PM launches 10 million BISP digital wallets

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday launched 10 million digital wallets for Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) beneficiaries, terming it a historic milestone in Pakistan's journey towards transparency, financial inclusion, and a cashless economy.

With a symbolic palm touch, the premier inaugurated the system in the presence of federal ministers, BISP leadership, and international partners, including GIZ.

He congratulated BISP Chairperson Senator Rubina Khalid, the BISP team, and partner institutions for the "landmark decision that will safeguard genuine recipients and protect them from undue difficulties." "The digital wallet system is in its true sense blessed by the soul of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, as it empowers BISP beneficiaries with safe, transparent, and direct access to financial assistance," the premier said.

He emphasized that BISP remains a "great initiative for poverty alleviation and employment generation," but stressed that continued efforts were needed to expand its impact.

The prime minister termed the launch "a great leap towards a cashless economy." He recalled that during Ramazan, 78 per cent of the relief package was successfully disbursed through digital channels despite skepticism and resistance from vested interests.

"Cashless transactions are the pressing requirement of our times. They save time, end corruption, and bring efficiency, helping Pakistan progress rapidly," he remarked.

The prime minister revealed that he personally chaired multiple meetings on digitization despite initial "indifferent attitudes and boredom" on the issue, underlining his resolve to transform government-to-government, business-to-business, and personal transactions into digital channels.

The prime minister concluded by paying tribute to all stakeholders SBP, IT Ministry, Pakistani banks, and development partners for their contributions. "We are not just disbursing aid, we are raising an army of architects and workers to build the nation," he said.

PM awards Rs2.5m each to three shepherds

The prime minister awarded cash prizes to three shepherds from Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) who saved around 300 people by warning of an impending glacial lake outburst in the Ghizer district. He presented cheques of Rs2.5 million each to Wasit Khan, Ansar and Muhammad Khan at the Prime Minister House in Islamabad, praising their courage and presence of mind.

"You are the heroes of Gilgit-Baltistan," the prime minister told them. "Because of your timely action, the entire Pakistani nation, including myself, is proud of you."