The Benazir Income Support Programme has announced a stipend increase across its major schemes. The decision comes ahead of Ramadan. Around 10 million families across Pakistan will benefit from this move.
BISP Chairperson Senator Rubina Khalid shared the details in an interview on Tuesday. She described the stipend increase as a Ramadan gift for beneficiaries. She said the decision reflects the government’s response to rising inflation.
Under the update, the Benazir Kafalat quarterly payment will rise from Rs. 13,500 to Rs. 14,500. This means an increase of Rs. 1,000 per family. The new amount will be paid during Ramadan.
Senator Khalid said the programme is adjusting support according to economic conditions. She added that the goal is to protect the most vulnerable groups in society.
The stipend increase also covers the Benazir Education Stipends programme. Payments under this scheme will rise by Rs. 500. Families whose children maintain at least 70 percent school attendance will receive the higher amount. The condition aims to support continued education.
Another stipend increase of Rs. 500 has been approved for the Benazir Nashonuma programme. This initiative supports pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers. It provides financial help and nutritional supplements. The programme seeks to improve maternal health and reduce child stunting.
Senator Khalid also highlighted progress in financial inclusion. Ten million bank accounts have been opened for women beneficiaries. She called it a historic achievement. According to her, few countries have brought so many women into formal banking at once.
BISP is introducing a digital payment system. Beneficiaries will receive free SIM cards through official centers. These SIMs will link to digital wallets. Women will get SMS alerts when payments are released. They can withdraw funds as needed.
The programme has also introduced interoperability among seven partner banks. This reform was coordinated with the State Bank of Pakistan. Previously, beneficiaries could only use one assigned bank agent. Now they can choose any partner bank agent.
Senator Khalid rejected claims that BISP creates dependency. She said the programme offers income support, not permanent aid. The long-term goal is to help families become self-sufficient.
She also spoke about the Hunarmand vocational training initiative. Around 1,500 trainees are close to graduation. Another 5,000 have recently enrolled. The training focuses on skills for local and overseas jobs.
In her Ramadan message, Senator Khalid urged citizens to show compassion. She encouraged people to support those in need during the holy month.
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