Last Updated on: 8th August 2024, 09:47 am
A parliamentary panel has expressed concern over the difficulties faced by the beneficiaries of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP). A meeting of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Finance chaired by Syed Naveed Qamar highlighted that BISP payments are currently distributed through banks and beneficiaries can get stipends of 32 PMT points.
BISP budget increased for new beneficiaries
The Finance Minister informed the committee that the BISP budget has been increased to Rs 598 billion. However, there is no additional budgetary scope available for additional funds in the current fiscal year. The Secretary noted that even the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is in the favour of increasing the allocation for the BISP.
Minister of State for Finance Ali Pervez Malik confirmed the IMF’s full support to the government. The committee was also informed that 11.5 million people are below 32 PMT points, which qualifies them for BISP assistance. Of these, 9.3 million are currently receiving aid, with another 0.7 million to be added this fiscal year. However, more than a million people are yet to be reached, which is a major challenge due to limited funding and ongoing survey efforts.
Also Read: BISP 12500 Oct-Dec Installment Announced for New People
What are the difficulties in payments for BISP beneficiaries
The BISP secretary reported problems with agents accepting bribes from beneficiaries in return for Kafaalat cash payments. He mentioned that talks were underway with the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) to bring more banks into the remittance system.
Tensions arose during the meeting, resulting in opposition leader Omar Ayub walking out of the meeting in protest against Bilal Azhar Kiani’s conduct during the session.