Islamabad: Starting today, beneficiaries of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) will receive the increased amount of Rs9,000, announced Federal Minister for Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety Shazia Marri. The support amount has been raised by 25%, reaching Rs9,000 per family for the fourth quarter of the fiscal year.
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Marri, who also chairs the programme, stated that the increased amount will be distributed to 9 million beneficiaries through 1,559 specially established campsites for their convenience. She emphasized that beneficiaries should receive the full allocated amount and ensure to claim its receipt.
In addition to the increased payments, the government has also released funds for the January to March installment of educational scholarships. Mothers of children with over 70% attendance can claim this stipend.
The BISP is a prominent government programme aimed at improving the well-being of marginalized sections of society through various schemes. The programme’s budget has been increased by 25% to Rs450 billion for the current fiscal year, reflecting the government’s commitment to social welfare.
During the fiscal year 2023-24, 9.3 million families will receive quarterly assistance, and the scope of Benazir Education Stipends has been expanded to include 8.3 million children, with an allocation of Rs55 billion. Additionally, 92,000 students will be granted Benazir Undergraduate Scholarships with an allocated amount of Rs6 billion.
The government has allocated Rs32 billion for the Benazir Nashonuma program, benefitting 1.5 million individuals, and Rs35 billion for providing targeted subsidies on essential commodities such as rice, sugar, pulses, and ghee.
To further support low-income groups, the government has withdrawn the 10% regulatory duty on the import of second-hand clothes, which are often purchased by low-income individuals. Moreover, a new micro deposits scheme will be launched on July 1, 2023, through the National Savings Centres, offering higher profit ratios. Digital account opening facilities will also be available to users.
The increased payments and expanded initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to uplifting the underprivileged and fostering socio-economic development in Pakistan.
