Pakistan’s caretaker government announced on Wednesday that the federal cabinet had given its approval to the nation’s inaugural National Space Policy. Caretaker Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunications, Dr Umar Saif, took to social media to share this milestone, revealing three “landmark decisions” for the IT and telecom sector.
Dr Saif explained that the National Space Policy is set to empower private-sector companies to provide affordable internet services in Pakistan, fostering increased investment in the national space program. Another crucial decision involves the establishment of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), which will replace the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) for handling cyber crimes.
The NCCIA is slated to possess the necessary expertise, funding, and resources to effectively prevent, investigate, and prosecute cyber crimes in Pakistan. Additionally, the caretaker government plans to set up a specialized telecom tribunal to expedite the resolution of court cases and disputes in the telecom sector, paving the way for streamlined processes and spectrum availability for 5G.
Interim Information Minister Murtaza Solangi, during a press conference in Islamabad, elaborated that under the newly approved space policy, international companies would be permitted to provide communication services through low-orbit communication satellites. The policy also entails the establishment of a space regulatory regime aligned with international standards and allocates funds to the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) for research and development.
Solangi highlighted caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar’s appreciation for the collaborative efforts of relevant ministries in shaping the country’s first space policy. The policy, formulated over three months in consultation with stakeholders, marks a significant step toward advancing Pakistan’s space capabilities.
Dr Saif emphasized the importance of the space policy, drawing parallels with the transformation brought about by the Telecom Act, which opened the telecommunications sector to private companies. He underscored the rapid advancements in satellite communication technology, particularly the potential for private companies to offer communication services through low-orbit satellites.
The balanced approach of the policy allows government institutions like Suparco and Paksat to provide satellite communication and imaging, while private customers can benefit from the low-orbit technology offered by the private sector. Dr Saif predicted that private companies could begin offering these services within the next month or two, following the approval of the policy.
The minister also highlighted the revenue-sharing aspect, suggesting that a portion of the revenue generated from the private sector could be utilized by Suparco. This forward-looking policy sets the stage for significant advancements in Pakistan’s space capabilities and the integration of innovative technologies into the country’s communication landscape.
