Latest news with #CNIC-based
Business Recorder
28-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
NA panel identifies absence of deadlines as critical obstacle to project execution
ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly Standing Committee on Poverty Alleviation identified the absence of defined timelines in the sub committee's report as a critical obstacle to project execution. To address this, the committee resolved to summon the governor State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) and private bank presidents in the next session to establish clear deadlines. The committee met with Mir Ghulam Ali Talpur in the chair at the Parliament house on Tuesday. The committee reviewed the progress on poverty alleviation initiatives, assess project implementation timelines, and address institutional challenges hindering effective service delivery. The delays in a pilot project were attributed to system integration issues, with completion expected by July. The upcoming meeting, scheduled after the budget session, will also include the finance secretary and the secretary of industries for further deliberations. On social welfare initiatives, the committee reviewed the Prime Minister's Ramazan Relief Package, under which, 2.7 million out of 3.5 million eligible families received financial assistance via digital wallets and CNIC-based biometric verification. The State Bank's regulatory framework was credited for facilitating secure disbursements. However, the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP)'s staffing shortages due to the federal government hiring freeze were flagged as a major operational hurdle, with over 1,100 vacancies remaining unfilled. The Ministry of Finance was urged to expedite resolutions to prevent service disruptions. Regarding foreign-funded programmes, the Poverty Alleviation Ministry confirmed that no active USAID linked projects but was directed by the committee to submit a full report on all externally financed initiatives, including participating organisations. The committee also emphasised the need for a national poverty reduction framework, integrating federal, provincial, and NGO efforts while ensuring compliance with national security priorities. With 18,000 NGOs currently working in the country, but fewer than 1,000 registered, the committee called for stricter oversight to prevent misuse of funds and safeguarding of national interests. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
25-04-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Zakat disbursements across Punjab through JazzCash
LAHORE: Punjab Zakat & Ushr Department has joined hands with JazzCash, Pakistan's largest fintech platform, to facilitate the disbursement of Zakat funds through its extensive agent network. The partnership aims to increase efficiency, transparency, and ease of access for beneficiaries of Zakat across the province. Under this partnership, Zakat disbursements are scheduled to begin in May. Eligible recipients identified by the Zakat & Ushr Department will receive SMS notifications informing them of their entitlement. The CNIC-based cash disbursements will be conducted through JazzCash agents upon biometric verification. Rashid Iqbal Nasrullah, Advisor and Special Assistant to the Chief Minister of Punjab, said, 'Our goal has always been to serve the people of Punjab with integrity and compassion. This collaboration with JazzCash will make Zakat disbursements more efficient and accessible, especially for those in remote areas. We are delighted to have JazzCash on board as our digital partner and look forward to working together to uplift our most deserving citizens.' Murtaza Ali, President of JazzCash, said, 'This partnership marks a crucial step forward in ensuring that support reaches those who need it most with dignity, speed, and security. We commend the Government of Punjab for its continued efforts to make social welfare assistance more transparent and accessible.' The initiative will support some of society's most vulnerable segments, including individuals requiring guzara (livelihood) assistance, Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), and those seeking marriage support. Guzara allowance beneficiaries and PWDs are eligible for biannual funds, while marriage assistance beneficiaries are eligible for one-time funds. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
