The Senate’s IT and Telecom Committee, under the leadership of Senator Palwasha Khan, recently came together to address some of the sector’s most pressing challenges. Among the major points discussed were the renewal of Long Distance and International (LDI) licenses, plans to launch a National Digital Authority, and the troubling slowdown in Pakistan’s IT export growth.
Current Progress of LDI Renewals
The committee was informed by the IT Secretary and the PTA Chairman about the latest progress on LDI License Approval renewals. They shared that the Sindh High Court has handed all related cases back to PTA. After that, PTA has already held several meetings with the LDI companies. Now, everyone is waiting for a final decision regarding the LDI License Approval, which is likely to come within the next few weeks.
The PTA Chairman said that seven LDI companies were given show-cause notices, and their hearings have already been completed. Earlier, the National Assembly’s committee suggested giving these companies one month to give their side of the story be fore moving forward with the LDI License Approval process. After that, a final decision will be made.
Plans to Create Pakistan Digital Authority
In the meeting, the committee discussed the plan to introduce a Data Exchange Layer as part of the DEEP project and to establish the Pakistan Digital Authority to manage regulations. The master plan will be approved by the National Digital Commission, which includes chief ministers from all provinces. Some senators expressed concerns that this might affect provincial rights, but the IT Secretary reassured them that provinces will play an active role in decision-making, with all sides working together—much like how the National Finance Commission operates.
The committee’s chairperson was upset that the Federal IT Minister did not attend and decided to delay the agenda. He said the issue, including any updates on LDI License Approval,will only be discussed when the minister joins the next meeting.
Smart Technology
In the meeting, the committee was informed about “Zahant,” Pakistan’s first project similar to ChatGPT. Officials made it clear that this is not an official project of the IT Ministry and that earlier statements caused some misunderstanding. The committee decided to postpone any further discussion until the Federal IT Minister can explain the matter in person.
Content Blocking Requests Cross 45,000 Mark
The committee focused on the challenges posed by harmful content spreading across social media networks, especially during times of national tension and conflict. The PTA Chairman explained that the authority handles about 300 blocking requests each day and has created an easy-to-use portal for government departments to submit complaints. Over the last five months, more than 45,000 grievances were received, largely targeting popular platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube.
To better address these issues on the ground and ensure faster responses to complaints, the committee recommended that social media companies open their offices in Pakistan, allowing for more direct oversight and local cooperation. which may also positively impact the transparency of processes such as the LDI License Approval.
