BISP to start direct bank payments for women

The Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) will launch a direct bank payment system under its dynamic pilot project “Sahulat Accounts”, starting from August 13, 2025.

This step aims to increase transparency, security, and dignity in payment transfers. BISP Chairperson Senator Rubina Khalid announced that the pilot phase will begin in seven major districts — Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Peshawar, Gilgit, Muzaffarabad, and Islamabad. Eligible women from these areas will be able to open personal bank accounts with any financial institution of their choice. Payments will be transferred directly into their accounts, removing the need for middlemen.

Senator Rubina stated that this is a major shift from traditional cash payments to a more secure digital system. It will allow women to access their funds safely and independently. BISP also plans to link digital wallets with Sahulat Accounts to make transactions even easier. This step will improve Pakistan’s financial and digital systems. The chairperson also highlighted the Benazir Hunarmand Program, launched on June 21 by President Asif Ali Zardari. This program offers skill-based training to BISP beneficiaries and their families, helping them become financially independent.

Rubina Khalid said that this direct payment system is the foundation of BISP’s future. It aims to bring real improvement in the lives of poor families. She also noted that BISP’s work has received international praise. Delegations from other countries are expected to visit Pakistan to learn from this model.