Pakistan’s cabinet approves 3 game-changing IT Initiatives: Space Policy, Cybercrime crackdown and 5G boost

Pakistani government has taken a giant leap towards technological transformation with the approval of a National Space Policy, a dedicated National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency, and a Telecom Tribunal. These decisions promise to revolutionize the IT and Telecom sector, fostering innovation, cybersecurity, and seamless 5G spectrum availability in Pakistan.

The National Space Policy will allow private-sector companies to provide affordable internet services across the country. It will also help in attracting increased investment to Pakistan’s national space program, Federal IT Minister Umar Saif said in a social media post shared of X, formerly Twitter.

Umar Saif detailed the three landmark decisions approved by the cabinet on social media:

  1. The new policy aims to facilitate private companies in providing cost-effective internet services and boost investments in the country’s space program.
  2. A dedicated National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) will replace the FIA for cyber-crime handling. This agency will be equipped with the necessary expertise, funding, and resources to effectively prevent, investigate, and prosecute cyber-related offenses.
  3. A specialized Telecom Tribunal will be established to speed up the resolution of telecom sector disputes, setting up the path for 5G spectrum availability.

Country’s first-ever National Space Policy approved

The Caretaker Federal Minister of Information Technology and Telecommunication, Dr. Umar Saif, announced the approval of Pakistan’s inaugural “National Space Policy” by the federal cabinet.

This policy sets the stage for utilizing Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Communication Satellites, as highlighted during a press conference alongside Caretaker Federal Ministers Murtaza Solangi and Health Minister.

The authorization empowers private companies to extend services to Pakistani consumers, a pivotal step in the country’s space program, he added. This National Space Policy approval is poised to enhance telecommunications, driving better connectivity and information sharing across the country. The policy has been crafted after consultations with all stakeholders, to ensure a balanced approach to facilitate private enterprises in thriving.

Pakistan plans to launch 5G service in July 2024

Umar Saif further shared that Pakistan was set to launch 5G service in July, planning a 300 MHz spectrum auction. In the media briefing, the interim minister also shared the caretaker government’s ongoing efforts to resolve telecom issues for 5G implementation.

He shared that a telecom tribunal will be established in three weeks and an advisory committee will be formed. Additionally, a consultant will be appointed to oversee the 5G action plan, said Umar Saif, and hoped for widespread participation from companies in the spectrum auction.

The interim minister highlighted the anticipated growth of Pakistan’s IT exports in the Middle East, citing memorandums of understanding (MoUs) signed with three Qatari companies as contributing factors.

Related Articles

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Stay Connected

17,828FansLike
11,620FollowersFollow
17,266FollowersFollow

Latest Articles