Islamabad: The Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology will deliberate on the Digital Nation Pakistan Bill on Monday, January 27, 2025. Scheduled to convene at 11 AM in the Parliament House, the meeting will be chaired by Senator Palwasha Khan. The primary agenda includes reviewing and potentially approving this landmark legislation that aims to transform Pakistan’s digital landscape.
Proposal and Objectives of the Bill
Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Minister of State for IT and Telecommunications, presented the Digital Nation Pakistan Bill in the National Assembly. This legislation forms a crucial part of Pakistan’s digital transformation strategy. It proposes a unified digital identification system combining social, economic, and governance data to foster a dynamic digital community and establish modern governance standards.
Structure of the National Digital Commission
The bill outlines the establishment of a 17-member National Digital Commission. This body will include the Prime Minister as its chair, chief ministers of all provinces, and key federal ministers. Additionally, leaders from institutions like the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA), Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), and the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) will play vital roles.
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Responsibilities of the Commission
The National Digital Commission’s primary responsibility is to oversee the development and implementation of a National Digital Master Plan. This plan will coordinate efforts among government bodies to advance digital transformation. The proposed Pakistan Digital Authority will execute the plan, with leadership appointments for a four-year term made by the Prime Minister.
Legislative Progress and Expectations
On Tuesday, the National Assembly approved the Digital Nation Pakistan Bill 2025. The upcoming Senate committee meeting is expected to fast-track its passage. Committee members and administrative representatives have been directed to attend to ensure swift deliberations. The government anticipates quick approval to accelerate Pakistan’s digital growth.
Supporters and Critics of the Bill
Proponents of the bill emphasize its potential to create a digitally unified Pakistan, integrating key systems for efficient governance. However, critics express skepticism, raising concerns about implementation challenges and data privacy. The debate underscores the bill’s significance as a milestone in Pakistan’s digital journey, with the outcome of the Senate meeting eagerly awaited.
