Introduction
The Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) is a social welfare initiative introduced by the Government of Pakistan in the year, 2008. It is named after country’s former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. It aims to provide financial assistance and support to the underprivileged segments of the society.
With an objective of poverty alleviation, women’s empowerment, and social protection. The program seeks to alleviate poverty by providing monthly cash transfers to eligible families and individuals. Its primary targets are the poorest households all over Pakistan. The beneficiaries include widows, orphaned children, disabled individuals, and other vulnerable groups who lack sufficient income to meet their basic needs.
The amount of assistance depends upon the poverty scorecard, which assesses the socio-economic conditions of the households.
It also provides conditional cash transfers to promote specific areas of life contributing to human development. Let’s say, cash transfers may be subject to sending children to school, ensuring their immunizations, or attending health awareness sessions.
BISP also offers various support services to empower beneficiaries and enhance their socio-economic well-being, which includes skills development and vocational training, access to microfinance, health insurance, and entrepreneurship support.
Data Collection and Monitoring:-
- National Socio-Economic Registry (NSER): The NSER is a comprehensive database that identifies and registers eligible households for Benazir Income Support Program (BISP). The registry serves as a foundation for targeting among a large database and ensuring that, the support reaches to the ones who deserves.
- Governance and Monitoring: The BISP operates under a robust governance framework, with transparent mechanisms in place to ensure efficient delivery and monitoring of cash transfers. Monitoring and evaluation activities are frequently conducted to assess the impact and effectiveness of the program.
How to register for BISP:-
The Benazir Income Support Program has played a significant role in reducing poverty, improving social protection, and empowering marginalized communities in Pakistan. It has provided a safety net for vulnerable households, helping them meet their basic needs and improve their socio-economic conditions.
To register for the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP), you can follow these steps:
- Check Eligibility: The program primarily targets the poorest households, widows, orphaned children, disabled individuals, and other vulnerable groups. The eligibility criteria may vary, so it’s important to review the specific requirements.
- Visit the BISP Website: Go to the official website of the Benazir Income Support Program at www.bisp.gov.pk. The website provides information about the program, its services, and the registration process. Download the registration form available on the website.
- Submit the Application: Once you have filled out the form and gathered the required documents, submit your application. You can either submit it online through the BISP website (if online submission is available) or visit the nearest BISP office or center to submit the physical application.
- Follow Up: After submitting your application, it is essential to follow up with the BISP to track the progress of your registration. You can inquire about the status of your application by contacting the BISP helpline or visiting the BISP office.
InfoPak.net recommends to check the official BISP website or contact the BISP helpline for the most up-to-date information on registration procedures and requirements.
BISP Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) depends on the type of program and initiatives under BISP.
The program primarily targets low-income domestic households, who are unable to meet their basic needs. The poverty scorecard system is used to determine the eligibility based on the socio-economic conditions of the household.
It often give priority to households headed by women, widows, or orphaned children. However, the program is not limited to these categories, and households with other vulnerable individuals are also be eligible.
The program is available to Pakistani citizens residing in Pakistan and should be at least 18 years old or older. Applicants must provide valid identification documents such as a Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC).
Assessment of household’s income and financial situation is compulsory to determine the eligibility. This may include considering factors such as total income, assets, and living conditions.
The specific eligibility criteria and requirements for different BISP programs or initiatives may vary, as BISP regularly updates its criteria and guidelines based on government policies and initiatives.
Modernizing BISP
Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), grant requires women to visit the camp offices where they have to submit a copy of their ID card to the camp manager and receive the funds after biometric verification.
Keeping in view the situation faced by most women in rural areas to visit the camps in person, especially because they have to carry their children along with them as well.
It is advisable to restructure the entire payment system by distributing the grant using a mobile application. This would surely eliminate the need for women to visit the camps in person, particularly during intense weather episodes.
By adopting this approach, the potential health risks associated with extreme temperatures can be mitigated, potentially saving the lives of poor women and children.