The government of Pakistan has outlined its plans for the upcoming fiscal year by proposing over 5.3 billion rupees (approximately $31 million USD) for five new Information Technology (IT) and Telecommunication schemes under the Public Sector Development Program (PSDP).
These projects aim to enhance the country’s digital economy, expand cellular services in underserved regions, upgrade core networks, develop talent in the semiconductor industry, and revitalize the overall IT landscape.
The largest chunk of the budget, Rs. 3.5 billion (approximately $20.6 million USD), is allocated to the Digital Economy Enhancement Project. Funded by the World Bank, this initiative aims to accelerate Pakistan’s digital transformation journey.
Another project, the Expansion of Cellular Services in AJK and GB Phase-IV (SCO), focuses on improving mobile network coverage in Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB). This project has a proposed budget of Rs. 194 million (approximately $1.1 million USD).
The NGMS Core Upgradation (SCO) project is allocated Rs. 100 million (approximately $588,000 USD) for 2024-25. This initiative will focus on upgrading core networks for improved service quality.
Investing in the future workforce, the National Semiconductor HR Development Program (NSHRDP) Phase-I (IT Wing) is set to receive Rs. 800 million (approximately $4.7 million USD). This program aims to cultivate skilled professionals in the semiconductor industry.
The final project, Revamping IT Industry Landscape (PSEB), is allocated Rs. 800 million (approximately $4.7 million USD). The Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) will spearhead this initiative dedicated to revitalizing the overall IT industry.
These new projects highlight the government’s commitment to promoting digital transformation, fostering innovation, and boosting Pakistan’s IT and Telecom sector.
