Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif's Message on the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, 17 October 2026. On the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, Pakistan reaffirms its commitment to taking concerted, effective and practical measures, at both national and global levels, to eradicate poverty, reduce inequality and ensure equitable opportunities for development. Protecting the social and economic rights of every citizen, safeguarding their dignity and honour, and ensuring equal opportunities for economic well-being are fundamental human rights. The eradication of poverty is also essential to overcoming social divisions and addressing the other social ills. At the global level, this day is being observed under the United Nations’ three year campaign for 2026-2028, themed “United for Peace and Human Rights,” with the 2026 sub-theme of “A Safe Home for All.” These themes underscore the importance of collective and united efforts to eradicate poverty and build a peaceful and just society. Economic prosperity, adequate food supplies and safe housing are among the essential outcomes of poverty alleviation. Safe and dignified housing, in particular, is fundamental to the well-being of citizens. The Government is facilitating access to affordable housing for citizens, particularly economically vulnerable segments of society, through easy financing under the Prime Minister’s Apna Ghar Scheme. In addition to financial constraints, the impacts of climate change, including floods and heavy rainfall, also contribute to housing shortages. Through this scheme, access to financial assistance for the construction and purchase of affordable homes is being expanded. Promoting the social and economic well-being of the people is a constitutional responsibility of the Government. The Constitution of Pakistan reflects our national commitment to establishing a welfare state. In fulfilment of this constitutional obligation, the Government is pursuing an integrated strategy that links social protection with human development, skills enhancement, livelihood opportunities, employment and economic empowerment. To provide direct financial assistance, the Government continues to strengthen and sustain the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), as a key social welfare initiative. The launch of the National Socio Economic Registry and the Digital Social Protection Wallet aims to protect beneficiaries from exploitation and ensure transparency in the delivery of financial assistance. Digital distribution mechanisms have further strengthened the effective identification of deserving beneficiaries, transparency in disbursements and financial inclusion. To help citizens to establish sustainable livelihoods, the Government is taking practical steps to ensure equal access to education and provide technical and vocational training. Through the Daanish Schools System, talented children across the country are being provided with quality educational opportunities and comprehensive care, irrespective of their socioeconomic backgrounds, thereby bridging class divides. The National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) has been further strengthened to equip young people nationwide with internationally aligned technical competencies and marketable skills. Decent employment, entrepreneurship and economic opportunities for young people are the true guarantors of poverty eradication. Through initiatives such as the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, “Uraan Pakistan,” Pakistan Bait-ul-Mal and the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF), among others, the Government is working to reduce poverty by improving livelihoods and strengthening infrastructure. These efforts will also help address deprivations in housing, energy, healthcare and education, enabling vulnerable and deserving families to strengthen their livelihoods and move towards economic self-reliance. 1/2