Lahore Division

Lahore | ReNews Pakistan
Pakistan’s push to transition towards a knowledge based digital economy gained strong backing from the business community as the Pakistan China Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCJCCI) highlighted the transformative potential of CPEC 2.0 alongside the government’s proposed $1 billion artificial intelligence (AI) fund.
Industry stakeholders believe the convergence of these initiatives could mark a turning point for the country’s economic trajectory, particularly by leveraging its young population. With approximately 63% of citizens under the age of 30, Pakistan stands among the youngest nations globally, offering a significant demographic advantage if effectively harnessed.
PCJCCI President Nazir Hussain described the proposed AI fund as a timely and strategic move capable of strengthening governance, fostering innovation and creating new economic opportunities. He emphasized that integrating advanced technologies into national development frameworks is essential for achieving sustainable and inclusive growth.
According to the chamber, the AI fund envisions a wide-ranging technological overhaul. Key proposals include introducing AI education in federally administered schools, awarding 1,000 fully funded PhD scholarships by 2030 and training one million non IT professionals in AI-related skills. These measures are aimed at equipping the workforce to adapt to rapidly evolving technological demands while enhancing productivity across traditional industries.
Experts note that developing a nationwide technological ecosystem will be critical. Upskilling non IT workers is expected to improve livelihoods, increase efficiency and enable sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing and services to integrate modern digital solutions.
The urgency of such reforms is underscored by global trends. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) estimates that digital economies in developing countries can grow two to three times faster than traditional ones. Pakistan, however, currently contributes less than 1% to global AI research, highlighting both the challenge and opportunity ahead.
A Lahore based technology policy analyst pointed out that Pakistan’s strength lies not only in its youthful population but also in its expanding digital connectivity, with mobile internet users surpassing 200 million in early 2026. The analyst stressed that meaningful AI adoption would depend on building local datasets, nurturing domestic talent and developing solutions tailored to local needs rather than relying on imported technologies.
PCJCCI also linked the AI initiative with the broader framework of CPEC 2.0, noting its alignment with the government’s “Uraan Pakistan” programme, which focuses on export growth, affordable energy, operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. The chamber believes that aligning these policy directions can significantly enhance Pakistan’s economic resilience and global competitiveness.
China is expected to play a pivotal role in this transformation. As a global leader in AI investment, with projected spending of $125 billion in 2026, China offers opportunities for technology transfer, joint research and infrastructure development under the CPEC umbrella. PCJCCI has indicated its intention to facilitate such collaborations through public-private partnerships aimed at long-term, sustainable growth.
Analysts conclude that while the vision is ambitious, its success will depend on effective implementation, institutional capacity and sustained investment in human capital.

Lahore: [Rana Owais, Reporter ReNews Pakistan]
The Lahore Development Authority (LDA) has continued its initiative of providing plots on easy installments. Plot numbers have been allotted to successful applicants who emerged in the balloting held on February 24, 2026.
Successful candidates in the balloting for commercial and residential plots in LDA City, Johar Town, Sabzazar, Mohlanwal, and Gujjarpura China Scheme have been assigned plot numbers. A total of 34 plots in Johar Town, 30 in Gujjarpura, 21 in Sabzazar, 50 in Mohlanwal, and 30 plots in LDA City have been allotted.
LDA is offering more plots in its schemes on easy installments over a period of three years. Citizens can apply online or visit the LDA Facilitation Center by May 11 to participate in the upcoming balloting. The next balloting will be held on May 18.
Applicants who are successful in the draw can check their plot numbers on the official LDA website. The computerized balloting ceremony was held at the LDA Sports Complex in Johar Town, attended by the Chief Town Planner, Chief IT Officer, Director Auction, Director Finance, Director Revenue, Director Housing, and other officials.

Lahore : ReNews Pakistan
Details of the development program for Lahore for the upcoming fiscal year have been revealed, proposing a substantial allocation to improve the city’s infrastructure and services.
According to official documents, Rs29 billion has been recommended for the Lahore Development Program, while the total size of the program stands at Rs137 billion. Officials stated that expenditures of around Rs108 billion are expected by the end of the current fiscal year in June.
The program focuses on improving basic urban facilities, including the rehabilitation of sewerage systems, construction and rehabilitation of roads and streets, and installation and upgradation of street lighting.
Furthermore, priority has been proposed for the completion of ongoing development projects in the next fiscal year to ensure timely delivery of public services.
Officials said that the Planning and Development Board Punjab has submitted detailed recommendations to the Chief Minister’s Office, and funds will be formally allocated in the budget following final approval.