USO (Universal Service Obligation)
The telecom deregulation policy (TDP) states that, "The main financing mechanism to promote universal service in Pakistan will be the USF. The USF policy framework will be prepared and approved by the Federal Government. Once a framework is provided by government, it will be administered by PTA. It shall include collection of the funds, within specified policy framework, from the licensees and its disbursement within approved USF framework. The amounts and usage of the USF will be made public, and shall be subject to independent audit."
The MOIT is already working on this issue and the final policy framework is still awaited. It has invited services of consultants for the formulation of practical mechanism of USF. The proposals of interesting parties are under review by the ministry.