During 2000 there were religious institutions in Pakistan:

During 2000 there were religious institutions in Pakistan: (a) 6761 (b) 7761 (c) 8761 (d) 9761 ✅ Correct option: (c) 8761 Explanation (200+ words) In the year 2000, Pakistan had approximately 8761 religious institutions (madaris) operating across the country. These included institutions from major religious streams such as Deobandi, Barelvi, Ahl-e-Hadith, Shia, and Jamaat-e-Islami. The number reflects growth over previous decades, as religious education provided free lodging, boarding, and schooling for economically disadvantaged students. Religious institutions played an essential role in literacy promotion, especially in rural and underdeveloped regions where formal schools were less accessible. Many madaris offered Dars-e-Nizami curriculum, Quran memorization (Hifz), and religious scholarship programs. After 1979, madrasa enrollment increased due to socio-political factors, regional conflicts, and lack of access to mainstream educational facilities. During the 1990s and early 2000s, government initiatives attempted to register madaris, introduce modern subjects, and integrate them into the national education framework. Despite challenges, the education sector recognized their role in providing basic religious and moral instruction. The figure 8761 is widely cited in educational statistics of that period. 10 Facts for PPSC 1. Religious institutions officially termed “Madaris.” 2. 8761 madaris in Pakistan by year 2000. 3. Majority belonged to Deobandi school. 4. Many provided free boarding/food. 5. Curriculum = Dars-e-Nizami. 6. Registrations mostly under Wafaq-ul-Madaris. 7. Rapid increase after 1979. 8. Government attempted mainstreaming in 2001. 9. Many madaris run charitable systems (waqf, donations). 10. Provide Quranic, Hadith, Tafseer education.