The Pashtun genetic landscape is best understood as exhibiting a North-South division rather than a strictly Afghan-Pakistan split.
Essentially, Pashtuns residing near the Indus lowlands and Khyber Pass share significant genetic overlap with Punjabi and Dardic groups. While defining precise boundaries is difficult, a key takeaway is the lack of stark genetic differentiation, particularly between northern and southern Pashtun populations. This suggests a complex history of gene flow and interaction within the broader region.
In simpler terms:
- North-South Division: The primary genetic variation occurs along a North-South axis.
- Overlap with Neighbors: Pashtuns closer to the Indus Valley and Khyber Pass show similarities to Punjabi and Dardic populations.
- No Sharp Boundaries: It's difficult to draw clear lines defining distinct Pashtun genetic groups, pointing towards a complex history of population mixing.
Therefore, attempts to rigidly define a single "Pashtun genetic profile" are misleading. Understanding the nuances of regional variations and genetic connections to neighboring groups provides a more accurate picture.
