Pakistan has taken a major step in artificial intelligence with the beta launch of Zahanat AI, the country’s first locally developed AI chatbot. Mehwish Salman Ali, co-founder and CEO of Data Vault and Zahanat AI, leads this project. The chatbot is designed to address local challenges while ensuring cultural relevance and ethical AI practices.
A Locally Built AI with Secure Infrastructure
Unlike global AI models that depend on foreign data centers, Zahanat AI operates from a Karachi-based data center. This setup, established in 2022, ensures that all data stays within Pakistan, improving security and compliance. The infrastructure includes high-speed internet and DDoS protection, making AI operations stable and secure.
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Cost-Efficient AI Development with Smart Resources
Zahanat AI stands out for its efficient use of GPU technology. The system runs on Nvidia GPUs and other hardware, initially utilizing used gaming GPUs to cut costs. While global AI models like DeepSeek required $5 million, Zahanat AI was built at a much lower cost, though exact figures remain undisclosed.
“Our aim was to create an AI that understands Pakistan’s specific needs,” said Mehwish Salman Ali. “With 2 billion parameters trained locally, Zahanat AI ensures cultural awareness and accuracy.”
Ethical AI Designed for Pakistan
Zahanat AI prioritizes responsible AI development. The model censors sensitive topics and avoids discussions about individuals, aligning with Pakistan’s socio-cultural norms.
Currently, the beta version is available only through an invite system at chat.zahanat.ai. Users must register with an email, profession, and social media details. This controlled access allows the team to gather feedback and improve the chatbot before a public launch.
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Future Plans: Multilingual Support & Voice Input
The initial Z1 model is just the beginning. The next version, Z2, will support multiple languages spoken in Pakistan. Additionally, future updates will introduce voice input, enhancing accessibility.
With AI rapidly shaping industries, Zahanat AI positions Pakistan in the global AI landscape. This innovation could transform education, healthcare, business, and governance, making AI more accessible to Pakistanis.
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