Crisis of population growth.

The article highlights the alarming rate of population growth in Pakistan, which has surged to 2.55% between 2017 and 2023. Despite efforts to control it, the population has grown by 110 million in the last 25 years, making Pakistan’s growth rate the highest in South Asia. The Population Council and UNFPA’s report, Pakistan@2050, outlines the economic and social implications of this rapid growth, predicting a population of 385 million by 2050. Without significant intervention, the country’s resources, infrastructure, and job market will be overwhelmed. Key issues include flat labor productivity, high poverty levels, and limited education, all exacerbating an already strained economy.

The report emphasizes two critical policy actions: reducing fertility rates and ensuring compulsory primary education. Bringing fertility down to a replacement level of 2.2 by 2030 could significantly mitigate these challenges, following the examples of countries like Bangladesh and Iran. Additionally, addressing the gap in family planning services and providing education to out-of-school children are vital. Implementing these policies could result in 50 million fewer people and a doubling of per capita income by 2050. Gender equality, particularly female education and workforce participation, is also essential for sustainable development and economic transformation.

Overview:

The article by Zeba Sathar provides an in-depth analysis of Pakistan’s population crisis, linking demographic trends to economic challenges. It underscores the consequences of unchecked population growth, such as strained resources, unemployment, and inadequate infrastructure. The report proposes practical solutions: lowering fertility rates and improving education. Successful implementation of these measures could significantly boost Pakistan’s development, aligning with global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Female education and gender equity are highlighted as pivotal to ensuring a balanced and prosperous future.

Notes:

Pakistan’s unchecked population growth is an existential threat, with profound economic and social ramifications. The key to reversing this lies in reducing fertility rates and improving education. Countries like Iran and Bangladesh provide models for rapid fertility decline. Addressing the unmet need for family planning and enforcing primary education can reduce the projected population by 50 million, double per capita income, and align Pakistan with regional peers. Investment in women’s education and workforce participation is pivotal for sustainable development.

Relevance to CSS Syllabus Topics:

• Pakistan Affairs: Demographic challenges, economic development, population policies
• Current Affairs: Socio-economic impact of population growth.
• Economics: Labor productivity, GDP growth, poverty reduction
• International Relations: Comparative analysis with South Asian countries
• Gender Studies: Female education and labor force participation

Notes for Beginners:

Population growth refers to the increase in the number of people in a region. High growth strains resources like food, water, and jobs. For example, if a family has too many children without enough income, they struggle to provide basic needs. Similarly, countries face economic challenges when their populations grow too fast.

Facts and Figures:

• Population growth rate: 2.55% (2017-2023)
• 110 million people added in 25 years
• Projected population by 2050: 385 million
• 6 million additional jobs needed annually
• 25 million children out of school

To sum up, The article stresses that immediate, strategic actions in fertility control and education are essential for Pakistan’s sustainable future. Learning from neighboring countries and prioritizing gender equity can help reverse the demographic crisis and foster long-term development.

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