Friday, September 11, 2026

13- 50 Years of Excellence Special Communications Organization. (1976-2026) (2026-13)

Size of Stamp

40.5 x 40.5 mm

Size of Print

36.5 x36.5 mm

Number of stamps in a Sheet

(4x5) 20 Stamps

Perforations

13 C

Denomination:

Rs. 30/-

Date of Issue

August 14, 2026

Colors

CMYK

Printing Technology

Lithography Offset

Paper

100 GSM Water Mark Gummed Paper

Gum

PVA

Quantity of Stamp

0.13 Million

Design

Supplied by Customer

Printer

Pakistan Security Printing Corporation, Karachi


Special Communications Organization (SCO) was established in 1976 with the mandate to develop, operate, and maintain telecommunication services in the strategically important and geographically challenging regions of Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB). Since its inception, SCO has remained steadfast in its commitment to bridging the communication divide in remote areas, ensuring reliable connectivity for socio-economic development and national integration.

In its initial phase, SCO focused on the expansion of the Pole Line (PL) Route and the establishment of analog telephone exchanges, laying the foundation of basic communication infrastructure. With the evolution of technology, SCO undertook a major transformation in the early 2000s by digitizing its network, significantly enhancing service quality and operational efficiency.

During 2004-2006, SCO introduced data services, Wireless Local Loop (WLL), and 2G mobile services, along with the establishment of an International Gateway, connecting the region to global communication networks. A major milestone was achieved through the successful completion of the Pakistan-China Optical Fiber Cable (OFC) Project (2016-2019), providing a high-capacity and reliable international connectivity route.

In 2019, SCO entered a new era of digital transformation by launching Digital Financial Services through SPaisa, extending secure and accessible financial solutions to underserved communities and promoting financial inclusion. In parallel, SCO rolled out 4G LTE services (2019-2022) across AJK&GB, enabling high-speed mobile broadband and accelerating digital connectivity in remote regions.

Continuing its modernization journey, SCO carried out IP Core Upgradation that enhanced its capacity sixfold from 100G to 600G while broadband user capacity enhanced from 66000 to 240000. On 14 June 2024, SCO introduced SCloud, a locally anchored, secure digital backbone designed to keep data within the region and under trusted control. It was not merely an infrastructure upgrade, but a significant step toward digital sovereignty, transparency, and responsive governance.

Building on this progress, SCO is currently implementing NGMS Phase-IV (2025-2026), focusing on the expansion of 4G coverage, development of new sites, upgradation of existing network infrastructure, and the gradual introduction of 5G services in selected cities. In near future, through snowbound passes and rugged landscapes, SCO will achieve a remarkable milestone by becoming the first operator to introduce 5G services in main cities of AJK&GB marking a major leap toward advanced connectivity.

SCO's commitment to excellence has also been recognized at the national level. As per independent surveys conducted by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) in 2023, SCO has been ranked as the leading data services provider in AJK&GB, with service accessibility reaching 100% in both urban and rural areas.

Aligned with the vision of Digital Pakistan, SCO has also established 100 Software Technology Parks (STPs) and Freelancing Hubs (FLHs), fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and employment opportunities for youth in AJK& GB, thereby creating a sustainable digital ecosystem.

Beyond technological advancements, SCO has consistently demonstrated resilience and national commitment by ensuring uninterrupted communication. during natural disasters and emergencies, playing a vital role in relief and rescue operations.

Over nearly five decades, SCO has evolved into a modern and dynamic organization, contributing significantly to national connectivity, digital inclusion, and socio-economic uplift of remote regions. Today, SCO stands as a symbol of innovation, reliability, and excellence, continuing its mission to connect communities and drive Pakistan's digital future.

On 50 Years of Excellence Special Communications Organization (1976-2026), Pakistan Post is issuing the Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs.30/- each denomination on August 14, 2026.

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