The caretaker government announced a new development on Wednesday as the federal cabinet granted approval for Pakistan’s first-ever National Space Policy. Caretaker Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunications, Dr. Umar Saif, highlighted the significance of three important decisions, including the National Space Policy, which aims to unlock opportunities for private sector companies. The policy is meant to facilitate affordable internet services in Pakistan, ushering in a new era of increased investment in the national space program.
Pakistan’s first-ever National Space Policy Sets Stage for Global Advancements
Caretaker Information Minister Murtaza Solangi emphasized the global dimension of the National Space Policy. International companies will now be permitted to provide communication services through low-orbit communication satellites, fostering collaboration and opening new avenues for communication services in Pakistan. Additionally, the policy establishes a space regulatory regime aligned with international standards.
The approved policy allocates funds to the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) for research and development. This commitment underscores the government’s dedication to advancing space exploration capabilities and technological innovation. In a press conference, the interim Information Minister Murtaza Solangi acknowledged the collaborative efforts of relevant ministries in formulating the nation’s first space policy. This comprehensive and forward-looking policy, developed in consultation with stakeholders over three months, positions Pakistan on the global stage for advancements in space technology.
As caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar commended these efforts, Dr. Umar Saif highlighted the parallels between the telecom policy’s significance and the space policy’s newfound importance. With this policy in place, private sector companies are meant to provide communication services in Pakistan through low-orbit satellites, with implementation expected within the next month or two. The balanced approach ensures government institutions like Suparco collaborate with private companies, fostering a synergy that benefits both sectors and propels Pakistan into a new era of space-age connectivity.
Approach Towards Digital Pakistan
In conjunction with the space policy, the federal cabinet has approved the establishment of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA). Positioned to replace the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) for cyber crimes, this specialized agency is equipped with the necessary expertise, funding, and resources to prevent, investigate, and prosecute cyber crimes in Pakistan. A specialized telecom tribunal is set to be established to address challenges in the telecom sector; this move aims to expedite court cases and disputes within the telecom industry, paving the way for the timely spectrum allocation for 5G technology.
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