Web Desk: Indus RAS expo highlights the significant progress in developing domestic defence technologies, including fully indigenous simulators and locally produced drone components, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif as he outlined plans to expand the country’s robotics and artificial intelligence capabilities.
Addressing the opening ceremony of the Indus RAS, Robotics and Autonomous Systems Expo 2026, Sharif said Pakistan had achieved 100% local development of certain simulators and more than 60% indigenous content in drone manufacturing.
He said the country’s armed forces had adopted advanced technologies under the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, adding that some of these systems were displayed at the event venue.
During the ceremony, the prime minister announced the creation of a $20 million Pakistan Venture Fund aimed at attracting investment into the technology sector.
He also introduced the Spark and Elevate programme, designed to support research, startups and technology companies working in robotics and autonomous systems.
Sharif said the initiatives would help transform scientific research into commercial products, competitive businesses and high-value employment opportunities.
The prime minister said Pakistan needed to establish a coordinated innovation ecosystem connecting universities, research institutions, industries, startups and other stakeholders.
He emphasised that technological knowledge should be developed domestically and continuously improved within the country rather than relying mainly on imported solutions.
“Let our universities, research centres, startups, industries and farmers become part of one national innovation ecosystem,” Sharif said, highlighting the need for broader participation in technology development.
Sharif said emerging technologies should not remain limited to wealthy countries, large corporations or urban centres.
Instead, he said robotics and autonomous systems should improve productivity and create opportunities for farmers, small businesses, women entrepreneurs, young innovators and underserved communities.
He identified agriculture, emergency response, industry and public services as key areas where autonomous technologies could deliver practical benefits.
The prime minister said artificial intelligence and automation had moved beyond simple calculations, with modern machines now capable of sensing environments, making decisions and performing complex tasks.
He said Pakistan had begun exploring advanced technology applications in sectors including agriculture, disaster management and defence.
In agriculture, Sharif highlighted challenges such as water shortages, rising production costs, fragmented land ownership and climate change, saying technology could help farmers improve efficiency and resilience.
He also noted that autonomous systems could support emergency operations, particularly in situations where damaged infrastructure or dangerous conditions prevent direct human access.
While promoting technological advancement, Sharif stressed the importance of responsible development and regulation.
He said clear legal and ethical frameworks were necessary to ensure autonomous systems remained secure, transparent and safe.
“As these technologies become more powerful, our responsibility also grows simultaneously,” he said.
Sharif said Pakistan’s future competitiveness would depend on sustained investment in research, entrepreneurship and skills development.
He added that the development of robotics and autonomous technologies was not only about machines but also about empowering young people to create solutions and drive economic growth.
“Pakistan will not be a nation that merely inherits the choices made by others. We will shape our own destiny through innovation, enterprise, self-reliance and untiring efforts,” he said.
The event was attended by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, federal ministers, technology experts, industrialists, entrepreneurs, foreign delegates, company representatives and students.
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