Title: Iran Launches Fifth Phase of Targeted E-Subsidy Program to Strengthen Low-Income Households
Introduction: A Strategic Shift in Social Welfare
The Islamic Republic of Iran is set to activate the fifth phase of its Electronic Voucher (E-Government Credit) scheme in November 2024, marking a significant evolution in the government’s strategy to provide targeted social support. This flagship program, a cornerstone of the administration’s policy for strengthening livelihoods and intelligently managing subsidies, is being refined to enhance its effectiveness and direct resources more precisely to those in need.
Key Reforms for Enhanced Equity
This new phase introduces substantial reforms designed to increase the program’s impact on low-income families. A primary change involves a strategic redefinition of beneficiary groups.
- Refined Beneficiary List: To concentrate financial resources, households in the higher income deciles (8, 9, and 10) have been removed from the program. This reallocation ensures that state support is channeled more effectively to the most vulnerable segments of society, thereby increasing the scheme’s protective effect.
Revised and Upgraded Commodity Basket
The basket of essential goods available for purchase with the e-credit has been comprehensively revised to better align with nutritional needs and add variety.
- New Additions: The list now includes high-nutrition items such as turkey meat, quail, fish, and shrimp, expanding the protein options for families.
- Streamlined Selection: Less essential or low-demand items have been removed to increase the overall efficiency of the aid.
- Staple Continuity: Core staples like rice, oil, pasta, legumes, dairy products, chicken, red meat, and eggs remain part of the subsidized basket.
Implementation Timeline and Procedures
Officials have projected that the new credits will be deposited into eligible household accounts starting around November 5, 2024. The rollout will be conducted in a phased manner.
Households that have remaining credit from the fourth phase are reminded that they have until the end of November 2024 to utilize their balance, after which any unused funds will expire.
Increased Credit Value and Access
While the official exact credit amounts for the fifth phase are pending final approval, media reports and official statements indicate a planned increase for the qualifying low-income deciles. This adjustment aims to provide a more tangible boost to the purchasing power of targeted families. The precise value for each decile will be announced following the finalization of the national budget.
How to Access and Inquire
Eligible families can use their credit at registered stores displaying the program’s signage. At checkout, the subsidy is instantly deducted upon presentation of the household head’s bank card.
To check their credit status, beneficiaries can use several official methods:
- Dial the USSD code
*5001463#or#78828#from a mobile phone. - Use the “Shoma” (You) application.
- Visit the “Pishkhan 24” website or the portal of the Ministry of Cooperatives, Labour, and Social Welfare.
For any issues, the public service contact number 021-6369 is available for assistance.
Conclusion: A Focused Approach to Social Protection
The launch of the fifth phase of Iran’s E-Government Credit program underscores a continued commitment to leveraging technology for efficient and equitable social welfare. By refining beneficiary criteria, upgrading the commodity basket, and increasing support for low-income deciles, the initiative aims to deliver more effective and targeted economic relief, reinforcing the social safety net for the nation’s most vulnerable households.