ISLAMABAD ( WNAM REPORT ): The pilot phase of the Social Protection Wallet began on 17th November across 41 districts, with 22,000 free SIMs issued in just two days. The overall target is 10.6 million beneficiaries, making it the largest SIM-based financial access initiative in Pakistan’s history*
Minister for Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety, Syed Imran Ahmed Shah, and Chairperson BISP Senator Rubina Khalid, chaired a high-level progress review meeting at the BISP Headquarters on Wednesday to assess the ongoing nationwide distribution of free SIMs for the activation of the Social Protection Wallet, a key reform initiative aimed at enhancing transparency and financial inclusion for BISP beneficiaries.
The meeting was attended by Secretary BISP Amer Ali Ahmad, Additional Secretary Dr. Asmat Nawaz, and all Directors General. Officials briefed the Minister that the pilot phase has received a strong response, with 22,000 free SIMs distributed in just two days. The nationwide target is 10.6 million SIMs, making it the largest SIM-based financial access initiative in Pakistan’s history. *Officials informed the Minister that this is one of the largest global exercises in terms of women’s empowerment, financial inclusion, and digital transformation.*
It was highlighted that, with the support of the State Bank of Pakistan, each beneficiary will now have an individual bank account with full interoperability, allowing withdrawals from any partner bank’s channel significantly enhancing convenience and financial access.
All eligible women have been advised to collect their free SIMs from the nearest BISP office or designated campsite by December 31. This beneficiary-centric initiative will promote financial inclusion, improve transparency, and minimize the risk of fraud.
Directors General from BISP regional offices also briefed the Minister on the caseload and progress in their respective regions. Minister Syed Imran Ahmed Shah appreciated the performance and the pace of progress achieved so far.
