News
Monday, July 12, 2010
Economic growth linked to population welfare: Gilani
* Prime minister says govt plans to carry out population census to decide distribution of country’s resources
ISLAMABAD: The development and economic prosperity of Pakistan depends on the implementation of policies for population welfare, Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani said on Sunday.
Addressing an award distribution ceremony in connection with World Population Day, Gilani said, “All hopes of development and economic prosperity will flounder if we, as a nation, lose focus and do not keep population issue in the spotlight.”
He said the government planned to carry out a population census to decide about the distribution of resources in the country. The prime minister declared the year 2011 the “Population Year” to highlight various issues linked with population and development, with focus on involvement of various segments of society to propagate the benefits of birth spacing for the better health of mothers and children in conjunction with Islamic teachings.
He said the country was at the brink of political chaos when the elected government shouldered the responsibility of serving two years ago.
“Due to the tragic death of our great visionary leader Benazir Bhutto, the nation had virtually lost its sense of direction. Economic deprivation, scarcity of resources, internal strife and terrorism dominated the national scene,” he said.
He said the government had been able to address the challenges in a befitting manner with the support of the people and continued assistance from friends.
Pakistan is now steering towards the path of prosperity, self-reliance and economic well being, Gilani said, adding, “Our government’s policies have helped in confronting terrorism - the biggest challenge posed to our homeland’s security and stability and, the issue of rising poverty and economic meltdown.” The prime minister said the government was cognizant of the fact that had rapid population growth had a direct nexus with poverty. Gilani said despite the challenges, the Ministry of Population Welfare had been working with full dedication. app
Courtesy www.dailytimes.com.pk