Population growth has long been regarded as an important factor influencing the pace and quality of development. In the Asian context, where countries vary greatly in terms of economic performance, natural resources, and social conditions, the relationship between population growth and development is complex. Population growth does not automatically impede development, but when it exceeds the capacity of a country to provide employment, education, healthcare, housing, and environmental protection, it can become a significant barrier to sustainable development. Rapid population growth places immense pressure on natural resources such as land, water, forests, and energy. Many Asian countries already experience water scarcity, soil degradation, and deforestation due to increasing demand from expanding populations. Agricultural land is often converted into urban settlements, reducing food production capacity and threatening food security. Overexploitation of natural resources also results in biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation, making environmental sustainability more difficult to achieve. Another major concern is unemployment and underemployment. When population growth outpaces economic growth, labour markets struggle to absorb the increasing workforce. This leads to unemployment, low wages, and the expansion of the informal sector. Young people may face limited employment opportunities, resulting in poverty, social inequality, and migration to urban centres. Rapid urbanization without adequate planning contributes to overcrowding, traffic congestion, pollution, and the growth of slums. Population growth also increases the demand for public services such as education, healthcare, sanitation, transportation, and housing. Governments with limited financial resources often