In a major push to bridge the digital divide, the Punjab government has kickstarted an ambitious plan to provide high-speed internet across the province using Pakistan's own satellite technology. The initiative, driven directly by the vision of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, aims to connect remote educational institutions and hospitals with reliable broadband.
High-Level Meeting Charts Digital Course
A crucial meeting was convened at the Chief Minister’s Office in Lahore to finalize the strategy. Chaired by Senior Adviser to the CM, Senator Anusha Rehman, the session brought together key stakeholders including Major General (retd) Ali Farhan, Managing Director of the National Telecommunication Corporation (NTC), and Muhammad Usman Sadiq, Director General Technical of the Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO). The Secretary of Information Technology for Punjab was also present alongside other officials.
The core agenda was a detailed review of plans to utilize satellite beam technology for delivering ultra-fast broadband connectivity to citizens in every corner of Punjab. The discussion emphasized that Pakistan possesses its own advanced satellite capabilities, and this national asset must be leveraged fully for public welfare.
SUPARCO and NTC Present Joint Action Plan
During the meeting, SUPARCO and NTC presented a joint proposal to Senator Anusha Rehman. The plan outlines a clear, phased approach to turn the Chief Minister's vision into reality. Within the next two weeks, two demonstration stations will be established—one in North Punjab and one in South Punjab.
These pilot projects will serve as testing grounds for the satellite-based broadband service. Following successful trials, a full-scale rollout of the service in remote areas of Punjab is targeted within the next six months. This decisive timeline underscores the government's commitment to rapid execution.
A First for Pakistan and a Boost for Youth
This project is set to make history. Punjab will become the first province in Pakistan where citizens will access broadband services through the nation's own satellite. This move not only ensures technological sovereignty but also promises to revolutionize access in areas where traditional fiber or mobile networks are not feasible.
The initiative is closely tied to CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif's broader promise of empowering the skilled youth. By ensuring high-speed technology reaches remote institutions, the government aims to create a level playing field for learning and innovation. This infrastructure is seen as a critical foundation for generating dignified employment opportunities in the digital economy.
The Punjab government's satellite broadband plan marks a significant leap in its digital policy, directly aiming to transform connectivity landscapes and fulfill its pledge for an inclusive, technologically empowered province.
