National Assembly launches AI-enabled paperless system

ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly on Tuesday introduced what it described as Pakistan’s first artificial intelligence-enabled parliamentary system, in a move aimed at making legislative work paperless and more efficient.

The system was unveiled at a soft launch ceremony attended by National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, who said the adoption of artificial intelligence in parliamentary work was now essential in the modern era. He said the use of digital tools had already helped cut delays linked to the movement of physical files while also improving transparency and speed in institutional processes.

Speaking at the event, the speaker said lawmakers had shown strong interest in the use of technology during assembly proceedings.

“Modern technology improves institutional performance,” Sadiq said while outlining the rationale behind the initiative.

Shift towards paperless proceedings

The speaker said the lower house was moving ahead in phases towards a paperless working environment. As part of that transition, he said budget documents were also being shifted to a digital format.

He noted that the assembly had, for the first time a day earlier, conducted proceedings in a paperless environment, describing it as a historic development for the institution.

According to the details shared at the ceremony, the new system is intended to support lawmakers in legislative work and parliamentary affairs through the use of AI-based tools. Sadiq said the technology would provide better assistance to members in carrying out their responsibilities inside the house.

Institutional support and training

The speaker also acknowledged the role of the Ministry of Information Technology and the National Information Technology Board in supporting the initiative. He said their contribution to the digitisation of state institutions was commendable.

He further announced that funds had been allocated for the establishment of a modern data centre within the National Assembly, a step linked to the broader digital transformation of parliamentary operations.

In addition, training is being provided to the National Assembly’s IT directorate staff through the Ministry of IT and the National Information Technology Board to strengthen institutional capacity for the new system.

The launch marks a significant administrative shift in the functioning of the National Assembly, with the speaker presenting it as part of a wider effort to modernise parliamentary procedures through technology. The initiative combines digital documentation, staff training and AI-based support tools as the assembly moves towards reducing reliance on paper in its day-to-day work.