Senator Rubina Khalid, Chairperson of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), announced on Thursday that the program will significantly expand its reach, with the number of families benefiting from BISP expected to grow to 10 million by the end of this year. This expansion is part of BISP’s ongoing efforts to provide comprehensive support to Pakistan’s most vulnerable populations.
Speaking at a press briefing held at the BISP zonal office in Gilgit, Senator Khalid expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for his role in increasing the financial budget for BISP. As a result of this budget boost, the quarterly Benazir Kafaalat installment will see a notable increase, rising from 10,500 rupees to 13,500 rupees starting January 2025. This adjustment is aimed at providing greater financial relief to families in need.
Senator Khalid provided an update on the current registration and re-certification processes. She explained that registration of deserving families is ongoing through Dynamic Registration Centers across the country. Concurrently, re-certification of previously registered families is in progress to reassess their socio-economic conditions and ensure that aid is directed to those most in need.
In addition to expanding financial assistance, BISP is set to launch the Benazir Skill Training Program. This new initiative is designed to offer skill development opportunities tailored to local and international standards. The program aims to empower women and their families by enhancing their employability, thus improving their economic conditions and quality of life. This effort will also facilitate the inclusion of new families into the BISP program.
Highlighting the broader impact of BISP’s initiatives, Senator Khalid pointed out that the program, much like other global social safety nets, provides essential financial support to help vulnerable families manage their daily expenses. She underscored that BISP embodies the vision of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and was established by President Asif Ali Zardari. The program’s focus on supporting female members of eligible families aims to provide both recognition and economic empowerment to impoverished women in Pakistan.
Senator Khalid also elaborated on other key initiatives under BISP, including the Benazir Taleemi Wazaif program. This initiative offers educational scholarships to children from deserving families, with a requirement of 70% school attendance. The program also provides larger financial incentives for girls to encourage their education. Additionally, the Benazir Nashonuma program offers financial aid and nutritious food to pregnant and lactating mothers, as well as children up to two years old, to combat issues related to stunting.
During her visit to the BISP office in Gilgit, Senator Khalid engaged directly with beneficiaries, addressing their concerns and directing BISP staff to resolve issues promptly. Her visit also included participation in a tree-planting drive, where she planted a sapling at the BISP office, symbolizing the program’s commitment to community and environmental sustainability.
These updates reflect BISP’s commitment to enhancing its support systems and expanding its reach, ensuring that more families receive the assistance they need to improve their living standards and contribute to Pakistan’s socio-economic development.