The federal government has proposed increasing the budget of the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication by 15.8 percent for fiscal year 2026-27, reflecting its continued focus on digital transformation, technology development, and e-governance initiatives.
According to budget documents, the ministry has been allocated more than Rs. 22.49 billion for the upcoming fiscal year, compared with over Rs. 19.43 billion in the current year. The funding will support operational requirements and a range of projects aimed at expanding communications infrastructure, improving digital services, and strengthening Pakistan’s technological capabilities.
The government has also proposed a 21 percent increase in salaries and allowances for ministry employees. More than Rs. 195.9 million has been earmarked under this head to meet employee-related expenses and support workforce expansion as new digital initiatives are rolled out.
The budget proposes a 16 percent increase in funding for the National Information Technology Board (NITB), highlighting the government’s emphasis on improving digital governance and expanding public sector technology services. The NITB plays a key role in developing digital platforms and supporting technology adoption across government institutions.
In addition, the government has proposed an allocation of Rs. 250 million for the National Digital Commission to support policy formulation, regulatory coordination, and the implementation of initiatives related to Pakistan’s digital economy.
The Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), which is responsible for promoting the country’s IT exports and software industry, is also set to receive additional funding. The budget proposes an 11.9 percent increase in the board’s allocation, taking its budget to more than Rs. 1.76 billion as the government seeks to accelerate growth in the technology sector and boost export earnings.