LAHORE : The National Institute of Public Policy (NIPP) organized the Public Policy and Book Festival 2026 at the National School of Public Policy, bringing together policymakers, academics, civil servants, media professionals and students for discussions on governance, research and literature.
The day-long event was inaugurated by Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, Speaker of the Punjab Assembly. Participants included senior government officials, representatives of the Higher Education sector, members of civil society and researchers.
In his opening remarks, Dean NIPP Dr. Naveed Elahi said the festival aimed to strengthen collaboration between policymakers and academic institutions, promote research-based dialogue and encourage a culture of reading and scholarship.
Discussions on digital security and governance
The festival opened with a panel discussion on “Cybersecurity in the Age of Artificial Intelligence.” Experts, including former Additional DG of the Federal Investigation Agency Ammar Jaffery and DG NIPA Lahore Farooq Mazhar, discussed policy and security challenges arising from rapid technological advancements.
Another session focused on “Local Governance: A Need of the Hour,” featuring former Federal Minister Khurram Dastgir Khan and other governance specialists. Speakers examined institutional reforms and the role of effective local government in public service delivery.
Book launches and cultural activities
Several books were launched during the festival. Ambassador Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry’s book “Pakistan–India Relations” was unveiled in the presence of diplomats and scholars. Former Inspector General Zulfiqar Cheema’s “Jehd-e-Musalsal” and Ahsan Rana’s “Hain Kawkab Kuch” were also launched during separate sessions.
In addition to academic discussions, the event featured documentary screenings, book stalls, an NSPP information corner and live music. A photographic exhibition of Quaid-e-Azam, organized with the Directorate of Electronic Media and Publications, and an exhibition on the Pakistan Movement arranged in collaboration with Nazaria-e-Pakistan were also showcased.
Concluding the event, Dr. Naveed Elahi highlighted the role of informed public opinion in shaping effective policy and reaffirmed NIPP’s commitment to fostering intellectual engagement and evidence-based dialogue in Pakistan.
