Islamabad:
The federal cabinet has approved the Hajj policy for 2026 and the National Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy for 2025, which marks significant steps against digitization services and exploits technology to drive economic growth.
President of the Cabinet Meeting Wednesday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed the complete digitization of next year’s Hajj operation, with the aim of providing the best facilities for pilgrims. “All efforts will be made to ensure even delivery of services to Hajj Pilgrims,” he said.
Hajj policy 2026 includes a 70% government quota and a 3% quota of 30%. It was emphasized that in the previous year after the previous year, private companies will ensure the participation of pilgrims missed Hajj in 2025.
A new third-party validation system for Hajj operations will be implemented for both state and private companies, which ensures transparency.
The policy also includes the allocation of 1,000 seats for difficulties and real -time surveillance of payments and processes for pilgrims that choose private companies.
In addition, a transparent selection process for Hajj assistants is held via a test. The government also plans to provide mobile SIM cards, digital bracelets, quality stays and compensation for emergencies. Pakistan Hajj -Mobilappen is improved for payment, training and complaint management.
Artificial intelligence
On the AI front, the prime minister highlighted the government’s focus on strengthening youth and improving the economy through AI. National AI policy 2025 aims to improve public services, productivity and financial inclusion.
The 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 globally by 2030 with significant economic impacts on the world economy.
The policy will include an AI Innovation Fund and AI Venture Fund to encourage the private sector involvement. Steps to increase AI uses in public services, cyber security and environmental management are also covered by the policy.
AI 2030 Goals
In addition, 1 million trained AI professionals, 3,000 annual scholarships, 1,000 local AI products and 50,000 AI-related projects targeted by 2030.
In order to oversee the implementation of Politics, the establishment of an AI council and an action plan was approved. The cabinet also ratified decisions made in the cabinet committees on privatization and legislation.
Sharif further recognized the damage caused by recent rain across different regions in the country, with mountainous areas that suffer the most. He instructed measures to be taken to tackle the damage caused by these natural disasters.
PM also praised the efforts of the Minister of Energy and his team and highlighted the successful negotiations with independent power producers, which has resulted in billions of rupees in savings for the country.
Armed forces
While approaching the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz also praised Pakistan’s armed forces for their contribution to the country’s security and highlighted their triumph in the war against India, which left the world in awe of Pakistan’s military skill.
