ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday inaugurated 10 million digital wallets for recipients of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), calling it a transformative step toward financial inclusion, greater transparency, and the evolution of a cashless economy in Pakistan.
The launch ceremony, attended by federal ministers, BISP officials, and international partners including GIZ, marked a symbolic milestone as PM Shehbaz activated the system with a palm scan, highlighting the shift toward biometric-based financial support.
Calling it a “historic initiative,” the prime minister congratulated BISP Chairperson Senator Rubina Khalid, the programme’s team, and partner organisations for ensuring safe and direct access to aid for deserving families. “This system is blessed by the soul of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, as it empowers beneficiaries with dignity and independence,” he remarked.
Path Toward a Digitally Empowered, Inclusive Pakistan
PM Shehbaz emphasized that BISP continues to be a vital tool for poverty alleviation, but urged stakeholders to broaden its impact. He proposed linking aid to school attendance and health checkups, saying: “Assistance must come with responsibility. Families should ensure their children attend school and participate in health programmes.”
He described the move to digital wallets as a “great leap” toward digitisation, recalling how 78% of the Ramazan relief package was delivered through digital channels despite resistance. “Cashless transactions reduce corruption, improve efficiency, and fast-track national progress,” he said.
Shehbaz Sharif revealed that he personally led several meetings on the digital shift, overcoming initial indifference from some quarters. He reaffirmed his commitment to modernising government, business, and personal transactions through digital means.
Earlier, BISP Secretary Amir Ali Ahmed explained that each digital wallet will be tied to the beneficiary’s CNIC and protected through biometric verification. He added that 10 million free SIM cards are also being distributed, with rollout already underway in Hyderabad, Sukkur, and Rahim Yar Khan in partnership with Jazz/Mobilink.
BISP Chairperson Senator Rubina Khalid hailed the initiative as a “historic milestone” in Pakistan’s social protection journey, adding that it not only offers financial support but also promotes women’s inclusion and empowerment. Digital literacy training will be provided to female beneficiaries unfamiliar with technology, she added.
Rubina Khalid credited Shaheed Benazir Bhutto’s vision and its continuation under President Asif Ali Zardari and PM Shehbaz Sharif, saying this new phase marks a significant step forward for millions of families across Pakistan.
