The Ministry of IT and Telecom is moving forward with its mobile phone installment policy, now seeking approval from the Ministry of Law and Ministry of Finance after extensive discussions with stakeholders. According to sources, the ministry plans to submit the policy for vetting and approval by the federal government following a recent working group meeting on mobile financing.
This development follows earlier efforts, with the Ministry of IT and Telecom having initially submitted the Mobile Phones Financing Policy to the Federal Government in December of the previous year. However, the policy was returned to the ministry in January for further review by the Ministry of Law.
The proposed mobile phone installment program aims to make technology more accessible, particularly for those with limited financial means, by offering interest-free installment plans. It also addresses concerns about defaulters by outlining measures to block mobile phones of individuals who fail to meet their installment obligations.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is expected to play a significant role in implementing the policy, representing a shift from relying solely on mobile companies for enforcement. The PTA’s Device Identification Registration and Blocking System (DIRBS) will be crucial in executing the blocking process.
