Islamabad: On the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, Pakistan’s government reaffirmed its commitment to alleviating poverty and enhancing the dignity of its citizens, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to address poverty’s multi-dimensional challenges.

According to Press Information Department, Federal Minister for Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety, Syed Imran Ahmad Shah, highlighted the government’s efforts under the leadership of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif. The initiatives aim to translate economic growth into tangible benefits for citizens, as outlined in the URAAN Pakistan 2024-29 vision. This includes strengthening social protection, expanding economic opportunities, and building resilience against economic and climate-related adversities.

The ministry, through programs like the Benazir Income Support Programme, Benazir Taleemi Wazaif, and Benazir Nashonuma, aims to provide social safety nets, education, nutrition, and skills development. Pakistan Bait-ul-Mal also plays a crucial role in supporting vulnerable individuals through healthcare, education, and empowerment initiatives.

Further efforts include the Poverty Graduation Programme, supported by the Islamic Development Bank, which integrates social protection with skills training and access to markets. This initiative seeks to transition households from vulnerability to self-reliance.

The government acknowledges the necessity of fostering partnerships among various stakeholders and emphasizes the importance of sustained investment in human potential to achieve lasting results. The commitment extends to empowering women and youth, strengthening climate resilience, and ensuring that progress is not undermined by economic or environmental shocks.

The minister recognized the contributions of institutions, development partners, civil society organizations, and communities in poverty alleviation efforts, highlighting the shared national responsibility to protect vulnerable populations and empower citizens towards social and economic advancement.