06:28, 22 March 2026

Pskov Region to Launch Unified Digital Card for Transport, Payments, and Schools

The “Karta pskovicha” will combine key urban and social services into a single platform for residents.

Authorities in Russia’s Pskov region are launching Karta pskovicha (Pskov Resident Card), a unified system designed to integrate major city and social services.

The initiative was discussed at the first meeting of a working group. Vitaly Rakhmanov, head of the region’s digital development office, proposed splitting the card into two tracks—for adults and children—drawing on the model used in St. Petersburg.

Specialists from St. Petersburg also took part in the meeting. The region does not plan to build the system from scratch and will instead rely on the existing model of Edinaya karta peterburzhtsa (Unified St. Petersburg Card).

Where It Starts

The rollout will begin with integration into the transport system. According to Rakhmanov, connecting the card to a unified service operator will require complex technical adjustments.

At the same time, a child-focused digital ecosystem is being developed. It will include school meal payments and access control to school buildings.

“It’s clear that we’ve already discussed the transport component. Given our unified operator, integration should be relatively straightforward. On the children’s side, we are also launching services for school meals and school access. So we can move forward on these fronts in parallel,” Rakhmanov said.

Payments and New Services

Social programs are also a key focus. Authorities are considering transferring social benefit payments to the card and launching the Pskov. Start program via a digital certificate.

“I know that our legislation allows for this, and it would also increase the project’s appeal. I would ask all departments and ministries to carefully review existing services and, in the near future, propose their own ideas for implementation,” Rakhmanov said.

Tight Deadlines

Governor Mikhail Vedernikov supported the proposed steps and called for faster progress. He expects a rapid rollout and regular working group meetings.

“There is a lot of work ahead, but let’s try to complete it as quickly as possible, especially since in many areas we don’t need to reinvent the wheel—our colleagues already have successful experience. I’m ready to convene working groups as often as needed to launch the project as soon as possible,” he said.

The project has already been discussed with Sberbank, and the region is now moving toward implementation.

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