In a significant development, the 58th Board meeting of the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) has brought about a crucial update that is set to impact millions of lives in Pakistan. Federal Minister Shazia Marri announced a 25% increase in the stipend for BISP beneficiaries and approved the mechanism for disbursing these payments directly into their bank accounts.
This payment model will be introduced as a pilot project in four select country districts, with the intention of extending it nationwide after the pilot’s success. Let’s dive deeper into this transformative change and its implications.
The Boost in Stipends
The increase in stipends marks a momentous occasion for all Pakistanis, as it directly impacts the lives of those in need. During the board meeting, Ms. Shazia Marri, who serves as the Federal Minister for Research, Poverty, and Social Security and chairs the BISP, announced the decision.
This crucial meeting took place in the committee room of the Sindh Assembly building in Karachi. The recommendation to increase the stipend by 25% was not only discussed but also approved. As a result, the “samahi wazifa,” or stipend, will rise from seven thousand rupees to 8,750 rupees, offering more financial stability to the recipients.
Facilitating Remote Areas
Another vital decision made during the Board meeting was the approval to use mobile units for registering people in Balochistan and other remote areas. These regions often face challenges when it comes to accessing ISP centers.
The board members recognized the need for special attention to Balochistan due to its unique geographical characteristics. They also requested the Chairman of the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) to put in extra efforts to help people in remote areas of Balochistan obtain their identity cards.
BISP New Registration
Under the new dynamic registration process for the National Socio-Economic Registration (NSER), 575 centers are already operational in ISP Tehsil Offices across the country. Furthermore, the Board approved an Internship Program for recent university graduates, providing them with valuable experience working with the Benazir Income Support Program.
Key Board Members
The Board meeting was attended by prominent individuals who play pivotal roles in this program. Dr. Ashfaq Hasan, Dr. Qaiser Bengali, Ms. Sania Rafat, Secretary BISP, Minister Yusuf Khan, and Secretary BA&SS Ghafran actively participated in the meeting. Additionally, Board members Mr. Haris, Chairman NADRA, Mr.
Tariq Malik, Additional Secretary of the Economic Affairs Division, Ms. Samar Ehsan, and Additional Secretary of Finance Aamir Mehmood joined the meeting via a Zoom link. The Director-General of NSER/CCT, Mr. Naveed Akbar, presented the agenda before the board, ensuring that all aspects were thoroughly discussed.
BISP New Payment Update
As of now, 90 lakh underprivileged families are beneficiaries of the Benazir Income Support Program, receiving financial assistance. To combat inflation, the collective installment of BISP New Payment has been increased from 7,000 to 8,750, effective until January.
March will witness disbursements of Rs 8,500, and from April to June, beneficiaries will receive an installment of Rs 9,000. This substantial increase is the result of the May 11 meeting presided over by Federal Minister Shazia Murri, who plays a pivotal role as the Chairman of the Benazir Income Support Program. The program has empowered ninety lakh women in Pakistan through various initiatives.
Ms. Shazia Murri emphasized the importance of the Constitution’s provisions and their role in the country’s development. Former Senator Safdar Abbasi stressed the need to understand the spirit behind the words of the Constitution and called for greater inclusion of poor women in the program.
A Boost in Budget
In an effort to expand the program’s reach, 472 Benazir Development Centers are currently operational across the country. The enrollment process is gaining momentum through the registry, and more beneficiaries will soon become a part of the program. The budget for the BISP Program has seen a significant increase, rising from Rs. 250 billion to Rs. 400 billion, a 60% boost.
Inclusion of Transgender Women
In a move that promotes inclusivity and diversity, transgender women are now exclusively included in the Benazir Kafalat program. Importantly, there is no PMT score requirement for transgender women. To benefit from the program, transgender women must register with NADRA and visit the Benazir Income Support Program office for registration and financial assistance.
Online Registration
The Benazir Income Support Program is introducing the Benazir Social Security Accounts. Eligible women from the BISP program can now open their bank accounts in any bank of their choice. This allows them to receive their assistance money directly, providing greater convenience and accessibility.
Conclusion
The 25% increase in stipends, the commitment to reach remote areas, and the budget expansion are clear indicators of the government’s dedication to improving the lives of the underprivileged in Pakistan. The Benazir Income Support Program continues to be a beacon of hope for millions, striving to uplift and empower those in need.
FAQs
- What is the Benazir Income Support Program?
- The Benazir Income Support Program is a government initiative in Pakistan that provides financial assistance to underprivileged families.
- How much has the stipend increased?
- The stipend has been increased by 25%, raising it from 7,000 to 8,750 rupees.
- How can transgender women benefit from the program?
- Transgender women can register with NADRA and visit the Benazir Income Support Program office to access financial assistance.
- Is there any PMT score requirement for transgender women?
- No, there is no PMT score requirement for transgender women to benefit from the program.
- How can eligible women open Benazir Social Security Accounts?
- Eligible women can open these accounts in any bank of their choice, making it easier to receive their assistance money.
BISP Basic Information Required
| Information | Details |
| Contact Number | 0800-26477, 051-9246326 |
| Address | Benazir Income Support Program, Block F, Pak Secretariat, Islamabad, Pakistan |
| Registration Document Required | CNIC, B-Forms, Mobile No, Gas/Electricity Bill, Home Rent Agreement if Available. |