ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): Significant progress has been made in the project to provide smartphones on easy installments.
The consultation process between the Ministry of IT, PTA, and telecom companies has been completed in this regard.
According to media reports, all the stakeholders have agreed to create a comprehensive framework for providing mobile phones on installments, while the Ministry of IT has also prepared a policy directive in this regard.
It should be remembered that the Smartphone for All project was introduced in November 2022.
Media reports have said that telecom operators have expressed concerns over financial risks and legal issues. In view of these concerns, it was decided that if a user fails to pay the installments, the mobile and telecom facilities registered on his CNIC will be suspended, while the PTA will also be able to block the mobile phone.
However, the government rejected the proposal to close all financial services of defaulters, as this authority lies with the State Bank.
A representative of a Chinese telecom company said that although some proposals were not approved, operators will not obstruct the project.
The defaulting customer will not be able to get the service of any other network, and after the policy directive is issued, all companies will be required to follow it.
It has also been reported that Chinese telecom companies are in touch with mobile phone manufacturers to make the availability of smartphones faster and more efficient.
It is expected that the project will take shape after the policy is issued soon by the IT Ministry, which will allow users to get smartphones on easy installments.
