Demography At the time of the 2017 census the district had a population of 1,693,594, of which 873,041 were males and 820,447 females. Rural population was 1,333,376 (78.73%) while the urban population was 360,218 (21.27%). The literacy rate was 43.34% - the male literacy rate was 56.55% while the female literacy rate was 29.39%. At the time of the 2017 census, 64.23% of the population spoke Saraiki, 32.97% Pashto and 2.08% Urdu as their first language. Tribes There are number of Baloch, Jat and Pathan tribes along with many other castes. Baloch and Jat in Dera Ismail Khan speak Saraiki as their mother tongue and mostly Baloch belongs to Korai, Lashari, Pitafi, Kulachi Tribes. Local Pashtuns of here are mostly of Marwat,Gandapur, Kundi, Mian Khel, Mahsood, Wazir and Bhittani tribes. Among these tribes Marwat and Gandapur are the major tribes of Pashtuns in Dera Ismail Khan residing in Tehsil Paniala, Paharpur and Kulachi respectively. Religion Education The Dera Ismail Khan district has many schools and colleges, predominantly in the capital of Dera Ismail Khan. University of Agriculture, Dera Ismail Khan Gomal University- Two campuses in Dera Ismail Khan St. Helen's High School & College Qurtuba University Gomal Medical College University Wensam College Shawn School & College Paharpur Punjab College Meraj Campus Dar-e-Arqam School Dera Ismail Khan The City School Dera Ismail Khan Government College of Technology, Dera Ismail Khan campus Beaconhouse School System Overseas Pakistan Foundation School Educare School Knowledge Home LEEDS School & College Islamabad Schools Mufti Mehmood Public School & College Politics The district is represented in the National Assembly by two elected MNAs who represent the following constituencies: Provincial Assembly Cuisine and Food Sobat is a traditional dish predominantly prepared in the capital of Dera Ismail Khan. It consists of chicken, onions, garlic, tomatoes, khusk dhania, garam masala, turmeric, and other spices. It is usually eaten as dinner. Sobat is known all over Pakistan, and brings a lot of attention to the district and city. Sports Football is a very popular game in Dera Ismail Khan. D I Khan produces one of the best footballers in the country. Most of the players can't participate in national team because of Faisal Saleh Hayat they play well in foreign football leagues in Iran, Afghanistan, Turkey, and many other countries. Other games including cricket, hockey, badminton, and many more are played as well. Ali Amin Khan has also provided a