Last Updated on: 25th August 2024, 03:48 pm
The Federal Government of Pakistan recently announced a new update to support BISP beneficiaries following the closure of utility stores across the country. To give people more control over their purchases, the government has directed that those who previously relied on subsidies from utility stores for essential food items will now receive direct cash transfers to their accounts.
The federal government introduces direct cash transfers instead of 4000+ utility store subsidies
The government has decided to close the Utility Stores Corporation (USC) and is considering a new method to provide direct cash assistance to deserving people. This change is part of a broader effort to streamline federal ministries and related organizations. The decision was handed over to the Ministry of Industries and Production in a meeting on August 16 headed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
BISP Update: There will be direct cash payments instead of utility store subsidies
With the order to close all utility stores within two weeks, those who received discounted food and monthly rations will no longer get these services. To make sure that the BISP 8171 eligible people are not left without financial assistance, the federal government has announced a new payment method. Its objective is to help poor people during difficult times by providing direct cash assistance.
The government decides to close all utility stores across the country
The government of Pakistan recently decided to close utility stores across the country. Officials believe that keeping these stores open could result in higher costs and are looking to close non-essential stores. Currently, the Ministry of Industries and Production is discussing this issue with the Cabinet.
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What’s next for utility store employees
With more than 4,000 utility stores across the country, the future of many employees is uncertain. In a meeting, Minister Saif Anjum mentioned ongoing efforts to relocate employees from utility stores to other organizations and make the government’s intention to move away from non-essential sectors.
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More than 60,000 employee jobs are at risk
Aon Abbas Buppi, Chairman of the Senate Standing Committee, expressed concern and called the decision a “sad day for the country.” He points out the lack of a clear plan for the 60,000 workers who are at risk of losing their employment due to the closure of utility markets. The future of these employees remains uncertain, and many are worried about what lies ahead.