The government has announced plans to launch the National Digital Wallet, a digital rewards platform by the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA), aimed at fostering a cashless economy in Pakistan. Under this initiative, 1% of electricity, gas, and fuel bills may be linked to digital rewards. The Ministry of Information Technology has made these recommendations, with plans to submit them to the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) and the cabinet after gaining approval from stakeholders.
According to the proposal, NADRA will collaborate with an Electronic Money Institution (EMI) to introduce the National Digital Wallet. The government plans to link 10% of every Rs1,000 airtime credit to the digital wallet. Additionally, 1% of electricity, fuel, and gas bills will contribute to digital rewards. The digital wallet balance will be accessible through OpenAI for fintech apps and services. NADRA will determine maintenance and usage charges, with support from Karandaaz.
This initiative aligns with the caretaker government’s efforts to promote cashless payments, with recent measures including facilitation for IT companies and a world-class training program for IT graduates. The government is also set to launch Pakistan’s first space policy to provide internet connectivity in remote areas through low-orbit satellites.
