ISLAMABAD:
The federal cabinet has approved the Hajj Policy for 2026 and the National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy for 2025, marking significant steps towards digitising services and harnessing technology to drive economic growth.
Chairing the cabinet meeting on Wednesday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed the complete digitalisation of next year’s Hajj operation, aimed at providing the best facilities for pilgrims. “All efforts will be made to ensure the smooth provision of services to Hajj pilgrims,” he said.
The Hajj Policy 2026 includes a 70% government quota and a 30% private sector quota. It was highlighted that, following issues with the private sector in the previous year, private companies will ensure the participation of pilgrims who missed the Hajj in 2025.
A new third-party validation system for Hajj operations will be implemented for both government and private companies, ensuring transparency.
The policy also includes the allocation of 1,000 seats for hardship cases and real-time monitoring of payments and processes for pilgrims opting for private companies.
Additionally, a transparent selection process for Hajj assistants will be held via a test. The government also plans to provide mobile SIM cards, digital wristbands, quality accommodations, and compensation for emergency situations. The Pakistan Hajj mobile app will be enhanced for payment, training, and complaints management.
Artificial Intelligence
On the AI front, the prime minister highlighted the government’s focus on empowering youth and enhancing the economy through AI. The National AI Policy 2025 aims to improve public services, productivity, and economic inclusion.
The policy will encourage the development of AI skills, training, and access for women and people with disabilities. The cabinet was briefed about the AI revolution expected globally by 2030, with significant financial impacts on the world economy.
The policy will include an AI Innovation Fund and AI Venture Fund to encourage private sector involvement. Steps to increase AI use in public services, cyber security, and environmental management are also covered in the policy.
AI 2030 goals
Moreover, 1 million trained AI professionals, 3,000 annual scholarships, 1,000 local AI products, and 50,000 AI-related projects are targeted by 2030.
To oversee the policy’s implementation, the establishment of an AI Council and an Action Plan was approved. The cabinet also ratified decisions made in the Cabinet Committees on privatisation and legislation.
Sharif further acknowledged the damage caused by recent rains across various regions of the country, with mountainous areas suffering the most. He directed that measures be taken to address the damage caused by these natural disasters.
PM also lauded the efforts of the energy minister and his team, highlighting the successful negotiations with Independent Power Producers, which have resulted in billions of rupees in savings for the country.
Armed Forces
While addressing the meeting, PM Shehbaz also praised Pakistan’s Armed Forces for their contributions to the country’s security, highlighting their triumph in the war against India, which left the world in awe of Pakistan’s military prowess.
