Prime
Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi was briefed today about the performance of
Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) here at Prime Minister's house.
Minister of
State and Chairperson BISP Ms. Marvi Memon apprised the Prime Minister that the
budget allocation for BISP which was Rs. 70 billion in 2013 had increased to
Rs. 121 billion in 2017 and the quarterly stipend had been increased from Rs.
3000 per quarter in 2013 to Rs. 4834 peer quarter in 2016.
In her
presentation, she highlighted that the numbers of beneficiaries had increased
from 3.78 million in 2013 to 5.46 million in 2017. In 2012-13, disbursement
worth Rs. 43.30 billion were made whereas in 2016-17, Rs. 102.8 billion have
been disbursed which depicted a significant increase in government spending on
the welfare of the poor.
Chairperson
highlighted that BISP impact evaluation report depicted positive impact on
poverty reduction and women empowerment. BISP had resulted in poverty reduction
by 7% and enrollment of children of BISP beneficiaries in primary schools
increased by 10%.
She
reiterated that BISP is working to mobilize beneficiaries to avail social
welfare services and create linkages with other government and non-government
initiatives. More than 354,847 BISP households have been enrolled in PM
National Health Program. More than 181,088 BISP households got interest free
loans from Akhuwat, PMIFYL, PPAF and other provincial schemes. She said that
BISP is also considering various graduation models so that its beneficiaries
may become self-sufficient and exit out of poverty.
The Prime
Minister appreciated the progress made by BISP during the last four years and
said that it reflected the commitment of the government towards poverty
alleviation in the country as well as to enabling the poor earn their
livelihoods.
The Prime
Minister emphasized that there was a need to enhance the transparency and
improve operational efficiency of the program.