Today News! Free SIM Cards Distributed to 2.4 Million BISP Beneficiaries Across Punjab 2026

Free SIM Cards

In a significant move toward digital financial inclusion, the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) has reached a major milestone in January 2026. Haider Murtaza, Director General (DG) of BISP Punjab, confirmed that 2.4 million Free SIM Cards have been distributed to eligible women across the province to ensure transparent and direct payment of their quarterly installments.

The program aims to eliminate middlemen and long queues by shifting to a Digital Wallet System, where the quarterly stipend—which has been increased to Rs 13,500 in 2026—is sent directly to the beneficiary’s mobile account.

BISP Free SIM Cards 2026: Key Details

FeatureDetails (January 2026 Update)
Total Distributed (Punjab)2.4 Million SIMs (approx. 49% of the target)
Current Quarterly AmountRs 13,500 (Increased from Rs 10,500)
Mandatory RequirementSIM must be registered in the beneficiary’s own name
Digital Wallet PartnersJazzCash, Easypaisa, HBL, Bank Alfalah, and UBL
Official Websitebisp.gov.pk
Helpline0800-26477

How to Get Your Free BISP SIM & Activate Wallet

If you are an eligible beneficiary and have not yet received your Free SIM Cards or activated your digital wallet, follow these official steps:

1. Check Your Eligibility Status

Before visiting any center, confirm your status by sending your 13-digit CNIC number via SMS to 8171 or visiting the official 8171 Web Portal.

2. Visit a Distribution Center

Eligible women should visit their nearest BISP Tehsil Office or designated Union Council-based registration centers. In South Punjab, centers like Shamsabad and Qasimpur (Multan) are actively facilitating beneficiaries.

3. Biometric Verification

Bring your original CNIC. You will undergo a biometric (thumb impression) verification. This process is mandatory to link the SIM and the Social Protection Wallet to your identity.

4. Zero Cost Policy

The SIM card and the registration process are completely free. If any agent or official asks for money, report them immediately to the helpline.

Benefits of the New Digital Wallet System

The transition to a mobile-based payment system offers several advantages to the 10 million expected beneficiaries nationwide:

  • Direct Payments: From January 2026, payments are being moved away from campsites. Funds are transferred directly to your mobile wallet.
  • Withdrawal Flexibility: Beneficiaries can withdraw cash from over 6,000 ATMs of partner banks (HBL, Bank Alfalah, etc.) or any authorized JazzCash/Easypaisa agent.
  • Full Amount Guarantee: The digital system tracks every rupee. The government covers withdrawal charges in most cases, ensuring you receive the full Rs 13,500.
  • Instant Notifications: You will receive a secure SMS from 8171 as soon as your funds are credited to your account.

Security Alerts & Fraud Prevention

To protect your financial aid, follow these safety guidelines:

  • Keep PINs Secret: Never share your 4-digit PIN or the OTP (One-Time Password) sent to your mobile with anyone, including BISP staff.
  • Trust Only 8171: All official communications regarding payments, surveys, or eligibility will come only from the shortcode 8171. Ignore messages from private mobile numbers.
  • Report Scams: If an agent deducts a “commission” or demands a fee, call the BISP Toll-Free Helpline at 0800-26477 or visit your local BISP office to lodge a formal complaint.

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