Gilani directs NADRA for smooth distribution of Watan cards

       
ISLAMABAD, Oct 21 (APP): Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani on Thursday directed NADRA to adopt proper verification and organized distribution procedures of Watan Cards for the flood affected people. Addressing the officials at of National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) here at its headquarters, Gilani called for better coordination between the provincial governments, local administrations and the authority to ensure disciplined and timely implementation of the cash distribution mechanism at the distribution centers.
He also directed implementation of a public awareness strategy to apprise the people of the distribution schedule and other requirements to ensure there is no law and order situation, as has been reported in a few districts.
Gilani said following the devastating floods the NDMA, ministries and the provincial governments are engaged in the task of rehabilitation of the affected people.
He said NADRA was carrying out the challenging task of verification and cash disbursement on a war footing, in keeping up with the goals and objectives defined by the government.
Gilani said NADRA has established distribution centers for distribution of cash grants to the flood affected through the innovative solution of the Watan Card Project; launched after its proven efficacy in the distribution of cash to the IDPs of Malakand and Swat, in a transparent manner.
He said it has been recognized by the international agencies and civil society alike. Cash assistance ATM methodology provides opportunity and empowers the flood victims to receive subsequent grants in a speedy manner, Gilani said.
He said NADRA has issued 826,962 Watan cards to affected families and the government has disbursed over Rs.16 billion through 88 Distribution Centres in Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab and Azad Jammu & Kashmir.
The Prime Minister said NADRA was ready to start operations of Watan Cards as soon as Balochistan & Gilgit Baltistan, validate lists of heads of families.
He expressed the hope that the previous history of the success of Watan Cards was a testimony to its future success as well. He said his purpose of visit was to appreciate and endorse this simple but highly effective mechanism of cash distribution, which he said was the key to the happiness and resettlement of millions of suffering brethren across the country.