Can Balochistan Separate From Pakistan? A Look At Its Size, Population And Borders

Last Updated:February 06, 2026, 13:07 IST

Some Baloch nationalist groups have envisioned a broader Baloch homeland that would extend beyond Pakistan's borders to include parts of Iran's Sistan and Balochistan province

For decades, Pakistan’s largest province, Balochistan, has remained a region marked by unrest, political grievances and armed resistance. The insurgency in Balochistan region has intensified in recent years, with Baloch rebel groups carrying out frequent attacks and claiming to be fighting for greater rights and independence. Pakistani authorities have acknowledged the growing challenges posed by the insurgency, with militants reportedly using difficult terrain and modern weapons to sustain their operations. Notably, reports have also pointed to the increasing participation of women in the movement, highlighting the depth of local discontent.

Some analysts believe that the long-running conflict could eventually push Pakistan towards granting greater autonomy to the province, while others argue that continued instability may keep the question of independence alive. However, for now, the possibility of Balochistan emerging as a sovereign state remains uncertain.

The Pakistani portion of Balochistan alone accounts for nearly 44% of the country’s total land area, covering approximately 3,47,190 square kilometres, larger than several Bihar and Uttar Pradesh combined.

Geographically, Balochistan borders Iran to the west, Afghanistan to the north, and Pakistan’s provinces of Sindh, Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to the east and northeast. It does not share a direct border with India. The region also has strategic importance due to its roughly 770-kilometre coastline along the Arabian Sea, including the deep-sea Gwadar port.

Some Baloch nationalist groups have historically envisioned a broader Baloch homeland that would extend beyond Pakistan’s borders to include parts of Iran’s Sistan and Balochistan province and areas of southern Afghanistan such as Helmand, Kandahar and Nimroz. However, such claims remain political aspirations rather than internationally recognised proposals.

The population of Pakistan’s Balochistan is estimated at around 1.5 crore, with roughly 52% Baloch, 36% Pashtun, and the remaining made up of Brahui, Hazara and other communities. Quetta, the provincial capital, is the largest city with a population of about 16 lakh, followed by Turbat and Khuzdar.

The province is rich in natural resources, including natural gas, gold, copper and coal. Its proximity to key global shipping routes near the Strait of Hormuz adds to its strategic and economic significance, particularly in the context of regional trade and infrastructure projects.

Despite periodic declarations by separatist leaders, including a reported announcement of independence in May 2025, no country has recognised any such claim. Armed clashes between insurgent groups and Pakistani forces continue, while Pakistan’s strategic partners, including China, maintain support for stability in the region due to major investments linked to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

The biggest hurdle for any potential Baloch state remains international recognition. Under international law, a region must secure diplomatic recognition from other nations and gain acceptance at global forums, including the United Nations, to be considered a sovereign state. Without such backing, declarations of independence remain symbolic.

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