IT Minister Shaza Fatima Outlines Digital Pakistan Transformation Plan
Federal Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima has outlined an ambitious digital transformation roadmap for Pakistan, emphasizing enhanced cybersecurity, expanded infrastructure, and accelerated youth entrepreneurship in the technology sector.
Major IT Sector Achievements
Pakistan’s startup ecosystem has demonstrated remarkable growth, with nationwide startups now valued at over Rs30 billion. Hyderabad alone has produced startups worth more than Rs1 billion, showcasing the country’s emerging entrepreneurial potential.
The government operates eight functional incubation centers across Pakistan, supporting innovation and business development. These facilities contribute to training over 3.3 million young people annually, enabling them to launch independent ventures and strengthen the digital economy.
Infrastructure Development Goals
Fiber Optic Expansion: The minister announced plans to achieve 60% fiber optic coverage within three years, significantly improving internet connectivity nationwide. This expansion forms a cornerstone of Pakistan’s digital hub aspirations.
University Partnerships: Strategic collaborations with educational institutions are advancing technical education and research capabilities, while cloud infrastructure development promises improved digital services.
Digital Pakistan Act and Modernization
The proposed Digital Pakistan Act aims to establish a comprehensive framework for digital governance. Minister Fatima emphasized that digitalization will transform citizen services, with every sector transitioning toward digital platforms.
NADRA Collaboration: Working with the National Database and Registration Authority, the government is compiling comprehensive digital citizen records while ensuring complete data security and privacy protection.
Agricultural Sector Digitization
Under the Green Initiative, agriculture will undergo digital transformation. Advanced data analytics will help identify farming challenges, optimize resource allocation, and improve agricultural productivity through technology integration.
Critical Data Security Concerns
Recent revelations highlight urgent cybersecurity challenges. Reports indicate that sensitive personal data of hundreds of thousands of Pakistanis is being sold on dark web platforms for approximately Rs500 per record.
Security Breach Details:
- Over 350,000 compromised records including CNICs and travel histories
- Hajj applicants’ data specifically targeted
- Potential Rs65 billion value if 130 million citizen records were compromised
- FIA investigation launched following PTA confirmation
National Assembly lawmakers have criticized delays in data protection legislation, warning that these breaches expose citizens to exploitation and threaten national security.
