ISLAMABAD

In a major step toward Pakistan’s digital transformation agenda, the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) is set to launch nationwide digital wallet-based payments from July 2026, enabling millions of beneficiaries to receive financial assistance directly through mobile wallets and digital banking channels.

The move is expected to benefit nearly 10 million families enrolled under BISP, reducing dependence on cash distribution centres and minimizing payment delays, leakages, and unauthorized deductions. Beneficiaries will be able to access funds through secure digital wallets linked to partner banks and mobile financial service providers.

The transition forms part of the government’s broader cashless economy initiative, aimed at bringing low-income households into the formal financial system while expanding financial inclusion for women across the country. Officials say the new system will offer greater transparency, convenience, and control over payments for beneficiaries.

BISP has been working with financial institutions, regulators, and development partners to implement the Social Protection Wallet model, which will allow direct digital transfers and reduce reliance on intermediary payment mechanisms. The initiative is backed by international partners, including the European Union and the German government.

The nationwide rollout marks one of the largest social protection digitization efforts in Pakistan’s history and is expected to accelerate the country’s shift toward a digital economy while improving service delivery for vulnerable families.