Islamabad: On World Population Day, Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Professor Ahsan Iqbal, highlighted the government’s strategic approach to managing Pakistan’s population growth. He emphasized the importance of coordinated, evidence-based action across all levels of government to convert demographic pressure into national strength.

According to Press Information Department, Minister Iqbal addressed the significance of the youth population in Pakistan, which presents both a valuable asset and a significant policy challenge. He noted the decline in total fertility rates but warned that the pace of change remains insufficient to meet the country’s development needs. The Minister stressed the role of the National Population Council, led by Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, in aligning federal and provincial actions to address these challenges effectively.

Minister Iqbal pointed out the need for a comprehensive approach to population management, focusing on improving health, education, and economic opportunities, particularly for women. He warned of the high costs of inaction and underscored the importance of gender equality in achieving population stabilization and long-term development. The minister concluded by calling for a collective national effort to ensure sustainable development and prosperity for future generations.