Although the Balmiki are Hindus, they chose to stay in Pakistan. Agricultural yield has been low because of the large number of sharecroppers who have little incentive to increase production. In an attempt to deal with the problem, reform and progressive taxes have been introduced. In the 1960's and 1970's, wheat production dramatically increased, due to the use of improved strains. These increases enabled Pakistan to become agriculturally self-sufficient, though there are occasional shortages.
Wheat is the staple crop, and sugarcane is widely grown.
Cotton and rice are the major export crops. The number of livestock is high, but the production of meat and milk remains low because of inadequate feed and poor management. Goats and sheep are the most numerous animals, followed by cattle, buffalo, and camels. A woman's place in society is low, and she is restricted to domestic chores and to fulfilling the role of a dutiful wife and mother. Social structure revolves around kinship rather than caste.