ISLAMABAD – Federal Minister for Planning, Ahsan Iqbal, chaired a high-level meeting on population management, calling it a national emergency. He warned that Pakistan’s 2.55% population growth rate could push the population beyond 386 million by 2050. The Minister stressed that family size affects every aspect of life—health, education, and jobs—and urged national coordination to tackle the crisis.
The meeting included ministers, senators, health experts, and global partners from UNICEF, WHO, UNFPA, and the Population Council. Key facts were shared, including that 40% of Pakistanis have never been to school and only 25% of women work. Speakers agreed that current population trends are alarming and that lack of national planning is making the problem worse.
Ahsan Iqbal criticized the National Finance Commission formula, which rewards provinces for higher populations. He said this discourages provinces from reducing growth. He called for policy reforms and better incentives. He also directed the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics to provide province-wise data to target key problem areas more effectively.
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said that religious influence and federal-provincial disconnect remain major obstacles. He proposed using social media and area-specific awareness campaigns. Religious Affairs Minister and other leaders supported involving clerics and using platforms like the Council of Common Interests to raise awareness on responsible family planning.
The meeting ended with consensus to form a National Population Commission led by the Prime Minister and four Chief Ministers. The commission will set targets and ensure accountability. Participants also called for more investment, stronger communication, and unified efforts to promote family planning and improve maternal and child health across Pakistan.