Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has launched digital wallets for the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), calling it a major step toward a cashless economy and a tool to fight corruption. The initiative, unveiled in Islamabad on August 25, 2025, aims to make financial aid more accessible and transparent for millions of Pakistanis.
A New Era for BISP
At the launch event, free mobile SIMs were distributed to BISP beneficiaries, enabling them to use the new digital wallet system. The prime minister praised BISP Chairperson Senator Rubina Khalid, the programme’s secretary, and other stakeholders for their efforts. He highlighted the system’s potential to reduce poverty and unemployment by ensuring aid reaches those who need it most.
The digital wallets allow beneficiaries to receive funds Directly, bypassing traditional cash-based methods that were prone to delays and mismanagement. This shift builds on a successful trial during Ramadan 2024, when BISP funds were disbursed digitally for the first time, marking a significant milestone in the programme’s history.
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Why Digital Wallets Matter
The move to digital wallets is designed to streamline aid distribution. By using mobile-based transactions, the system ensures:
- Speed: Funds reach beneficiaries faster, often instantly.
- Safety: Digital transfers reduce the risk of theft or loss.
- Transparency: Transactions are traceable, minimizing corruption.
The prime minister emphasized that this system aligns with global trends toward cashless economies, which save time and improve efficiency. “The faster we adopt this, the quicker Pakistan will progress,” he said.
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Honoring a Legacy
Shehbaz Sharif connected the initiative to the vision of the late Benazir Bhutto, after whom the programme is named. He said the digital wallets strengthen her legacy by ensuring aid reaches vulnerable communities with dignity and efficiency. The programme, launched in 2008, supports millions of low-income families across Pakistan, particularly women, through direct financial assistance.
Looking Ahead
The government plans to expand the digital wallet system to cover more BISP beneficiaries in the coming months. Officials say the initiative will also integrate with other financial inclusion programs to empower marginalized groups. The prime minister urged stakeholders to continue improving the system to ensure it remains accessible to all, especially in remote areas.
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