Karachi: In a significant move toward promoting a cashless economy in Pakistan, Jazz has initiated the distribution of free SIM cards to two million beneficiaries of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP). Notably, 1.7 million of these SIMs come pre-linked with JazzCash mobile wallets, facilitating the transition of women into the digital financial landscape.

The initiative stems from the Prime Minister’s directive to mobile operators to provide free SIMs to BISP beneficiaries, ensuring that vulnerable women are included in the shift from cash-based transactions to digital payments.

The program enables eligible BISP recipients to receive free Jazz SIMs, which are primarily connected to a JazzCash wallet. This system allows future disbursements to be directly deposited into these wallets, promoting secure and traceable digital transfers. Beneficiaries can withdraw money securely, make digital payments, and access essential financial services without intermediaries.

With over 10 million women registered under BISP, Jazz is focusing on activating the initial two million beneficiaries and is prepared to offer continued support as Pakistan advances towards a cashless social safety net.

Aamir Ibrahim, CEO of Jazz and Chairman of Mobilink Bank, commented on the initiative’s impact, stating that the Prime Minister’s push towards a cashless social safety net is a transformative step. He emphasized that the provision of free SIMs and digital payments empowers women by providing them with dignity, privacy, and financial autonomy.

The distribution of SIMs has commenced in Sindh and will progressively cover regions in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Baluchistan. For many women participating in this program, this marks their first digital identity, mobile wallet, and independent financial management experience.

By utilizing secure mobile wallets, beneficiaries can effectively manage their funds, save, pay bills, and engage in the digital economy, thereby enhancing household stability and reducing fraud associated with cash transactions.

This effort is part of Jazz’s ongoing commitment to advancing women’s digital and financial inclusion in alignment with national digitalization goals. Jazz remains dedicated to supporting government initiatives aimed at enhancing the national social safety net and providing marginalized women with the tools needed to succeed in a cashless future.