Prior to the Partition, the British utilized the idea of the martial race by enlisting soldiers from various ethnic groups in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Following independence, this approach underwent a transformation, with recruitment now taking place across Pakistan, including regions like Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir. As stated in Article 39 of Pakistan's Constitution (1973), the government is committed to allowing individuals from all areas of Pakistan to join the country's armed forces. In an effort to boost enlistment from remote areas of Sindh and Balochistan, the Pakistan Army has eased certain recruitment criteria, and a small Baloch Regiment Centre has been functioning in Quetta for a considerable period.
Numerous soldiers hailing from Balochistan are currently serving in the Pakistan Army and Frontier Corps, demonstrating exceptional courage and valor. Many officers and troops from this region have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Approximately 50,000 Baloch individuals are currently enlisted in the Pakistan Army, with more than 1,000 of them holding officer ranks. In 2019, Midshipman Naveed Zehri from Khuzdar became the first cadet from Balochistan to be awarded the 'Sword of Honour' at the Pakistan Naval Academy. Additionally, Usman Anwar Baloch, who was part of the 144 PMA Long Course from Naushki, received the 'Sword of Honour' at the PMA, becoming the first Baloch individual to achieve this distinction. Members of the Hazara community from Balochistan are also making a meaningful contribution to Pakistan's defense. Some of them have reached high ranks, such as General Musa Khan and Air Marshal Sharbat Ali Chengezi. Soldiers from Sindh are also playing an important role in safeguarding Pakistan. Several of them have attained higher ranks and continue to serve in the Pakistan Army. Urdu-speaking personnel have consistently held a prominent position within the Pakistan Army, with many ascending to senior positions.
BIG PROMO, BUY NOW!!!Likewise, minorities account for 2 percent of the Pakistan Army, which encompasses Christians, Sikhs, and Hindus. In the past, Christian and Parsi officers attained higher ranks, and many continue to hold senior positions today. There is representation from each province and every community, reflecting the idea of one Pakistan, with the Pakistan Army embodying a single nation in uniform. Within the Army, there is no notion of provincialism, regionalism, ethnicity, or sectarianism. Currently, the Pakistan Army's composition mirrors the population distribution. Approximately 51 percent of its personnel are from Punjab, 16 percent from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 17 percent from Sindh, and 4.5 percent from Balochistan. Although Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan make up roughly 3 percent of Pakistan's population, their representation stands at 9 percent. Soldiers from Gilgit-Baltistan are regarded as some of the finest in the world and have demonstrated their capabilities during the liberation of Gilgit-Baltistan and in subsequent conflicts as well as the war on terror. Some officers from the region have reached higher ranks, and others are still serving.
The protection of Pakistan is not the duty of one province or a particular ethnic group. Soldiers from all over Pakistan have given their lives for the country's defense and independence. It is clear from these fallen ranks that the Pakistan Army is not associated with any single province, region, or district. Over the past five years (from 2021 to 10 February 2026), 3,141 personnel from the Pakistan Army have been martyred, including 170 officers, 212 junior commissioned officers, and 2,759 soldiers. A total of 234 were killed from Azad Jammu and Kashmir, 103 from Balochistan, 161 from Gilgit-Baltistan, 534 from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 452 from Sindh, and 1,657 from Punjab. Currently, the casualty rate among officers, particularly young ones, is significantly higher. They take the lead; hence, the danger of being killed is greater than for their subordinates. Officers in the Pakistan Army serve as paragons of excellence for their troops. They need to exemplify their values in every word and action they take.
Recently, a public figure made extremely controversial remarks stating that the Pakistan Army is exclusively linked to four districts. These statements are offensive and challenge the country's unity. They have caused frustration and disappointment among the soldiers of the Pakistan Army. The Pakistan Army gains its power from the people of Pakistan. Certain individuals are attempting to create a division between the general public and the Army by spreading misleading stories and inciting tensions.
The CDF and COAS Field Marshal Asim Munir stated: 'The Pakistan Army will spare no effort in supporting the cause of national security and progress. We are proud of our steadfast dedication to the citizens of Pakistan. The Pakistan Army and the country are united. No one can overcome the spirit of Pakistan.'
The Pakistani military is considered one of the most professional and combat-experienced forces globally. There is no doubt that the Pakistan Army has provided outstanding contributions during both war and peace.
It is Islam, faith, and love for Pakistan that bring together all ranks, regardless of their background, under one leader. Some groups are making every effort to damage the reputation of the Pakistan Army, and those who are engaged in plotting schemes and spreading negativity towards the institution cannot be genuine supporters of Pakistan. Stephen Cohen wrote in his book: 'There are armies that protect their nation's borders; there are those that focus on safeguarding their own status in society; and there are those that stand up for a cause or ideology. The Pakistan Army does all three.'
Let's recognize that the Pakistan Army is a national force, representing unity, pride, and the most robust shield of defense.
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