The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication has proposed a development budget of Rs71.84 billion for the upcoming Budget 2026-27, marking a more than threefold increase in its development allocation as Pakistan pushes ahead with digital transformation and technology-driven growth.
Budget documents show that the proposed Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) includes a mix of ongoing and new projects aimed at strengthening the country's IT infrastructure, software exports, startup ecosystem and telecommunications network.
According to budget proposals, the Ministry of IT has sought a total development budget of Rs71.84 billion for the next fiscal year. The PSDP includes 12 ongoing projects and eight new projects across various technology and digital development sectors.
Of the total proposed allocation, Rs32.13 billion has been earmarked for ongoing projects, while Rs39.71 billion has been proposed for new initiatives. The ministry has also sought Rs37.79 billion specifically for five of its key projects.
Funding proposed for ongoing IT projects
Budget documents show that significant resources have been allocated to continue existing projects under the Ministry of IT.
A total of Rs24.39 billion has been proposed for seven ongoing projects being implemented by the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), reflecting the government's focus on expanding software exports and strengthening the country's digital economy.
Among the flagship projects, the Islamabad IT Park remains a major priority.
The project is currently 72% complete, and the ministry has requested Rs6.73 billion for the next fiscal year to accelerate its completion.
The government has also proposed funding for the Karachi IT Park project, with Rs115 million included in the PSDP for the initiative.
To strengthen Pakistan’s startup landscape, Rs1.802 billion has been proposed for Venture Ecosystem projects aimed at supporting innovation, entrepreneurship and technology-based businesses. The proposed allocation is expected to help create new opportunities for startups and emerging technology firms across the country.
Semiconductor, human resource development
The budget proposal also highlights investment in advanced technology skills and workforce development. More than Rs1 billion has been proposed for the National Semiconductor Human Resource Development Program, a project designed to build local expertise in the rapidly growing semiconductor industry.
The initiative aligns with broader efforts to prepare Pakistan’s workforce for future technology sectors and global digital markets.
Telecom expansion in remote areas
The Special Communication Organization (SCO) has proposed Rs2.67 billion for four projects under its development portfolio. Among these is a new project worth Rs2.50 billion aimed at improving telecommunications services in remote and underserved areas of the country.
The project is expected to enhance digital connectivity and improve access to communication services in regions with limited infrastructure.
The National Information Technology Board (NITB) has requested Rs743 million for three projects included in the proposed development programme.
Meanwhile, Ignite has sought Rs3 billion for a new project focused on innovation and technology development.
The National Telecommunication and Information Security Board (NTISB) has also proposed an allocation of Rs3.24 billion for its planned initiatives.
.jpg)
