Islamabad, The Ministry of Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives of Pakistan is set to undergo a significant digital transformation within the next six months, as announced by Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal. This initiative aims to incorporate the Intelligent Project Automation System (iPAS) to enhance the digitization of the Public Sector Development Program (PSDP) processes, reflecting a broader commitment to modernizing governance through technology.
According to Press Information Department, Minister Iqbal emphasized the critical role of digital upgradation in public sector organizations during a certificate distribution ceremony for officials from various ministries who completed the IPAS training program. The global trend towards automation and digitalization in governance processes highlights an urgent need for Pakistan to adopt these advancements to stay competitive. The iPAS, a collaborative effort launched in October 2019 by the Ministry of Planning and the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB), is aimed at improving management efficiency and decision-making in project work through the integration of various systems, including geospatial technology.
Project Director iPAS Qaiser Zahir Shah outlined the system’s key features, highlighting the inclusion of the Spatial Decision Support System (SDSS) into iPAS. This integration marks a significant milestone towards modernizing project appraisals by utilizing Geographic Information System (GIS) to amalgamate diverse data sets, thereby offering a comprehensive view for decision-makers. The iPAS is lauded not merely as a technological tool but as a “smart brain” that consolidates information from varied sources such as demographics, economics, and the environment, facilitating more informed and strategic decision-making processes.
This digital transformation is a testament to the government’s dedication to embracing innovative tools and methodologies to streamline operations within the Planning Commission. Additional Secretary Kamran Rehman praised the rapid transformation brought about by the project, underscoring the ministry’s commitment to adopting cutting-edge technologies. Minister Iqbal’s determination to catalyze a digital revolution within the next six months through the effective implementation of the automated PSDP monitoring system signals a pivotal shift towards modernized, efficient governance that leverages technology for enhanced operational efficacy and strategic planning.