The Punjab government has taken a major digital leap with the official launch of a Digital Salary App for daily wage earners in the Forestry, Wildlife, and Fisheries Department. Spearheaded by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on May 26, 2025, this smart system will impact around 10,000 workers—including forest guards, drivers, and field laborers—across all districts of Punjab.
This initiative replaces outdated cash payments with secure, instant mobile transactions. It’s not just about salaries—it’s a full-blown push toward transparency, safety, and financial inclusion for workers who were previously excluded from modern banking systems.
How the Digital Payment System Works
This new salary disbursement method is simple and secure. Here’s what workers need to do:
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Register Yourself: Daily wage workers can register at their nearest Forestry Office or designated field camps. A valid CNIC and biometric data are required for verification.
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Set Up a Mobile Bank Account: If the worker doesn’t have a bank account, they’ll receive on-site support to open one using their registered mobile number. The Bank of Punjab mobile app is the main platform used.
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Receive Payment via App: Once approved, wages are sent directly to the worker’s digital wallet or account. All transactions go through biometric verification to eliminate fraud.
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Withdraw or Spend Digitally: Workers can withdraw cash from ATMs, mobile agents, or use their funds digitally for shopping, paying bills, or transferring money.
Why It’s a Game-Changer for Daily Wage Laborers
This program brings a long list of benefits that are impossible with the old cash system:
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Instant, Hassle-Free Payments: No delays, no queues—just quick, automated transfers.
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Zero Fraud Risk: Biometric verification means wages can only be accessed by the rightful worker.
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Secure & Traceable: Digital records reduce the risk of mismanagement and theft.
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Promotes Financial Growth: Many of these workers never had access to a bank before. Now they can save, get credit, and manage money smartly.
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Less Red Tape: The shift to digital cuts out middlemen and reduces unnecessary paperwork.
Also Read: Get Rs. 13,500 in BISP June 2025: Who Qualifies & How to Check
Government Support & Worker Assistance
Since not all workers are tech-savvy, the government is offering extra help:
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Training Camps & Workshops: Specially arranged to teach workers how to use mobile banking apps and manage digital transactions.
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Offline Access: For areas with weak internet, services are accessible via SMS codes and agent support.
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Helpline Open 24/7: Workers can call 0800-09400 for help with any payment or technical issues.
Expansion Plans & Future Outlook
Launched first in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Faisalabad, the program will spread to all Punjab districts by June 2025. Salaries are aligned with the Punjab Minimum Wage Act, 2019, based on March 2024 rates.
This isn’t a one-off move—it’s part of CM Maryam Nawaz’s broader plan to digitize public services. This system complements ongoing digital forestry programs and may soon be introduced in other departments.
Final Thoughts
With this groundbreaking move, Punjab’s government is changing the way daily wage workers are treated. Transparent, fast, and secure wage payments aren’t just a policy—they’re a promise of dignity, respect, and inclusion for thousands of hard-working individuals.
