In the newly revealed Federal Budget for the fiscal year 2024-25, the government has allocated a significant 593 billion rupees to the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP). This allocation highlights the government’s dedication to supporting the nation’s most vulnerable populations.
This year’s budget for BISP represents a substantial increase of 2000 rupees per beneficiary, reflecting a notable 29% rise, bringing the total to 593 billion rupees. This enhancement signifies the government’s commitment to providing essential assistance to marginalized communities.
A major component of this budget is the expansion of the Ehsaas Kafalat Program, which provides a quarterly stipend to eligible individuals. The number of beneficiaries has increased from 9.3 million to an impressive 10 million, with stipend amounts adjusted to account for current inflation, ensuring adequate support for recipients.
In education, the Benazir Education Stipend Scheme will now include an additional 100,000 students, raising the total number of beneficiaries to 10.4 million. This expansion underscores the government’s focus on improving educational opportunities for underprivileged children.
Looking ahead, the government plans to further expand its social welfare initiatives. The Ehsaas Nashonuma Program, aimed at combating childhood stunting, will be extended to an additional 500,000 families in the upcoming fiscal year. This program targets the critical first 1000 days of a child’s life.
The budget also emphasizes economic inclusion through Poverty Graduation and Skill Development Programs under the BISP umbrella. These initiatives are designed to empower individuals economically and improve their financial stability.
Additionally, BISP is introducing the Hybrid Social Protection Program to provide financial independence to lower-income groups, further solidifying the government’s commitment to enhancing the socio-economic status of its citizens.
The allocation of 593 billion rupees to BISP represents a strategic investment in social welfare and economic growth, demonstrating the government’s proactive approach to addressing the needs of the most vulnerable members of society.
