Widening gap
ISLAMABAD, JULY 19.— The gap between per capita income in East and West Pakistan grow wider in the five years between 1965 and 1970 a government economic study showed today says UPI.
The disparity was one of the principal reasons behind the independence movement in East Bengal.
The study, basically that of Pakistan’s economic situation in 1968-70 showed that per capita income in West Pakistan grew from Rs.412 in 1964-65 to Rs 488 in 1969-70.
In East Bengal the equivalent figures were Rs. 282 in 1964-65 and Rs. 299 in 1969-70.
The tap between the two wings grew from 38.1 per cent in 1964-65 to 47.1 per cent in 1967-70.
The study said the disparity worsened because of a slower rate of growth in East Bengal. Provisional figures showed that the gross product of East Bengal increased by 22 per cent in the five year period, while West Pakistan grew by 35 per cent. The comparative annual growth rates were 4.1 per cent in East Bengal and 6.1 per cent in West Pakistan.
The study said it was hoped that the disparity would be remove of by 1985, under a 60-year “perspective plan” earning four five-year plans the first of which started in 1965.
Reference: Hindustan Standard 20.7.1971