BISP Board Approves 25% Increase in Stipend and Launches New Payment Model for Beneficiaries' Bank Accounts || BISP Launches New Payment Model 2023

BISP New Payment Model 

BISP Launches New Payment Model 2023

ISLAMABAD/KARACHI - In a significant development, the Board of Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) convened its 58th meeting under the leadership of Federal Minister Shazia Marri. During the meeting held at the Sindh Assembly Building in Karachi, the Board approved a 25% raise in the stipend provided to BISP beneficiaries. As a result, the quarterly stipend will rise from 7,000 to 8,750 rupees.

One of the major decisions taken by the Board was the introduction of a pilot project for a new payment model. Under this initiative, beneficiaries of the Benazir Kafaalat program will be able to receive their cash assistance directly into their bank accounts. The pilot will initially be implemented in four selected districts across the country, with plans to expand the program nationwide based on its success. This move will empower beneficiaries to open bank accounts of their choice, facilitating a more secure and convenient means of receiving funds.

Additionally, the Board approved the utilization of mobile units for registration purposes in Balochistan and other remote areas, where individuals face challenges in accessing BISP centers. Recognizing the unique circumstances of Balochistan, the Board emphasized the need for special attention and directed the Chairman of the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) to facilitate the issuance of CNIC cards in remote Balochistan regions.

The meeting also highlighted the ongoing process of dynamic registration through the National Social Economic Registry (NSER), with 575 centers operational in BISP Tehsil offices throughout the country. Furthermore, the Board endorsed an internship program aimed at providing valuable work experience to fresh university graduates through their engagement with the Benazir Income Support Programme.

Attending the meeting were esteemed Board members Dr. Ashfaq Hassan Khan, Dr. Qaisar Bengali, Ms. Sania Riffat, Secretary BISP Mr. Yusuf Khan, and Secretary of Poverty Alleviation & Social Safety Mr. Ghufran Memon. Mr. Haris Ghazdar, Chairman of NADRA, Mr. Tariq Malik, Additional Secretary of Economic Affairs Division, Ms. Samar Ihsan, and Additional Secretary of Finance (Expenditure) Mr. Aamer Mahmood joined the meeting via Zoom-link. Mr. Naveed Akbar, Director General of NSER/CCT, presented the agenda items before the Board, which were deliberated and approved.