Islamabad: In the decisive move towards digital modernization, the federal cabinet on Wednesday unanimously approved the National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy 2025, which aims to align the country's global technological advances and create employment opportunities.
The federal cabinet, which met with Chairman Prime Minister Shebaz Sharif, unanimously approved the National Artificial Intelligence Policy 2025. The policy seeks to establish a comprehensive AI ecosystem to rebuild the country's economic future and global competitiveness.
The reform of the Hajj policy was another important decision of the day, with Cabinet approved the Hajj policy 2026, which mandates a fully digital pilgrimage operation for pilgrims beginning in 2026.
First AI policy to be deployed over the next few months
The Prime Minister has directed the Ministry of Religion to overhaul its logistics, introduced real-time surveillance and deployed upgraded digital tools, including the improved Pak Hajj mobile app, digital wristbands and integrated SIM cards to ensure transparency and high quality service delivery.
The policy allocates 70% of the pilgrimage allocation to the government and 30% to private operators. Companies that did not fulfill their obligations during the previous pilgrimage season are necessary to accommodate pilgrims affected in future cycles.
To enhance accountability, the Cabinet has mandated the implementation of third-party verification of all HAJJ operations, a competitive system for selecting support staff, and an emergency compensation mechanism. A minimum of 2,000 pilgrims will be required per private company, and 1,000 seats will be reserved for the hard work.
The digital transformation of the Hajj process will be led jointly by ministries on information technology and religious issues under the direct supervision of the Prime Minister's Office.
Regarding AI policy, the authorities said by 2030, they have set an ambitious agenda to train 1 million AI professionals, develop 1,000 home-based AI products and support civic innovation through 50,000 AI-led public service projects.
The plan includes an annual AI scholarship, comprehensive funding for women and people with disabilities, and two new government-supported investment instruments (AI Innovation Fund and Venture Fund) aimed at encouraging private sector participation.
Leading by a national masterplan and action matrix, the newly established AI Council oversees implementation and ensures compliance with international standards for data protection, cybersecurity, and the use of ethical AI.
“Our young people are our biggest asset,” the prime minister said. “By investing in AI, we are investing in the future of this country – jobs, services and global relevance.” In addition to these major reforms, the Cabinet has also ratified decisions from the Cabinet Committee on Privatization and the Legislative Works Committee held earlier this month.
At the start of the meeting, Prime Minister Sharif announced that Pakistan is sending two commissions for food aid to Gaza, aiming to provide relief to the besieged population amid ongoing conflict.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
