The Punjab Benazir Mazdoor Card has emerged as one of the most important welfare initiatives for industrial workers in Punjab. Introduced by the Punjab Government in collaboration with the Punjab Employees Social Security Institution (PESSI) and the Bank of Punjab (BOP), this smart card combines financial access, healthcare support, and worker protection under one system.
With expanded coverage planned for 2026, the program is gaining attention among factory workers, labor unions, and employers across the province.
What Is the Punjab Benazir Mazdoor Card?
The Punjab Benazir Mazdoor Card is a government-issued smart card for registered industrial and commercial workers. It serves two purposes at the same time.
First, it acts as an ATM-enabled debit card linked with the Bank of Punjab. Second, it works as an official identity card for workers registered under PESSI.
The goal is simple. Protect workers’ rights, ensure fair wages, and give families access to healthcare and welfare benefits without middlemen.
Key Benefits for Registered Workers
Financial Inclusion and Salary Transparency
Workers can receive salaries and government grants directly through the card. Digital wage tracking helps ensure that employers follow the officially notified minimum wage.
Free Medical Facilities Across Punjab
Cardholders are entitled to free medical treatment at:
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23 PESSI hospitals
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Over 250 PESSI dispensaries
This benefit also covers dependents in most cases, reducing healthcare expenses for low-income families.
Discounts at Registered Retail Stores
The card offers 5% to 45% discounts at more than 150 partner outlets, including grocery stores, clothing brands, and daily-use shops.
Welfare Grants and Scholarships
Registered workers can easily access:
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Marriage grants
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Death compensation
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Educational scholarships for children
Eligibility Criteria You Must Meet
To qualify for the Punjab Benazir Mazdoor Card, an applicant must:
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Be employed in a registered industrial or commercial unit
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Be officially registered with PESSI
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Hold a valid CNIC
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Be enrolled by the employer
Unregistered workers must first ask their employer to complete PESSI registration.
How to Apply for Punjab Benazir Mazdoor Card
Currently, there is no direct online application for workers. The process is employer-driven.
Step-by-Step Application Process
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Employer registers the worker with PESSI
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Worker data is shared with Bank of Punjab
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Biometric verification at BOP branch or PESSI office
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Card issuance through bank or workplace
Workers are advised to confirm their registration status before visiting offices.
Punjab vs Sindh Benazir Mazdoor Card
Many people confuse the two programs. Both are welfare initiatives, but they are run separately.
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Punjab card: Managed by PESSI + Bank of Punjab
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Sindh card: Managed by SESSI
Benefits are similar, but registration and authorities differ.
Latest Updates for 2026
Recent government briefings highlight:
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Expansion of hospital and dispensary coverage
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Stronger digital monitoring to prevent underpayment
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Faster worker registration through industrial units
Officials recommend workers stay in contact with employers or nearby PESSI offices for updates.
Final Thoughts
The Punjab Benazir Mazdoor Card is more than a card. It is a safety net for workers and their families. With healthcare access, wage protection, and financial support combined, it reflects a stronger commitment to labor welfare in Punjab.
FAQs
1. Who can apply for the Benazir Mazdoor Card?
Registered industrial and commercial workers enrolled with PESSI.
2. Is online registration available?
No, registration is completed through employers and PESSI offices.
3. What medical facilities are included?
Free treatment at PESSI hospitals and dispensaries across Punjab.
4. Can the card be used as an ATM card?
Yes, it works as a Bank of Punjab debit card.
5. Is this card available in Sindh?
No, Sindh runs a separate program under SESSI.
