Senator Rubina Khalid, Chairperson of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), announced significant reforms aimed at improving the accessibility and transparency of financial assistance for deserving women. Speaking to the media at the BISP office in Chilas on Friday, Khalid revealed that the program is now implementing direct transfers of funds into the bank accounts of eligible women. This initiative is in line with directives from President Asif Ali Zardari and has been developed in consultation with the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).
The move to direct bank transfers is expected to streamline the process for beneficiaries, making it easier for them to access their entitlements in a more transparent and dignified manner. This reform comes as part of a broader effort to modernize and enhance the BISP’s services, ensuring that financial support reaches those who need it most without unnecessary hurdles or delays.
Senator Khalid emphasized that the BISP is committed to ensuring that no deductions are made from the stipends of deserving women and that there will be zero tolerance for any form of mistreatment. To facilitate better communication and address any issues that may arise, the program has established a modern call center, which includes a dedicated helpline at 0800-26477. This helpline is designed to handle complaints and assist beneficiaries with their queries effectively.
In her address, Khalid also highlighted the challenges faced by women in remote areas when it comes to registering for the program. Recognizing the difficulties of traveling long distances, she has requested the federal government to allocate additional Mobile Registration Vans. These vans will help ensure that women in remote and underserved areas can register for the BISP without having to endure arduous journeys.
The Senator also provided an update on other BISP initiatives, including the Benazir Kafaalat, Taleemi Wazaif, and Nashonuma programs. Each of these programs is tailored to address specific needs and support various aspects of beneficiaries’ lives. Additionally, Khalid announced the launch of the Benazir Skill Training Program. This new initiative aims to empower women and their family members by providing them with skills training that can enhance their quality of life and contribute to the national economy.
During her visit to the BISP Chilas office, Khalid took the opportunity to meet with beneficiaries, listen to their concerns, and direct the BISP staff to address their issues promptly. Her visit also included a symbolic gesture of planting a sapling as part of the BISP’s “Green Pakistan-Benazir Pakistan” tree planting initiative, underscoring the program’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
The Senator’s visit and the recent announcements reflect a significant step forward in improving the BISP’s efficiency and reach. By enhancing financial assistance mechanisms, increasing accessibility to registration services, and introducing new programs, the BISP aims to make a meaningful impact on the lives of deserving women across the country. The media’s role in raising awareness about these initiatives is seen as crucial in ensuring that eligible women are informed and can benefit from the available support.
For those seeking more information or needing assistance with the BISP, the helpline 0800-26477 remains a vital resource for support and inquiries.