Islamabad: The Senate was briefed on several government initiatives aimed at economic improvement, including a notable 33% increase in IT exports during the current fiscal year. The session also highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to streamline operations by rightsizing ministries to reduce expenditures.

According to a statement by Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Minister for Law and Justice Azam Nazeer Tarar announced that proposals for the rightsizing of five ministries are in the final stages. These ministries include Energy, Federal Education and Professional Training, Information and Broadcasting, National Heritage and Culture, and the Finance Division. The minister emphasized the importance of these measures, stating that the government’s role is to facilitate business rather than engage in it directly.

Minister for State for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja reported that the country’s IT sector is experiencing significant growth, with a 33% increase in exports in the first five months of the fiscal year. She also noted a 25% rise in internet users over the past year, attributing these advancements to ongoing enhancements in internet infrastructure.

Efforts to improve internet connectivity include the integration of four new submarine cables, with one already operational in Pakistan. These developments are expected to further bolster the IT industry’s expansion.

The Senate session concluded with a scheduling announcement, with the next meeting set for Friday at 10:30 a.m.