Pakistan’s first-ever Digital Development Index (DDI) has been unveiled, assessing the country’s digital progress at the provincial and district levels. The DDI, part of the Pakistan National Human Development Report (NHDR) 2023/2024, places Pakistan in the “moderate” category with a cumulative score of 0.205.
The report highlights a strong correlation between districts with better digital transformation and higher human development outcomes. The NHDR 2023/2024 evaluates access to digital technologies, digital usage, skills attainment, and transformative potential, emphasizing the importance of equitable digital access for inclusive development.
Federal Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, launched the report at a ceremony attended by UN Assistant Secretary-General Kanni Wignaraja and other dignitaries.
The report presents a dynamic digital transformation policy framework, emphasizing the need for investments in Access, Adopt, Anticipate, and Accelerate digital technologies. The government is committed to harnessing the benefits of technological innovation to improve livelihoods, financial inclusion, employment, and public services.
UNDP Regional Director Kanni Wignaraja emphasized the importance of targeted digital transformation efforts for Pakistan’s growing middle class. She noted that while Pakistan has made significant progress in internet and smartphone adoption, equitable access to digital technology remains a challenge.
The NHDR 2023/2024 aims to contribute to a future-oriented Pakistan where digital transformation is a cornerstone of inclusion and prosperity. By addressing digital divides and investing in digital infrastructure, Pakistan can unlock its full potential for human development.
