ISLAMABAD STAFF REPORTER
Federal Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, has said that following the victory in the “Battle for Truth,” Pakistan must now succeed in the “Battle for Development.” Addressing a ceremony held in his honor by the Institution of Engineers Pakistan (IEP) after being awarded the Nishan-e-Imtiaz, the minister emphasized the crucial role of engineers in shaping Pakistan’s future.
Speaking to an audience that included senior engineers, academia, and members of engineering councils and institutions, Ahsan Iqbal expressed gratitude for receiving the Nishan-e-Imtiaz and dedicated the honor to every Pakistani engineer and professional. “I am an engineer myself. This award is not for me alone — it is for every hardworking professional who contributes to Pakistan’s growth,” he said.
Highlighting his humble beginnings, the minister shared that he comes from a middle-class background and that his journey from an engineering student to a federal minister is a testament to the opportunities available to every young Pakistani. “If I can achieve this, so can every young engineer in this room,” he added.
The minister reflected on Pakistan’s recent geopolitical victories, stating that the Indian narrative of being a regional superpower has collapsed under the weight of reality. “Our armed forces exposed the truth, but to maintain and build on this success, we must now win the economic battle. Without economic strength and technological advancement, military success alone is unsustainable,” he said.
Ahsan Iqbal outlined “Uraan Pakistan”, a national development roadmap, which envisions transforming Pakistan into a $1 trillion economy by 2035. He emphasized that the vision requires relentless effort and that engineers must take the lead across all development sectors — from exports, infrastructure, and energy to digital excellence, biotechnology, AI, cybersecurity, water security, and food security.
“Engineers are the frontline soldiers in the battle for progress,” Iqbal declared. “Just as our military safeguarded our borders, our engineers must now elevate Pakistan in the field of development and economy.”
He invited engineering associations to form a task force to support the Uraan Pakistan initiative with practical and innovative proposals. The vision, he said, goes beyond 2035, with a greater national goal of surpassing India in economic and development indicators by 2047, when both countries mark 100 years of independence.
The minister also addressed young engineers directly, calling them the nation’s most valuable asset. “The next 22 years are critical. You must become ambassadors of Uraan Pakistan and commit to using our resources transparently and efficiently. Every rupee saved could build a school, a hospital, a dam, or launch a satellite.”
He stressed the need for excellence in education, research, and technology, and announced the development of a “Quantum Valley” to promote cutting-edge innovation. “Let us write success stories in technology and engineering that future generations will take pride in.”
In his concluding remarks, Ahsan Iqbal said, “We cannot join the ranks of developed nations unless we harness modern education and technology. Let us dedicate ourselves with the same spirit we show abroad, but now, for the development of our own homeland.”
