Rural Women’s Workload: Implications for Socio-Economic Development of Baluchistan

Abstract

This paper is based on the descriptive sample survey carried out mainly to highlight the issues of heavy workload of rural women within the conceptual framework of triple burden in two districts of Pishin and Mastung and also to explore its research and policy implications in the broader context of province. The key findings include: The burden of reproduction is directly related with domestic workload and was found high in both the districts indicating high fertility with serious health implications. Comparatively speaking, Women in Mastung were found to be involved in greater number in economic activities than Pishin reflecting their high level of deprivation and relatively more cultural freedom. Moreover, they have more control over their income indicating their higher degree of empowerment. Spending priorities reflect that women in Mustang give more importance to education and health. The study concludes heavy workload of rural poor women in terms of domestic chore and reproductive activities provides meaningful insights and suggestions to cope with the problem of exploitative workload.