Key Takeaways
- Pakistan’s population could reach 400 million by 2040, according to the Minister of State for Health.
- The government has constituted a national council to address rapid population growth and strengthen family planning policies.
- Use of modern contraceptive methods remains low in Pakistan compared to countries like Saudi Arabia and Iran.
Minister of State for Health Dr Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath has issued a stark warning that Pakistan’s population could reach 400 million by 2040, highlighting the urgent need for public awareness and individual responsibility in addressing rapid population growth.
Speaking at a ceremony at the Basic Health Unit (BHU) in Tarlai, Dr Bharath stressed that effective measures for maternal and child healthcare and family planning are now an essential national priority. He emphasized that parents should carefully consider their ability to provide adequate resources before expanding their families.
Dr Bharath noted that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has established a national council aimed at curbing population growth and enhancing policy interventions in the sector. The minister urged all Pakistanis to adopt family planning responsibly, considering the future of coming generations.
The use of modern contraceptive methods remains comparatively low in Pakistan compared to several other countries, including Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Turkiye. Dr Bharath observed that limited access to safe and effective family planning methods contributes to unintended pregnancies, which increase the risk of unsafe abortions and place additional strain on the healthcare system.
He highlighted the importance of reproductive health services, noting that a healthy mother is crucial for a healthy family and nation. Poor maternal health can adversely affect children’s growth, education, development, and overall well-being. Dr Bharath stressed that safeguarding maternal health is equally essential for family welfare and national progress.
In his concluding remarks, the minister urged all Pakistanis to adopt family planning responsibly and with greater awareness. The government has received support from the Chinese government in collaboration with the UN Population Fund, which provided reproductive health and family planning medicines, medical supplies, and equipment worth $2 million.
Dr Bharath’s warning underscores the critical need for comprehensive family planning policies and increased public education to mitigate the potential population growth crisis.
A healthy mother is the foundation of a healthy family and a strong nation. Poor maternal health adversely affects children’s growth, education, development and the overall well-being of families.
Dr Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath, Minister of State for Health
