Bisp
The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) is Pakistan’s largest social safety net, providing financial assistance to low-income families to alleviate poverty and enhance financial stability. Established in 2008 and named after Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, the program targets various areas such as health, education, and social protection.
Overview
Purpose and Impact
BISP was launched to counteract the deteriorating purchasing power of Pakistani families due to high inflation and rising costs of essential goods. By offering unconditional cash transfers, BISP aims to provide immediate financial relief and empower women by directing payments to female heads of households. This initiative plays a critical role in reducing poverty and promoting economic stability.
Historical Background
The program was initiated by Yousaf Raza Gillani, following the advice of President Asif Ali Zardari, as a tribute to his late wife, Benazir Bhutto. Over the years, BISP has grown to become the government’s third-largest budgetary allocation, accounting for 0.3% of Pakistan’s GDP.
Program Structure
Implementation and Reach
BISP operates across all provinces of Pakistan, including Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, as well as in federally administered regions like Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Islamabad Capital Territory. Initially, beneficiaries were selected through recommendations from Parliamentarians, but this process was reformed in 2009 to use a Poverty Scorecard system approved by the World Bank.
Special Initiatives
BISP has expanded to include several initiatives:
- Waseela-e-Haq: Provides small loans to empower women.
- Waseela-e-Rozgar: Offers vocational training.
- Waseela-e-Sehat: Provides financial assistance for healthcare.
- Waseela-e-Taleem: Conditions cash payments on children’s primary school enrollment.
- Emergency Relief: Provides aid for families affected by terrorism, war, and natural disasters.
Financial Assistance
Eligible families receive Rs 8,500 quarterly, which significantly boosts their purchasing power. This amount is vital for families spending a large portion of their income on food.
Registration and Eligibility
Registration Process
To register for BISP:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to bisp.gov.pk.
- Enter Required Information: Provide details such as your CNIC number.
- Submit Application: Complete the registration process online.
- Receive Confirmation: Confirmation will be provided via SMS and on the website.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility is based on several factors:
- Income Level: Families earning less than Rs 6,000 per month.
- Female Head of Household: Payments are made to female heads of families.
- Additional Criteria: Families with disabled members, widowed or divorced females without male family members.
Families with government employees, pensioners, landowners, or those with other significant sources of income are ineligible.
Important Codes
| Topic | Details |
| SMS Payment Code | 8267 |
| Registration Code | 8171 |
| Eligibility Verification | SMS and online portal |
| Assistance Programs | Ehsaas Emergency Cash, Ehsaas Ration, etc. |
| Importance of Official Channels | Prevents misinformation and ensures timely assistance |
| Government’s Responsibility | Resolving citizens’ issues and providing necessary info |
Benefits and Impact
Financial Impact
BISP significantly enhances the purchasing power of low-income families. The quarterly payment of Rs 8,500 helps families meet their basic needs, particularly food, which constitutes a major portion of their expenses.
Social Impact
By targeting female heads of households, BISP empowers women and promotes gender equality. The program also supports human capital development through conditional cash transfers, encouraging education and healthcare utilization.
Criticisms and Challenges
Design Flaws
Critics argue that the cash transfer amount is insufficient to lift families above the poverty line. The program’s lack of conditionality has also been criticized, as conditional cash transfer programs in other countries have shown greater success by requiring recipients to meet specific criteria.
Corruption and Mismanagement
There have been accusations of corruption and political favoritism, with some beneficiaries receiving payments due to their connections with Parliamentarians. Efforts are being made to improve transparency and reduce corruption through better monitoring and verification processes.
Conclusion
The Benazir Income Support Programme is a vital tool in Pakistan’s fight against poverty. By following the correct procedures and using official channels, beneficiaries can ensure they receive the necessary support. Continued efforts to improve transparency and efficiency will enhance the program’s impact and ensure it reaches those in need.