The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) has successfully distributed 2.4 million free SIM cards to registered beneficiaries across Punjab as part of its transition toward a digital wallet–based payment system. The initiative aims to ensure secure, transparent, and timely disbursement of financial assistance to deserving families.
According to officials, all future BISP payments will be made exclusively through digital wallet accounts linked to these SIM cards, eliminating cash-handling risks and improving financial inclusion.
Digital Payments to Become Mandatory for BISP Beneficiaries
BISP Director General Punjab, Haider Murtaza, confirmed that the SIM cards are being provided completely free of cost and are directly linked to wallet accounts opened in the beneficiaries’ names.
While speaking to the media during a visit to SIM Distribution Centres in Muzaffargarh, the DG stated that the initiative is a major step toward modernizing the social protection system and strengthening transparency in welfare payments.
“In the future, all BISP payments will be disbursed through wallet accounts linked to these SIMs,” he said.
On-Ground Review of SIM Distribution Process
During his visit, Haider Murtaza reviewed:
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Operational arrangements at distribution centres
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Beneficiary facilitation mechanisms
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Crowd management and service delivery standards
He interacted directly with women beneficiaries, listened to their concerns, and observed the process to ensure that services were being delivered efficiently, respectfully, and without delays.
Digital Financial Literacy Training for Beneficiaries
In addition to SIM distribution, digital financial literacy training is being provided at the centres to help beneficiaries understand:
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How to use SIM cards safely
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How wallet accounts function
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How to receive and manage payments digitally
Officials stated that this training is crucial to ensure beneficiaries can confidently and independently use digital financial services.
Women Empowerment Through Social Protection Wallets
The BISP DG emphasized that the wallet accounts are being issued primarily in the names of women, reinforcing the government’s commitment to women’s economic empowerment.
He noted that access to digital wallets will:
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Strengthen financial independence
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Reduce reliance on middlemen
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Improve control over household finances
Important Safety Instructions for Beneficiaries
Haider Murtaza issued strict instructions to beneficiaries:
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SIM cards are 100% free — no payment should be made to anyone
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Do not share wallet information, PIN codes, or SIM details
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Keep SIM cards safe at all times
For complaints or assistance, beneficiaries were advised to contact:
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Nearest BISP Tehsil Office
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BISP Helpline: 0800-26477
Zero Tolerance for Negligence or Misconduct
Expressing satisfaction over the progress so far, the DG directed field staff to:
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Further speed up SIM distribution
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Maintain high service quality
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Ensure strict compliance with standard operating procedures
He reiterated a zero-tolerance policy for negligence, misconduct, or exploitation of beneficiaries.
A Major Step Toward Financial Inclusion
The rollout of wallet-based payments marks a significant shift in Pakistan’s social welfare delivery system. By leveraging digital technology, BISP aims to ensure:
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Greater transparency
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Faster payment delivery
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Enhanced protection of beneficiaries’ funds
Officials believe the initiative will play a long-term role in modernizing welfare payments and promoting financial inclusion, particularly for women.
