Islamabad: Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal has formally launched the first-ever digital Household Integrated Economic Survey (HIES) for 2024-25, revealing significant changes in various socio-economic indicators. The event took place in Islamabad, where Ahsan Iqbal served as the chief guest.

According to Radio Pakistan, the survey indicates a rise in the literacy rate from 60 percent to 63 percent. It also highlights a reduction in the number of out-of-school children, decreasing from 30 percent to 20 percent. Furthermore, the survey notes a substantial increase in household internet access, which rose from 34 percent to 70 percent, and a rise in the proportion of individuals using the internet from 17 percent to 57 percent.

The survey also reports an improvement in full immunization coverage, which increased from 68 percent to 73 percent, and a slight rise in the use of clean fuels, which went up from 35 percent to 38 percent. Conducted by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, the successful completion and release of the HIES 2024-25 results represent a major milestone in Pakistan’s national data ecosystem.

The survey provides comprehensive insights that are crucial for reviewing the social and economic conditions of the country. It serves as a key tool for evidence-based planning and policymaking, aiming to guide future initiatives and strategies for national development.