Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The issuance of social cards has started in Yangiyul district, Tashkent region, as part of an experimental project. This was stated by the press service of the regional khokimiyat.

The social card will serve a dual function: it will act as both a payment tool and an identification card for individuals in need of social protection.

The cards are being processed by the National Agency for Social Protection, while their issuance is handled by commercial banks that hold financial agent status within the system.

Applications for the social card can be submitted through the "Inson" social services centers, the "Social Card" mobile application, and the Unified Portal of Interactive State Services.

Pensions and other social benefits will be credited to the cards. The system is planned to include 72 types of social services, 76 types of social assistance, and about 200 types of discounts. These include free public transport in the city, discounted tickets for trains and airplanes, subsidized or free access to medications, social housing, discounted mortgages, and other services.

Card issuance in other regions will begin on 1 July 2025. Initially, the system was planned to operate in Tashkent and Yangiyul district from 1 October 2024, but now its launch in the capital is expected no later than 1 July 2025. Full-scale implementation of the system across Uzbekistan is planned for completion by the end of 2026.

Alongside the card issuance, a "social digital passport" will be developed for needy families, which will display their needs and capabilities in real time.

Additionally, as announced during the December meeting with the president, pension and other benefit payments will begin on social cards for new recipients starting from1 December 2024. In April 2025, the launch of benefits for social cardholders, including discounts for travel and event tickets, is expected.