BISP Increases Stipends to Rs13,500 and Expands Training Opportunities
- Abeera Marium Siddiqui
- January 2, 2025
- 3:07 pm
- 55
- Current Affairs
The BISP stipend increase and training opportunities mark a significant step toward empowering underserved communities in Pakistan. The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) recently announced a 28.57% increase in its quarterly stipend for Kafaalat beneficiaries, raising it from Rs10,500 to Rs13,500. This increase, effective from January 2025, underscores BISP's commitment to supporting Pakistan's most vulnerable populations while introducing initiatives to enhance their financial independence.
During a ceremony attended by key officials, including Chairperson Senator Rubina Khalid and Secretary Amer Ali Ahmad, the stipend hike was officially unveiled. This follows a consistent trend of increasing financial support; the stipend was previously raised from Rs8,750 to Rs10,500 in January 2024. In addition, the annual BISP budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 saw a 27% increase, jumping from Rs471.23 billion to Rs598.71 billion. This budget expansion reflects the program's growing efforts to uplift underserved communities across Pakistan.
Beyond financial assistance, BISP is actively working to equip its beneficiaries with the skills they need to secure sustainable livelihoods. Senator Rubina Khalid recently met with Ali Murtaza, Vice President of the Pakistan Association of Australia, to discuss expanding skill development opportunities. The meeting highlighted the importance of connecting BISP beneficiaries with reputable training institutions to meet both local and international market demands.
The people of Pakistan are talented and hardworking; they just need the right platform to showcase their abilities,
BISP’s skill development initiatives focus on providing high-quality training to deserving individuals, enabling them to achieve financial independence. These programs not only enhance the skillsets of beneficiaries but also contribute to Pakistan's socio-economic growth. By linking semi-skilled individuals with targeted training opportunities, BISP aims to empower them to meet global workforce demands while improving their economic conditions.
Ali Murtaza, representing the Pakistan Association of Australia, assured his full support in facilitating training opportunities abroad for BISP beneficiaries. The mutual determination of both parties to uplift underserved individuals through meaningful skill enhancement and employment pathways was celebrated during their discussion. As a token of appreciation, Murtaza presented a shield to Senator Khalid.
