January 08, 2025 (MLN): The Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Professor Ahsan Iqbal, directed the Pakistan Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) to draft a business plan for the newly launched PakSat-MM1.
PakSat-MM1 is the country's first multi-mission satellite.
He passed these directives during a meeting with Suparco chairman Muhammad Yousaf Khan, who called on him here, according to the press release.
The meeting highlighted several key initiatives, such as the commercialization of the PakSat-MM1 satellite and the development of advanced agricultural monitoring technologies.
The minister stressed the importance of working with the Ministry of Information Technology to develop a comprehensive strategy for the satellite’s commercialization to fully capitalize on its potential.
The Suparco chairman updated the minister on the organization’s initiatives in modern agricultural monitoring, which are assisting farmers in achieving better crop yields.
Ahsan Iqbal directed Suparco officials to integrate their efforts with the Land Information and Management System to collect consolidated data.
He also highlighted the need to strengthen collaborations with other institutions to maximize the use of satellite remote sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for enhanced business processes.
The minister also reaffirmed plans to host a symposium later this month at the Institute of Space Technology, under the banner of “URAAN Pakistan.”
The symposium, titled "Beyond the Stars, New Worlds Await," is designed to showcase emerging opportunities in space exploration and research.
