The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) is Pakistan’s largest and most impactful social welfare initiative. Introduced in 2008, the programme was established to provide financial relief to the country’s poorest families, with a particular focus on empowering women and reducing long-term poverty. Over the years, the programme has evolved to include not just cash assistance but also educational support for children. This article highlights the current BISP payment plan and the student scholarship initiative known as Benazir Taleemi Wazaif.
Quarterly Payment Plan
As of 2025, BISP continues to provide quarterly cash transfers to eligible families. The payment amount has been updated to PKR 10,500 every three months, totalling PKR 42,000 annually. These payments help low-income families cover basic living expenses such as food, clothing, healthcare, and other essentials. The funds are directed primarily to women, usually the female head of the household, which encourages financial inclusion and women’s empowerment.
How Payments Are Delivered
To make the process efficient and transparent, BISP uses multiple disbursement methods:
- Bank Transfers: For families with bank accounts, payments are directly deposited into the account.
- Retailer Shops & HBL Konnect Agents: Biometrically verified cash withdrawal services are available through authorised agents.
- Benazir Smart Card: This card can be used at ATMs or specific payment centres.
- Mobile Wallets: In select areas, digital wallets are being introduced to simplify the payment process.
Each method is designed to ensure that beneficiaries receive their funds safely, without middlemen or corruption.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility for the BISP payment plan is determined through a nationwide survey conducted under the National Socio-Economic Registry (NSER). Key criteria include:
- A valid CNIC (Computerised National Identity Card).
- The female head of the home must apply.
- Household income and living conditions must fall below the poverty threshold defined by the program.
Once registered and approved, beneficiaries begin receiving quarterly payments as part of the regular cycle.
Benazir Taleemi Wazaif – Student Scholarships
In addition to financial support for households, BISP also focuses on education for children through its Benazir Taleemi Wazaif initiative. This programme provides monthly scholarships to encourage school enrolment and reduce dropout rates among children from low-income families.
Scholarship Amounts (Monthly):
- Primary School (Class 1–5): PKR 1,500 for boys / PKR 2,000 for girls
- Secondary School (Class 6–10): PKR 2,500 for boys / PKR 3,000 for girls
- Higher Secondary School (Class 11–12): PKR 3,500 for boys / PKR 4,000 for girls
These scholarships are paid quarterly, similar to the core BISP payments, and are contingent upon 75% school attendance.
Why It Matters
This scholarship programme aims to:
- Promote education for girls, who are often the first to drop out in low-income households.
- Help families afford school-related costs such as uniforms, books, and transport.
- To end the cycle of poverty, make investments in the next generation.
By linking financial aid with education, BISP ensures that social support has a long-term impact.
How to Apply and Check Status
Families may check their eligibility and payment status using the following:
- SMS: Enter your CNIC number and your official BISP code, 8171.
- BISP Website: https://bisp.gov.pk
- Visit the nearest BISP registration facility with your original CNIC and the other required documents.
For Taleemi Wazaif, children must be enrolled in school, and their attendance must be verified through school records.
Conclusion
The Benazir Income Support Programme is a lifeline for millions of families in Pakistan. With its structured payment plan and student scholarship programme, BISP not only addresses immediate financial needs but also invests in the future through education. Programs like Benazir Taleemi Wazaif demonstrate the government’s commitment to breaking the poverty cycle by providing both financial relief and opportunities for growth.
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