Economic growth, equitable wealth distribution pivotal in eliminating poverty: Ahsan Iqbal

Economic growth, equitable wealth distribution pivotal in eliminating poverty: Ahsan Iqbal
Economic growth, equitable wealth distribution pivotal in eliminating poverty: Ahsan Iqbal

ISLAMABAD, July 29 (APP): Economic growth, equitable wealth distribution and competitive societies are pivotal in eliminating poverty, said Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Reform, Prof Ahsan Iqbal.

We have made commendable progress towards achieving
macroeconomic stability and results of incumbent government’s policies are clearly evident as Pakistan is being referred as emerging market for foreign investment, he said.

This, he said, while addressing as a chief guest at the launch of series of research studies titled “Population of Pakistan: An analysis of NSER 2010-2011” .

These research studies were conducted by Pakistan Institute
of Development Economics (PIDE), in collaboration with UNICEF, on National Socio-Economic Registry (NSER) 2010-2011 of BISP.

These reports highlight six themes at national and regional
levels with comparative analysis; population dynamics, poverty profile, child education, youth and employment participation, disabled population and housing conditions that would further help to design appropriate policies not only at BISP level but at national level as well.

The event was attended by academicians, diplomats,
representatives of national and international organizations,
development partners, civil society, media and government officials.

In her welcome note, Minister of State and Chairperson BISP
MNA Marvi Memon said social safety net programs must be backed by scientific research for accurate targeting and effective implementation.

These studies would not only help to gauge the impact of BISP on beneficiaries but would also assist to improve program’s outreach, efficiency and transparency.

Highlighting the findings of research studies, Chairperson
BISP said around 12.3 million children of primary school age
are out of school.

BISP has succeeded in bringing 1.3 million children to school
while 2 billion rupees have been disbursed as stipend in 2015-16 under WeT initiative.

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