Draft:Nawan Jandanwala

Nawan Jandanwala (Urdu: نواں جنڈانوالہ) is a town in Bhakkar District, Punjab, Pakistan. It is situated in the central region of Punjab and is primarily an agricultural area.

Nawan Jandanwala نواں جھندنوالہ
Town
Nawan Jandanwala Nawan Jandanwala
Coordinates: 31°37′40″N 71°3′45″E
Country	Pakistan
Province	Punjab
District	Bhakkar
Division	Mianwali
Elevation	159 m (522 ft)
Population  (2023 census)
• Total	30,000
Time zone	UTC+5 (PKT)
Area code	0453

Nawan Jandanwala (Urdu: نواں جھندنوالہ) is a town in Bhakkar District, Punjab, Pakistan. It is situated in the central region of Punjab and primarily characterized by its agricultural landscape, benefiting from its proximity to the Indus River, which supports the local economy.

Administration

Nawan Jandanwala is part of Kallur Kot Tehsil, which is one of the four tehsils of Bhakkar District. The town falls under the jurisdiction of local administrative units and is governed by its designated union council.

History

Nawan Jandanwala, located in the Bhakkar District of Punjab, has a history deeply rooted in agricultural development. The town's name "Jandanwala" is derived from local lore, with "Jandan" believed to refer to the early settlers or landowners in the area. The prefix "Nawan," meaning "new," was likely added as the settlement expanded or developed a new portion of land. Over the decades, the town evolved into an agricultural hub, with its economy based on farming activities such as wheat, cotton, and other crops.

Nawan Jandanwala has been shaped by the broader historical events in the region, including the partition of British India in 1947, which resulted in population exchanges and the settlement of refugees in various parts of Punjab. Although primarily rural, the town's population has slowly increased over the years, and it has retained its traditional values while embracing modern advancements in agriculture and infrastructure.

The town’s close proximity to the Indus River has influenced its development, with agriculture being the backbone of the local economy. Despite its small size, Nawan Jandanwala has contributed to the region's agricultural production, sustaining livelihoods for generations of farmers.

Demographics

Nawan Jandanwala has a population of approximately 25,000 people. The largest ethnic group in the town is Saraiki, followed by Muhajir communities, primarily from Haryana, who speak Rangri. Punjabi speakers also form a part of the population, while a small number of residents are Urdu speakers.

Agriculture remains the primary occupation for most of the town’s residents, particularly among the Saraiki population. However, there is also a growing business sector that includes pharmacies, supermarkets, and electronics stores, which are predominantly run by the Muhajir community.

The literacy rate among the Muhajir population is notably higher compared to the Saraiki community, reflecting a stronger focus on education and business entrepreneurship in this group.

Economy

The economy of Nawan Jandanwala is primarily driven by agriculture, with wheat (gandum) and chickpeas (channa) being the main crops cultivated in the region. The fertile land surrounding the town supports these agricultural activities, which are vital for the livelihoods of many local residents.

In addition to agriculture, Nawan Jandanwala has a diverse business landscape. Several notable businesses have emerged in the town, contributing to its economic vibrancy. Among these is the Muslim Medical Store, originally owned by the late Abdul Majeed Basir, a prominent and influential figure in the community. The store is now run by his sons, continuing the family legacy. Other significant establishments include Changaiz Super Store, also managed by Abdul Majeed Basir's family, and Waqas Medical Store, which maintains a strong reputation for health services.

Various pharmacies like Madina Pharmacy, Waqar Pharmacy, and Rana Medical Store cater to the healthcare needs of the community. Mobile phone services are represented by Sahil Mobile and Shan Mobile, while local restaurants such as Sehensha Hotel, Khan Hotel, Fine Cafe, and Dine and Delight Cafe offer dining options for residents and visitors.

Despite this economic activity, Nawan Jandanwala faces challenges, particularly in terms of infrastructure and digitalization. The lack of modern facilities and technological advancements can hinder business growth and development. Additionally, while the unemployment rate is relatively low at around 5%, there remains potential for further economic enhancement.

Looking ahead, the town is witnessing significant developments, including the construction of a large supermarket and a new hotel and wedding hall. These projects are expected to contribute positively to the local economy by creating job opportunities and improving service offerings in the area.

Education

Nawan Jandanwala has a variety of educational institutions catering to different levels of education. The town features separate government degree colleges for boys and girls, as well as high secondary schools for both genders, ensuring accessible education for the local youth. In addition to these institutions, there are numerous primary and middle government schools that provide foundational education.

The private education sector also plays a significant role in the town, with several notable institutions, including Muslim Foundation School, Dar-e-Arqam School, Jinnah School, Al Qamar School, and Beaconhouse School. For higher education, private colleges such as Beacon College, Al Qamar College, and Leads College offer programs for students seeking further academic qualifications.

Despite the presence of these educational institutions, the literacy rate in Nawan Jandanwala remains relatively low, estimated at around 50%. The educational programs available include Matriculation, Intermediate, and Associate Degree Programs (ADP), which aim to equip students with essential skills for their future endeavors.

However, the education sector faces significant challenges, including inadequate administration in government schools and colleges, a lack of laboratory facilities, and the absence of a university in the vicinity. This has hindered the quality of education and limited opportunities for students pursuing higher education.

In recent years, there has been a shift in focus towards more contemporary subjects, such as Computer Science and Information Technology, alongside traditional arts education. This change reflects an evolving educational landscape in Nawan Jandanwala, aiming to better prepare students for the demands of the modern workforce.

Notable People

Sanaullah Khan Masti Khel

Sanaullah Khan Masti Khel is a prominent political figure and Member of the National Assembly (MNA) representing the NA-91 constituency in Bhakkar. Known for his active role in local and national politics, he has been influential in advocating for the rights and development of his constituents. His leadership has helped to address various social and economic issues in the region, earning him respect among his peers and the local population.

Abdul Majeed Basir

Abdul Majeed Basir is another significant figure from Nawan Jandanwala, recognized for his diverse contributions as a businessman, philosopher, and political scientist. His work in business has not only bolstered the local economy but also demonstrated a commitment to ethical practices and community development. As a philosopher and political scientist, Basir has been influential in shaping public discourse and encouraging critical thinking among the youth of the region. His insights into political dynamics and social issues have made him a respected voice in both academic and political circles.

Abdul Majeed Basir (former MNA)

In addition to being a businessman and philosopher, Abdul Majeed Basir has also served as a former MNA. His political career has been marked by a dedication to public service and a focus on improving the welfare of his constituents. He has played a vital role in local governance, advocating for policies that promote social justice and economic development in Nawan Jandanwala and its surrounding areas.

References

Bhakkar# , Kalurkot , NA-91 Bhakkar-I , Sanaullah Khan Mastikhel , https://www.dawn.com/news/56685/bhakkar-ppp-pml-ally-against-shujaat , https://citypopulation.de/en/pakistan/punjab/bhakkar/7040203__jandanwala/ , https://pakistan.places-in-the-world.com/1169098-place-nawan-jandanwala.html .