Artificial intelligence (AI) is often termed the Fourth Industrial Revolution. It has the potential to transform human lives and societies just like the arrival of industrialization did. We are already seeing this in the form of SMART cities, advanced cyber warfare, AI-enabled precision weapon systems and global diplomatic wars being fought for AI supremacy. It is aptly said that whoever wins the AI war will lead the 21st century.
Pakistan's entry into the global AI race was formalized in July 2025 with the launch of the National AI Policy. According to a PIDE policy brief, AI has the potential to increase GDP growth from 7% to 15% by 2030, depending on the level of adaptation. Furthermore, the policy can revolutionize various sectors such as agriculture, industry and services, improving agriculture by $12 billion, industry by $5 billion and services by $26 billion. However, it needs to be critically evaluated to measure its effectiveness and implementation potential, as well as its long-term vision.
At its core, the policy is structured around six interlinked pillars. These are:
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