PM Shehbaz unviels 10m digital wallets for BISP beneficiaries

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif on Monday launched 10 million digital wallets for beneficiaries of the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP), calling it a historic step towards transparency, financial inclusion and a cashless economy in Pakistan.

The launch was done with a symbolic palm in the presence of federal ministers, BISP officials and international partners including GIZ. Prime Minister Shehbaz congratulated BISP Chairperson Senator Rubina Khalid, BISP team and partner institutions for introducing a system that would ensure that the actual recipients receive financial assistance directly and securely.

He said that this initiative reflects the vision of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, to empower poor families, especially women, with secure and transparent financial access. Terming BISP “a great initiative to eradicate poverty and create employment opportunities”, he stressed the need to further expand its scope.

The Prime Minister highlighted that 78% of the relief package during Ramadan was successfully distributed through digital channels, proving the effectiveness of cashless transactions. He said that digital payments save time, curb corruption and increase efficiency – this is the need of our time.

PM Shehbaz also stressed on linking BISP assistance to education and health conditions – such as ensuring school attendance of children and health measures – to create a lasting impact. He stressed on reducing the implementation cycle from 8-10 months to just 4 months.

Paying tribute to the State Bank, Ministry of IT, banks and development partners, he said: “We are not just giving aid, we are empowering families to build the nation.”

Earlier, BISP Federal Secretary Amir Ali Ahmed briefed that the new system will create 10 million wallets using identity cards with biometric authentication to prevent fraud. He added that 10 million free SIM cards will also be distributed, the first phase of which has already been launched in Hyderabad, Sukkur and Rahim Yar Khan in partnership with Jazz/Mobilink.

BISP Chairperson Rubina Khalid termed the initiative as a “milestone” in Pakistan’s social security journey. She said it empowers over 10 million poor families, especially women, through digital inclusion and literacy, continuing the vision of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto and taking it forward under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.