THE government has decided to hold a census across Pakistan in March, which is a good step. After the census the provinces will get funds on the basis of their population.

However, Gilgit-Baltistan has some reservations about the census time as half of the population of this area has already moved towards other cities where they can find jobs.

Besides, the remaining 30pc people of this area have also migrated in winter to other cities of Pakistan owing to harsh weather from December to April.

Gilgit-Baltistan is already facing a paucity of funds, and there is a sense of deprivation. If the actual population of the area is not counted, the people will be deprived of their due share in funds.

Therefore, the authorities should consider holding census in June and July when most people of Gilgit-Baltistan return to their respective areas.

Waqar Ahmed Zildar

Chowar village, Gilgit-Baltistan

Published in Dawn, February 20th, 2017