Funds Approved for Internet in Remote Areas

The Universal Service Fund (USF) has endorsed a budget of Rs. 32.90 billion for the fiscal year 2026-27 to enhance digital connectivity in remote and underserved regions of Pakistan. Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja presided over the approval meeting. USF Chief Executive Officer Mudassar Naveed and senior executives presented the fund's project plans and financial priorities to the committee.

Rs. 24.89 billion of the approved amount will be used to fund existing projects, while Rs. 6.56 billion is set aside for new ventures. The USF is presently managing 28 projects, comprising 17 Next Generation Broadband Service Delivery (NG-BSD) mobile broadband initiatives and 11 Next Generation Optical Fiber Network Services (NG-OFNS) projects. The committee endorsed nine additional NG-BSD projects and four extra NG-OFNS projects, along with block allocations for minor lots under both programs.

The purpose of these initiatives is to broaden telecom and broadband infrastructure in locations with inadequate connectivity. The USF and the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication have pledged to keep concentrating on boosting telecom access, promoting digital inclusion, and narrowing the digital gap in remote and underserved areas.