Benazir Income Support Program:
The Government of Pakistan has announced significant updates to the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP), aiming to include previously ineligible individuals, resolve verification issues, and enhance payment systems. Here’s a detailed summary:
Inclusion of Previously Ineligible Individuals:
The government has decided to extend financial aid to individuals previously declared ineligible or under review.
Eligibility Criteria:
Individuals with a PMT (Proxy Means Test) score below 32 will now be eligible for financial assistance.
If the PMT score exceeds 32, they will remain ineligible.
Timeline:
A review process will expedite payments for eligible individuals.
Appeals for fluctuating PMT scores will be possible through a new appeal system launching in January 2025.
New Appeal System for Ineligible Individuals:
From January 2025, a new appeal system will allow individuals to request re-evaluation.
How It Works:
Applicants can file an appeal for their data to be reviewed.
Eligible individuals will regain financial aid based on the updated verification process.
Also Read: Benazir Income Support Program
Increase in Kafalat Program Payments:
The government is increasing the quarterly Kafalat Program payments.
New Payment Amount:
Payments will increase from PKR 10,500 to PKR 13,500, starting January 2025.
First Enhanced Payment:
Beneficiaries will receive PKR 13,500 in January 2025.
Child Education Stipends
For families receiving stipends for children’s education:
Payments will begin transferring to beneficiaries’ accounts starting 15th of next month.
Double pending payments will also be disbursed.
After January 2025, families can expect increased payments as part of the regular disbursement schedule.
Payment via Bank ATMs
Current Payments:
The ongoing installment payments are not available through ATMs.
Future Payments:
Starting from the first installment of PKR 13,500 in January 2025, beneficiaries can withdraw payments through bank ATMs.
AlsoRead: BISP 8171 New Payments
Enhanced 8171 Web Portal & New Call Center:
To address common concerns and provide easier access to information, the government has introduced updates to the 8171 Web Portal and launched a modernized call center.
8171 Web Portal Updates:
Now displays both eligibility status and payment details.
Call Center Contact:
Beneficiaries can call the BISP helpline at 0800-26477 for assistance regarding accounts, PMT scores, or payments.
This initiative ensures more reliable and accessible support for beneficiaries, offering an alternative to the 8171 portal for those preferring telephonic assistance.
Stay updated and make use of these enhanced services to ensure timely access to financial support.