10 million BISP users’ bank accounts open

10 million BISP users’ bank accounts open – How it brings more relief

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September, 20 2025

LAHORE (Web Desk): Millions of users of the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) have received an important update regarding their bank accounts and cash withdrawals.

Reports confirm that from now on, users will have to pay bank charges of Rs100 to Rs200 when withdrawing their money. This development was disclosed during a meeting of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Poverty Alleviation, chaired by Lalm Ali Talpur.

Officials briefed the committee that the government has successfully opened one crore bank accounts for BISP users. These accounts are currently inactive but will be activated as soon as beneficiaries withdraw their payments. The move aims to ensure transparency and provide better banking services.

The Deputy Governor of the State Bank informed that BISP users will now be able to withdraw money from any bank. Their accounts will function like regular accounts, offering facilities such as deposits and receiving remittances from across the country.

The meeting also clarified that there will be no role of agents in the payment process anymore. This step is expected to stop unnecessary deductions and corruption. Only the fixed charges of Rs100 to Rs200 will apply on withdrawals.

During the session, the BISP Chairperson highlighted that digital payments still remain a big challenge for women beneficiaries. At present, six banks are working with BISP, and efforts are underway to bring all banks under the One Link platform to allow easier transactions.

The BISP Secretary added that the Prime Minister had set a target of opening one crore bank accounts in four months, which has now been achieved. He further said that within the next six months, all stages of digital transactions will also be completed, ensuring not just transparency but faster and safer services for all beneficiaries.

This update brings both opportunity and concern for BISP users. On one side, transparency and better facilities will make the system stronger. On the other, the new charges of Rs100 to Rs200 may add pressure on poor families already struggling with inflation. The coming months will show whether this digital shift becomes a true relief or an extra burden for the common people.