Tech-Tracked Family Card to Shield Low-Income Households
Social Welfare Minister Dr. A.Z.M. Zahid Hossain has said that the process of distributing ‘Family Cards’ to marginal and low-income families will be completed under a strict three-tier monitoring system using modern technology, in line with the government’s election manifesto commitments.
Speaking to journalists at the Secretariat on Sunday, February 22, the minister shared detailed information about the initiative. A pilot project is scheduled to launch in several upazilas before Eid. To oversee the process, a 15-member “Cabinet Committee on Family Card Distribution” has been formed, comprising two ministers and two state ministers.
Dr. Zahid Hossain said the entire card distribution process will be made highly transparent through the use of advanced technology, leaving no room for favoritism or corruption. He expressed optimism that the benefits would reach genuine recipients directly.
Priority for the Poorest Families
The minister noted that the ultra-poor and poor households will be given priority in the initial phase. He emphasized that empowering women within families and restoring financial stability are key objectives of the program.
Application Process and Data Management
A centralized database will be created based on National Identity Cards (NID), where detailed information about each family will be stored. This digital system is expected to reduce irregularities, eliminate fake beneficiary lists, and prevent the involvement of middlemen.
In the first phase, the pilot project will begin in selected areas across the country. Later, beneficiary lists will be prepared through local administrations and elected representatives, and the program will gradually expand nationwide.
Required Documents for Application
Although the full application process has not yet been formally launched, potential applicants have been advised to prepare the following documents in advance:
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Applicant’s National Identity Card (NID)
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Passport-size color photograph
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An active mobile phone number
Where to Apply
After the pilot phase concludes, application forms will be available at Union Parishad offices, municipalities, or ward councilor offices. Preparations are also underway to launch an online portal that will allow applications to be submitted from home.
One Family Card will be issued per household. Through this card, families will receive monthly cash assistance or essential goods support.
A pilot distribution in selected upazilas is planned ahead of the upcoming Eid. The 15-member Cabinet Committee—formed under the chairmanship of the Finance Minister—includes ministers, state ministers, advisers, and secretaries. The committee has been instructed to submit a preliminary report by February 24. The Ministry of Women and Children Affairs will provide secretarial support to the committee.
