ISLAMABAD, October 17,2024: Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal announced the formation of 17 task forces aimed at achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),
Ahsan Iqbal announced the formation of 17 task forces during an event organized by the Ministry of Planning on the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.
The new task forces will bring together experts from various sectors, including the government, political parties, opposition representatives, as well as stakeholders from the public and private sectors.
Their goal is to collaborate on advancing progress toward the SDGs, with a particular focus on poverty eradication.
Speaking at the event, Minister Iqbal emphasized the need for collective action from all sectors of society to address poverty and ensure Pakistan’s sustainable development.
He urged political forces, alongside experts from different fields, to work together in forums like Parliament, rather than resorting to street protests.
He reminded attendees that in 2016, under the Pakistan Muslim League (N) government, Pakistan became the first country to formally adopt the SDGs as a national agenda through a resolution in the National Assembly.
Reflecting on Pakistan’s Vision 2025, which prioritizes poverty alleviation, Iqbal stressed the importance of human resource development for national progress.
He also noted the progress made during the 2017-18 period when Pakistan was on track to reduce poverty, but added that these gains were reversed by the previous administration, which he said had not prioritized the welfare of the people.
The Minister highlighted that 12 of the 17 SDGs are directly or indirectly related to poverty eradication. These goals cover a wide range of issues, including hunger, education quality, gender equality, clean water, affordable energy, decent work, reducing inequalities, and promoting peace.
He stressed that achieving these goals requires collaboration across political divides for the greater good of the nation.
Ahsan Iqbal also spoke about the government’s commitment to improving the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) and its ongoing efforts to enhance the economies of 20 of the country’s most underprivileged districts by providing essential services.