Learn how the government made SMS to Ehsaas Programme Code 8171 Made Free in 2020. Understand the purpose, benefits, and impact of this decision for BISP and Ehsaas beneficiaries.
Introduction
On 9th April 2020, the Government of Pakistan announced that SMS messages to the Ehsaas Programme code 8171 would be free of charge starting from 10th April 2020. This decision was taken to facilitate poor families who could not afford mobile balance but needed to register for the Ehsaas and BISP programs.
The initiative was supported by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), which extended full cooperation without any financial benefit, ensuring that citizens could access government assistance through mobile technology.
Why Was SMS to 8171 Made Free?
The government observed that many applicants faced challenges:
- No mobile balance to send SMS
- Difficulty in registering for Ehsaas Programme
- Delays in receiving financial assistance
- SMS to Ehsaas Programme Code 8171 Made Free
By making SMS free, the government ensured that every deserving family could register without worrying about mobile charges.
Impact of Free SMS Service
- Increased Accessibility: Even families with zero balance could register.
- Transparency: Direct communication with BISP via 8171 reduced reliance on agents.
- Efficiency: Faster registration and eligibility verification.
- Inclusivity: Reached remote and rural areas where mobile balance was a barrier.
How to Register Through Free SMS (2020 Method)
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Open SMS app on your mobile.
- Type your CNIC number (without dashes).
- Send to 8171 (free of cost).
- Receive reply with eligibility status:
- Eligible
- Ineligible
- Under Verification
Read more; 8171 Ehsaas Program CNIC Check – Online Application & Payment Status 2026
Official Statement
According to Khurram Ali Mehran, Director (PR):
“This decision to make SMS service free of charge has been taken in view of problems faced by some mobile subscribers with no balance, who now will be able to send SMS on 8171 with zero balance.”
Benefits for Beneficiaries
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Free SMS | No charges for sending CNIC to 8171 |
| Easy Registration | Simple process via mobile |
| Wider Reach | Poor families in rural areas included |
| Government Support | PTA cooperation ensured smooth rollout |
FAQs – SMS to Ehsaas Programme Code 8171
Q1: When did SMS to 8171 become free? From 10th April 2020.
Q2: Who supported this initiative? The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).
Q3: What was the purpose of free SMS? To help poor families register without needing mobile balance.
Q4: Is SMS to 8171 still free today? Policies may change; check the latest 8171 updates.
Q5: What information is required to send SMS? Only your CNIC number.
Conclusion
The decision to make SMS to Ehsaas Programme Code 8171 free in 2020 was a landmark step in ensuring accessibility for poor families. By removing mobile balance barriers, the government empowered millions to register for Ehsaas and BISP financial assistance. SMS to Ehsaas Programme Code 8171 Made Free.
This initiative highlighted the importance of digital inclusion, transparency, and accessibility in welfare programs, ensuring that no deserving family was left behind. SMS to Ehsaas Programme Code 8171 Made Free.
