ISLAMABAD, Pakistan: Around 30,000 beneficiaries of Benazir Income Support Programme would be facilitated with smartphones besides Rs 250 balance per month to enhance financial and digital inclusion of information technology.
The smartphones having 3G services would be provided in un-served and under-served areas of Balochistan and FATA under a programme which would be funded by Universal Service Fund (USF) as the government has upgraded its scope.
Official sources told the state-run news agency that they would also be given Rs 250 balance every month, training, besides different apps to increase mobile adaptability including a know how of e-commerce etc.
The BISP beneficiaries would get information about the amount they are receiving from the government which would mitigate the fraud chances.
The sources said pilot project would cover Sibi, Harnai, Barkhan, Loralai-Zhob, Musakhel, Sherani-Kalat, Kharan/Washuk, Kohlu Dera Bugti, Kohistan and entire FATA with all 7 Agencies.
BISP has already launched e-commerce facility for promotion of handicraft skills of BISP beneficiaries, aimed at providing them better access for their products in national and international markets.
The objective is to alleviate poverty in rural and semi-urban areas of Pakistan by supporting rural based micro and small enterprises.
They informed that market access to the products of marginalized segments will contribute in their welfare and the effects of such measures will also give boost to the economy of Pakistan.
