The Government of Pakistan, through the Federal Minister Rubina Khalid, has announced the phased issuance of 22 lakh Benazir Cards under the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) for eligible women by 2025. This initiative is expected to alleviate issues faced by BISP beneficiaries in accessing financial aid, providing a more streamlined process through local Union Councils and six partnered banks.
Key Highlights
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Program | Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) |
| Initiative | Issuance of 22 lakh Benazir Cards in the first phase |
| Beneficiaries | Registered, eligible women under BISP |
| Distribution Points | 4,000 Union Councils, six partnered banks |
| Start Date | Expected in January 2025 |
| Objective | To reduce long waiting times and ensure reliable access to funds for eligible women |
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Background: Challenges Faced by BISP Beneficiaries
The BISP has long supported millions of women from low-income backgrounds. However, accessing this aid has presented issues, including:
- Long waiting times at designated bank locations.
- Unjust deductions made by intermediaries, reducing the financial support received.
These challenges create delays and unnecessary burdens, especially for women in rural areas who often face difficulties in reaching banks.
The Government’s Solution: Benazir Cards
To resolve these issues, the government has introduced the Benazir Card, allowing beneficiaries to:
- Withdraw funds at any time from any of the partnered banks.
- Access financial aid without relying on intermediaries or facing long waits.
This card will provide women with greater flexibility, as they can choose from 4,000 Union Council centers or one of the six banks for withdrawals, making the process more local and accessible.
22 Lakh Benazir Cards in the First Phase
Given that BISP benefits more than one crore women, the government has opted for a phased distribution. Initially, 22 lakh cards will be issued to eligible women, simplifying the rollout and ensuring a smooth implementation. Women will receive these cards via Union Councils, thus making the payment process more efficient and accessible.
Eligibility for Benazir Cards
The new Benazir Card will only be issued to women who are already registered and eligible under the BISP. If you are a BISP beneficiary, you qualify for a Benazir Card. However, those who are not registered must complete the following steps:
- Visit the nearest BISP tehsil office.
- Submit necessary documents to verify eligibility.
Ensuring proper registration is crucial, as only eligible and registered women will receive the Benazir Card in the planned distribution phases.
Expected Timeline for Card Issuance
Rubina Khalid stated that the phased rollout of Benazir Cards is expected to start in January 2025. The process will continue over several phases, allowing eligible women to access funds through the new system. This method will provide immediate relief from the common challenges faced by beneficiaries.
Conclusion
The introduction of the Benazir Card under BISP marks a significant step towards empowering women across Pakistan. By addressing long wait times and preventing unfair deductions, these cards will give women greater control and reliable access to financial aid.
If you are a BISP beneficiary or know someone who qualifies, ensure that all registration steps are completed to take advantage of this opportunity. The government’s commitment to issuing 22 lakh Benazir Cards by 2025 highlights a pivotal shift in improving the lives of women and enhancing their financial security.
