The National Assembly Standing Committee on Poverty Alleviation has urged authorities to speed up the digital banking pilot project under the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP). Originally planned for June, the project is now expected to launch by the end of July. Beneficiaries will start opening accounts by August 15.
The main goal of this initiative is to reduce human involvement in Benazir Income Support Programme payments. This will help ensure faster, more transparent, and secure delivery of aid. Committee members emphasized the need to shift from manual processes to a tech-driven model in Pakistan’s social protection system.
In its 10th session held at Parliament House, the committee stated that digital systems will improve the experience and dignity of BISP beneficiaries. The State Bank of Pakistan confirmed that most backend systems are ready, and final approvals are in progress.
The digital banking pilot will first be rolled out in seven districts, including Muzaffargarh. It will include biometric verification, geotagged banking, and easy account opening. Beneficiaries will receive debit cards only if fingerprint scans fail.
To make services more accessible, SBP also plans to expand ATM networks, offer staggered payments, and launch digital wallets. Testing for two-factor authentication and system integration is ongoing. After the pilot phase, a six-month review will be held before launching the system nationwide.
Concerns were raised about how Benazir Income Support Programme recipients are treated at banks and payment camps. The committee was assured that efforts are being made to protect their dignity and safety.
A proposal was also made to connect mobile data records with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority to improve biometric verification, especially in remote areas.
BISP reported that only 2,347 of its 3,486 approved posts are currently filled. The committee said relying too much on deputation staff increases costs and weakens the system. Recruitment is limited by fiscal policies set by the IMF and controlled by the Cabinet Division.
To improve outreach, the committee approved the relocation of BISP offices to areas like Munda and Balambat. The session ended with a firm commitment to fast-track the digital banking rollout, ensuring fair access and improved transparency for all beneficiaries.
Read how the government plans a 20% increase in the BISP budget to strengthen social safety nets — Click here for the full story
