Pakistan’s Universal Service Fund (USF) has deployed more than $1 billion in contracted subsidies to improve telecommunications connectivity across the country, according to Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja.
Speaking at an international symposium on digital transformation in Islamabad on Tuesday, the minister highlighted the fund’s role in expanding access to telecom services, particularly in areas where connectivity infrastructure remains limited.
The announcement reflects the scale of Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to extend digital access and strengthen telecommunications infrastructure for communities across the country.
According to USF Chief Executive Officer Ch. Mudassar Naveed, the fund has deployed $1.054 billion in contracted subsidies for telecom connectivity projects. Of the 185 projects awarded so far, 158 have been completed.
The completed projects have involved more than Rs. 169 billion in subsidies and have directly benefited over 38.4 million people, Naveed said.
The figures highlight the reach of the USF’s initiatives, which aim to help extend telecom services to underserved and unserved areas. Improved connectivity can make it easier for people to access digital services, communicate with others, and participate in an increasingly connected economy.
Telecommunications infrastructure is also an important part of broader digital transformation efforts. Reliable mobile and internet access can support online education, digital payments, business operations, access to public services, and opportunities for people living outside major urban centres.
The USF plays a role in addressing connectivity gaps by supporting projects that private telecom operators may find difficult to undertake commercially without financial assistance. Subsidies can help make infrastructure expansion more viable in areas where population density, terrain, or limited commercial returns create additional challenges.
With 158 of its 185 awarded projects completed, the fund still has 27 awarded projects that have not yet been reported as completed. Their progress and the areas they will serve will be important factors in determining the programme’s future reach.
The latest figures also underline the scale of public support directed towards expanding Pakistan’s telecommunications network. However, the number of people reached and the amount spent are only part of the picture. Service quality, network reliability, affordability, and continued access will also influence the long-term impact of these projects.
As Pakistan continues to pursue digital transformation, extending reliable connectivity to underserved communities remains an important part of reducing the digital divide. The USF’s reported progress provides an indication of the infrastructure development achieved so far, while the completion of remaining projects could further expand access to telecommunications services.
The figures were shared by the IT minister and USF leadership at the Islamabad symposium. Further details about the remaining projects, their timelines, and their specific coverage areas were not included in the announcement provided.
