Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday declared Pakistan’s 2.55% annual population growth rate a serious concern, demanding urgent policy measures to manage its socio-economic consequences. Chairing a high-level meeting in Islamabad, he emphasized that unchecked growth could strain resources and hinder development. “Strategic planning is essential to harness our youth’s potential as drivers of the economy,” he stated, noting that Pakistan’s large young population must be transformed into a productive workforce.
The PM underscored the need for targeted initiatives to integrate youth into the economic mainstream through skill development and job creation. He also stressed gender inclusivity, stating, “Women are a vital part of our human capital—expanding their employment opportunities is non-negotiable.” The meeting reviewed proposals to address population challenges, with officials highlighting the necessity of provincial collaboration and grassroots awareness campaigns.
To streamline efforts, Shehbaz Sharif ordered the formation of a committee tasked with drafting a comprehensive national policy in coordination with provincial governments. “A unified federal-provincial framework is crucial for effective implementation,” he asserted. The policy will focus on education, healthcare access, and public awareness about family planning’s role in sustainable development.
The meeting was attended by key federal ministers, including Ahsan Iqbal (Planning), Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui (Education), and Attaullah Tarar (Information), alongside senior bureaucrats. Participants agreed that long-term solutions require multi-sectoral efforts, combining policy reforms with community engagement. The PM’s push for immediate action signals the government’s prioritization of population management as a cornerstone of economic stability.