ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has highlighted the urgent need for a comprehensive national policy to address the challenges posed by Pakistan’s increasing population, which is growing at an annual rate of 2.55%. He underscored that this rising trend demands prompt and coordinated action across all levels of government.
In a high-level meeting at the Prime Minister’s Office, the premier reviewed the implications of demographic growth and discussed strategic measures to effectively manage it, according to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office.
Shehbaz emphasized the importance of strategic planning to ensure that Pakistan’s expanding population, particularly its youth, contributes positively to the nation’s development. “It is crucial that we create opportunities for our young population to become active participants in the economy,” he stated, adding that youth are among the country’s most valuable assets.
The Prime Minister also highlighted ongoing initiatives aimed at empowering young people and integrating them into the economic fabric of the country. “We are making efforts to facilitate their participation in national progress,” he noted.Addressing gender inclusion, Shehbaz stressed the significance of women’s participation in the workforce. “Women represent a vital part of our human resources, and we must provide them with more employment opportunities,” he instructed.
He directed the formation of a dedicated committee tasked with formulating a comprehensive national population policy, with close coordination between federal and provincial governments. “A unified, strategic approach is essential,” he emphasized, calling for a collaborative federal-provincial framework to effectively address population issues.
The Prime Minister also advocated for a nationwide awareness campaign to educate citizens about the long-term impacts of unchecked population growth, especially in relation to sustainable economic development.During the session, officials presented various proposals and suggestions for population management. They agreed that sustainable solutions would require active provincial engagement and grassroots-level community involvement.
The meeting was attended by key federal ministers, including Planning and Development Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Education Minister Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Religious Affairs Minister Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, along with senior officials from relevant agencies
