Senate Committee Reviews Population Growth, Family Planning Measures
Pakistan’s population is projected to exceed 300 million by 2030 and could reach approximately 390 million by 2050, according to a briefing presented to the Senate Standing Committee on Planning, Development and Special Initiatives.
The committee reviewed population trends, family planning initiatives, and the government’s ongoing efforts to address demographic challenges.
Population Projections Presented
During the meeting, Director General Health at the Ministry of National Health Services, Dr. Abdul Wali Khan, briefed lawmakers on current population growth patterns and measures being taken under the national population strategy.
The session, chaired by Senator Quratulain Marri, also discussed the National Action Plan on Population and the status of the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey.
Demographic Survey Still Pending
Officials informed the committee that the demographic and health survey, which is intended to be conducted periodically, has not yet been completed.
According to the briefing, the delay has affected the availability of updated demographic and public health data used for planning and policymaking.
The committee directed the relevant authorities to complete the survey by June.
National Action Plan Funding
The committee was informed that Rs2 billion has been allocated under the National Action Plan to support population-related initiatives.
Officials also said that approximately 11 million family planning products were procured in 2022, and that a significant number remain available for distribution.
The committee reviewed the implementation of the programme and discussed ways to improve the effective utilization of available resources.
National Population Strategy
Earlier this month, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the formation of the National Population Council, which has been tasked with developing a comprehensive national strategy to address population growth and strengthen long-term planning.
The government says the initiative aims to improve coordination among relevant institutions and support sustainable development through evidence-based policy measures.
