- Health Minister Says Field Marshal Asim Munir Among Committee Members Reviewing Population Policy
Government Reviews Population Management Strategy
The committee focused on Pakistan’s rising population and the need for coordinated reforms. During the meeting, Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had held several high-level discussions on the issue. He added that the government had formed a committee to recommend practical solutions.
According to Beyond Time News, the committee includes the finance minister, the planning minister, and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir.
The minister said the government considers population management a national priority. Therefore, it is reviewing policies at every level. He also stressed that public participation will remain essential for long-term success.
Pakistan Faces Growing Demographic Pressure
Pakistan is the world’s fifth-most populous country. Experts estimate it could become the fourth-largest by 2030 if current trends continue.
As the population grows, pressure on healthcare, education, housing, employment, food supplies, and water resources also increases. Therefore, officials believe better planning is necessary to support sustainable development and improve public services.
NFC Formula Comes Under Discussion
The minister also questioned the current National Finance Commission (NFC) Award formula. He argued that it may unintentionally discourage provinces from reducing population growth.
At present, about 82 percent of resource distribution depends on population size. As a result, provinces with larger populations receive more funding. In contrast, provinces that successfully reduce population growth could receive a smaller share.
For this reason, the minister proposed reducing the population component of the NFC formula to 50 percent. He said such a change would encourage balanced development.
Expanding Access to Family Planning
The minister highlighted family planning as another important priority. Pakistan records around 6.7 million births every year.
According to Beyond Time News, the government has granted tax exemptions on contraceptive products. Consequently, officials expect wider access to family planning services.
The minister estimated that better availability of contraceptives could reduce annual population growth by nearly 1.5 million people.
Constitutional Questions Raised
Committee members also discussed whether population welfare remains a federal responsibility after the 18th Constitutional Amendment.
The minister confirmed that provinces now manage the subject. However, he said cooperation between the federal and provincial governments remains essential.
Representatives of the Ministry of Law explained that Parliament cannot legislate on matters that the Constitution assigns exclusively to provinces. Therefore, both levels of government must work together.
Religious Scholars to Be Consulted
Representatives of the Council of Islamic Ideology told lawmakers that there is no sectarian disagreement over measures aimed at managing rapid population growth.
As a result, the committee directed the Ministry of Law, religious scholars, and parliamentary committees to begin consultations. Their goal is to develop a broad national consensus. Another joint meeting is expected soon.
Balochistan Nursing Scholarship Issue Discussed
The committee also reviewed concerns about a scholarship programme for students from Balochistan.
Senator Jan Mohammad said several nursing students spent two years in Islamabad before discovering that the promised degree programme was unavailable. He also claimed that the diploma offered lacked recognition from the Pakistan Nursing Council.
He called for a formal investigation into the programme.
In response, Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal assured lawmakers that the government would resolve the issue within a week. He also promised that affected students would receive justice.
Furthermore, the committee directed senior health officials from Balochistan to appear before lawmakers and explain the situation.
Why the Issue Matters
Population growth remains one of Pakistan’s biggest long-term challenges. It affects economic planning, healthcare, education, employment, and public infrastructure.
Therefore, experts believe effective population management can support sustainable growth. It can also improve public services and strengthen national development.
At the same time, policymakers must respect the constitutional division of powers. Consequently, close cooperation between the federal government and provinces will remain essential.
Conclusion
The government’s decision to establish a high-level committee reflects renewed attention to Pakistan’s demographic challenges. As policymakers review reforms, they aim to improve planning, strengthen family planning services, and encourage cooperation among provinces.
If these efforts continue, Pakistan could develop a more sustainable approach to managing future population growth while supporting long-term economic development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why has Pakistan formed a committee on population growth?
The government says the committee will review policy options and recommend strategies to address rapid population growth.
Who is part of the committee?
According to the health minister, the committee includes Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s key ministers and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir.
Why is the NFC Award being discussed?
Officials believe the current population-based formula may unintentionally discourage provinces from reducing population growth.
What measures is the government taking to support family planning?
The government has approved tax exemptions on contraceptive products and aims to improve access to family planning services.
What was discussed regarding Balochistan students?
Lawmakers reviewed concerns over a nursing scholarship programme and directed authorities to resolve the issue and investigate the alleged irregularities.
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