RELEASING FUNDS: The non-payment of educational scholarships under the Pakistan Bait-ul-Mal (PBM) has become a growing concern for students across the country. The payment often gets delayed, causing anxiety and frustration. Many deserving students who depend on this financial assistance to continue their studies face serious financial pressures due to late disbursement of funds. Although the scholarship programme is meant to support low-income families and promote access to education, administrative delays and inefficiencies are reducing its effectiveness. As a result, students are struggling to manage their expenses, which negatively affects their education. The authorities concerned must ensure timely, transpa-rent payment so that the purpose of this welfare initiative is truly fulfilled.

Muhammad Anfal
Islamabad

PASSENGERS’ WOES: The initiative of green buses by the government of Balo-chistan was meant to provide ease and convenience to the general public. However, this is not the case in Turbat. Sadly, people are being treated poorly by bus drivers. People stand on the roadside waiting for the bus, but it often passes them by without stopping. The drivers ignore the passengers — both men and women. For many passengers, this creates serious problems, especially for women who have to stand on the roads for long periods. The government should look into the matter and resolve it as soon as possible.

Iqra Mohammad Jan
Turbat

BANKING CHARGES: The recent trend of commercial banks charging exorbitant fee for digital banking (internet banking, credit card etc.) and the approval of the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) in this regard contradicts the government’s push for financial inclusion. One bank has sent a notice of charging 0.75 per cent on all digital banking transactions. This fee will surely discourage users, undermining the shift to cashless transactions. The SBP should urgently regulate these charges, keeping them minimal or making them free to truly encourage digital adoption.

Amir Ali
Lahore

Published in Dawn, April 25th, 2026