Economic development in Pakistan: balancing growth, equity and environmental sustainability

Abstract

Amidst a complex socio-economic landscape marked by demographic pressures, resource constraints, and regional disparities, Pakistan grapples with the dual challenge of fostering robust economic growth while ensuring equitable distribution of its benefits and safeguarding the environment for future generations. Leveraging a comprehensive review of existing literature, policy analyses, and empirical evidence, this study delves into key dimensions of Pakistan's economic development journey, including industrialization, agriculture, human capital formation, and infrastructure development. It critically examines the role of various stakeholders, including the government, private sector, civil society, and international partners, in shaping the country's development trajectory. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of adopting a holistic approach that integrates economic, social, and environmental considerations into policy formulation and implementation processes. Emphasizing the need for innovative strategies and inclusive governance frameworks, the paper underscores the importance of balancing short-term growth imperatives with long-term sustainability goals to foster resilient and inclusive economic development in Pakistan.