The federal government is considering a plan to transfer targeted petroleum subsidies directly to citizens through digital wallets, aiming to ensure transparent and uniform relief across the country, reported 24NewsHD TV channel Monday.
Officials from the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication said preparations are underway to shift subsidy payments straight to consumers, clarifying that no dedicated mobile application has been developed and that there is no proposal for petrol rationing.
According to officials, individuals will be required to register through Excise and Taxation Offices (ETOs) to become eligible for the subsidy. Data from ETOs across provinces is being collected and shared with the State Bank of Pakistan to facilitate the transfer of funds.
They added that, based on ETO records, subsidy amounts are being credited directly to beneficiaries’ accounts linked with their national identity cards. Initial payments through digital wallets have already commenced in some cases.
Officials said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed all provinces to adopt a unified policy to ensure equal relief nationwide.
They further noted that provinces are independently implementing targeted subsidies for motorcycles and farmers, while measures for the transport sector—including trucks, buses and other heavy vehicles—will be handled at the national level.
Similar arrangements are also being developed for Islamabad, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir as part of the broader framework to streamline subsidy distribution.
Reporter: Waqas Azeem