Federal Government of Pakistan has officially sanctioned the National Space Policy with the primary objective of enhancing satellite communication services throughout the country.
The Caretaker Federal Government of Pakistan has officially sanctioned the National Space Policy with the primary objective of enhancing satellite communication services throughout the country.
The Caretaker Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, outlined the key aspects of the policy during a press conference, underscoring the potential involvement of multinational corporations in introducing satellite services.
The minister emphasized that multinational corporations seeking to provide satellite services in Pakistan must obtain clearance from the Ministry of Defence through the issuance of No Objection Certificates (NOCs). This strategic step aims to ensure the security and regulatory compliance of satellite communication services in the country.
To further support and fund this ambitious initiative, the private sector has committed to allocating 6 percent of its revenue to the government’s Research and Development (R&D) fund. This financial contribution from the private sector is expected to fuel advancements in space technology and satellite communication infrastructure.
According to Minister Saif, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) will play a pivotal role in the implementation of this policy by granting satellite communication service licenses to interested companies. The involvement of PTA is crucial for ensuring adherence to regulatory standards and facilitating a seamless integration of satellite technology into the existing communication landscape.
One of the primary objectives of this policy is to address the communication needs of residents in remote areas of Pakistan. The utilization of low-orbit satellite technology is anticipated to bridge the communication gap in these underserved regions, providing reliable and efficient connectivity.
The government, in a proactive move, highlighted the potential impact of unregulated practices in the space sector, estimating an annual loss of $40 million to the country. By formalizing the National Space Policy, Pakistan aims to establish a robust framework that not only encourages innovation and investment in the space industry but also mitigates potential economic losses associated with unregulated activities.
In a notable development, with the approval of this policy, Elon Musk’s Starlink emerges as a potential frontrunner to become the first provider of low-orbit satellite services in Pakistan. This marks a significant milestone for Starlink, which has faced delays in its efforts to expand into the region in previous years.
The National Space Policy sets the stage for a new era in satellite communication services in Pakistan, opening doors for both domestic and international players to contribute to the country’s technological advancements. As the private sector aligns its interests with the government’s R&D fund, the nation looks forward to witnessing a transformative impact on communication infrastructure, particularly in remote and underserved areas.