PM Launches Digital Wallets for BISP Beneficiaries

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif initiated the distribution of 10 million digital wallets for beneficiaries of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) on Monday. He hailed this as a watershed moment for Pakistan as it advances towards financial inclusion, transparency, and a digitized economy.

The Prime Minister officially introduced the system with a ceremonial gesture, joined by federal ministers, BISP officials, and global partners, including GIZ.

He congratulated BISP Chairperson Senator Rubina Khalid, the BISP team, and partner organizations for this significant step, which he said would protect deserving recipients from unnecessary challenges.

PM Shehbaz stated that the digital wallet system embodies the spirit of Benazir Bhutto, providing BISP beneficiaries with secure and direct access to financial aid.

He highlighted BISP as an important initiative for reducing poverty and creating jobs, while also noting that continuous efforts are necessary to increase its overall effect.

The Prime Minister described the introduction as a major advancement toward a cashless economy.

He mentioned that during Ramadan, 78% of the relief funds were effectively distributed digitally, despite doubts and opposition from certain groups.

He noted that digital transactions are essential for today’s world because they save time, eradicate corruption, improve efficiency, and support Pakistan’s swift progress.

The Prime Minister shared that he oversaw numerous digitization meetings, expressing his commitment to converting government, business, and personal transactions to digital platforms despite early reluctance.

PM Shehbaz advised BISP leaders to add requirements for education and healthcare to the program.

He stated that families receiving aid should be required to send their children to school, and health initiatives should be linked to BISP support.

He emphasized that this strategy would transform the program into a genuine legacy that helps millions of children, pushing for a reduction in the implementation cycle from eight to ten months to just four months.

The Prime Minister acknowledged the contributions of all parties involved, including the State Bank of Pakistan, the IT Ministry, Pakistani banks, and development partners.

He affirmed that their goal is not only to give aid but also to develop a group of nation-builders.

BISP Federal Secretary Amir Ali Ahmed explained that a high-level committee was formed under the Prime Minister’s guidance to guarantee openness and ease of access in the digital system.

He stated that following the launch, 10 million digital wallets would be created using the CNICs of beneficiaries, along with biometric verification to prevent identity theft.

He also mentioned that 10 million free SIM cards would be given out, with the first phase already underway in Hyderabad, Sukkur, and Rahim Yar Khan in partnership with a mobile network provider.

The BISP Chairperson called the launch an important milestone in Pakistan’s social protection efforts.

She noted that this program, which assists over 10 million poor families, is not just about financial aid but also about enabling social and economic progress.

She emphasized that connecting benefits to women’s CNICs provides them with recognition and inclusion in the national database.

She added that the new wallets will create additional opportunities and be backed by digital literacy initiatives for women beneficiaries who are unfamiliar with technology.

Senator Rubina emphasized that BISP is a continuation of Benazir Bhutto’s vision for women’s empowerment, a vision championed by President Asif Ali Zardari and now further developed under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership.