The federal government Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) has approved a major increase in financial assistance for beneficiaries, raising the quarterly stipend by 24.14 percent from Rs. 14,000 to Rs. 18,000.
According to officials, the revised payment structure will take effect from January 2027 as part of broader social protection reforms aimed at supporting low-income households amid persistent inflationary pressures.
Authorities have also reportedly provided written assurances to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) regarding the planned increase, linking the move with ongoing economic stabilization measures and expansion of social safety nets.
In addition to increasing the stipend amount, the government plans to expand BISP coverage by adding around 200,000 more eligible families to the programme.
Earlier proposals had suggested a 20 percent increase in BISP funding, with an allocation of Rs. 716 billion for the fiscal year 2025-26. The latest revision indicates further expansion in welfare spending under future budget plans.
BISP remains Pakistan’s largest poverty alleviation initiative, providing unconditional cash transfers to millions of low-income households nationwide.
Officials say the increase in financial assistance is intended to help vulnerable families cope with inflation, improve purchasing power, and strengthen social protection coverage during ongoing economic reforms.
