Islamabad:
The Federal Cabinet approved HAJJ policy for 2026 and the National Artificial Intelligence Policy (AI) for 2025, marking important stages towards the digitization of services and the exploitation of technology to stimulate economic growth.
Chairing the meeting of the cabinet on Wednesday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the full digitization of the Hajj operation next year, aimed at providing the best facilities for pilgrims. “All efforts will be made to provide smooth services to the Hajj pilgrims,” he said.
The Hajj 2026 policy includes a government quota of 70% and a private sector quota by 30%. It was pointed out that, following problems with the private sector in the previous year, private companies will guarantee the participation of pilgrims who missed Hajj in 2025.
A new third -party validation system for HAJJ operations will be implemented for the government and private companies, guaranteeing transparency.
Policy also includes the allocation of 1,000 seats for difficulties and real -time monitoring of payments and processes for pilgrims opting for private companies.
In addition, a transparent selection process for Hajj assistants will take place via a test. The government also plans to provide mobile SIM cards, digital bracelets, quality housing and remuneration for emergency situations. The mobile application of the Pakistani hajj will be improved for the management of payments, training and complaints.
Artificial intelligence
On the AI front, the Prime Minister stressed the accent put by the government on the empowerment of young people and the improvement of the economy via AI. The national IA 2025 policy aims to improve public services, productivity and economic inclusion.
Policy will encourage the development of AI skills, training and access to women and people with disabilities. The cabinet was informed of the AI revolution expected worldwide by 2030, with significant financial impacts on the world economy.
The policy will include an AI innovation fund and a venture capital fund to encourage the participation of the private sector. Steps to increase the use of AI in public services, cybersecurity and environmental management are also covered by policy.
AI 2030 Goals
In addition, 1 million trained AI professionals, 3,000 annual scholarships, 1,000 local AI products and 50,000 AI projects are targeted by 2030.
To supervise the implementation of the policy, the creation of an AI council and an action plan have been approved. The cabinet has also ratified the decisions made in the firm committees on privatization and legislation.
Sharif has also recognized the damage caused by recent rains in various regions of the country, the mountainous areas suffering the most. He ordered that measures be taken to meet the damage caused by these natural disasters.
The Prime Minister also welcomed the efforts of the Minister of Energy and his team, highlighting the successful negotiations with independent electricity producers, who have led to billions of savings rupees for the country.
Armed forces
While addressing the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz also congratulated the Armed Forces of Pakistan for their contributions to the security of the country, stressing their triumph in the war against India, which left the world in admiration before the military prowess of Pakistan.
