Introduction to BISP’s Digital Transformation
The Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) is initiating a groundbreaking move in its journey to empower deserving women across Pakistan. From August 13, 2025, a direct bank payment system will be launched under the innovative pilot program “Sahulat Accounts.” This step, as reported by ARY News, marks a significant transition from traditional cash disbursement methods towards a modern, transparent, and dignified approach to financial support.
A New Era: The Sahulat Accounts Pilot Initiative
This new direct bank payment system is designed to enhance transparency, security, and dignity for BISP beneficiaries. The pilot phase will be rolled out in seven major districts: Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Gilgit, Muzaffarabad, and Peshawar. These locations have been strategically chosen to represent diverse regions and urban centers across .
As part of this initiative, eligible women will have the opportunity to open personal bank accounts with financial institutions of their choice. This development ensures that beneficiaries receive their financial support directly, eliminating the need for intermediaries and reducing potential delays and discrepancies.
Empowering Women Through Financial Inclusion
Senator Rubina Khalid, the BISP Chairperson, has stressed that the direct bank payment system is not just a technological upgrade; it is a step towards empowering women. By allowing recipients to access their funds independently, securely, and with dignity, the initiative seeks to foster greater self-reliance among women who are often at the heart of vulnerable communities.
This move is expected to increase financial literacy, promote savings, and encourage responsible financial practices among beneficiaries. Ultimately, women’s increased access to digital banking services will contribute to their overall economic empowerment.
Integration with Digital Wallets for Streamlined Payments
BISP’s vision extends beyond bank accounts. The organization is actively working to integrate digital wallets into the Sahulat Accounts system. This integration aims to further streamline payment mechanisms, offering beneficiaries greater flexibility and convenience in accessing and utilizing their funds. The adoption of digital wallets is in line with the broader goal of driving financial development and digital transformation across the country.
Skill Development Through the Benazir Hunarmand Program
In addition to financial support, BISP has rolled out the Benazir Hunarmand Program, inaugurated by President Asif Ali Zardari on June 21, 2025, in honor of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto’s birth anniversary. This program offers internationally recognized training for BISP beneficiaries and their families.
By equipping individuals with market-driven skills, the Hunarmand Program enables families to become self-sufficient, reducing their dependence on financial aid and opening up new avenues for sustainable income generation. This dual approach of financial inclusion and skill development is poised to create lasting positive impacts on Pakistani society.
A Model for Global Replication
Senator Rubina Khalid has underscored the potential of BISP’s new system to serve as a model for other countries. The program has garnered international attention, with delegations planning to visit Pakistan to study and possibly replicate the model in their own contexts. This recognition positions BISP as a pioneer in the digital and financial inclusion space, highlighting Pakistan’s leadership in innovative social protection strategies.
Streamlined Payment Mechanism for Beneficiaries
The direct bank payment system, combined with digital wallets and skill training, is set to revolutionize the way financial assistance is delivered in Pakistan. Beneficiaries will experience a smoother, more reliable, and dignified payment process. Moreover, these reforms will contribute to broader national goals of digitalization and financial sector development, reinforcing BISP’s commitment to supporting Pakistan’s most vulnerable populations.
