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Workshops
The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) organized a
series of specialized workshops during DataFest 2025,
highlighting the role of data, artificial intelligence,
and evidence -based decision making in Pakistan’s
development.
A total of 78 workshops were conducted across key
themes including economy, climate resilience, social
equity, governance, and digital transformation.
Experts from government institutions, univers ities,
and international organizations shared research
findings and practical solutions aimed at improving
public services, economic planning, health, education,
and disaster risk management.
On the first day, twenty-four (35) renowned experts from different walks of life presented their latest data-related work, captivating the audience at their respective workstations. The respected chairpersons, maintaining the collaborative trend, provided expert facilitation, ensuring seamless discussions and fostering an environment conducive to knowledge sharing. On Day 2, a total of 43 workshops were conducted across multiple thematic areas, providing participants with an interactive platform for knowledge sharing and technical discussions. enabling structured and efficient conduct of the workshops.
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Poster Competition Promotes Data
The Inter University Quiz Co mpetition at DataFest 2025 brought together the brightest minds from universities across Pakistan, testing participants’ skills in statistics, AI, and data-driven problem solving. The event provided a dynamic platform for students to demonstrate their knowledge, analytical abilities, and teamwork in the rapidly evolving field of data science. National Defence University (NDU) clinched first place, with Air University as runner -up and Lahore University of Management Sciences securing third position. Teams competed fiercely across rapid -fire rounds and scenario -based challenges, impressing judges with their analytical thinking, quick responses, and collaborative problem-solving skills. “This competition pushed us to apply data concepts to real problems,” said Sara Ahmed, captain of the NDU team, highlighting the value of practical learning and teamwork in tackling complex data challenges.
Driven Innovation at DataFest 2025
The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) successfully
organized the Inter -University Poster Competition
during DataFest 2025, providing a vibrant platform for
students to showcase research and innovative ideas
through visual data presentations. The competition
formed a key component of the national event held
under the slogan “From Numbers to Lives.”
The competition themes were aligned with the
URAAN Pakistan Vision and structured around the 5Es
framework—Economy, Environment, Equity, Energy,
and E-Pakistan. These themes encouraged students
to explore critical issues such as climate resilience,
economic productivity, social equity, renewable
energy, and the development of a modern digital
data ecosystem.
The poster competition was conducted in three
rounds over two days. On the first day, two rounds
Inter-University Quiz Competition:
NDU Wins Inter University Quiz
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were held, while the third round took place on the second day of DataFest. A panel of expert jurors from leading universities and institutions evaluated the posters using predefined criteria including research relevance, data quality, analytical methodology, innovation, visualization, and policy implications. In total, 87 posters were displayed, including 36 posters in the main competition and 51 posters for general exhibition, reflecting the growing interest of students in data science and applied analytics. Participants presented research addressing real-world challenges in areas such as agriculture, healthcare, climate change, artificial intelligence, and economic development. Among the undergraduate submissions, the following students secured top positions: • 1st Position: Muhammad Yousaf – “Reality Vision Detect Fake & AI Content Instantly” (UET Mar- dan) • 2nd Position: Ali Raza – “Mapping the Nexus Be- tween Digital Development, Human Develop- ment, and Multidimensional Poverty in Pakistan” (PIDE). • 3rd Position: Fatima Binte Faisal – “Tiny Lives, Si- lent Voice: The Untold Story of Childhood Loss” (Kinnaird College for Women)
The poster competition helped enhance students’ data literacy, analytical skills, and research communication abilities, while also motivating young researchers to contribute to Pakistan’s emerging data ecosystem. Participants gained valuable exposure through interaction with experts and feedback from the judging panel. Project Competition Innovative Minds Shine at DataFest 2025 Project Competition The Project Competition, held at the Incubation Centre as part of DataFest 2025, showcased groundbreaking student projects that applied data analytics, AI, and technology solutions to real-world challenges. Teams from universities across Pakistan presented projects ranging from smart city solutions, predictive analytics, climate monitoring tools, to digital education platforms. Judges evaluated entries on innovation, feasibility, and social impact, recognizing teams that combined technical expertise with practical applications. • First Position – Ms. Shazmeen Nasir • Project Title: Distract Alert • University: COMSATS University Islamabad • Prize Money: Rs. 50,000
Ms. Shazmeen Nasir earned the first position for her .. ..
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Participation Delegates of International
innovative project Distract Alert; Distract Alert is a smart road safety solution using Deep Learning and Computer Vision that detects driver drowsiness or distraction in real time and instantly alerts them to stay focused. It also provides fleet managers with valuable safety insights and performance statistics, helping organizations monitor driver behavior, reduce accident risks, improve productivity, and promote a culture of responsible driving. Second Position – Ms. Alizah Nirmal Project Title: Wisegen University: Islamic International University Islamabad Prize Money: Rs. 30,000
Securing the second position, Ms. Alizah Nirmal impressed the judges with her project titled Wisegen. Third Position – Mr. Mahmood Iqbal Project Title: Understanding the Relationship Between Climate Factors and Food Commodities Prices in Pakistan University: Air University Islamabad Prize Money: Rs. 20,000
More than 60 stalls were established by national and international organizations. Prominent participants included: • UNICEF • World Bank • UNFPA • FAO • NADRA • SUPARCO Other Organizations including Universities, NGOs, Ministries, BOS, IT Boards and Private Organizations. These stalls facilitated networking, product demonstrations, research exhibitions, and collaborative dialogue across sectors including IT, telecom, finance, academia, and civil society.
The presence of international delegates, including representatives from State Statistical Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan, SESRIC, and global research institutions, further underscored the growing international stature of DataFest 2025. Their participation strengthened global collaboration, encouraged knowledge sharing, and promoted meaningful exchange of experiences in the areas of data governance, official statistics, and digital transformation. National&InternationalOrganization & Government Department Stalls .. ..
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Signing of MoUs
A key highlight was the signing of multiple Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to strengthen data sharing, research collaboration, and innovation. PBS formalized partnerships with 13 Organization/ Departments including universities, development institutions, and government departments, marking a significant step toward an integrated national data framework. DataFest 2025 concluded with a closing ceremony attended by senior PBS leadership, recognizing organizers, partners, and participants for their invaluable contributions. The event successfully: • Strengthened Pakistan’s national data ecosystem & Promoted youth engagement and innovation • Fostered public-private-academic collaboration • Reinforced the importance of evidence -based policymaking With record participation, international engagement, and groundbreaking initiatives, DataFest 2025 has set a new benchmark for data -driven collaboration in Pakistan —leaving behind a pow erful legacy of innovation, inclusivity, and progress toward a digitally empowered future. Awareness Walks Mark International Statistics Day Across Pakistan The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) organized awareness walks across the country on the occasion of International Statistics Day to highlight the importance of data literacy and the role of statistics in informed decision-making. At the PBS Headquarters in Islamabad, the main walk was led by the Honorable Federal Minister for Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives. PBS officials a nd staff participated enthusiastically, carrying banners emphasizing the importance of reliable data for national planning and development. Similar awareness activities were also organized at PBS Regional and Field Offices.
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Awareness Walks Mark International Statistics Day Across Pakistan The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) organized awareness walks across the country on the occasion of International Statistics Day to highlight the importance of data literacy and the role of statistics in informed decision-making.
At the PBS Headquarters in Islamabad, the main walk
was led by the Honorable Federal Minister for Ministry
of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives.
PBS officials and staff participated enthusiastically,
carrying banners emphasizing the importance of
reliable data for national planning and development.
Similar awareness activities were also organized at
PBS Regional and Field Offices.
Labor Force Survey 2024-25
The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) officially
released the Labour Force Survey 2024 -25, on 25
November 2025. The launch was widely covered by
national media and government press releases. At the
launch ceremony in Islamabad, the Federal Minister
for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives,
Prof. Ahsan Iqbal, highlig hted the significance of
the survey and its role in providing updated labour
market insights for policymakers, researchers, and
development partners.
The survey provides updated and nationally
representative information on Pakistan’s labour
market, covering the period July 2024 to June 2025.
A key highlight of this round is that, for the first
time, the LFS has been conducted in line with the
19th International Conference of Labour Statisticians
(ICLS) standards, bringing Pakistan’s labor statistics
in line with updated international definitions.
To support continuity and comparison with past
data, PBS also released selected indicators based
on the earlier framework. The LFS 2024 –25 serves
as an important evidence base for policymakers,
researchers, and development partners to better
understand employment, unemployment, labor force
participation, gig work, unpaid care work and other
critical labor market dynamics in the country.
Key Findings and Innovations
• The survey reports a Labour Force Participation
Rate of 46.3% and an Unemployment Rate of
7.1%, providing an updated picture of national
labor market conditions.
• For the first time, the LFS presents dedicated
estimates on the gig economy, indicating 2.9%
of workers engaged primarily in gig work and
10.6% involved as secondary gig workers.
• New data on unpaid domestic and care work re-
veal that women continue to shoulder a signifi -
cantly larger share of care responsibilities.
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The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics has uploaded the Labour Force Survey (LFS) 2024 –25 report on its website, along with complete microdata files and 35 statistical tables to support research and ensure wider data accessibility. Meanwhile, datasets for the LFS of Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan have been cleaned, and detailed analysis is underway for compilation and release of results. Officials noted that HIES 2024 –25 provides an important evidence base for policymaking to support sustainable development, improved living standards, and equitable economic growth.
• Sectoral analysis shows a decline in agriculture’s share of employment (33.1%) and continued growth in the services sector (41.2%), reflecting structural changes in the economy.
HIES 2024–25 Results Approved by Minister for Planning, Develo pment & Special Initiatives The results of the Household Integrated Economic Survey 2024 –25 have been approved by the Honorable Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives (PD&SI) following a briefing held on 22 December 2025. Earlier, the sur vey findings were reviewed and endorsed by the Technical Committee and submitted to the competent authority for approval prior to dissemination. In line with the approved timeline, the HIES 2024–25 report and microdata were finalized in December 2025. During the meeting, the Chief Statistician of the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics presented an overview of the survey, while Ms. Rabia Awan, Deputy Director General (PSLM), highlighted key findings.
The survey shows improvements in several socio - economic indicators, including digital access, education, health outcomes, declining fertility rates, increased use of clean fuels, and rising household incomes. It also recorded a decline in neonatal and infant mortality rates, indicating progress in health and welfare.
NAC Approves Revised GDP Estimates for FY 2024–25 The National Accounts Committee (NAC) approved the revised quarterly GDP estimates and updated annual national accounts for FY 2024 –25 during its 114th meeting held on 8 October 2025 at the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), Islamabad. The meeting was chaired by the Secretary, Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives. .. .. 28TH ISSUE OF PBS NEWS BULLETIN Pakistan Bureau of Statistics 16
Revised Quarterly Performance
The committee approved upward revisions in GDP
growth for the first three quarters of FY 2024–25.
Q1 growth was revised to 1.80% from 1.37%, Q2 to
1.94% from 1.53%, and Q3 to 2.79% from 2.40%.
These revisions largely reflect updated annual
benchmarks, particularly in the Agriculture and
Industry sectors.
Agriculture growth improved across the first three
quarters due to revised benchmarks, while Industry
moved from negative to positive growth. Services
showed modest improvement in Q1, though slight
downward adjustments were recorded in Q2 and Q3.
Strong Momentum in Q4
The economy recorded robust growth of 5.66% in Q4
FY 2024–25, reflecting a strong recovery momentum.
Sector-wise growth during the quarter was 0.18%
in Agriculture, 19.95% in Industry, and 3.72% in
Services.
Agriculture performance was boosted by strong
growth in green fodder, onion, and mangoes, despite
declines in some major crops. Livestock, forestry, and
fishing also posted positive growth.
Industry registered exceptional performance, driven
by a sharp increase in Electricity, Gas, and Water
Supply, aided by su bsidies, favorable price effects,
and a low base. Construction activity remained
strong, supported by higher cement production and
increased public sector development spending.
Services maintained steady growth, with all major
components contributing posi tively, including
Wholesale and Retail Trade, Transport and Storage,
Information and Communication, Finance and
Insurance, Public Administration, Education, Health,
and Other Private Services.
Updated Annual Estimates
The NAC approved revised annual GDP growth of
2.58% for FY 2024, up from 2.51% previously. For
FY 2025, the updated GDP growth was set at 3.04%,
compared to 2.68% estimated earlier. Sector -wise
growth for FY 2025 was 1.51% in Agriculture, 5.26%
in Industry, and 3.0% in Services.
Based on the latest aggregates, the size of the
economy for FY 2025 was estimated at Rs. 113.7
trillion (US$ 407.2 billion), while per capita income
stood at Rs. 506,188 (US$ 1,812).
Visit of the Secretary, Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety A delegation led by the Secretary of the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety visited the GIS Laboratory of the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) to gain insights into the organization’s geospatial data initiatives and statistical mapping systems. The delegation was received by Khawaja Asif Majeed, Chief Statistical Officer at the GIS Lab, who welcomed the visitors and briefed them on the facility’s role in supporting national statistical operations. During the visit, the Member (SS/RM) provided a .. .. 28TH ISSUE OF PBS NEWS BULLETIN Pakistan Bureau of Statistics 17
detailed overview of the internal functioning of the GIS Section, highlighting the systematic development of the Area Frame and the advanced methodologies adopted by the GIS Lab to enhance spatial data utilization. The briefing emphasized how geospatial technologies are being integrated into statistical processes to improve data accuracy, sampling frameworks, and evidence-based policymaking. The visit served as an opportunity to strengthen institutional collaboration and explore the use of geospatial data in designing and implementing social protection and poverty alleviation programs.
On October 2 nd, 2025, a delegation visited the GIS
Lab. The delegation was welcomed by Khawaja
Asif Majeed, CSA, GIS Lab. The Member (SS/RM)
explained the internal functioning of the GIS Section,
the systematic development of the Area Frame, and
the various methodologies adapted by the GIS Lab to
enhance spatial data utilization.
Visit of Chairman, NADRA to GIS Lab
The Chairman of the National Database and
Registration Authority visited the GIS Laboratory
at the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics to review the
organization’s geospatial and statistical mapping
initiatives and assess their contributions to national
planning and development.
During the visit, the Chairman was warmly received
by PBS officials, reflecting strong institutional ties and
ongoing collaboration between the two organizations.
The Chief Statistician of Pakistan provided a detailed
briefing on the GIS Lab’s activities, emphasizing
its role in developing spatial data frameworks,
integrating geographic information with statistical
operations, and enhancing the quality and reliability
of national datasets.
The briefing also highlighted GIS applications
in impro ving data collection, designing accurate
sampling methodologies, and supporting evidence -
based policymaking across sectors such as health,
education, population, and resource management.
Officials discussed how geospatial analysis can
aid targeted interve ntions, policy evaluation, and
monitoring of development programs at national
and subnational levels.The visit offered a valuable
opportunity to strengthen collaboration between
PBS and NADRA, explore innovative approaches
to geospatial data utilization, a nd promote the
integration of administrative and statistical datasets
for enhanced decision -making, planning, and
governance in Pakistan.
Advances Key Reports and
Engagements on Social Statistics
The Social Statistics Section of the Pakistan Bureau
of Statistics (PBS) continued its efforts to strengthen
evidence-based policymaking through the preparation
of key statistical reports and active participation in
knowledge-sharing activities during the reporting
period. These initiatives aimed to enhance the
availability and effective use of social statistics for
planning and policy formulation.
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Among the major developments, the report on Socio-
Economic Indicators at District Level of Sindh has
reached the approval stage and is expected to provide
valuable insights for regional planning, resource
allocation, and development initiatives in Sindh.
In addition, the Annual Contraceptive Report 2022–
23 is also under approval, which will contribute to
a better understanding of trends in family planning,
reproductive health indicators, and population
dynamics across the country.
The section also actively supported the successful
organization of workshops during DataFest 2025,
demonstrating its commitment to promoting data
literacy, public awareness, and the effective use of
statistics among policymakers, researchers, and
students.
Furthermore, Shazia Begum, Director of the Social
Statistics Section, participated in the 39th meeting
of the Country Engagement Working Group (CEWG)
held online on December 9, 2025.
The webinar provided a platform for international
collaboration, knowledge exchange, and
discussion on strengthening national statistical
systems and data engagement initiatives.
These activities reflect the continued efforts of
the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics to enhance the
production, dissemination, and effective use of social
statistics, supporting informed decision -making,
improved governance, and sustainable development
in Pakistan.
PBS Hosts 3 rd Meeting of National
Steering Committee on Gender Data
Standardization
The 3rd Meeting of the National Steering Committee
for Gender Data Standardization was held on 17
December 2025 at the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics
(PBS), Islamabad, in compliance with the directives
of the Parliamentary Special Committee on Gender
Mainstreaming.
The meeting was jointly organized by PBS and the
National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW)
and was chaired by the Chief Statistician, PBS, while
the Chairperson NCSW served as Co-Chair. The session
was conducted in a hybrid format (in -person and
via Zoom) at the National Data Coordination Centre
(N3C), PBS, enabling participation from stakeholders
across various institutions. Key agenda items included
reviewing gender-disaggregated data on inheritance
and land ownership, vehicle ownership, and financial
inclusion.
Participants also highlighted the importance of improving coordination among relevant institutions to ensure comprehensive and reliable gender data. The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) and the National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW) to strengthening gender statistics and enhancing collaboration for inclusive, data-driven policymaking and promote gender -inclusive development across sectors.. PBS Hosts Training on SDG Indicators for Agriculture A five-day training on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) indicators related to agriculture was conducted from 17–21 November 2025 at the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) Office, Islamabad, in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). The training focused on strengthening technical understanding and repo rting mechanisms for key agriculture-related SDG indicators, including 2.3.1, .. .. 28TH ISSUE OF PBS NEWS BULLETIN Pakistan Bureau of Statistics 19
2.3.2, 2.a.1, 2.4.1, and 5.a.1. Ms. Madiha Amjad, Chief Statistical Officer (CSO), was nominated by PBS to participate in the capacity-building program. The primary objective of the training was to enhance the technical capacity of PBS in analyzing, interpreting, and reporting agriculture-related SDG indicators, particularly through the effective use of data generated from the Integrated Agriculture Census.
The program also aimed to improve institutional understanding of the SDG indicator framework, including methodologies, metadata requirements, and reporting protocols aligned with international statistical standards and global best practices. Officials noted that the training would contribute to strengthening Pakistan’s statistical capacity for monitoring agricultural development and progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals, while supporting evidence-based policymaking in the agriculture sector. Pakistan Demographic & Health Survey (PDHS) 2025: Questionnaire Finalization Underway The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) is actively undertaking comprehensive preparatory activities for the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey 2026 (PDHS). This nationally significant survey is aimed at generating reliable and up-to-date indicators on key demographic and health dimensions, including population dynamics, maternal and child health, mortality rates, fertility patterns, and nutritional status across the country. The PDHS 2026 is expected to play a pivotal role in informing evidence-based policymaking, supporting national development priorities, and tracking progress toward international commitments such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In order to ensure the highest level of technical accuracy and methodological soundness, PBS constituted a high-level Technical Committee comprising experienced demographers, representatives from relevant ministries, and international experts with extensive experience in conducting Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS). This committee has been instrumental in guiding the overall design and content of the survey. On 30 October 2025, a meeting of the Main Committee was convened under the chairmanship of Dr. Naeem uz Zafar. During this session, detailed deliberations were held on the questionnaire modules, which were thoroughly reviewed, refined, and finalized after incorporating valuable feedback from both national and international experts to ensure alignment with global DHS standards and best practices. To further enhance the quality and relevance of the survey instruments, three specialized sub-committees were established, each tasked with refining specific thematic modules such as health, population, and nutrition. These sub-committees conducted in-depth technical reviews and consultations, ensuring that each component of the questionnaire meets the required standards of accuracy, clarity, and comprehensiveness. The finalized modules were then consolidated into a unified questionnaire, which has been submitted to the competent authority for final approval. The entire review and development process was initiated with an in-house consultative meeting held on 16 September 2025, marking the beginning of a systematic and collaborative effort to design a robust survey framework. According to PBS, “The PDHS 2026 will provide reliable, evidence-based data essential for policy planning in health, population, and social development.” Overall, the PDHS 2026 represents a significant step forward in strengthening Pakistan’s statistical system. By ensuring the production of high-quality, .. ..