CM Punjab Maryam Nawaz Launches Digital Payment System for Daily Wage Labourers
Punjab’s Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has introduced a new digital wage payment system to help daily wage labourers receive their payments quickly, securely, and without middlemen. The initiative aims to protect workers’ rights and promote digital financial access across the province.
This project is an important step toward a fair, transparent, and modern payment method that benefits thousands of low-income workers in sectors like forestry, sanitation, and construction.
What Is the Digital Payment System?
The digital payment system allows labourers to receive their wages directly into their mobile banking accounts. It removes the need for cash handling and stops unfair deductions by contractors or intermediaries.
Key Features:
- Direct-to-account payment at the end of each working day
- SMS alerts to confirm that the payment has been sent
- Cash withdrawal options from nearby mobile banking agents
The system ensures that hard-working individuals are paid on time and with full transparency.
Why This Initiative Matters
For Workers:
- No more delayed payments
- Full control over their earnings
- Dignity and respect for their daily labor
For the Government:
- Saves time and resources
- Creates digital records of all payments
- Reduces corruption and leakages in the system
For the Economy:
- Encourages use of digital banking
- Helps unbanked citizens become financially included
- Builds trust in public service delivery
How It Works
Step 1: Registration
Workers submit their valid CNIC and mobile number at their department office.
Step 2: Account Linking
A digital bank or wallet account is linked to the worker’s ID.
Step 3: Daily Transfers
Each day’s wage is sent directly to the registered account.
Step 4: Notifications
The worker gets an SMS confirming the payment.
Step 5: Withdrawal
Money can be withdrawn from a nearby mobile agent or ATM using a simple code or ID verification.
Labour-Friendly and Easy to Use
The government has made sure that even workers who don’t own smartphones can still benefit. A basic mobile phone that can receive text messages is enough. This ensures that the service is inclusive and accessible.
No extra charges are applied to the workers. The transaction cost is covered by the government, so labourers get their full pay.
Departments Covered (So Far)
- Forest Department
- Sanitation and Municipal Workers
- Road maintenance and public works teams
The plan is to expand to other sectors gradually in the coming months.
Most Common Questions (FAQs)
Who can benefit from this payment system?
Any registered daily wage labourer working under a government department, such as forestry or sanitation.
Do I need a smartphone to use this service?
No. A basic mobile phone that can receive SMS is enough to get payment confirmation.
What if I don’t have a bank account?
You will be helped to open a mobile banking account at no cost during the registration process.
Is this service available all over Punjab?
It has been launched in selected districts and will soon expand to other areas across Punjab.
Goals and Future Plans
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced that this system is part of a broader plan to:
- Modernize worker payment processes
- Eliminate wage theft and corruption
- Digitize public services and reduce cash handling
The government is also working on:
- Adding more departments and cities
- Providing digital training for workers
- Introducing helplines and support centers for quick help if problems occur
Why This System Is a Game-Changer
This new system does more than just send money—it brings respect and empowerment to the daily wage earners who build and clean our cities. For too long, they have faced delayed payments, unfair cuts, and no way to complain.
By connecting labourers to the formal financial system, this initiative:
- Helps them save and manage money
- Gives them a digital identity
- Opens doors to future programs like health insurance, pensions, and loans
Final Thoughts
The digital wage payment system launched by CM Maryam Nawaz is a bold and forward-thinking solution. It reflects her vision of a transparent, tech-driven, and worker-friendly Punjab.
This move not only improves the lives of daily wage earners but also sets an example for other provinces to follow.
Read this: New BISP Kafalat Installment Announced in Budget 2025–26
