The elders are required to present CNICs in view to prevent hoarding and maximize outreach
The elder citizen is facing great difficulties in purchasing items at sub subsidized rates at the government’s utility stores because the verification process, involving to present the computerized national identity card (CNIC) and mobile phone for–a time password (OTP) code.
Complaints are coming from some senior citizens, who do not carry a mobile phone and are unable to purchase goods at subsidized rates under a scheme announced by the previous government to give targeted subsidies through the utility stores.
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The scheme made it mandatory for the citizens to show their CNICs in order to prevent hoarding and maximize the outreach. The store management verifies the CNIC of the customer with an OTP code which the user receives on his mobile. After, that the customer can make the purchases.
Dear Customers,
To avail the subsidy of Federal government on 19 essential items, please bring your CNIC. pic.twitter.com/xKFHNJZcGh— Utility Stores Corporation of Pakistan (@UtilityStoresCo) April 12, 2022
Read more: Utility Stores Corporation (USC) Archives – Global Village Space
However, many customers face difficulties because of server-end problems. Sources in the Utility Stores Corporation (USC) confirmed that their system was slow and the OTP was not being received on time despite repeated attempts, due to which customers had to wait.
On the other hand, some elderly men and women, who go to Utility Stores with CNICs but did not have a mobile phone with them or do not possess one are also unable to get their credentials validated for making the purchases.
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The USC spokesperson said that they had implemented the validation system to verify the CNICs with the National Database & Registration Authority (NADRA) so that only deserving persons could avail of the targeted subsidies.
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USC spokesperson said that if someone did not a mobile phone, they should give the phone number of a family member so that it could be registered. “The system is for public convenience, it is not meant to hurt anyone. This system also brings transparency,” The USC spokesperson added.