MUZAFFARABAD: Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Prime Minister Raja Faisal Mumtaz Rathore on Monday announced that 5G services would be launched in the territory from March 10, describing the move as a “historic milestone” aimed at accelerating digital transformation across the state.

In a special message, he said the provision of digital facilities in line with modern-day requirements was among his government’s foremost priorities. The launch of 5G, he added, would usher AJK into a new era of high-speed internet, modern education, e-health, e-governance and digital economy.

Trial operations would begin shortly, for which a policy letter had already been issued, he said, while terming the initiative a significant step towards integrating the state’s youth with the global digital landscape.

The prime minister believed that the 5G technology would help stimulate business activity, expand opportunities in information technology and freelancing, and enable talented young people to connect directly with international markets. “5G is not merely the speed of the internet; it is the speed of development, employment and prosperity,” he remarked. Underscoring inclusive development, the AJK PM said the government wanted every city and village of the state to benefit equally from digital progress.

Published in Dawn, February 24th, 2026