Pakistan Unveils Digital Wallets for BISP Beneficiaries to Boost Financial Inclusion
In a major development towards a cashless economy and digitized social protection, the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) has officially introduced its Mobile Wallets Payment Model. This initiative is set to revolutionize how financial aid is distributed to low-income families across Pakistan.
Supported by the European Union and the German Government, the project was launched during a high-profile workshop in Islamabad titled “Transition to Cashless Economy: BISP Mobile Wallets Payment Model.” The event gathered key stakeholders including government officials, financial regulators, telecom representatives, and development partners.
Driving Toward a Digital Future
Minister of State for Finance, Bilal Azhar Kayani, highlighted the wallet system as a national priority, referencing the mobile-based distribution of the Prime Minister’s Ramzan Package as a successful precedent.
He stated that digital payments not only enhance transparency and efficiency but also restore dignity to beneficiaries, aligning with the government’s broader vision of a technology-driven economy.
Empowering Women Through Financial Inclusion
BISP Chairperson Senator Rubina Khalid emphasized that the shift to mobile wallets is a strategic move to empower female beneficiaries. She announced a pilot program for direct bank account openings starting on August 14, enabling women to access funds directly and securely.
She also stressed the importance of CNIC-based identification, particularly for female heads of households, calling it a “game-changing safeguard” for inclusion.
“Every woman must have the right to choose her preferred bank and receive payments through biometric verification,” she stated.
Mobile Wallets: A Tool for Dignity and Economic Mobility
BISP Secretary Aamer Ali Ahmad called the mobile wallets a leap forward in financial inclusion and digital empowerment. He described them as more than just payment methods, stating they symbolize economic freedom, mobility, and self-reliance for women.
He also urged stakeholders to actively promote digital literacy so that no one is left behind in this transition.
Industry Collaboration and Panel Insights
The workshop concluded with a panel discussion featuring representatives from banking, telecom, and development sectors. The panel explored key innovations, implementation challenges, and strategic approaches to scale the use of social protection wallets.
This collaboration marks a historic milestone in modernizing state-sponsored financial support for Pakistan’s most vulnerable communities.
Conclusion
The launch of BISP mobile wallets signals a new chapter in Pakistan’s digital transformation. By embracing secure digital tools and ensuring gender-inclusive financial services, the government is taking a bold step toward a more equitable and transparent welfare system.
