The Ministry of IT and Telecom is poised to advance its mobile phone installment policy as it moves towards seeking vetting from the Ministry of Law and Ministry of Finance.
After thorough talks with various groups involved in mobile financing, the ministry is getting ready to present the policy to the federal government for further review and approval.
Sources familiar with the matter told that upon receiving an endorsement from the federal government, the Ministry of IT and Telecom plans to issue a directive, signaling the commencement of a cell phone financing program.
The plan for mobile phones on installment wants to make technology more available, especially for people who don’t have much money. They offer payment plans without extra fees. Also, if someone doesn’t pay, they can block their phone.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) will have a big part in carrying out this policy, which is different from the usual practice of only relying on mobile companies for enforcement. The PTA’s Device Identification Registration and Blocking System (DIRBS) will be crucial for carrying out the blocking process.
