Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) on Thursday launched the detailed results of the 7th Population and Housing Census-2023.

According to the Census data, total population of the country stands at 241.49 million with 51.48 percent males and 48.51 percent females showing a gender ratio of 106.12.

The average number of family members in Pakistan is 6.30, while the dominant religion is Islam representing 96 percent of the population.

Age wise enumeration of population shows 36.47 million populace under five years, 97.53 million under 15 years, 62.58 million between 15 to 29, while 190.27 million is below 40 years of age.

Literacy indicators show 61 percent of Pakistan’s population aged ten years and above is literate. The census data shows that current population growth rate is 2.55 percent which is the highest in the region and if it continues, the country’s population will be doubled by 2050.

Population growth is adversely affecting the per capita income and standard of living of citizens. There is need to develop an effective strategy for population control for better distribution of resources and economic prosperity.

Addressing the launching ceremony as chief guest here in Islamabad on Thursday, Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal said transparency was ensured in the country’s first ever digital census through use of technology.

He lauded the PBS, SUPARCO (Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission), security forces and field staff for successful conduct of the first digital population and housing census.