Title: Government Extends Electronic Voucher Scheme to Support Low-Income Households
In a significant move to bolster economic support for citizens, the Iranian government has extended the deadline for its third phase of the Electronic Voucher Scheme (کالابرگ الکترونیکی), a cornerstone of its social welfare policy. The initiative, designed to provide direct assistance for the purchase of essential goods, will now remain active until the end of the Iranian month of Shahrivar (late September).
Widespread Participation and Extended Deadline
Official reports indicate robust public engagement with the program. Seyed Morjan Dabiri, the scheme’s spokesperson, announced that over 18.86 million household heads have already utilized their allocated credit in the current phase. In light of this participation, the decision was made to extend the utilization period, ensuring all eligible families have ample opportunity to benefit.
The program specifically targets the first seven income deciles, providing a direct subsidy to alleviate living costs and ensure food security. The allocated credit, which is separate from regular monthly subsidies, varies by income bracket: 500,000 Tomans per person for the first three deciles and 350,000 Tomans per person for the fourth to seventh deciles.
A Permanent Pillar of Social Policy
Senior government officials have underscored the program’s critical role. Ahmad Meidari, Minister of Cooperation, Labour, and Social Welfare, emphasized the necessity of the vouchers, stating that even under normal economic conditions, the first three income deciles should receive continuous support. He expressed hope for the continued allocation of necessary financial resources, affirming that the government pursues this as a permanent policy.
This shift in support mechanism—from preferential currency allocation at the start of the supply chain to direct aid at the consumer level—is a strategic move praised for its efficiency. It is designed to curb inflationary pressures and prevent the creation of economic rent, ensuring aid reaches its intended beneficiaries directly.
Broad-Based Political Support
The scheme has garnered cross-governmental backing. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Speaker of the Parliament, has publicly supported the initiative, noting that historical experience shows direct subsidies can be more effective and less susceptible to market distortions than other methods. This consensus highlights the program’s importance within the nation’s broader economic and social strategies.
Looking Ahead: Clarity on Future Phases
While the current phase continues, details regarding the launch of a potential fourth phase, including its start date, target demographic, and credit allocation methods, are expected to be announced by the relevant ministry in the coming days. The government has indicated a focus on maintaining support for the first three income deciles as a priority.
Eligible households who have not yet used their third-phase credit are urged to check their balance and complete their purchases at connected chain stores and supermarkets by the September deadline. Balances can be checked via the dedicated “Shoma” application, its web portal, the official scheme website, or by dialing the code #5001436.
