The Government of Pakistan has announced higher cash assistance under the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) ahead of Ramadan, raising quarterly payments for eligible women and increasing stipends under related education and nutrition schemes. The move affects millions of low-income families who rely on BISP support for basic household expenses.
The announcement was made on February 18, 2026, during a live public complaint session at BISP headquarters in Islamabad.
What is the Benazir Income Support Program?
Benazir Income Support Programme is Pakistan’s largest social protection initiative. It provides direct cash assistance to low-income families, primarily women, to help reduce poverty and improve access to food, education and healthcare.
The programme includes several components:
- Benazir Kafalat Programme, which provides quarterly cash payments to eligible women.
- Benazir Nashonuma Programme, focused on maternal and child nutrition.
- Benazir Educational Scholarships, which supports children’s school attendance through stipends.
What has changed?
Under the latest revision:
- The quarterly payment under the Benazir Kafalat Programme has increased from Rs13,500 to Rs14,500, a rise of Rs1,000.
- Stipends under the Benazir Nashonuma Programme and Benazir Educational Scholarships have each increased by Rs500.
Officials said the adjustments were made in view of Ramadan, a period when household spending often increases.
Who is affected?
The increase applies to women already enrolled and declared eligible under BISP. Payments are made directly to registered female beneficiaries to ensure that financial support reaches households through women.
Beneficiaries were advised to collect the full amount and not accept any deductions. According to officials, any complaints of unauthorized cuts or malpractice can be reported through the BISP helpline (0800-26477) or at local BISP offices.
What is the issue with digital wallets and SIM cards?
BISP uses digital payment systems to transfer funds. Registered beneficiaries receive payments through accounts linked to their mobile SIM cards.
Women who have not yet obtained a free SIM for their digital wallet were instructed to contact their nearest BISP office. Officials also emphasized the importance of keeping the SIM secure, as it functions as the access point to their payment account.
Why was the announcement made now?
The increase was announced during a live “e-Katcheri,” a public call-in session held at BISP headquarters in Islamabad. During the one-hour session, 31 callers from different parts of the country raised issues related to biometric verification, re-surveys, enrollment status, and payment disbursement.
Senior officials were present to address complaints and issue directions for timely resolution.
What happens next?
The revised payment amounts will apply to the upcoming disbursement cycle. Beneficiaries are encouraged to verify their eligibility status, complete any pending biometric verification, and report payment issues through official channels.
The adjustment represents a targeted expansion of financial assistance within Pakistan’s social safety net framework ahead of Ramadan.
