The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) has announced the closure of its temporary camp sites for disbursement of payments, directing beneficiaries to collect their financial assistance from designated HBL Konnect shops across the country. The move aims to streamline the payment process, reduce crowding, and provide easier access to beneficiaries.
Background of the BISP payment system
BISP is Pakistan’s largest social protection initiative, supporting millions of low-income families with cash assistance. Traditionally, payments were made through camp sites set up in various towns and villages, where women queued for hours to receive their entitled support. While this system allowed for organized distribution, it also caused difficulties due to long waiting times, extreme weather conditions, and occasional mismanagement.
The program’s shift towards digital channels, including bank branches and HBL Konnect retailers, is part of its modernization strategy. Authorities state that this transition will make the payment process more transparent, accessible, and convenient for women beneficiaries.
Collection process through HBL Konnect outlets
Under the revised system, BISP beneficiaries can now collect their payments directly from HBL Konnect shops located in both rural and urban areas. The shopkeepers are authorized agents of Habib Bank Limited, and they use biometric verification to ensure that the cash reaches the rightful recipient. This step not only eliminates the need for crowded camps but also brings the service closer to households, reducing travel and waiting time.
Officials have advised beneficiaries to visit only authorized Konnect retailers to avoid fraud or deduction of payments. Beneficiaries are also urged to carry their original CNICs for smooth biometric verification during the transaction.
Challenges and beneficiary concerns
While the move is expected to provide long-term benefits, some challenges remain. Many rural areas still have limited access to Konnect outlets, forcing women to travel to nearby towns. Concerns have also been raised about shopkeepers charging unauthorized fees or beneficiaries facing issues with fingerprint recognition during biometric scans.
The government has set up a helpline for complaints and announced strict monitoring of HBL Konnect agents. Continuous oversight will be necessary to ensure that the transition does not create further barriers for the poorest households who rely on timely disbursement of financial aid.
What this change means for beneficiaries
The closure of BISP camp sites marks a significant change in how financial assistance is delivered in Pakistan. By integrating digital banking channels and authorized agents, the program seeks to modernize its operations and align with global practices in social welfare disbursement. If properly implemented, the shift to HBL Konnect outlets could make the process more efficient and beneficiary-friendly.
Future outlook
Going forward, BISP is expected to further expand its digital footprint, potentially introducing mobile wallet options to increase financial inclusion among women. For now, the success of the new system will depend on how effectively HBL Konnect agents serve the beneficiaries and how swiftly authorities address complaints. The government’s focus remains on ensuring that social protection reaches those who need it most, without delays or exploitation.
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