BISP Chairperson Rubina Khalid has unveiled plans to expand the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) with a new initiative called the Wasila Rozgar program, aimed at enhancing women’s job prospects through skill development.
Speaking to the media in Lahore, Khalid highlighted that BISP currently supports 9.5 million families. She emphasized that the program was originally envisioned by the late Benazir Bhutto during her exile, who designed its features. Despite attempts by the previous government to rename it, the program has retained its original name.
Khalid assured that BISP funds are withdrawn through biometric verification to ensure transparency and integrity in the distribution of payments. She reiterated the program’s commitment to full transparency.
She also mentioned that BISP updates its data every two years to ensure that beneficiaries who have risen above the poverty line are removed from the program. Additionally, she clarified that the official message center for the program is 8,171, cautioning against any other numbers claiming association.
Addressing complaints about commission charges, Khalid acknowledged an existing payment arrangement with one bank. To address these issues, BISP plans to partner with six additional banks to improve the payment process.