ISLAMABAD – Minister of State for Health Dr Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath has warned that Pakistan’s population could surge to 400 million by 2040 if urgent and effective measures are not taken to control the country’s rapid population growth. He stressed that raising public awareness and encouraging responsible family planning are essential to ensuring a sustainable future for coming generations. Speaking at a ceremony held at the Basic Health Unit (BHU) in Tarlai on Wednesday, the minister said population growth has become one of Pakistan’s most pressing national challenges. He emphasised that strengthening maternal and child healthcare services, alongside expanding access to family planning, must remain a top government priority. The assistance is expected to strengthen reproductive healthcare services and improve access to essential family planning resources across the country.