ISLAMABAD, Sep 08 (APP): Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi was briefed on Friday 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.
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.
The Chairperson also 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.
APP/Zaheer/anm
