In a momentous stride, the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication has unanimously ratified the Telecommunication Appellate Tribunal Bill 2024. The fundamental objective of this crucial legislation is to streamline dispute resolution within the telecom sector. The bill sailed through without amendments, underscoring the extensive backing for augmenting Pakistan’s digital infrastructure.
Chaired by Syed Amin Ul Haque, the committee meticulously deliberated on the bill. A Ministry of Law and Justice representative apprised the committee that the jurisdiction of establishing tribunals resides with their ministry. The process for appointing tribunal Chairpersons commences with the Ministry of Law and Justice issuing a public advertisement. A Search Committee, spearheaded by a Grade 20 Officer, evaluates candidates based on specific criteria, compiles a shortlist, and forwards it to the Federal Council. This council, presided over by the Law Minister and including two Federal Secretaries, conducts interviews and makes recommendations to the Federal Cabinet, which ultimately appoints the Chairperson and tribunal members.
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“Telecom Appellate Tribunal Bill 2024 Paves the Way for Digital Governance”
During the session, State Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja emphasized the criticality of digitizing governmental operations. The shift to a paperless environment is intended to bolster efficiency across ministries. Despite the Prime Minister’s directives, the e-office system has encountered several impediments in implementation. Shaza Khawaja asserted that digital transformation should commence from senior officials and permeate through all hierarchical levels.
The committee stressed the necessity for a robust policy to ensure secure official correspondence. This includes developing secure systems for managing sensitive government communications. Additionally, the National Information Technology Board (NITB) introduced the Apostille application, designed to facilitate document processing for overseas employees. The committee mandated its launch within 15 days to address these urgent requirements.
Furthermore, the committee called for synergy between federal and provincial IT ministries to ensure comprehensive policy implementation nationwide. Concerns were raised about the lack of mobile data services in four districts of Baluchistan. The committee decided to engage the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to resolve this issue, declaring internet access a fundamental right.
The approval of the Telecom Appellate Tribunal Bill signifies a notable advancement in modernizing Pakistan’s telecommunications framework. The session witnessed active participation from MNAs and officials, reflecting a concerted effort to propel Pakistan’s digital transformation forward.
In addition to the significant legislative progress, the committee delved into various other critical aspects of the nation’s digital landscape. The discourse extended to enhancing internet penetration in rural and underdeveloped areas, ensuring that the benefits of digitalization reach the most remote corners of the country.
The committee acknowledged the existing digital divide and proposed strategic initiatives to bridge this gap. These initiatives include subsidies for internet service providers to lower the cost of infrastructure development in underserved regions, and partnerships with private companies to accelerate broadband deployment. The aim is to ensure that every citizen, regardless of their geographical location, has access to reliable and affordable internet services.
State Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja underscored the importance of continuous innovation and adaptation in governmental processes to keep pace with the rapidly evolving digital world. She highlighted the necessity of fostering a culture of digital literacy and awareness among government employees to maximize the efficacy of digital tools and platforms. Training programs and workshops will be essential to equip officials with the skills required to navigate and utilize new technologies effectively.
Moreover, the committee discussed the importance of cybersecurity in the context of digital transformation. With the increasing reliance on digital platforms, the risk of cyber threats has also escalated. The establishment of robust cybersecurity measures was emphasized to protect sensitive government data and maintain public trust in digital governance. The committee recommended the creation of a dedicated cybersecurity task force to monitor and mitigate potential threats.
The integration of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT) was also a focal point of the discussions. The committee envisioned leveraging these technologies to enhance public services, streamline administrative processes, and improve overall governance. Pilot projects utilizing these technologies are expected to be launched in various government departments to assess their feasibility and impact.
To further bolster the IT sector, the committee proposed incentives for local tech startups and entrepreneurs. These incentives include tax breaks, grants, and access to venture capital. By fostering a supportive environment for innovation and entrepreneurship, Pakistan can position itself as a hub for technological advancement and attract international investments.
In summary, the unanimous approval of the Telecom Appellate Tribunal Bill 2024 is a pivotal step towards modernizing Pakistan’s telecommunication sector and enhancing digital governance. The committee’s comprehensive approach, addressing infrastructure, cybersecurity, digital literacy, and technological innovation, sets a solid foundation for the country’s digital future. With continued commitment and collaboration among various stakeholders, Pakistan is poised to make significant strides in its journey towards digital transformation and economic growth.
