Pakistan PM Urges National Policy on Population Growth

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Pakistan’s Prime Minister has called for the immediate formulation of a comprehensive national policy to address the country’s accelerating population growth, warning that unchecked expansion could undermine economic stability and social development. Speaking during a high-level meeting on population control measures, the premier described the situation as “alarming” and stressed that coordinated action across federal and provincial levels is essential to curb the trend.

According to government data, Pakistan’s current population is estimated at over 241 million, with an annual growth rate exceeding 2 percent — one of the highest in South Asia. Officials caution that if left unaddressed, the rapid increase will put immense strain on public services, infrastructure, and natural resources, while intensifying existing challenges in education, healthcare, and employment.

The Prime Minister emphasised that population management should not be treated solely as a health or social issue, but as a critical component of national economic planning. “If we do not act now, our future generations will bear the burden of shortages, unemployment, and environmental stress,” he said.

Government representatives noted that while family planning programs have existed in Pakistan for decades, they have faced inconsistent funding, limited outreach in rural areas, and cultural barriers to adoption. The Prime Minister directed ministries to work closely with provincial governments, civil society, and religious scholars to design campaigns that promote awareness while respecting cultural sensitivities.

International development agencies, including the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), have previously highlighted Pakistan’s demographic challenge, recommending expanded access to reproductive health services, public education initiatives, and economic incentives for smaller family sizes. Experts argue that reducing the fertility rate, currently averaging 3.3 children per woman, would significantly ease pressure on the country’s struggling economy.

The Prime Minister also linked population growth to the broader fight against poverty and inflation, noting that the benefits of economic growth are diluted when resources are stretched over a rapidly expanding population. He stressed that sustainable development goals will remain out of reach unless the demographic curve is slowed.

A task force is expected to be formed in the coming weeks to draft the national population policy. The plan will likely include legislative proposals, budget allocations, and performance benchmarks for provincial administrations.

Officials have yet to announce a timeline for the policy’s rollout, but the government signaled it will push for swift adoption to prevent the issue from escalating further.