BISP Raast Payment System vs. Old Ehsaas Cash Disbursement: A Complete Comparative Analysis
BISP RAAST payments system has been introduced by Benazir Income Support Programme to replace the traditional Ehsaas Program cash distribution system . This shift aims to reduce delays, eliminate fraud, and enhance financial inclusion for millions of beneficiaries.
But how does the new Raast system compare to the old cash-based model? Which is faster, safer, and more accessible? This article provides a detailed comparison, including:
✔ Payment methods (old vs. new)
✔ Speed, security, and cost differences
✔ Pros, cons, and real-life impacts
✔ Step-by-step guide for beneficiaries
Let’s get started by covering each aspect.
1. Payment Method Comparison: Old Cash System vs. BISP Raast Payments
A. Old Ehsaas Cash Disbursement System
- How It Worked:
- Beneficiaries received SMS notifications to visit designated payment centers (banks/camps).
- Long queues and manual biometric verification (thumb impression) were required.
- Cash was handed over physically, leading to fraud risks and delays.
- Key Issues:
- Long waiting times (beneficiaries often spent hours in queues).
- Corruption & leakage (fake beneficiaries, agent commissions).
- Limited accessibility (rural beneficiaries struggled to reach centers).
B. New BISP Raast Payments System
- How It Works:
- Funds are directly deposited into bank accounts or mobile wallets.
- No biometric verification needed for withdrawals (if using mobile wallets).
- Beneficiaries can withdraw cash via ATMs, agents, or digital payments.
- Key Improvements:
- Instant transfers (no more waiting for payment days).
- Reduced fraud (digital tracking via NADRA & SBP).
- 24/7 access (withdraw anytime, anywhere).
پاکستان کی سماجی بہبود کی خدمات میں ڈیجیٹل انقلاب آچکا ہے، جہاں بینظیر انکم سپورٹ پروگرام (BISP) اب راست (Raast) اور BISP موبائل والٹ کے ذریعے رقم کی ترسیل کر رہا ہے۔ لیکن یہ پرانے نقدی نظام سے کس طرح مختلف ہے؟ آئیے موازنہ کریں۔
2. Comparative Analysis: Cash vs. BISP Raast payments
| Feature | Old Cash System | BISP Raast payments |
|---|---|---|
| Payment Speed | Slow (days/weeks) | Instant (within seconds) |
| Security | High fraud risk (cash theft, agents) | Secure (biometric + digital records) |
| Accessibility | Limited to payment centers | 24/7 access via ATMs/mobile wallets |
| Cost Efficiency | High (transport, agent fees) | Low (direct transfers) |
| Financial Inclusion | Limited (unbanked excluded) | Expanded (mobile-based solutions) |
3. Pros & Cons of BISP Raast Payments
✅ Advantages of Raast Digital Payments
✔ Instant transfers – No more waiting for payment days.
✔ No corruption – Digital trail prevents fraud.
✔ 24/7 access – Withdraw cash anytime via ATMs/agents.
✔ Financial inclusion – Even unbanked users can access funds via mobile wallets.
❌ Challenges of Raast System
- Digital literacy issues (some elderly beneficiaries struggle with mobile wallets).
- Network problems in remote areas.
- Limited agent coverage in some villages.
4. Real-Life Impact of BISP Raast Payments
- Faster emergency aid (e.g., flood relief funds disbursed in hours).
- Reduced travel costs for rural beneficiaries.
- More transparency (every transaction is digitally recorded).
5. How to Register for BISP Raast Payments
- Check Eligibility – SMS your CNIC to 8171.
- Link Bank Account – Visit your bank and activate Raast ID (your CNIC).
- No Bank Account? Register for BISP Mobile Wallet at Ehsaas centers.
- Receive Payments – Withdraw via ATM, agent, or mobile wallet.
6. Future of Ehsaas Payments: What’s Next?
- Expansion to other programs (Ehsaas Kafalat, Nashonuma).
- USSD codes for non-smartphone users (coming soon).
- Biometric ATMs in rural areas.
Conclusion
The BISP Raast payment system is a game-changer for Ehsaas beneficiaries, offering speed, security, and convenience compared to the old cash model. While challenges like digital literacy remain, the shift to digital payments ensures greater transparency and financial inclusion.
🔗 Official Resources:
If you want to know more details about BISP RAAST digital payment in 7 Districts, click here
If you want to know about CM apni zammen apna ghar, Pm laptop scheme or any other Ehsaas programs and its registeration process details. click on the links.
