WHILST chairing a meeting in Islamabad, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif very rightly highlighted that rapidly increasing population is one of the biggest challenges confronting Pakistan. He stressed that population planning must be aligned with national development, economic stability and human resource development. His remarks underline a reality that can no longer be ignored: managing population growth is essential for long-term progress.
The meeting was informed that a National Stabilization Plan 2026–2035 is being prepared to provide a comprehensive framework for reducing population growth from the current 2.55 percent to 1.25 percent by 2035. This is an ambitious but necessary target. However, the success of such an initiative will depend on its effective implementation at the grassroots level. Other countries have demonstrated that meaningful progress is possible through consistent policies. Bangladesh, for instance, reduced its population growth rate significantly over the years through initiatives such as door-to-door family planning services, greater awareness and increased investment in women’s education. We can draw valuable lessons from such experiences while designing policies. A rapidly growing population places immense pressure on resources, infrastructure, education, healthcare, employment opportunities and the environment. Without effective population management, economic growth may fail to translate into improved living standards for all people. On the other hand, a balanced population growth strategy can help Pakistan invest more effectively in human development and create opportunities for future generations. The National Stabilization Plan can become a milestone in Pakistan’s development journey if it is implemented with commitment and continuity. Managing population growth is not merely a demographic challenge, it is a prerequisite for achieving inclusive and sustainable growth.
