What is BISP?

The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) is Pakistan’s largest social safety net initiative, launched in July 2008. It aims to reduce poverty by providing financial assistance to low-income families, especially women, across the country.

Objectives of BISP

• Poverty Alleviation: Offer financial support to the poorest households to help them meet basic needs.
• Women’s Empowerment: Direct cash transfers to female heads of households to promote their financial inclusion and decision-making power.
• Social Protection: Establish a safety net for vulnerable populations against economic shocks.

Key Features

• Unconditional Cash Transfers: Regular financial aid provided without any mandatory requirements.
• Targeted Beneficiaries: Focus on the most deprived segments, identified through a poverty scorecard system.
• Nationwide Coverage: Implemented across all provinces and territories of Pakistan.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility for BISP is determined through the National Socio-Economic Registry (NSER), which assesses households based on various socio-economic indicators. Families identified as the most vulnerable are enrolled in the program.

How to Apply

Individuals can check their eligibility and apply for BISP through the following methods:

• SMS Service: Send your 13-digit CNIC number to 8171.
• Online Portal: Visit 8171.bisp.gov.pk and enter your CNIC to check eligibility.
• Tehsil Offices: Visit the nearest BISP Tehsil office for assistance and registration.

Read more about how to apply for BISP 8171?

Programs Under BISP

• Kafaalat: Provides regular cash assistance to eligible women.
• Taleemi Wazaif: Offers educational stipends to children of BISP beneficiaries to encourage school enrollment and attendance.
• Waseela-e-Haq: Grants small loans to women for starting their own businesses.
• Waseela-e-Rozgar: Provides vocational training to enhance employment opportunities.
• Waseela-e-Sehat: Assists with healthcare expenses for beneficiaries.

Impact of BISP

Since its inception, BISP has significantly contributed to poverty reduction in Pakistan. By providing financial support to millions of families, it has improved living standards, increased school enrollment rates among children, and empowered women to participate more actively in economic activities.

Conclusion

The Benazir Income Support Programme stands as a cornerstone in Pakistan’s efforts to combat poverty and promote social welfare. Through its various initiatives, BISP continues to uplift the most vulnerable segments of society, fostering a more inclusive and equitable nation.