Unveiling Poverty in Pakistan: The Role of Education, Remoteness, and Regional Factors

Abstract

Poverty is defined as the lack of food, clothing and shelter in a region. Poverty is prevalent in Pakistan, making its measurement and analysis important. This study examines the complex relationship between remoteness, household level characteristics, and regional factors on national poverty. We use a logistic regression model to evaluate these impacts using 2019-20 Pakistan Social and Living Standards Measurement Survey (PSLM) data. The findings show that household head education affects poverty rates. Households led by educated people have lower poverty rates. Poverty is much higher for less educated people. Education is essential to poverty reduction, as this correlation shows. Other household characteristics like size, age of the head, marital status, health status, and remoteness from urban areas, regional disparities, and gender dynamics also affect poverty levels. Based on our analysis, all provinces have positive and statistically significant correlations with poverty rates. This suggests that poverty levels vary by region. The study shows that gender roles, provincial differences, and regional characteristics like rural or urban status affect poverty rates. Inadequate government planning and investment in essential services often lead to poor health facilities, educational systems, infrastructure, employment opportunities, and slow economic growth. Despite recent poverty reductions, a large portion of the population remains vulnerable to poverty. The study recommends targeted government interventions to improve healthcare, education, and remote employment. Prioritizing these improvements can boost economic growth and reduce poverty across Pakistan.