The Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication convened on Thursday at Parliament House to address Pakistan’s trajectory in artificial intelligence, digital security, and technological advancement, chaired by Senator Palwasha Mohammad Zai Khan. The committee tackled the “Regulation of Artificial Intelligence Bill, 2024,” introduced by Senator Dr. Afnan Ullah Khan, aiming to establish a legal and ethical structure for AI. Members underscored the need for prompt AI regulations in light of swift global technological progress.
The Ministry of IT and Telecommunication (MoITT) Secretary announced a new Emerging Technology Wing dedicated to fostering innovation in Artificial Intelligence, Semiconductors, Cybersecurity, and Quantum Technologies. A Rs. 16 billion allocation has been earmarked for these initiatives under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) for 2024-25.
Scrutiny arose regarding Pakistan’s first indigenous Large Language Model (LLM), a joint venture between Jazz and NUST University. Senator Dr. Mohammad Humayun Mohmand questioned the partner selection process, citing concerns about the exclusion of other academic bodies. The MoITT Secretary clarified the Ministry”s non-involvement in funding or directing the project, stating that Jazz and NUST initiated the collaboration independently. He committed to inviting expressions of interest from other universities for broader involvement and openness.
Jazz representatives emphasized the LLM”s objective of preserving local languages, acknowledging data acquisition as a significant challenge. The committee also received updates on semiconductor advancements, with 12 firms engaged in chip design and 7,000 individuals receiving practical tech skills training.
The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) presented a detailed briefing on the recent national crackdown on illicit call centers. Fifty-four centers were raided, leading to 254 apprehensions, primarily in Islamabad. These centers allegedly defrauded victims through fake social media accounts, often impersonating women, and directing them to Telegram channels for large-scale deception. Much of the stolen funds were laundered through cryptocurrency and transferred overseas, complicating recovery attempts.
Committee members advocated for equitable and inclusive methods in national technology programs, especially AI model development. They stressed the importance of open participation calls, transparency in public-private collaborations, and robust legal systems to counter digital crime.
Senator Palwasha Mohammad Zai Khan concluded the meeting, reiterating the committee”s dedication to fostering digital innovation, bolstering cybersecurity, and guaranteeing fair prospects in Pakistan”s evolving technological landscape.