Dr. Mahbub-ul-Haq is credited with introducing the concept of human development. He was a Pakistani economist and politician who served as the Minister of Finance and Planning in Pakistan. Haq is best known for his work on human development and his contributions to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Dr. Mahbub-ul-Haq's Contribution to Human Development:
1. Development as Freedom: Haq's concept of human development is closely tied to the idea of development as freedom. He believed that the true measure of development should be the freedom that people have to lead flourishing lives. He argued that development should not be solely focused on economic growth but should also encompass human well-being, social justice, and political freedoms.

2. Human Development Index (HDI): As part of his work with the UNDP, Haq played a crucial role in developing the Human Development Index (HDI). The HDI is a composite measure that takes into account factors such as life expectancy, education, and standard of living to assess a country's level of human development. It provides a more holistic and comprehensive picture of development than traditional economic indicators like GDP.

3. Regional and Global Development Reports: Haq initiated the publication of regional and global Human Development Reports (HDRs) as a means to highlight the importance of human development. These reports provide in-depth analysis of various aspects of development, including poverty, inequality, education, health, and gender equality. The HDRs have become important resources for policymakers, academics, and development practitioners worldwide.

4. Focus on Poverty Alleviation: Haq emphasized the need to prioritize poverty alleviation and address the pressing social and economic challenges faced by developing countries. He advocated for greater investment in education, healthcare, and social welfare programs to uplift the most vulnerable sections of society.

5. Advocacy for Social Justice: Haq was a strong advocate for social justice and believed that development should be inclusive and equitable. He recognized the importance of gender equality, human rights, and environmental sustainability in achieving sustainable development.

Dr. Mahbub-ul-Haq's contributions to the concept of human development have had a profound impact on the field of development economics and policy. His ideas have influenced global development agendas, and his work continues to shape discussions and policies aimed at improving the well-being and freedom of individuals and societies around the world.