Category: Islamabad

Islamabad: Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Professor Ahsan Iqbal on Saturday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing Pakistan’s population challenge through coordinated, evidence-based and whole-of-government action, saying the country’s future would depend on the quality, productivity and preparedness of its people rather than the size of its population.

In a message issued on World Population Day, observed this year under the theme “Realizing the hopes and aspirations of young people, today and for the future,” the minister said Pakistan’s large youth population was both a national asset and a major policy responsibility.

He said Pakistan’s population should be viewed as human capital to be developed rather than a burden to be managed, adding that investments in health, nutrition, education, skills development and women’s empowerment would translate into greater productivity, resilience and prosperity.

Ahsan Iqbal said Pakistan had made progress in reducing fertility, with the total fertility rate declining from 4.1 births per woman in 2006-07 to 3.6 in 2017-18, a figure reaffirmed by the latest Household Integrated Economic Survey 2024-25.

However, he said the pace of decline remained insufficient to meet the country’s development requirements.

He noted that Pakistan’s population had reached 241.49 million according to the 2023 Digital Census, growing at an annual rate of 2.55 percent, and could exceed 386 million by 2050 if current trends continued, placing enormous pressure on education, healthcare, housing, employment, water resources, food security, infrastructure and public finances.

The minister said population outcomes were fundamentally linked with governance, adding that after the 18th Constitutional Amendment, responsibilities related to fertility, health, education and social protection had become dispersed across different tiers of government.

He said Pakistan had not lacked population policies but rather an effective mechanism to align all stakeholders under a single national framework, describing the establishment of the National Population Council as a major governance reform.

Ahsan Iqbal said the Council, chaired by Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, brought together provincial governments, the leadership of Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, key federal ministers and the military leadership to provide the country’s highest-level forum on population issues.

He said the Council would ensure coordinated policymaking and implementation by translating demographic evidence into integrated national action instead of fragmented programmes.

The minister said population stabilisation was only the starting point for securing a demographic dividend.

He stressed that Pakistan still had an opportunity to convert its youthful population into an engine of economic growth by expanding family planning services, improving maternal and reproductive healthcare, keeping girls in school, increasing women’s participation in the labour force, enhancing skills development and creating productive employment opportunities.

Warning against policy delays, he said every year of inaction narrowed the country’s window for achieving a demographic dividend and increased future fiscal and social pressures.

He also underscored the importance of gender equality, saying women’s education, economic participation and decision-making regarding family size were among the strongest drivers of sustainable population stabilisation and long-term development.

Referring to the government’s URAAN Pakistan initiative, Ahsan Iqbal said population management remained a key priority under the Equity and Empowerment pillar, which focuses on women, children, youth, education, health and human capital development.

“Our greatest strength is our people, and our greatest responsibility is to invest in their future. Population management is not about limiting people; it is about expanding opportunity. Every child deserves quality education, good health, proper nutrition and a fair chance to realise his or her full potential,” he said.

On the occasion of World Population Day, the minister called upon the federal and provincial governments, parliamentarians, development partners, civil society, academia, the private sector, media, religious scholars and local communities to support a shared national effort based on responsible parenthood, informed decision-making, women’s empowerment, youth development and sustainable growth.

He expressed confidence that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and through a whole-of-state approach, Pakistan would successfully transform its demographic challenge into stronger human capital, greater prosperity and long-term national stability.

Islamabad: Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Saturday, emphasized the geographical location of Pakistan, terming it ‘an asset ‘ which needed to be explored, as the country lies at the crossroads of Central, South and West Asia.

By improving connectivity, the country could get maximum economic benefits, the DPM/FM expressed these views while chairing a high-level meeting regarding the improvement of port connectivity.

Secretary Maritime Affairs gave a detailed briefing to the Committee regarding the current situation of Pakistani ports and their utilization capacity, the Foreign Office Spokesperson said in a press release.

The meeting was attended by the Ministers for Law and Justice and Maritime Affairs, SAPM Tariq Bajwa, Secretary Maritime Affairs, DG NLC, Chairman of the Karachi Port Authority, and senior officials from relevant departments.

The committee reviewed measures for the development and enhancement of the efficiency and competitiveness of Pakistan’s ports.

Discussions also focused on improving port connectivity, streamlining operational processes, strengthening inter-agency coordination, facilitating trade and logistics, and advancing reforms to position Pakistan’s ports as efficient regional trade gateways.

Islamabad: Chairman Senate, Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani on Saturday said that World Population Day highlighted the importance of investing in young people and creating opportunities that enable them to realize their full potential.

Referring to this year’s theme, ‘Realizing the hopes and aspirations of young people – today and for the future,’ he stressed that empowering youth is essential for Pakistan’s sustainable development and prosperity.

In his message, the Chairman Senate noted that Pakistan’s large youth population represents a valuable national asset.

He said that with quality education, healthcare, skills development, and employment opportunities, the country’s young people could become a driving force for economic growth and social progress.

Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani observed that rapid population growth continues to place pressure on education, healthcare, employment, water resources, and other public services.

He emphasized the need for effective population management, greater awareness of family planning, improved maternal and child health services, and sustained investment in human capital.

The Chairman Senate reaffirmed Parliament’s commitment to supporting policies that promote population stabilization, youth empowerment, gender equality, and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

He called for collective efforts by all stakeholders to ensure a brighter, more prosperous future for Pakistan’s younger generations.

Islamabad: The delegations from member states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) have arrived in Pakistan to participate in the 9th OIC Ministerial Conference on Women, scheduled to be held on July 12-13 in Islamabad.

Pakistan is hosting the two-day conference, which will bring together ministers, senior officials from OIC member states and representatives of international organizations to deliberate on issues related to the social, economic and political empowerment of women.

Minister of State for Law and Justice Barrister Aqeel Malik, Punjab Minister for Social Welfare and Bait-ul-Maal Saba Sadiq, Secretary Ministry of Human Rights Farah Naz Akbar and senior government officials received the distinguished delegations upon their arrival.

Pakistan has the honour of hosting the 9th OIC Ministerial Conference on Women and will reaffirm its commitment to promoting the rights, dignity and empowerment of women across OIC member states.

According to the official source, Federal Minister for Human Rights, Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar will assume the responsibilities as Chair of the conference.

During Pakistan’s chairmanship, efforts will be made to further strengthen cooperation among OIC member states on women’s development and empowerment.

The conference will review progress made in advancing women’s development, share best national practices and formulate a future course of action for enhanced cooperation among OIC member states in the field of women’s empowerment.

The Government of Pakistan has extended a warm welcome to all distinguished delegations participating in the conference.

Islamabad: As upbeat music echoes through a modest dedicated gym in Thanda Pani, a rural community on the outskirts of Islamabad, a line of young women take turns lifting weights and running on treadmills. It is an image that would have been almost unimaginable in the area just a few years ago.

For decades, gyms in Pakistan were largely perceived as male domains. Today, that perception is steadily changing. From major cities to semi-urban communities, women are increasingly carving out time, not for work, family, or studies, but for themselves.

This shift is backed by data; according to Smartscraper, Islamabad boasted 225 gyms by April 2026, a 7.08 percent increase since 2023, highlighting a skyrocketing demand for fitness facilities.

Islamabad reportedly hosts around 2,000 health and fitness facilities, a massive footprint that reflects how deeply a culture of active living has taken root.

Gym owners are at the front lines of this transformation, adapting to a surge in female registrations. Farzana Amin, the owner of Ladies Fitness Club, Shaheen Town, recalled the rapid evolution of her own business when speaking to reporter.

“In the beginning, only 10 to 15 women used to come to the gym regularly. Within a few months, our membership increased to around 60 to 65 women,” Farzana shared.

She noted that she purposefully opened a ladies-only gym after observing that many women wanted to improve their health but felt hesitant in co-gender facilities. “My aim was to provide a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment where women could exercise with confidence.”

The demographic of women reclaiming their health spans all generations. Mussarat Shaheen, a housewife, talking to reporter admitted she never envisioned herself working out at this stage of her life. “Most of my time was spent taking care of my family, and I often ignored my own health,” Shaheen said. “With age, I realized that staying active is important for my energy. Fitness is not only for young people; everyone can make positive changes at any age.”

For younger, working professionals, the motivations are equally deep. Sana Khan, a regular gym-goer, found solace in the gym after battling fatigue from long office hours and an inactive lifestyle. “I started going to the gym to improve my health and energy levels, not just to change my appearance,” Khan explained. “I believe consistency is more important than following extreme diets.”

While the culture is thriving, it brings modern psychological challenges, heavily fueled by digital spaces. University students and young girls note that while social media first introduced them to fitness routines, it presents a double-edged sword.

Gym member Zarmeena Ali observed that digital platforms increase awareness but simultaneously manifest toxic standards. “Social media creates pressure to achieve unrealistic body goals,” Zarmeena said. “People join gyms with the expectation of quick results, but fitness requires patience and dedication. It is a long-term commitment, not a temporary trend.”

Mehmoona Khalid, an Islamabad-based gym instructor, echoed these concerns to reporter. She revealed that a large part of her job now involves managing expectations and dismantling the allure of shortcuts.

“Young girls mostly aim to become healthier, stronger, and more confident,” Mehmoona explained. “While some initially join to lose weight before a wedding, they eventually realize regular exercise improves mental health and overall quality of life.” She strongly discourages these shortcuts. “Sustainable fitness is achieved through consistency, strength training, cardio, and realistic goals rather than excessive exercise,” she explained to reporter.

The rush for quick results has triggered a worrying trend of extreme dieting, prompting urgent warnings from medical experts. Speaking to reporter, physician Dr. Ghulam Fareed Soomro highlighted the severe physiological toll of overly restrictive eating patterns.

“Crash dieting causes immediate fatigue, muscle loss, and weakened immunity,” Dr. Soomro warned. “Long-term, it risks hormonal imbalances, bone loss, and severe nutritional deficiencies in iron, protein, and vital vitamins like B12 and D.”

Nutritionist Dr. Sumaira Naseem clarified that doctors only recommend highly restrictive diets under strict professional supervision for specific medical situations, such as severe pre-surgery obesity. For cosmetic weight loss, she warns it is outright dangerous, noting that adults should generally never drop below 1,200 calories per day.

“Quick results are neither realistic nor healthy,” Dr. Sumaira told reporter. “Gym claims of losing 10 to 15 kg in a month are often just marketing tactics. The biggest mistake women make is copying someone else’s diet plan or completely cutting out carbohydrates and healthy fats. Every woman has different nutritional needs based on her age, lifestyle, and evolving physical capabilities.”

‘Workouts must be age-appropriate to protect joints and bones, while cautioning against strenuous exercise during illness or extreme monsoon humidity without proper hydration’ Dr Sumaira warned.

Compared to developed nations where daily exercise is normalized, Pakistan is still in the early stages of building a widespread fitness culture. However, if this momentum continues, backed by qualified trainers, proper nutrition, and community support, this shift will become far more than a passing trend. Instead, it marks the beginning of a healthier, more active nation where investing in personal well-being is no longer a luxury, but an essential part of everyday life.

Islamabad: Federal Minister for Energy (Power Division) Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari on Saturday said BESS would play a pivotal role in Pakistan’s energy transition by enhancing grid stability, supporting greater integration of renewable energy and paving the way for widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs).

Addressing the Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) Conference organized by Pakistan Solar Association in Lahore, the minister said battery storage had become an essential component of modern power systems as Pakistan’s electricity sector undergoes a fundamental transformation driven by the rapid expansion of distributed solar generation.

He said the growing use of rooftop solar systems had significantly altered electricity demand patterns, resulting in lower daytime demand and higher consumption during evening hours.

“This changing demand profile creates operational challenges for the national grid, as surplus solar energy generated during the day must be balanced with rising electricity demand after sunset,” he said.

Leghari said Battery Energy Storage Systems offered an effective solution by storing surplus solar energy during daylight hours and supplying it back to the grid during peak demand, thereby improving grid flexibility, reducing reliance on expensive peaking power plants and enhancing the integration of renewable energy.

He said the government had declared battery energy storage a strategic priority and established a Federal Steering Committee on BESS to formulate a coordinated national policy and accelerate regulatory and implementation measures.

The minister said battery storage technology offered immense potential for strengthening isolated grids in Gilgit-Baltistan, improving electricity reliability in Gwadar, integrating renewable energy in remote areas and enhancing the resilience of the national transmission network.

Leghari said Battery Energy Storage Systems are sophisticated energy systems that require strict adherence to international standards. Quality, certification, and standardization must remain central to our strategy. Only high-quality, certified, and internationally compliant battery systems should be imported, manufactured, or assembled in Pakistan.

He said the Ministry of Energy had directed all relevant stakeholders to adopt International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards and allow only IEC-certified battery modules to ensure consumer safety and system reliability.

The minister said the government was also promoting indigenous manufacturing of battery systems through a dedicated Battery Energy Storage Systems Manufacturing Policy being developed by the Ministry of Industries and Production.

He said the policy would encourage domestic and foreign investment, facilitate technology transfer, strengthen local supply chains and create skilled employment opportunities, with the long-term objective of transforming Pakistan into a regional hub for battery manufacturing and innovation.

The minister said widespread adoption of electric vehicles would place additional pressure on the country’s electricity distribution network unless supported by battery storage solutions.

He said the government envisioned an integrated energy ecosystem where rooftop solar panels, battery storage, smart grids and electric vehicles would work together to improve energy efficiency, reduce pressure on the grid and maximize the utilization of renewable energy.

Pakistan’s energy transition is entering a defining phase. Renewable energy, digitalization, distributed generation, battery storage, and electric mobility will together shape the future of our power sector.

Calling for close collaboration among policymakers, regulators, utilities, manufacturers, investors, academia and development partners, the minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating a policy and regulatory environment conducive to innovation and investment.

He expressed confidence that with the right policies, strong public-private partnerships, and a commitment to local manufacturing, Pakistan has the opportunity not only to become a major user of Battery Energy Storage Systems but also a regional hub for their manufacturing and innovation.