The Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) plays a crucial role in Pakistan’s social safety net by providing financial assistance to low-income families and vulnerable groups.
In the upcoming fiscal year, an allocation of Rs 716 billion is projected for BISP in the national budget.
In order to enhance the impact of BISP and address rising inflation and socio-economic challenges, it is proposed that the budget allocation for BISP be increased by up to 20% in the next fiscal year.
This increase will allow for an expansion of beneficiary coverage, improved stipend amounts, and greater transparency in fund distribution.
Key components of proposal:
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Increased cash transfers:
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Starting January 2026, the monthly cash transfer amount under the program will be raised by Rs 1,000.
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The quarterly stipend provided to beneficiaries will increase from Rs 13,500 to Rs 14,500.
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Stipends will continue to be adjusted in line with inflation rates to maintain purchasing power.
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Expansion of beneficiary base:
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The target for the Kafalat program is to increase the number of beneficiaries to 10 million families (1 crore).
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So far, 700,000 new families have been enrolled during the current fiscal year.
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This expansion aims to bring greater social protection coverage to marginalized households.
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Enhanced payment transparency:
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The program will incorporate new banking partners to ensure transparency and security in electronic payments.
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Payments will be disbursed through multiple platforms and account models to improve accessibility for beneficiaries.
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Complementary budget allocations:
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A proposed Rs 3,156 billion budget allocation is set aside for health and education sectors, complementing BISP’s role in social welfare.
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