Exciting Developments in the Benazir Kafaalat Program – October 2024
The Benazir Kafaalat Program
Empowering impoverished families in Pakistan, the Benazir Kafaalat Program serves as a crucial lifeline. Currently, over 9 million women from needy backgrounds receive financial aid through this initiative. These women benefit from a quarterly financial assistance of Rs 10,500. In a heartening update, this amount is set to increase to Rs 13,500 starting from 2025.
History and Transformation of the Kafaalat Program
Originally launched in 2008 by former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto to support widows financially, the program has evolved over time. It now stands as Pakistan’s largest financial aid program, offering immediate and long-term relief to widows and deserving women, aiding them in overcoming economic hardships.
Enhanced Financial Aid and Future Goals
BISP currently disburses Rs 10,500 to Kafaalat Program beneficiaries every three months. With the recent budget boost, this support is slated to rise significantly to Rs 13,500 by 2025. Targeting an increase from 9 million to 10 million beneficiaries by next year, the government aims to widen the program’s reach. This expansion will ensure more women from impoverished backgrounds benefit from this vital assistance.
Widened Network of Banks for Kafalat Tranche Distribution
Recognizing the challenges beneficiaries faced in receiving payments solely through Habib Bank Limited, BISP has diversified its network. The program will now disburse funds through multiple banks, including Bank Al Falah, Bank of Punjab, Mobilink Microfinance/Jazz Cash, Telenor Microfinance Bank, HABIB BANK LIMITED, and HBL Microfinance. This move aims to expedite payments and enhance accessibility for recipients.
Registering for the Benazir Kafaalat Program
Under the directives of President Asif Ali Zardari, a fresh registration initiative for the Kafaalat program has been launched to broaden its scope. Needy widows and women struggling financially below the poverty line can now register more conveniently. The registration process has been streamlined, requiring participants to provide identification, children’s birth certificate, and a registered mobile number in their name.
For the convenience of women unable to visit BISP offices, a mobile van service is now available for registration in remote areas.
Conclusion
The Benazir Kafaalat program serves as a critical pillar of support for disadvantaged women in Pakistan. Beyond alleviating economic burdens, it strives to enhance their overall well-being through supplementary programs. As the government endeavors to expand the program, aiming to assist more deserving women, the recent enhancements and broader reach signal a positive trajectory for this essential initiative.
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