ISLAMABAD: Minister of State for Health Dr Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath warned on Wednesday that Pakistan’s population could reach 400 million by 2040, emphasizing the urgent need for public awareness and individual accountability to address rapid demographic growth.
At a ceremony at the Basic Health Unit (BHU) in Tarlai, Dr Bharath highlighted maternal and child healthcare, family planning, and policy reforms as critical priorities. He noted Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s formation of a national council to combat population growth and enhance healthcare interventions.
Lawmakers were urged to weigh resources before expanding families, ensuring they can provide nutrition, education, immunizations, healthcare access, and proper upbringing. Dr Bharath stressed that societal progress hinges on safeguarding children’s fundamental rights.
“Reproductive health services are vital,” Dr Bharath said, citing stark disparities in contraceptive use compared to Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Türkiye. He linked low adoption rates to unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and strained healthcare systems.
“A healthy mother is the foundation of a strong nation,” he declared, underscoring how maternal health impacts children’s development and family stability. He compared paternal financial responsibility to shared healthcare duties for national progress.
Closing remarks urged citizens to adopt informed family planning for future generations’ well-being.
A ministry spokesperson added that China, via the UN Population Fund, donated $2 million in family planning medicines and medical supplies to Pakistan.
Published in Dawn, July 30th, 2026
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