Introduction

The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) is currently one of the largest social safety nets in Pakistan. It began in 2008 during the government of Yousaf Raza Gilani. At that time, the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) was in power. The programme was started in memory of Benazir Bhutto. Its main goal is to provide financial assistance to those in difficult economic situations. Most importantly, it helps women and families in need. By doing so, it aims to fight against poverty.

Since its beginning, BISP has grown in both size and importance. It now serves as a source of support for millions of poor families in Pakistan. In addition, the programme tries to raise living standards in selected communities. It does this by offering cash assistance, health support, and employment opportunities.

Objectives of the Benazir Income Support Programme

The primary purpose of the Benazir Income Support Programme is to provide permanent monetary help. It focuses on low-income families. In particular, it helps female-headed households. This is because women are believed to use the money wisely. They are likely to spend it on important family needs. For example, they prioritize food, health, and education.

Beyond poverty alleviation, BISP also aims to:

1. Fully involved women in the financial resources by providing them financial literacy so as to enable them empowered.
2. There is a need to close the income gap between the various regions in Pakistan.
3. Promote social integration dial by ensuring vulnerable areas of society receive basic requirements.

First, we should develop a special type of insurance. This insurance will act like an umbrella. It will protect the weaker sections of society. Moreover, it will safeguard them against any economic downfall. Additionally, it will shield them from unfavorable calamities.

Evolution of the Benazir Income Support Programme

• Originally, BISP aimed to provide cash transfers to families living below the poverty line. However, over time, the program’s scope has expanded. Today, it offers various activities to improve the living standards of its beneficiaries. Some of these activities include education and vocational training. In addition, the program provides health and nutrition aid. Recently, technology has also been used to ensure clear and accountable distribution of funds.
• Another key feature of the program is the poverty scorecard, which is conducted through the NSER. This tool helps determine which households are eligible for assistance. Eligibility is based on several factors, such as income, education, health, and housing conditions. The scorecard system has allowed BISP to identify deserving families more effectively. As a result, the agency can provide aid to those who need it most.
• At first, BISP gave money to beneficiaries through Pakistan Post in the form of cash. However, to make payments more secure and efficient, BISP shifted from cheque payments to smart card payments. Eventually, this system evolved into biometric payments. This change has helped reduce fraud and mismanagement. At the same time, it has made funds more accessible to beneficiaries.

Key Features of Benazir Income Support Programme

• Unconditional Cash Transfers (UCT):

The major approach used under BISP is the unconditional cash transfers. These transfers are a key part of BISP. Additionally, the transfers are made every three months. The aim is to help families afford basic needs. These needs include food, healthcare, and education. Over the years, the cash transfer amount has increased gradually. This is mainly due to inflation and rising living costs.

• Waseela-e-Taleem Program:

Moreover, Benazir Income Support Programme implements conditional cash transfer programs. One of these programs is Waseela-e-Taleem, which focuses on education. In this program, families are encouraged to enroll their children in school. Furthermore, regular school attendance is required. To support this, BISP provides extra financial aid to families.

Benazir Income Support Programme – Challenges and Criticisms

• BISP faces many challenges and criticisms. One such criticism, explained as the program’s history is traced over the years. Some concerns have become major issues regarding the agency’s credibility. For example, one issue is how beneficiaries selected. Although the poverty scorecard has improved the process of targeting beneficiaries. There are still problems. Sometimes, families that do not qualify for benefits enrolled. Meanwhile, some of the most needy families do not receive the benefits they deserve.
• Another issue related to the program’s duration. Benazir Income Support Programme receives large funding from the government. However, concerns have raised about the program’s sustainability in the future. These concerns are especially valid if the financial situation of the country worsens. Some critics argue that while cash transfers help needy families, they do not solve larger problems. For instance, the cash does not help families find jobs, go to school, or get better healthcare.
• Additionally, political interference in the program has also criticized. Another challenge is ensuring that the program remains open and transparent

Conclusion

The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) launched by the current Prime Minister of Pakistan. First of all, it is one of the main pillars of the country’s social protection system. As a result, BISP has helped poor families, women, and children. Moreover, it has improved education and health scores for millions of beneficiaries.

However, BISP faces several challenges. Because of this, it is now extending and developing new plans. These plans focus on looking at poverty from different angles. In order to support the program in the long term, political support must emphasize. Additionally, the management of the program needs to be effective. Furthermore, the focus should remain on accurate targeting and transparency.

In the future, as Pakistan moves forward, BISP will continue to play an important role. Finally, it will help in the ongoing fight against poverty and unemployment.