Pakistan to Launch Secure Mobile Network for Government Officials
Pakistan is set to introduce a dedicated secure mobile communication system for government officials under a new initiative called Pak Awaaz Secure Mobile Communication Ecosystem. The project aims to strengthen the security of official communications and protect sensitive government data from cyber threats.
The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT) has received in-principle approval from the Central Development Working Party (CDWP) to move forward with the project under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP).
Rs. 708 Million Project
According to officials, the project is estimated to cost Rs. 708 million and will include the distribution of 10,000 secure smartphones to government officers.
These devices will be:
- Manufactured in Pakistan
- Equipped with a hardware root of trust for enhanced security
- Powered by a locally developed, security-hardened operating system
- Designed to reduce the risk of cyberattacks and unauthorized access
Private and Secure Communication Network
The National Telecommunication Corporation (NTC) will oversee the implementation of the project by creating a private mobile communication network using existing cellular infrastructure.
Unlike public mobile networks, the new system will operate independently and feature:
- Multi-factor authentication
- SIM, device, and user verification
- A secure environment for official communications
End-to-End Encrypted Services
The project also includes the development of a secure communication platform offering:
- End-to-end encrypted voice calls
- Secure video calls
- Encrypted messaging
- Protected file sharing
The platform will be supported by dedicated application management systems, administrative tools, and a Network Operations Center (NOC). The complete infrastructure will be hosted at the NTC Data Centre.
Digital Government Services
Officials said the ecosystem will also include a private app store, secure chat services, directory management, and protected access to government applications.
Key digital platforms, including the e-Office system, will be integrated into the secure network to enable safer communication and more secure digital workflows across government departments.
The initiative is expected to strengthen Pakistan’s digital governance framework by providing a more secure communication environment for public sector operations while enhancing protection against evolving cybersecurity threats.
