Benazir Income Support Programme More Families Added to Kafalat Programme
IMF Expresses Satisfaction with Benazir Income Support Programme as Stipend Increased to Rs 14,500 and 200,000 More Families Added to Kafalat Programme
Benazir Income Support Programme More Families Added to Kafalat Programme, The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) is Pakistan’s largest social safety net initiative, aimed at providing financial assistance to low-income and vulnerable families. In a significant development, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has expressed satisfaction with the performance and transparency of BISP. Following this positive assessment, the government has announced an increase in the quarterly stipend under the Benazir Kafalat Programme from Rs 13,500 to Rs 14,500, along with the inclusion of 200,000 additional families in the programme.
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IMF’s Satisfaction with BISP
The IMF has appreciated the Benazir Income Support Programme for its improved governance, transparency, and targeted cash transfer mechanism. According to IMF officials, BISP plays a vital role in protecting vulnerable segments of society, especially during times of economic pressure and high inflation. The programme’s reliance on data-driven targeting and digital payment systems has helped reduce leakages and ensured that financial aid reaches the most deserving households.
Increase in Kafalat Stipend to Rs 14,500
To provide relief against rising inflation, the government has decided to increase the Benazir Kafalat quarterly installment from Rs 13,500 to Rs 14,500. This increase aims to enhance the purchasing power of beneficiary families and help them meet basic needs such as food, healthcare, and education.
Key benefits of the increased stipend include:
- Better financial support amid rising cost of living
- Improved access to essential household needs
- Enhanced economic stability for low-income families
Addition of 200,000 New Families
As part of its expansion strategy, the Benazir Kafalat Programme has included 200,000 more families. The selection of new beneficiaries has been carried out through the National Socio-Economic Registry (NSER) and dynamic survey mechanisms to ensure fairness and accuracy.
The expansion primarily benefits:
- Poor and extremely poor households
- Widows and women-headed families
- Families with persons with disabilities
- Unemployed and low-income earners
Transparency and Digital Payment System
The IMF particularly praised BISP’s digital and biometric payment system, which ensures transparency and minimizes corruption. Beneficiaries receive payments directly through verified biometric channels, reducing the role of intermediaries and improving accountability.
Economic and Social Impact
The Benazir Income Support Programme has a positive impact on Pakistan’s economy and society. By providing direct cash assistance, BISP helps:
- Reduce poverty levels
- Improve child education and health outcomes
- Strengthen social protection mechanisms
- Boost local economic activity
Conclusion
The IMF’s expression of satisfaction with the Benazir Income Support Programme highlights the effectiveness of Pakistan’s social protection policies. The increase in the Kafalat stipend to Rs 14,500 and the inclusion of 200,000 additional families mark an important step toward supporting vulnerable populations. These measures are expected to provide meaningful relief to millions of citizens and contribute to long-term social and economic stability in the country.
