Pakistan is moving to strengthen its digital governance system through the proposed National Data Governance Policy 2026. The policy gives the Pakistan Digital Authority (PDA) a central role in regulating, monitoring, and enforcing data governance standards across federal public institutions.
Prepared by the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication, the proposed policy names the PDA as the country’s national authority for data governance. The authority will develop standards, oversee their implementation, and ensure that federal public bodies comply with the national data governance framework.
According to the policy document, the PDA will have the power to issue binding directions to ministries, departments, and public sector organizations. These directions will ensure that government institutions follow national data governance rules.
The authority will also manage the National Open Data Portal, oversee the National Data Exchange (WASL), maintain the National Data Catalogue, and conduct regular audits. These audits will measure whether public bodies are following the required data governance standards.
Moreover, the proposed framework requires every federal public body to appoint an Agency Chief Data Officer (CDO). Each CDO will implement the policy within the organization. The officer will maintain data inventories, ensure the lawful use of data, and report compliance status and security incidents to the PDA.
The policy also proposes the formation of a National Data Governance Council under the chairmanship of the PDA. The council will include representatives from federal and provincial governments, sector regulators, and other stakeholders. It will serve as the country’s highest forum for coordinating and aligning data governance efforts.
In addition, the PDA will introduce and publish a National Data Maturity Index. This index will evaluate data governance practices across public institutions. The authority will release the results every year. These findings will help identify gaps, guide corrective measures, and shape future priorities.
Furthermore, the proposed policy authorises the PDA to conduct audits, order corrective actions, and enforce compliance through binding directions. Public bodies that repeatedly fail to comply could face enforcement action under applicable laws.
However, the policy makes it clear that the PDA’s role will focus on public sector data as a national asset. The authority responsible for Pakistan’s future personal data protection law will continue to safeguard personal data rights. The proposed National Data Governance Policy 2026 will come into effect after receiving federal Cabinet approval and its publication in the official Gazette.
