Telecom sector playing a major philanthropic role amid pandemic.

ISLAMABAD -- The telecom sector has beenplaying a key role amid the Covid-19 pandemic, ranging from financial contributions to catering to educational needs.

Pakistan Telecommunication Company (PTCL) recently concluded a nationwide drive to support under-served communities affected by the pandemic during Ramazan. Ration packs were distributed to over 7,000 families in 30 cities across Pakistan, including cities in Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan. The ration drive was conducted with assistance from philanthropic partners.

The company also sponsored Pakistan Red Crescent Society's (PRCS) 120-bed quarantine facility in Rawalpindi along with providing personal protective equipment (PPE) for almost 500 frontline workers to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).

Furthermore, PTCL's Razakaar Trust has supported deserving communities across the country during the pandemic.

Meanwhile, Jazz Pakistan deposited Rs20 million to the Prime Minister's Covid-19 Relief Fund by matching every rupee donated by its customers under the company's 'Matching Grants' programme. This was the first tranche of payments under the programme, launched last month to double all contributions made by subscribers and employees to the fund.

The idea behind this initiative is to encourage more people to donate in response to the looming health and economic challenges. Jazz is hopeful that it will raise more funds in the coming...