Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunications, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, introduced the government’s innovative strategy for delivering targeted subsidies via digital wallets. She explained that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had assigned several ministries, including those focused on IT and Food Security, the task of developing creative solutions for the efficient and respectful distribution of the Ramadan Relief Package.
This initiative led to the establishment of a groundbreaking Rs. 20 billion digital payments program — a first in Pakistan’s History.
“PM Shehbaz Sharif has given us the freedom and trust to roll out this digital initiative,” she stated. The idea of utilizing digital wallets for aid distribution was recognized as a more effective and transparent approach, in line with the Prime Minister’s larger vision for national digital advancement. This initiative is closely linked to the recently enacted “Digital Nation Pakistan Bill,” which lays the groundwork for transitioning the country to a fully digital economy.
She highlighted the initiative’s significant impact on enhancing financial inclusion, especially for marginalized communities. “One of the most notable outcomes is the promotion of digital inclusivity,” Shaza remarked, noting that over 900,000 digital wallets were established through the program, facilitating more than 1.9 million transactions. These transactions encompassed bill payments, mobile recharges, loans, and insurance — all conducted online, eliminating the need for physical lines and ensuring the dignity of citizens during the aid distribution process.
Emphasizing the initiative’s focus on gender, Shaza Fatima highlighted that over 823,000 women have opened digital wallets and engaged in transactions. She pointed out that this marks a significant advancement in closing the digital gender gap and incorporating women into the formal economy. “When individuals begin to utilize these services, they tend to become regular users. This initiative goes beyond immediate relief — it’s about fostering long-term empowerment,” she remarked. Furthermore, more than 2,500 individuals with disabilities have also joined the digital payments landscape.
The minister expressed her appreciation to all parties involved, including ministries, regulators, the State Bank, PTA, and NTC, mentioning that a dedicated control room was established to address public complaints, which received over 2 million calls. She wrapped up by sharing that the Prime Minister has mandated a third-party evaluation of the program to ensure both transparency and accountability.
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