The Government of Punjab on Thursday appointed Ali Dar as the Special Adviser to the Chief Minister on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Special Initiatives, marking a strategic move by the provincial administration to bolster innovation and digital transformation across key sectors.
The notification, issued by the Establishment Department, formally assigns Dar the responsibility of advising Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on policies and projects related to AI adoption, digital infrastructure, and other strategic initiatives aimed at accelerating socioeconomic development throughout the province.
Ali Dar, who has a background in technology and public policy, will collaborate with government departments, private sector stakeholders, and academic institutions to develop frameworks that encourage the responsible use of AI and emerging technologies. His role is expected to focus on leveraging digital tools to improve public services, enhance governance, and drive innovation in areas such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and law enforcement.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has repeatedly emphasized the importance of technology and innovation in achieving long-term development goals. In her public statements, she has called for integrating AI solutions in government workflows to enhance efficiency, transparency, and citizen engagement.
Under the new assignment, Ali Dar will reportedly advise on provincial AI policy and strategic implementation plans, coordinate cross-departmental AI projects and pilot programs, facilitate partnerships with global tech organizations and academia, support capacity building and human capital development in AI-related fields, and monitor ethical and regulatory aspects of emerging technologies
Government sources told TechJuice that this role is envisioned to act as a bridge between policymakers and technology experts, helping Punjab harness AI’s potential while mitigating risks related to data privacy, algorithmic bias, and digital exclusion.