Digital Wallets Launched for 10 Million BISP Beneficiaries

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has unveiled a major initiative by launching 10 million digital wallets for beneficiaries of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), calling it a “historic milestone” in Pakistan’s push for financial transparency, inclusion, and a cashless economy . The ceremony, held earlier this week, featured a symbolic palm touch to mark the launch and was attended by federal ministers, BISP officials, and international development partners such as GIZ .

Under the new system, 10 million digital wallets will be issued using beneficiaries’ CNICs and secured through biometric verification to reduce fraud and ensure the aid reaches its intended targets . Additionally, the program will distribute 10 million free SIM cards to enable connectivity, with the first set already being rolled out in cities like Hyderabad, Sukkur, and Rahim Yar Khan in coordination with Jazz/Mobilink Bank .

The prime minister emphasized that cashless transactions are essential in today’s world as they help eliminate corruption, save time, and boost efficiency . He noted that during Ramadan, despite resistance, 78% of the relief package had already been disbursed digitally . In his remarks, Sharif urged linking financial aid to education and health outcomes, reducing bureaucratic delays, and empowering women by tying benefits directly to their CNICs—calling the digital wallet system a continuation of the late Benazir Bhutto’s vision.