Pakistan Launches Mobile Wallets For BISP Beneficiaries With EU And German Support

In a major stride toward a cashless economy and strengthened social protection, the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) unveiled its Mobile Wallets Payment Model during a high-level workshop held in Islamabad on Thursday

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 31st Jul, 2025) In a major stride toward a cashless economy and strengthened social protection, the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) unveiled its Mobile Wallets Payment Model during a high-level workshop held in Islamabad on Thursday.

Backed by the European Union and the German Government, this landmark initiative aims to digitize payments for millions of low-income families across Pakistan.

Titled “Transition to Cashless Economy: BISP Mobile Wallets Payment Model”, the workshop brought together senior government officials, financial regulators, telecom executives, and development partners to explore the transformative potential of social protection wallets—secure digital tools designed to provide direct, dignified financial support to women beneficiaries.

Minister of State for Finance and Head of the Prime Minister’s Delivery Unit, Bilal Azhar Kayani, BISP Chairperson Senator Rubina Khalid, and BISP Secretary Aamer Ali Ahmad were among the key attendees.

“This is not just a policy intervention—it’s a national priority,” said Bilal Azhar Kayani, citing the mobile wallet-based distribution of the Prime Minister’s Ramzan Package as a successful example.

“Digital payments bring transparency, efficiency and dignity while aligning with the Prime Minister’s broader vision for a cashless economy.”

Senator Rubina Khalid emphasized BISP’s focus on women’s financial empowerment.

“At the direction of President Asif Ali Zardari, we are prioritizing transparency and dignity in how support is delivered. Our pilot for direct bank account opening begins on August 14-a milestone in digital empowerment,” she announced.

She also highlighted the significance of recognizing female heads of households through CNIC verification, calling it a “game-changing safeguard” for women’s inclusion.

“Every woman must have the right to choose her preferred bank and receive payments through secure biometric verification,” she stressed.

BISP Secretary Aamer Ali Ahmad described the mobile wallets as “a leap toward financial inclusion,” adding, “These are not just payment tools—they represent mobility, dignity, and economic freedom for women.”

He urged stakeholders to promote digital and financial literacy, ensuring no one is left behind in the digital transition.

A panel discussion followed the main session, featuring representatives from the banking, telecom, and development sectors.

The panelists discussed innovations, challenges, and actionable strategies to strengthen the rollout of mobile wallets under the social protection framework.

The event marked a significant milestone in Pakistan’s digital journey, with BISP leading efforts to modernize state assistance for the country’s most vulnerable populations.