Acting on the directives of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, the provincial government has officially implemented a modern, branchless banking system for wage disbursement in the Forest Department, replacing the outdated cash-based payment mechanism.
CM Maryam Nawaz highlighted that the primary goal behind this initiative is to ensure transparency and fairness in financial transactions. “All payments will now be made justly and transparently, leaving no room for corruption or exploitation. The obsolete cash system has been eliminated once and for all,” she stated.
Under this new digital payment framework, wages for forest workers will be directly deposited into their mobile banking accounts. This transition not only guarantees greater financial security but also enhances the efficiency and reliability of wage disbursement.
To further ensure transparency, each payment will require biometric verification and will be accompanied by SMS notifications, helping eliminate common issues such as payment delays, unauthorised deductions, and fraudulent claims.
The Punjab Forest Department, in collaboration with the Bank of Punjab, has completed all necessary preparations to successfully operate this new system.
Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb praised the initiative, describing it as a benchmark for good governance and an exemplary model of how technology can be used to increase transparency in public financial management. She noted that this system could serve as a global example for reforming public sector operations.
The launch of the digital wage system reflects the government’s dedication to safeguarding workers’ rights and restoring their confidence by providing financial stability and modernising payment methods.
In a related development, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has also abolished all fees for birth and death registration across Punjab. She emphasised that identity is a fundamental right and the government is committed to easing bureaucratic processes for citizens.
According to the Punjab Birth and Death Registration Rules 2025, citizens can now register births and deaths free of charge at Union Councils and Municipal Committees for up to seven years.
