The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) has announced increases in its stipend amounts across flagship initiatives ahead of Ramadan, providing financial relief to approximately 10 million beneficiary families in Pakistan. The Benazir Kafalat quarterly stipend will rise from Rs. 13,500 to Rs. 14,500, an increase of Rs. 1,000, and the enhanced payments will be disbursed during Ramadan. BISP Chairperson Senator Rubina Khalid described the revision as a response to inflation and a gesture of support for the country’s most vulnerable households.
In addition to Kafalat, the Benazir Education Stipends programme will see a Rs. 500 increase for beneficiaries whose children maintain at least 70 percent school attendance, reinforcing the connection between financial aid and educational continuity. The Benazir Nashonuma programme, supporting pregnant and lactating women through nutrition and financial assistance, will also receive an extra Rs. 500 per beneficiary, promoting maternal health and addressing child stunting.
BISP has marked a significant milestone in Pakistan’s financial inclusion journey by opening 10 million bank accounts for women beneficiaries, representing a historic global precedent. A new digital payment system will link SIM cards to digital wallets, sending SMS notifications upon each disbursement and allowing beneficiaries to withdraw only the amount needed. Interoperability across seven partner banks will provide women the flexibility to approach any agent for cash withdrawals, enhancing dignity and convenience.
Senator Rubina Khalid emphasized that BISP aims to provide income support rather than foster dependency, noting that social protection programmes exist worldwide as a bridge to financial stability. The programme’s long-term goal remains graduation, equipping beneficiaries with skills to generate income and expand access to others in need. The Hunarmand vocational training initiative, launched on Shaheed Benazir Bhutto’s birth anniversary, is preparing around 1,500 trainees for graduation while enrolling 5,000 new participants, offering market-relevant skills for local and international employment.
Senator Khalid encouraged Pakistanis to use Ramadan as an opportunity to serve others, emphasizing compassion, fairness, and shared joy during the holy month.
