Brussels/Islamabad, (Unib Rashid) – Pakistan’s economic challenges are the result of policy choices rather than geographical limitations or historical disadvantages, according to a social media post by Rashid Langrial, who has highlighted historical revenue records, population growth and education indicators to explain the country’s changing economic position.

In his post titled “Choices We Make Matter,” Langrial drew comparisons between the regions that now constitute Pakistan, India and Bangladesh, tracing their economic contributions from the Mughal era to the present day.

Citing historical estimates, he noted that during Emperor Akbar’s reign, the Lahore Subah contributed a significant share of imperial revenue despite having a relatively small proportion of the population. According to the figures shared in the post, areas that now form Pakistan accounted for around 8 per cent of the Mughal Empire’s population but contributed more than 10 per cent of its revenue.

He added that a similar pattern continued during British rule, with present-day Pakistan accounting for less than 10 per cent of the population but contributing approximately 11 per cent of revenue in 1941.

However, Langrial argued that the situation has changed considerably over the decades. He highlighted Pakistan’s rapid population growth, stating that its population has increased more than ninefold since 1941, compared with less than fivefold in India’s former Mughal territories and approximately fourfold in Bangladesh.

The post also compared per-capita revenue generation, claiming that Pakistan currently raises around $211 per person, compared with approximately $390 in the corresponding regions of India.

Drawing attention to Bangladesh, Langrial argued that its progress in education and child nutrition demonstrates the importance of long-term policy decisions. He cited literacy rates of nearly 80 per cent in Bangladesh compared with around 60 per cent in Pakistan, alongside lower rates of childhood stunting.

He particularly emphasised the role of family size and girls’ education in shaping social and economic outcomes, arguing that investment in human development is essential for national progress.

According to Langrial, rapid population growth without corresponding investment in education, healthcare and economic opportunities gradually puts pressure on public resources, weakens educational standards and affects children’s physical development.

Concluding his argument, he stressed that Pakistan shares much of its historical, geographical and natural inheritance with neighbouring countries, but its future depends on the decisions it makes today.

His central message was that history and geography do not determine a nation’s destiny; sound policies, education, population management and investment in human development can change its course.