BISP Bank Accounts Ready for Digital Transactions – Withdrawal Fee Rs 100–200. The Government of Pakistan has taken a major step to digitize social support by launching BISP bank accounts for women beneficiaries. Around one crore (10 million) bank accounts have been opened under the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP). This initiative aims to remove middlemen, reduce corruption, and allow women to directly access their funds through banks and ATMs.
Why BISP Bank Accounts Were Introduced
For years, BISP beneficiaries had to stand in long queues, and often part of their stipend was lost due to unfair deductions by agents. Now, every woman has her own bank account, which becomes active after the first withdrawal.
The main purpose of these accounts is:
- Transparency: Money goes directly to the beneficiary.
- Empowerment: Women gain control over their funds.
- Digital Inclusion: Supports Pakistan’s vision of modern banking and financial access.
Prime Minister of Pakistan set a target to open 10 million accounts within four months, which has been successfully achieved.
Quick Facts About the New BISP Bank Accounts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Accounts Opened | 1 crore (10 million) |
| Purpose | Transparency & financial inclusion |
| Activation | On first withdrawal |
| Stipend Access | Direct via banks & ATMs |
| Target Completion | 4 months (achieved) |
How Beneficiaries Will Withdraw Money
The new digital system simplifies the process of getting stipends. Beneficiaries can now visit a bank branch or ATM without relying on agents or special camps.
Steps to Withdraw:
- Visit a BISP-linked bank branch or ATM.
- Show your original CNIC at the counter.
- Withdraw your stipend directly.
- The first withdrawal activates your account permanently.
- Always collect the printed receipt.
This process treats women as regular bank customers, giving them dignity and security.
Bank Charges for Withdrawals
Every withdrawal will now carry a small fee between Rs 100 and Rs 200. This fee is deducted directly by the bank and covers operational costs such as ATMs, branches, and monitoring.
Key Points:
- Withdrawal Charges: Rs 100–200 per transaction
- Deducted By: Banks (not agents)
- Reason: Service & operational costs
- Security: Deduction is made officially by the bank
This ensures full transparency and prevents unauthorized cuts by middlemen.
Progress of Banks and Digital Integration
Currently, six major banks are handling BISP accounts. In the coming months:
- More banks will join the program.
- Integration with OneLink, a national ATM and banking platform, will allow withdrawals from any bank across Pakistan.
- Future plans include receiving remittances, depositing savings, and using digital wallets for more financial flexibility.
Benefits for Women Beneficiaries
Digital BISP accounts provide long-term advantages, especially for women in rural areas:
- Direct access to funds without agents.
- Official receipts for every transaction.
- Ability to receive remittances from family members.
- Opportunity to save money or use digital wallets.
- Financial dignity as part of the formal banking system.
Challenges and Solutions
Despite the progress, challenges exist:
- Many women in rural areas are unfamiliar with ATMs.
- Limited access to bank branches in remote locations.
- The withdrawal fee of Rs 100–200, while small, may be significant for some families.
To overcome these, BISP and banks are planning awareness programs and training sessions to teach women how to use ATMs, avoid fraud, and manage accounts safely.
Concluion
Opening 1 crore BISP bank accounts is more than a technical update – it’s a revolution in social welfare. By removing middlemen and giving women direct control of their stipends, the government has made the system transparent, secure, and fair.
Even with the Rs 100–200 withdrawal fee, this initiative is safer and more reliable than previous practices where agents exploited beneficiaries. As more banks join and digital literacy spreads, BISP women will gain financial independence and a permanent place in Pakistan’s banking system.
FAQs
Q1: How many BISP bank accounts have been opened?
A1: Around 1 crore (10 million) accounts have been opened for women beneficiaries.
Q2: When does the BISP account activate?
A2: Accounts activate automatically after the first withdrawal.
Q3: How much is the withdrawal fee?
A3: Rs 100–200 per transaction, deducted directly by the bank.
Q4: Can beneficiaries use ATMs across Pakistan?
A4: Yes, once OneLink integration is complete, withdrawals will be possible from any ATM or bank branch.
