ISLAMABAD (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 18 Mar, 2026) Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday directed that all payments under the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) be made through digital ‘social protection wallets’, marking a major policy decision aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiency in social welfare delivery.
Chairing a review meeting on the 2026 Ramadan Relief Package presented by the Prime Minister, the Prime Minister praised relevant institutions for ensuring transparent distribution of financial aid, noting that 89 percent of the beneficiaries have already received payments under the scheme, the Prime Minister’s Office said. news He said release.
During the press conference, it was revealed that more than 1.95 million digital transactions have been carried out so far under Ramadan package, reflecting a major shift towards financial technology in public welfare programmes. The Prime Minister described the Social Protection Governor as a “notable initiative.” PakistanA journey towards digital financial inclusion and transparency.
He stressed that transferring all BISP payments to the digital wallet system will not only reduce leakages, but will also ensure dignity and ease for beneficiaries, especially women.
Officials informed the meeting that the initiative has already helped reduce the gender gap in access to digital financial services.
The Prime Minister also took note of the large-scale awareness campaign launched for the Ramadan package, which used print, electronic and social media platforms to inform eligible beneficiaries. According to the media briefing, the dedicated helpline 9999 received approximately 1.7 million calls, while 2.7 million SMS messages were sent to facilitate beneficiaries.
Emphasizing the government’s commitment to transparent and comprehensive social protection, the Prime Minister instructed the authorities to continue strengthening communication and ensuring timely disbursement of funds to all remaining beneficiaries.
The meeting was attended by senior members of the Council of Ministers, including: Federalism Minister of Economic Affairs Ahed Khan Cheema, Minister of Finance Muhammad Aurangzeb, Minister of Information Ataullah Tarar, Minister of Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection Syed Imran Ahmad Shah, Minister of Information Technology Shaza Fatima, Minister of State Bilal Azhar Kayani, BISP Chairperson Senator Rubina Khalid, along with senior officials.