Govt seeks roadmap to reduce poverty, improve living standards

October 13, 2026 (MLN): Pakistan must accelerate poverty reduction and invest in education, healthcare, nutrition and skills development to build a sustainable and competitive economy, Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Professor Ahsan Iqbal said on Tuesday.

Addressing an international conference on Pakistan’s Vision for Inclusive and Resilient Economic Transformation, the minister stressed the need to ensure that economic progress translates into equal opportunities and improved living standards for people across all regions.

He highlighted the country’s worsening poverty situation and weak social indicators, noting that approximately 25 million children remain out of school while child stunting affects around 40% of children in Pakistan, according to APP.

He said poverty extends beyond inadequate income, encompassing limited access to education, healthcare, adequate nutrition and decent employment. Tackling these challenges is essential for strengthening human capital and improving Pakistan’s ability to compete in the global economy.

The minister identified early childhood development, quality education and investment in human resources as key foundations for long-term economic growth.

He said the government’s objective goes beyond measuring poverty levels or providing financial assistance, focusing instead on enabling people to escape poverty permanently and become economically self-reliant.

Ahsan Iqbal stressed that sustainable poverty reduction requires a comprehensive approach, including vocational skills, business financing, market access and dependable income-generating opportunities, alongside financial support and productive assets for deserving households.

He also underlined the importance of empowering women economically, creating employment opportunities for young people and engaging universities in initiatives that support local communities.

The minister said poverty alleviation programmes should be guided by evidence-based policymaking, measurable targets and effective monitoring. These efforts should deliver lasting improvements in household incomes, savings, nutrition and overall quality of life.

Highlighting regional disparities, Ahsan Iqbal said 11 of Pakistan’s 20 poorest districts were in Balochistan, calling for more prosperous districts to support the development of less-developed areas.

He emphasised pooling resources and capabilities to reduce regional inequalities and ensure that the benefits of economic development reach communities across the country.

The minister urged participants at the conference to develop practical recommendations and a comprehensive roadmap for sustainable poverty reduction, expanding successful development initiatives and improving living conditions for disadvantaged families.

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