Islamabad, July 23, 2025 — Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Prof. Ahsan Iqbal, emphasized the importance of intellectual guidance for Pakistani youth through the teachings of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, particularly in the current era of information warfare. He was presiding over the fifth meeting of the Steering Committee on Socio-Political Reforms, established under the Prime Minister’s Apex Committee.
During the session, Prof. Ahsan Iqbal underscored the need for developing a comprehensive national narrative aimed at countering extremism, promoting social harmony and ensuring the effective participation of youth in national development. He called for coordinated institutional efforts to instill values of tolerance and inclusivity in young people, urging authorities to replace sentiments of hatred with a culture of acceptance.
"In this era of ideological invasion and digital manipulation, our youth must be shielded from confusion and radical influences," he stated. "The philosophy of Allama Iqbal offers timeless guidance and can serve as a powerful foundation for intellectual resilience among the new generation."
The Federal Minister directed Dr. Abdul Rauf Rafiqui, Director, Iqbal Academy Pakistan, to expedite preparations for the upcoming commemorative events marking the 150th birth anniversary of Allama Iqbal. He also instructed that efforts be accelerated to incorporate Iqbal Studies into the national curriculum.
The meeting was attended by senior officials from provincial governments, the National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA), the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the Ministry of Law and Justice, the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA), the Higher Education Commission (HEC), Iqbal Academy Pakistan, and the Ministry of Planning.