New Dynamic Survey for BISP to Reach More Families

 Minister of State and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister for Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety, Faisal Karim Kundi, announced a forthcoming dynamic survey for expanding eligibility for the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) to include additional deserving families.

During a recent "Hotline" call-in radio program on Radio Pakistan, Faisal Kundi answered questions and stated that the prior government had removed 800,000 individuals from the BISP beneficiary list, but they are now reviewing the decision to re-include those who deserve support.

Kundi stated that women scoring 32 or below will be included in BISP, encouraging participation in the survey to ensure no eligible woman is excluded. He also reported the government's allocation of 55 billion rupees to 8.7 million recipients, as well as the release of two educational scholarship installments to BISP beneficiary children.

Kundi stated that primary students (both boys and girls) receive educational allowances of 1,500 and 2,000 rupees, respectively. In response to a caller, he mentioned that the cards of BISP beneficiaries who went abroad have been blocked, but the government is examining the possibility of restoring them if their poverty score drops below 32.

Kundi mentioned the government's plans to implement payment through beneficiaries' bank accounts. He also instructed relevant authorities to address beneficiary complaints. He reported 70 billion rupees distributed to 2.8 million flood-affected BISP recipients, with each family receiving 25,000 rupee cash assistance.

Kundi informed that BISP provides various forms of aid including rations, medicines, and food. He also mentioned the potential rise in BISP beneficiaries due to increased poverty from recent floods. 

Participants from Pakistan actively engaged in the radio program to discuss BISP related issues and receive answers from the SAPM. They expressed appreciation and gratitude for the program and the SAPM's responsiveness.

FAQs:

What is the eligibility criteria for BISP?

To qualify for BISP cash payments, families must earn below 6,000 rupees ($67) per month and meet the following criteria: have a female member with valid ID as applicant, or be a widowed/divorced female without male family support as individual applicant.

What are the benefits of BISP?

The Government of Pakistan offers PKR 2000 as a monthly stipend to 10 million eligible individuals in 113 districts through bank accounts, an expansion from the previous 7 million beneficiaries.

When was BISP launched in Pakistan?

Pakistan's Government established the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) in 2008 to serve as the leading national aid program aimed at easing consumption and mitigating the impact of slow economic growth.

How many beneficiaries does BISP have?

BISP provides cash assistance to over 5 million families with a current quarterly stipend of PKR 6000 per household. Biometric verification is conducted on-site prior to distributing the aid.

How can I check my BISP payment?

To check your BISP balance from home, call the BISP helpline at 0800-26477 and speak with a representative. You will receive an SMS with your balance confirmation. Also, check AIOU Result 2023.