 | Kachhi | Dhadar | 5,682 | 442,674 | 77.9 | 30.20% |
List of the Tehsils
| # | Tehsil | Area(km²) | Pop.(2023) | Density(ppl/km²)(2023) | Literacy rate(2023) | Districts |
| 1 | Jafarabad Tehsil | Jafarabad | ||||
| 2 | Jhatpat Tehsil | 690 | 302,498 | 438.40 | Jafarabad | |
| 3 | Gandawa Tehsil | 1,344 | 71,230 | 53.00 | Jhal Magsi | |
| 4 | Jhal Magsi Tehsil | 1,679 | 116,528 | 69.40 | Jhal Magsi | |
| 5 | Mirpur Tehsil | 592 | 15,610 | 26.37 | Jhal Magsi | |
| 6 | Faridabad Tehsil | 137 | 68,948 | 503.27 | Sohbatpur | |
| 7 | Hayrvi Tehsil | 73 | 16,891 | 231.38 | Sohbatpur | |
| 8 | Manjipur Tehsil | 82 | 23,624 | 288.10 | Sohbatpur | |
| 9 | Sohbatpur Tehsil | 334 | 64,844 | 194.14 | Sohbatpur | |
| 10 | Baba Kot Tehsil | 967 | 53,661 | 55.49 | Nasirabad | |
| 11 | Dera Murad Jamali Tehsil | 281 | 265,822 | 945.99 | Nasirabad | |
| 12 | Landhi Tehsil | 266 | 8,638 | 32.47 | Nasirabad | |
| 13 | Chattar Tehsil | 961 | 32,276 | 33.59 | Nasirabad | |
| 14 | Meer Hassan Tesil | 229 | 53,400 | 233.19 | Nasirabad | |
| 15 | Tamboo Tehsil | 683 | 149,518 | 218.91 | Nasirabad | |
| 16 | Usta Muhammad Tehsil | 399 | 210,870 | 528.50 | Usta Muhammad | |
| 17 | Gandakha Tehsil | 554 | 81,190 | 146.55 | Usta Muhammad | |
| 18 | Khattan | 277 | 22,900 | 82.67 | Kachhi | |
| 19 | Dhadar Tehsil | 976 | 49,836 | 51.06 | Kachhi | |
| 20 | Balanari Tehsil | 402 | 60,158 | 149.65 | Kachhi | |
| 21 | Bhag Tehsil | 1,308 | 83,687 | 63.98 | Kachhi | |
| 22 | Mach Tehsil | 708 | 75,272 | 106.32 | Kachhi | |
| 23 | Sani Tehsil | 2,011 | 150,821 | 75.00 | Kachhi |
Constituencies
| # | District | Provincial Assembly Constituency | National Assembly Constituency |
| 1 | Jhal Magsi | PB-11 Jhal Magsi | NA-254 Nasirabad-cum-Kachhi-cum-Jhal Magsi |
| 2 | Kachhi | PB-12 Kachhi | |
| 3 | Nasirabad | PB-13 Nasirabad-I | |
| 4 | PB-14 Nasirabad-II | ||
| 5 | Sohbatpur | PB-15 Sohbatpur | NA-255 Sohbat Pur-cum-Jaffarabad-cum-Usta Muhammad-cum-Nasirabad |
| 6 | Jafarabad | PB-16 Jafarabad | |
| 7 | Usta Muhammad | PB-17 Usta Muhammad |
History
The history of Naseerabad is deeply connected to the older Khanate of Kalat, a powerful state that once stood as the center of the Brahvi-Baloch Confederation. It was founded and ruled by one of the most respected rulers, Mir Nasir Khan I, the Khan of Kalat, between 1747 and 1794. Back then, what we now call Nasirabad District was part of Kalat. I remember reading old records in the archives of Dera Murad Jamali that traced how this district gradually took shape. The official formation of Kalat District happened on February 3, 1954, and by 1974, Nasirabad was separated from Kalat to become a distinct district.
Later, in 1987, the region saw another important shift when a new district, Jafarabad, was cleaved from Nasirabad just three years before December 1990. The roots of the Division can also be traced back to a small village known as Tamboo, about 40 km west of Dera Murad Jamali. Interestingly, Tahseel Tamboo played a vital role in shaping the local governance. The District was named after Naseer Ahmed, who served as Deputy Commissioner and later as Commissioner. His dedication to the region led to the establishment of the Naseerabad Division, cementing his legacy in Balochistan’s administrative history.
Evolving Administrative Landscape
Naseerabad has undergone a significant transformation in its district structure over the years. Originally a part of Kalat Division, it was transferred in 1974 and later experienced a radical restructuring with the creation of the new district Jaffarabad, which was cleaved from Naseerabad in July 1987 and finalized in December 1990. I recall, during a visit to Dear Murad Jamali, the local elders spoke passionately about how these changes shaped their local government system and improved accessibility to basic services. This shift was part of a broader effort to implement the principle of subsidiarity, ensuring that public functions are performed at the local level rather than centralized points.
Today, Naseerabad District is administratively divided into Four Tehsil: Dear Murad Jamali, Chhater, Baba Kot, and Tamboo, which was once a Tahseel before becoming part of this separate district framework. It includes 31 union councils, showing a clear focus on devolution where responsibilities were transferred from provincial and divisional levels to districts and tehsils. The move allowed better coordination and strengthened governance at the grassroots. Personally, seeing this model in action, especially in smaller towns like Tamboo, shows how well a community can thrive when administrative structures align with local needs.
SOCIO-ECONOMICFRAMEWORK
Socio-Economic Landscape and Geographic Influence
Naseerabad District, located in Balochistan, spans an area of 5,896 square kilometers (or 2,273 square miles) and is known for its flat plains and fertile agricultural lands. The region is traversed by the Nari River, a tributary of the Indus River, which supports widespread irrigation and vital agricultural activities. The district’s climate is classified as arid to semi-arid, with hot summers lasting from April to September, and mild winters. I remember visiting during early summer and feeling the intense dryness—yet the land remained productive, thanks to smart water use.
This unique climate, coupled with the Geography, has shaped the socio-economic framework of Nasirabad. The population distribution reflects the need to stay close to water sources, and the diversity in livelihoods—from farming to small-scale trade—shows the region’s adaptability. These factors greatly impact business growth and sustainability, especially in agriculture-based markets. In my experience, locals have built an impressive resilience, turning geographic challenges into economic opportunities within the district.
Geography, Climate, and Economic Life
The Geography of Naseerabad District—with its flat plains and fertile agricultural lands—plays a central role in shaping its socio-economic framework. The region is irrigated by the Nari River, a tributary of the Indus River, making agriculture the main economic activity. The area under cultivation is extensive, supporting crops like wheat, barley, rapeseed, mustard, gram, masoor, canola, sunflower, rice, jowar, bajra, sesame, moong, guar seed, cotton, and sugarcane. I once walked through a rice field near Tamboo—lush and green even in dry conditions, thanks to clever use of irrigation channels carved by generations.
The climate of Naseerabad is classified as arid, marked by low humidity and limited rainfall. Summers, from April to September, are hot and dry, often exceeding 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). In contrast, Winters, from October to March, are relatively mild, with temperatures ranging between 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit) and nights dropping to around 5 degrees Celsius (41 degrees Fahrenheit). The monsoon season, between July and September, brings low to moderate rainfall, with an average annual precipitation of 100 to 200 millimeters (4 to 8 inches). However, due to drought conditions in Balochistan, Naseerabad often faces hardship, as changing climate patterns impact both agricultural productivity and the livelihoods of the local population. Having spoken to farmers who depend entirely on seasonal water, it’s clear how deeply these fluctuations affect everyday life.
Residential Area
People, Culture, and Changing Demographics
Back in the 1972 Census, the population of Naseerabad District stood at just 43,893, but by the 2017 census, it had increased dramatically to 487,847, marking a remarkable growth rate of 1010.04. This sharp rise reflects not only natural growth but also the region’s growing role in the agriculture sector and the presence of Industrial Estates that attract workers. During a visit to the fields outside Dear Murad Jamali, I was struck by how deeply rooted rural norms, traditions, and customs still guide daily life, even as economic activities expand.
The dominant ethnic groups in the district include Baloch, Sindhi, and Brahvi, each contributing to a rich cultural blend. The main languages spoken are Balochi, Brahvi, Sindhi, and various other local tongues. In addition, Hindus, particularly from the Arora cast, have long played a role as traders, having acquired land through purchase or mortgage, and often working as cultivated tenants. Their presence in marketplaces and small businesses reflects a longstanding coexistence shaped by mutual dependence. This ethnic and cultural diversity is one of Naseerabad’s greatest strengths, giving the district a distinctive character grounded in heritage and evolving through economic change.
Resource Endowment and Agricultural Potential
Naseerabad District stands out as one of the largest agricultural hubs in Balochistan, thanks to its vast fertile land and abundant water resources. The climate and prevailing soils in the area make it highly suitable for growing deciduous fruits, vegetables, and seasonal crops. During a visit to a local orchard near Tamboo, I watched the careful management of blossom to harvest, where labor teams handled everything from spray routines with insecticide to precise fertilizer use. Wells dug for irrigation support continuous agricultural work, making Naseerabad a promising place for agriculture business opportunities.
Most production is handled at a primary level within the district, but the products—especially fruits and vegetables—are transported to major markets in Karachi and Quetta, often via commission agents and contractors who hold marketing contracts. Local labor, often skilled only to a secondary level, plays a vital role in maintaining farms and supporting contractor purchases. From harvest to final sale, the system relies on a tightly woven network of agents, labor, and small business players across multiple provinces, showcasing the untapped potential this district holds in expanding the region’s agricultural economy.
Livestock:
Livestock and Rural Livelihoods
In Naseerabad District, livestock rearing is deeply rooted in both rural and urban areas, forming a vital part of daily life and the district’s economy. Families typically rear goat and sheep for domestic purposes, milk, and even sacrificial market sales, with major trade routes leading to Sukur and nearby regions. I remember sitting with a family in Baba Kot, where women and children took turns feeding the herd and storing fodder by the house. The private sector has also expanded into poultry farming, especially around DERA MURAD JAMALI and BABA KOT, where small poultry farms now support a growing business in affordable protein sources.
Among the animals raised, the world-famous Red Sindhi cattle breed is of particular pride. Known for its origin in this region, it’s admired for its ability to survive extreme weather conditions, and its resistance to common diseases, insects, and Tics. The output is impressive, with cows producing several liters of milk per day over 305 days, supported by an average pregnancy cycle of 9 months. These animals contribute significantly to the production of food items like milk, meat, butter, cheese, ghee, and curd. According to recent livestock census data, the number of animals present in the district highlights its untapped potential as a hub for livestock and dairy development.
Livestock Economy and Meat Trade
Based on the 2017–2018 Livestock Census from the Deputy Director District Naseerabad Livestock, the district had 180,645 sheep, 275,401 goats, 341,488 cattle, 2,494 horses, 2,208 camels, and 237,338 buffalo. This vast animal population supports a thriving meat and dairy economy involving government, trade organizations, private enterprises, producers, consumers, and other stakeholders. During a local market visit in DERA MURAD JAMALI, I observed butchers preparing fresh mutton, goat meat, and beef at shops operating near traditional slaughter houses—many of which still lack modern hygienic facilities.
The process of slaughtering generates more than just meat. By-products such as skin, head, trotters, stomach, lung, and liver are also sold, contributing to the gross income and increasing the returns for small traders. These items are often purchased by local food businesses or sold directly to consumers in nearby towns. While the government is beginning to support cleaner processing methods, the majority of operations remain traditional, with local systems balancing supply and demand in their own unique way. Having seen firsthand how both private and community-level enterprises handle this sector, it’s clear how central livestock is to Naseerabad’s economy and culture.
Poultry:
Poultry Growth and Livestock Support in Rural Life
The poultry sector in Naseerabad District is flourishing, with over 386,479 broiler chickens currently available for production. This not only meets the requirement of the district but also supports nearby markets like Sukkur, Quetta, and Karachi, especially during high-demand seasons like Eid-ul-Azha. In rural areas like Tamboo and Chhater, many women raise local desi birds at the domestic level, producing eggs and meat that supplement family income. These Desi eggs fetch a premium price in the local market, thanks to their flavor and organic appeal.
Recognizing the livestock potential, the Livestock Department has increased outreach by providing training, guidance, and services like vaccination, nutrition, and marketing support, even in far-flung areas. Loans with flexible installments are offered to help both men and women grow ruminants and poultry, boosting the socio-economic uplift of the area. I’ve seen small-scale markets where home animals are sold, often directly by herd owners who struggle during drought years when expenses for feeding soar and herd sizes fell. Still, come festive times, prices can shoot up, and slaughtering of a large number of animals plays a key role in balancing annual income. With better techniques and basic facilities, there’s a clear path forward for livestock and poultry to drive lasting change in this community.
Handicrafts Embroidery
In Naseerabad District, handicraft work remains a prevalent part of the cultural fabric, especially in predominantly rural areas. This form of work is often the sole creative outlet for women and girls, who learn traditional skills from older generations. Items are usually crafted for personal use, such as embroidered fabrics, handmade decorations, and household goods. I once received a beautifully stitched shawl from a village near Chhater—a testament to the patience and precision that goes into this quiet art.
However, only a limited number of items have been commercialized, as most creations never reach formal markets. There’s untapped potential here, and with the right support, local artisans—especially women—could turn these skills into a viable income source. Encouraging small cooperatives or linking them to regional exhibitions could be the key to helping this tradition grow beyond household walls.
INFRASTRUCTURE.
Connectivity and Economic Infrastructure
Naseerabad District stands out among Balochistan’s districts for having better economic infrastructure, which supports trade, mobility, and regional development. The district is well connected to the rest of Pakistan through a network of black-topped roads, linking it to national highways and key cities. Within the interior parts, shingle roads provide access to remote villages and farms, playing a crucial role in transporting goods—especially agricultural produce—to markets.
Additionally, Pakistan Railway services pass through Naseerabad, facilitating cargo and passenger movement across provinces. Although no air connection is directly available in the district itself, nearby airports ensure accessibility when needed. I’ve traveled these routes myself, and while the roads may not always be smooth, the strategic connectivity definitely boosts local commerce and opens doors for economic growth across the province.
Communication and Postal Services
The district’s telecommunication network in Naseerabad has been improving gradually, making connectivity more accessible in both urban and rural settings. As of 2005, there were 07 telephone exchanges with a total number of telephone lines reaching 4,316. Over the years, Cellular Phone Companies like Telenor and Zong have expanded their coverage, enabling easier communication for families, businesses, and farmers alike. I remember helping a farmer near Baba Kot use mobile internet to check market rates—a small but powerful example of technology making a difference.
In terms of postal services, there are 9 post offices operating in the district since 2004, ensuring basic mail services reach even far-flung areas. Alongside this, National and International courier services are also available, further supporting commerce and personal communication. Together, these developments are slowly bridging the gap between Naseerabad and the rest of the country.
Road and Rail Network
Railway Access and Air Connectivity
Naseerabad District is served by 3 railway stations located in Notal, Mangoli, and Dera Murad Jamali, with Dera Murad Jamali being the main station. These railway links are vital for transporting agricultural goods, livestock, and passengers to other parts of the country, offering a reliable and affordable mode of travel. During my last trip to the district, I boarded a train from Dera Murad Jamali, and despite its modest facilities, the station buzzed with traders and daily commuters.
Although there’s no commercial airport within the district, a helipad exists for emergency or official use. For air travel, the nearest International Airport is located in Jacobabad, offering broader access to national and international destinations. While limited, this setup still keeps Naseerabad connected to Pakistan’s wider transport and trade network.
Utilities
Power and Utility Services
Electricity in Naseerabad District is primarily supplied by Quetta Electric Supply Company (QESCO), with significant support from the Uch Power Plant located near Dera Murad Jamali. This plant generates 560 MW of electricity, playing a major role in stabilizing the energy needs of the region. Recently, the addition of Uch II has further added 404 MW to the system, enhancing the district’s capacity and making power supply more consistent—something I noticed personally when outages became noticeably less frequent during my last visit.
In addition to electricity, Natural gas is also available in parts of the district, improving household energy use and industrial potential. Meanwhile, WASA Quetta oversees basic utility coordination in the area, ensuring essential services like water management continue to develop gradually. With these utilities in place, Naseerabad is steadily strengthening its infrastructure and laying the groundwork for broader economic progress.
Demography
Demographics and Religious Composition
According to the 2017 census, the Naseerabad Division had a total population of 1,661,077, comprising 858,420 males and 802,584 females. The population shows a balanced gender ratio and reflects steady growth in the region. From what I observed during my time there, large family sizes and close-knit communities are a common part of the district’s social structure, particularly in rural areas.
In terms of religious makeup, the division constitutes 1,643,567 Muslims, followed by 15,016 Hindus, 671 Christians, 849 scheduled castes, and 974 others. These figures reveal a predominantly Muslim population, yet also highlight the presence of minority communities who contribute to the cultural and social diversity of the area. This mix adds a quiet layer of richness to local festivals, traditions, and markets across the district.
Total Household
Population Growth and Ethnic Composition
The population of Naseerabad District has grown remarkably over the decades. In the 1972 Census, the district recorded 43,893 residents. By the 2017 census, that number had increased to 487,847, reflecting a staggering growth rate of 1010.04%. This sharp rise is visible in expanding settlements, busy markets, and growing demand for services. From my own visits, the transformation is clear—what were once quiet villages have become vibrant, semi-urban centers.
Ethnically, the district is home to two dominant ethnic groups: the Baloch and the Sindhi. These communities have shaped the cultural identity of the region through their languages, traditions, and deep connection to the land. Their presence is felt in everything from local festivals to the structure of neighborhood leadership, adding depth and continuity to Naseerabad’s social landscape.
Average house hold size
Household Structure and Living Patterns
In Naseerabad District, the average household size stands at 6.4 people, reflecting the close-knit family culture common across both urban and rural areas. Many families I met, especially those who lived near cities, shared homes with multiple generations under one roof—grandparents, parents, and children all contributing to daily life. This setup is not only traditional but also practical, especially in farming communities where shared labor and support are essential.
In more rural areas, households are often spread across larger compounds, yet the average remains steady. The dynamic of larger families plays a key role in managing agriculture, livestock, and household responsibilities, creating a social structure rooted in cooperation and resilience throughout the district.
Education and Literacy
Education Gaps and Poverty Challenges
In Naseerabad District, access to education remains a serious concern. School enrollment drops drastically—from around 50% at the primary level to just 9% at the intermediate level. Many children are out of school, mainly due to a lack of schools in the area and the widespread issue of child labor. In areas like Tehsil Tamboo, I’ve personally seen children working in fields rather than attending class—a direct outcome of economic necessity.
The poverty situation in the district is reflected in the data: in Tamboo, 78.5% of households (HH) are poor, with 22.6% labeled as very poor. Baba Kot shows 60.2% poor and 30.4% very poor. In Chhater, the numbers hit 77.5% poor and 27.3% very poor, while Dera Murad Jamali records 35.1% poor and 25.1% very poor. These figures are clear signposts of multidimensional poverty that limit access to education, healthcare, and basic infrastructure, keeping development uneven across Naseerabad.
Human Resource Availability
Labour Force and Employment Trends
As per the 2017 Census, the total labour force in Naseerabad District makes up 31% of the population, with 50% of males and just 1% of females participating—highlighting a major gender gap in economic involvement. Despite this, the working population stands at 44%, with many engaged in agriculture and fisheries, the district’s dominant sectors. I’ve met countless field workers—mostly men—who rely on seasonal cycles, while women’s contributions often go unrecorded despite their role in livestock and household farming.
Employment trends show 60% of males and 67% of females are self-employed, often in informal, low-income work. The unemployment rate remains high at 27% overall, with 28% of males and 2% of females counted as unemployed. This imbalance is a reflection of limited job opportunities beyond agriculture and the barriers women face in accessing paid work across Naseerabad.