ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar on Tuesday termed Pakistan’s rapid population growth an alarming national challenge, stressing that every segment of society must play its role in addressing the crisis.
Speaking at the Pakistan Population Summit here, the minister said the pace of population increase is linked to multiple socioeconomic problems. He noted that Pakistan is losing precious lives due to a lack of awareness and inadequate maternal and child healthcare. Citing UNICEF data, he highlighted that 50 out of every 1,000 children die before the age of five.
Tarar said that despite the country’s limited resources, the population continues to grow at a pace that undermines the right to life and strains national development. He emphasised that ignoring or denying the seriousness of the issue would be a national tragedy.
He urged religious scholars, the media, legal experts, policymakers and civil society to join hands in raising awareness, especially about the challenges faced by mothers and newborns.
The minister also underscored the need for working groups and parliamentary engagement through the Women’s Caucus to push forward policy discussions on population control. He praised the role of the Council of Islamic Ideology in supporting initiatives aimed at balanced and sustainable population growth.
In a separate event, while addressing the Tourism Awards 2025 organised by Discover Pakistan, Minister Tarar highlighted Pakistan’s vast tourism potential, saying foreign visitors are deeply impressed by the country’s natural beauty and hospitality.
He pointed to world-renowned attractions such as Nanga Parbat, Broad Peak, the ancient Gandhara civilisation, the Cholistan Jeep Rally, and the breathtaking northern areas, stressing the need to project Pakistan’s positive image globally.
Tarar said the government will extend full cooperation to promote tourism and further strengthen the Discover Pakistan platform, adding that joint working groups can help accelerate sectoral growth. He said every individual contributing to the promotion of tourism is worthy of appreciation, acknowledging Discover Pakistan’s important role in showcasing the country’s natural beauty.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2025