Pakistan economic crisis: How many beggars are there in Pakistan’s 230 million population? Their income will shock you

Islamabad: Pakistan’s economy is in a deep crisis, struggling with multiple problems such as energy sector issues, fiscal imbalances, and heavy reliance on external financial aid. Despite so many problems, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has reportedly approved the purchase of 40 J-35 jets from China, with deliveries expected within two years, according to the South China Morning Post (SCMP). But do you know that the Pakistani government is facing a new challenge that is damaging its global image—citizens who are posing as beggars in foreign countries?

Earlier in November 2024, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj urged Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs to address the rising issue of Pakistani beggars entering the Kingdom under the guise of religious pilgrimage. According to the The Express Tribune report, Sources within the Ministry of Religious Affairs have reported that Saudi authorities have expressed concerns about an increasing number of Pakistani individuals traveling to Saudi Arabia on Umrah visas and engaging in begging activities. The ministry cautioned that if this issue persists, it could adversely impact the reputation and future arrangements for Pakistani pilgrims undertaking Umrah and Hajj.

Pakistan economic crisis: How many beggars are there in Pakistan’s 230 million population? Their income will shock you

According to a report published in Dawn on April 26, 2024, Pakistan has an estimated 38 million beggars out of a population of 230 million, with the national average daily income per beggar being Rs 850. In Karachi, a beggar earns an average of 2,000 rupees daily. In Lahore, this amount is 1,400 rupees, and in Islamabad, it is 950 rupees. On average, beggars across the country earn 850 rupees per day.

According to the media reports, beggars in Pakistan collect Rs 32 billion daily through charitable contributions. If accurate, this amount totals Rs 117 trillion annually, which is equivalent to $42 billion. These are 38 million non-productive individuals consuming $42 billion, and forcing the rest of the nation to put up with 21 per cent inflation, reported Dawn.