ISLAMABAD: The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) is rolling out a direct bank payment system for women under its new digital initiative, Sahulat Accounts, beginning August 13, 2025. The system aims to enhance transparency, security, and dignity in the disbursement of financial aid, particularly for women beneficiaries across Pakistan.
BISP Chairperson Senator Rubina Khalid announced that the pilot phase will be launched in seven major districts: Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Peshawar, Gilgit, Muzaffarabad, and Islamabad. Eligible beneficiaries in these areas will be able to open personal bank accounts with a financial institution of their choice. This will enable them to receive support payments directly—without third-party involvement.
“This marks a significant step in BISP’s transition from traditional cash handouts to digital financial inclusion,” said Senator Khalid. “The direct bank payment system will empower women to access their funds independently, securely, and with dignity.”
As part of the broader effort to modernize social welfare, BISP is also working to integrate digital wallets into the Sahulat Accounts, further streamlining payment mechanisms and supporting Pakistan’s financial digitization goals.
Empowerment Through Skills: Benazir Hunarmand Program
Senator Khalid also highlighted the launch of the Benazir Hunarmand Program, inaugurated by President Asif Ali Zardari on June 21, 2025, marking the birth anniversary of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto. This initiative offers internationally accredited skills training to BISP beneficiaries and their families, enabling them to earn livelihoods and achieve financial independence.
She emphasized that the new payment system represents the foundation of BISP’s future, reflecting a transformative shift in how government aid reaches the most vulnerable.
“The global community is taking notice,” she added. “BISP has earned international recognition, and delegations from around the world are expected to visit Pakistan to learn from our model.”
The initiative is expected to be a milestone in Pakistan’s digital and financial sectors, offering beneficiaries a more efficient, transparent, and empowering system for receiving financial assistance.
