Cellular Mobile Operators (CMOs) in Pakistan are set to introduce a groundbreaking initiative allowing individuals to purchase smartphones on easy installment plans. The program aims to enhance accessibility to smartphones, bridging the affordability gap and driving digital inclusion across the country.
According to reports, the government and all four CMOs have agreed in principle to launch a “Contract-based Smartphones Policy” scheme. This initiative will enable citizens to acquire smartphones through installment payments, making it easier for people from diverse economic backgrounds to access digital technology. The decision was finalized during a meeting convened by the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT). Attendees included officials from the ministry, representatives of cellular operators, and members of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).
The proposed policy will soon be presented to the federal cabinet for approval, after which formal policy directives will be issued to initiate the program. The scheme’s objectives go beyond affordability, aiming to foster socio-economic growth by enabling access to education, employment opportunities, and entrepreneurship through enhanced smartphone usage.
As part of the plan, a pilot project will initially be launched to refine implementation. Flexible payment terms, mechanisms for dispute resolution, and safeguards to prevent defaults will be integral to the pilot phase. CMOs have been tasked with devising a comprehensive framework for the program, with reports indicating that smartphones will be provided at minimal charges or low-interest rates.
During the meeting, a proposal to block SIMs of individuals defaulting on installment payments was discussed but ultimately rejected by the PTA. Officials emphasized that the program’s primary goal is to promote digital inclusion rather than impose restrictive measures.
Efforts to launch a similar initiative were made by the previous caretaker government. However, the plan was stalled due to reservations from one of the cellular operators. This time, all stakeholders, including the MoITT, PTA, and CMOs, have collaborated to create a robust framework for the installment-based smartphone program.
The initiative aligns with the Digital Pakistan vision by addressing affordability as a significant barrier to broadband adoption. By enabling affordable smartphone access, the program aims to reduce the digital divide and accelerate broadband proliferation, fostering a more inclusive and technologically empowered society. This progressive approach underscores the government’s commitment to using technology as a catalyst for economic mobility and social advancement.