Unchecked population growth burdening Pakistan’s economy: FinMin

ISLAMABAD: Federal Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has said that controlling the rising population is essential for achieving sustainable development, as unchecked growth continues to strain the country’s economy and resources. 

Speaking at an event on Wednesday, the minister said that Pakistan is committed to the goal of sustainable economic growth. “We are determined to meet our development targets, but growing population is affecting every aspect of life,” he stated. 

He noted that the rapid population increase is putting immense pressure on national resources and Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and warned that without effective population control, the country will face worsening challenges. 

“When population increases, resources shrink and problems multiply,” the finance minister remarked. He also underlined the urgent need to address malnutrition among young children, calling it a national priority. 

Aurangzeb said significant funds have been allocated in the federal budget to address population growth and its consequences. “We must see more active roles from governments at all levels to manage this issue,” he urged. 

Highlighting disparities in development spending, the finance minister said that while the federal development budget stands at Rs1 trillion, the provinces have a combined allocation of Rs4 trillion. “We’ve discussed this gap with international partners,” he added. 

He also stressed the need to improve the country’s infrastructure and human capital, noting that billions of dollars are currently being spent on infrastructure projects. “We need to invest in better systems and people,” he said. 

Aurangzeb shared that Pakistan has signed a 10-year Country Partnership Framework with the World Bank, under which population control and climate change will be among the key focus areas. 

“Out of the total funding, one-third will be spent on population control measures,” he concluded. 

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