Overpopulation a Major Challenge for Pakistan, Says Balochistan Governor at World Population Day Seminar
Quetta:Governor of Balochistan, Jaffar Khan Mandokhail, has termed overpopulation as the most pressing challenge facing Pakistan, stating that it is severely impacting key sectors such as health, education, and public services. Addressing a one-day seminar in Quetta organized to mark **World Population Day**, he said that Balochistan’s population has grown rapidly over the past five decades, placing immense pressure on already limited resources and infrastructure.
Governor Mandokhail emphasized the need to **empower women not only through education but also by making them economically independent**. He noted that without the active participation of women, no sustainable solution to population issues can be achieved.
“Numerous development projects are initiated every year at both federal and provincial levels, but frequent changes in government lead to a lack of continuity,” he stated. “This results in incomplete or abandoned initiatives. It is crucial for governments to ensure that allocated funds are used effectively and projects are completed within set timelines.”
Highlighting successful international models, the Governor pointed to countries like **China, South Korea, and Singapore**, which have taken concrete steps to control population growth. In contrast, Pakistan continues to see a surge in population and is now the **fifth most populous country in the world**. “The only solution lies in investing in education,” he added. “Proper education helps individuals make informed decisions about family planning, creating a balance between population and resources.”
He called for a **comprehensive public awareness campaign** involving media, political leaders, religious scholars, and civil society to promote responsible family planning and sustainable family values.
The Governor also urged the **Population Welfare Department** to actively engage with communities on the ground. “Fieldwork and dialogue in the language of the people are essential to tackling population-related challenges and ensuring a sustainable future,” he concluded.
The seminar was attended by Provincial Secretary for Population Welfare Zafar Baloch, Chairman Balochistan Revenue Authority Abdullah Khan Noorzai, Principal Secretary to the Governor Kaleemullah Babar, Dr. Abdul Rehman from Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund, UNFPA representatives, Director General Azeem Kakar, representatives from various organizations, and a large number of women.
Earlier, other speakers highlighted the objectives of the seminar. The event concluded with the **distribution of shields and certificates** by Governor Mandokhail to organizers and participants.
