The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) has introduced an interoperable payment system allowing women beneficiaries across Pakistan to receive financial assistance through any of six participating banks and financial institutions. The programme has started distributing the first instalment under the new arrangement through Habib Bank Limited (HBL), HBL Microfinance Bank, Easypaisa, JazzCash, Bank Alfalah and Bank of Punjab. The initiative aims to provide beneficiaries with greater flexibility in accessing government assistance while improving transparency and accountability in the disbursement process.
The new payment mechanism is designed to give women greater freedom to select their preferred banking channel rather than depending on a single financial institution for receiving payments. By introducing multiple participating institutions, BISP aims to reduce long queues, improve access to financial assistance and prevent unauthorised deductions from beneficiaries’ payments. The interoperable arrangement is also expected to strengthen payment delivery by allowing different financial service providers to operate within a coordinated system, making the distribution process more accessible across various regions.
In connection with the launch, BISP Chairperson Senator Rubina Khalid met State Bank of Pakistan Governor Jameel Ahmad to discuss the implementation of the new payment mechanism and its future development roadmap. During the meeting, she appreciated the central bank’s guidance and support in establishing the digital banking arrangement and onboarding the six participating payment partners. BISP Additional Secretary Dr. Ismat Nawaz also attended the meeting, which focused on coordination between the programme and the banking sector to support the new disbursement structure.
Senator Rubina Khalid said the system would enable women beneficiaries to access their financial assistance through banking channels of their choice. She reaffirmed BISP’s commitment to improving financial inclusion and ensuring that government support reaches beneficiaries through a transparent, secure and dignified process. The introduction of multiple payment partners is intended to provide greater convenience while reducing difficulties associated with traditional cash distribution arrangements, particularly for women who face accessibility challenges when collecting their assistance.
BISP said coordination with the State Bank of Pakistan and participating financial institutions would continue to support the implementation and expansion of the system. The involvement of commercial banks, microfinance banking services and digital payment platforms highlights the growing role of financial technology in government assistance programmes. Through this interoperable arrangement, BISP aims to strengthen payment accessibility, improve accountability and provide women across Pakistan with more control over how they receive financial support.
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