Health Minister Links HIV Rise to Risky Party Behavior

Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal has voiced alarm over rising HIV cases in Pakistan. He links the surge to risky behavior among some young people. Drug use and unsafe sexual practices at late-night parties drive the spread in major cities.

Minister Briefs Senate Committees

He spoke during a joint meeting of the Senate Standing Committees on Human Rights and Health. The panel reviewed the National Population Coordination and Reproductive Health Bill, 2026. Kamal said authorities worry about activities at such gatherings. He stressed the need for greater public awareness and preventive measures.

Multiple Causes Drive Transmission

Kamal noted that HIV transmission has multiple causes. He emphasized promoting responsible behavior. Furthermore, he called for expanding health education. In addition, he urged improving access to prevention and treatment services. Coordinated efforts are needed to address the growing public health challenge.

Population Growth Concerns Raised

During the meeting, the minister also discussed Pakistan’s population growth. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held several meetings on the issue. A committee comprising Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, the finance minister and other officials works on policy measures. They aim to address population-related challenges.

NFC Award Formula Criticized

Kamal argued that the current National Finance Commission Award formula unintentionally encourages population growth. Under this formula, 82 percent of resource distribution is based on population. He said countries in the region assign significantly less weight to population in similar fiscal arrangements.

Tax Cuts on Contraceptives Announced

The health minister announced that taxes on contraceptive medicines dropped to zero in the current federal budget. The prime minister and finance ministry drove this effort. According to Kamal, improved affordability and easier access to family planning products could cut annual population growth by around 150,000 people.

Millions of Births Recorded Yearly

He also said Pakistan records approximately 6.7 million births each year. This underscores the need for sustained investment in reproductive health services. Awareness campaigns and long-term population planning remain crucial.