BISP to launch bank accounts for all beneficiaries to streamline payments
The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) has announced plans to open bank accounts for all its beneficiaries, a move aimed at improving the cash disbursement system and enhancing automation. This decision was disclosed during a meeting of the National Assembly’s Poverty Alleviation Committee, chaired by Mir Ghulam Ali, Express News reported.
The initiative will enable beneficiaries to directly withdraw funds from bank branches, improving access and reducing dependency on manual systems. “We are working to provide the option for beneficiaries to access funds from any bank,” stated the BISP Secretary during the meeting.
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However, concerns were raised regarding the limited banking infrastructure in rural areas, where a significant number of BISP recipients reside. To address this, the programme plans to continue cash disbursements through Point of Sale (POS) agents in remote locations while expanding banking services.
To further ensure inclusivity, BISP plans to issue special cards in January to approximately 130,000 women whose thumbprints are not registered in the system. These cards will facilitate their access to payments.
The implementation will begin with a three-month pilot project in eight cities, allowing the programme to test and refine the new system. “This is a major step forward,” the Secretary noted, adding that all banks have agreed to participate in opening accounts for beneficiaries.
Mir Ghulam Ali emphasized the importance of automating the BISP system entirely for better transparency and efficiency. He also highlighted the need to transform how banks perceive BISP recipients, ensuring they are treated as valued clients.
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