The government of Pakistan continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to economic uplift and poverty alleviation through various initiatives aimed at enhancing job opportunities and providing financial support to those in need. In November 2024, the Bureau of Emigration & Overseas Employment registered 60,492 workers for employment abroad, which, while lower than the 77,316 workers registered in October 2024, still reflects a steady stream of opportunities for Pakistan’s workforce. The number of registrations also stands lower when compared to the 81,427 workers in November 2023, but the government remains focused on supporting the overseas employment sector to reduce poverty and stimulate economic growth.
One of the most significant poverty alleviation efforts is the work of the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF), which, in collaboration with its 24 partner organizations, continues to provide financial assistance to marginalized communities across the country. During November 2024, PPAF distributed a total of 21,195 interest-free loans amounting to Rs 994 million. This initiative is part of the broader effort to alleviate poverty by empowering individuals to start or expand their own businesses, allowing them to create sustainable livelihoods. Since the program’s inception in 2019, PPAF has disbursed an impressive 2,894,202 interest-free loans, totaling Rs 111.77 billion, further demonstrating the government’s commitment to enhancing economic inclusion.
In line with these efforts, the government has also increased its budgetary allocation for the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) for fiscal year 2025. The allocation has been raised by 27% to Rs 592.5 billion, up from Rs 466 billion last year. This increase reflects the government’s determination to expand social safety nets for vulnerable populations. For the period of July to October 2024, Rs 113 billion has already been disbursed under the BISP, marking a significant increase from the Rs 89 billion disbursed during the same period in the previous year. This uptick in disbursements highlights the government’s ongoing focus on ensuring that the most vulnerable citizens receive the necessary financial support to improve their living standards.
These efforts are part of a broader, ongoing strategy to improve the economic well-being of Pakistan’s citizens, particularly those from low-income backgrounds. By supporting overseas employment, providing interest-free loans to entrepreneurs, and boosting allocations for social welfare programs like BISP, the government is laying the foundation for sustainable economic growth, poverty alleviation, and financial inclusion.
The continued focus on poverty alleviation through these targeted programs is expected to have a positive impact on the country’s overall economic stability. As Pakistan moves forward, the government remains committed to supporting its citizens, particularly in the areas of employment, social welfare, and access to financial resources. These initiatives are key to driving long-term economic progress and ensuring that the benefits of growth are felt across all sectors of society.