Family Card Scheme Set for Nationwide Launch

In fulfilment of a major pledge made during the Thirteenth National Parliament election, the newly elected government has announced the introduction of a comprehensive social protection initiative known as the “Family Card” scheme. The programme, approved under the leadership of the Prime Minister, is scheduled to begin on a pilot basis across the country from 10 March. Authorities believe the initiative will significantly strengthen the national social safety net by directly supporting marginalised, extremely poor, and low-income households.

The decision was confirmed during a Cabinet meeting held at the Secretariat on Tuesday. In its initial phase, the programme will be implemented in 14 wards within 14 unions across 14 upazilas. The Prime Minister is expected to formally inaugurate the pilot scheme in one selected upazila.

Pilot Framework and Beneficiary Selection

Minister for Social Welfare A Z M Zahid Hossain stated that beneficiaries are being identified through door-to-door data collection in the selected areas. Rather than relying solely on administrative records, field officials are conducting on-site verification to ensure that assistance reaches genuinely disadvantaged families.

The Family Card will be issued primarily in the name of the mother or the female head of the household. Government officials argue that directing financial resources to women tends to improve household expenditure on nutrition, children’s education, and healthcare. Each card will cover up to five family members. If a household has more than five members, additional cards will be issued proportionately, with one card allocated for every five individuals.

A summary of the pilot project’s main features is provided below:

Financial Assistance and Disbursement

Each registered family will receive a monthly financial allowance of 2,500 taka. To promote transparency and minimise irregularities, funds will be transferred directly to beneficiaries through bank accounts or mobile financial service platforms, replacing traditional cash distribution methods.

An initial block allocation has already been secured from the Ministry of Finance to fund the pilot phase. Officials have indicated that a dedicated allocation will be incorporated into the forthcoming national budget in June to ensure sustainable expansion.

Oversight and Central Database

A two-tier monitoring mechanism has been established to safeguard accountability. At the upazila level, a committee led by the Executive Officer will oversee implementation. At the ward level, government officials will verify collected data, and a First Class gazetted officer will serve as an observer in each ward.

A centralised digital database linked to the national identity system is being developed to prevent duplication and ensure that no individual unlawfully receives multiple benefits.

Application Process

Although field-level data collection is ongoing, formal applications will soon be accepted using a prescribed application form. Eligible applicants may apply through local government institutions, including Union Parishads and municipal offices. Applicants are required to present their national identity card, a recent colour photograph, and an active mobile or bank account number.

Following evaluation and refinement of the pilot phase, the government plans to expand the Family Card scheme to all upazilas within four months. Policymakers have expressed confidence that the initiative will become a significant milestone in reinforcing the country’s social protection framework.