BISP Kafalat Program:
The new installment for the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) Kafalat program has officially begun, covering many districts. Previously, this Kafalat installment was divided into four phases, from October to December, with the first phase already underway. Beneficiaries who haven’t collected their payments yet can still do so. The second phase has also started, and regular beneficiaries can collect their installments from the nearest camp site.
Districts Included in the Second Phase:
The second phase includes the following districts: Karachi Central, Karachi East, Korangi, Malir, Karachi South, Kemari, Thatta, Lasbela, Pakpattan, Faisalabad, Sahiwal, Jhang, Gwadar, Jamshoro, Peshawar, Charsadda, Mohmand Agency, North Waziristan, South Waziristan, Upper South Waziristan, Nowshera, Hangu, Sibi, Bajaur, Sanghar, Nawabshah, Benazirabad, Mirpur Khas, Tharparkar, Matiari, and Umerkot. Payments have begun in these districts, and beneficiaries can collect their payments from the nearest camp office. Due to technical or administrative reasons, there may be some delays in certain areas, but overall payments have started.
Updates for 2025:
For 2025, BISP is introducing new methods for receiving payments, which will include six new banks and their ATM networks. Beneficiaries will also receive ATM cards from these banks and can open accounts at nearby bank branches. Payments will also be available through Easypaisa and JazzCash for those who prefer these options. Additionally, the Poverty Management Tool (PMT) score threshold will be raised, which could allow more eligible women to join the program. Those who previously did not qualify may become eligible, and pending beneficiaries will likely have their cases resolved by December 2024.
Also Read: Benazir Income Support Program Phase 2 Payment
Double Installment for Children’s Educational Scholarships:
Currently, beneficiaries are not receiving educational scholarships for children. However, all pending scholarship installments, along with the upcoming installment, will be combined into a double payment of PKR 13,500 in 2025, which will include children’s educational scholarships as well.
Upcoming Changes in the 8171 Web Portal:
By January 2025, major updates will be made to the 8171 web portal, aiming to fix issues like incorrect statuses and eligibility errors. BISP also plans to include additional members, while around 1.7 million women will be removed from the program for inaccurate or false information, making room for 700,000 new eligible women to join. If you haven’t applied yet, make sure to do so before the first 2025 installment.
First Phase of the Himat Card Scheme:
The first phase of the Himat Card Scheme, which provides support to individuals with disabilities, is nearing completion. Those who missed out on applying can still submit applications by writing a letter to Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif or by visiting the nearest social welfare office. Upon submitting an application, applicants may be called for a PSER (Punjab Survey for Economic Relief) survey to verify eligibility.
Importance of PSER Survey for Himat Card Scheme:
The PSER survey is essential for joining the Himat Card Scheme. Many disabled individuals who wish to apply must complete the survey accurately to confirm their eligibility. Those who have not yet undergone this survey should do so soon, as this will help determine their eligibility for the program.
Also Read: Baitul-Mal Punjab Begins Registration of Persons
