By Aziz Khatri
KARACHI: Deputy Mayor Karachi Salman Abdullah Murad announced that cooperation between the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) and the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) will be further strengthened to ensure more effective implementation of federal welfare programs in the city. He said the partnership will play a key role in addressing public issues, with KMC committed to providing full support.
Chairperson BISP, Senator Rubina Khalid, visited the BISP office at the KMC headquarters, where she was warmly received by Deputy Mayor Murad. During the visit, she reviewed ongoing welfare initiatives and the functioning of the BISP office established at the KMC.
Speaking on the occasion, Senator Rubina Khalid described BISP as a strong support system for underprivileged and deserving communities, emphasizing the program’s transparency and service-oriented approach. She noted that BISP has grown into the largest social protection network in Pakistan, with reforms ensuring further transparency and dignified assistance to beneficiaries.
Senator Khalid highlighted the program’s digital initiatives, including the issuance of one crore (10 million) digital SIMs and the opening of one crore digital accounts for women. She said this initiative reflects the vision of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto to empower women and enhance their awareness. Launched in 2008 under the patronage of former President Asif Ali Zardari, BISP is now moving towards a modern digital framework, with the introduction of digital wallets marking a significant milestone.
She added that under the guidance of President Asif Ali Zardari and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, BISP ensures complete transparency and dignified disbursement of funds, with digital transfers helping eliminate fraud and mafia influence. Action is being taken against those involved in corrupt practices.
Senator Khalid described the initiative of issuing one crore digital accounts and SIMs for women as a global first and a point of pride for the Pakistan Peoples Party and the Government of Pakistan. She also noted that on 21 June 2025, the President launched the Benazir Hunarmand Program, aimed at providing financial assistance while equipping people with economic skills to achieve self-reliance.
