The flagship initiative of BISP is the Unconditional Cash Transfers (UCT) program, commonly known as the “Benazir Kafaalat Program,” which was initially introduced in 2008. Over time, the UCT/Kafaalat initiative has significantly expanded to become Pakistan’s largest single cash transfer program.
Initially aimed at shielding the economically vulnerable, particularly women, from the adverse effects of inflation, food shortages, and sluggish economic progress, the program provided financial assistance to eligible families. Its broader objectives, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), encompassed the empowerment of women and the eradication of entrenched poverty over the long term.
Aims of the Benazir Kafalat Program
Introduced by the Pakistani government in 2014, the Benazir Kafalat Program Payments is a social welfare initiative aimed at providing financial assistance to the country’s most vulnerable and disadvantaged households. This post will outline the program’s objectives, eligibility criteria, benefits, the process of checking eligibility through CNIC, and the application procedure.
Success of the Benazir Kafalat Program
Approximately 9 million families benefit from financial aid through the Benazir Kafalat program under BISP. The current stipend stands at Rs. 8,500 per beneficiary per quarter, a significant increase from the initial Rs. 3,000 per beneficiary per quarter.
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Selection Criteria for the Program
Beneficiaries of the Benazir Kafalat Program are identified through the National Socio-Economic Registry (NSER) survey and a scientific Proxy Means Test (PMT). The PMT assesses the household’s well-being level on a scale of 0 to 100. The BISP Board determines the PMT cut-off score for eligibility based on the available budgetary allocation. The program extends cash support to households meeting the specified PMT cut-off score. During its 52nd meeting on September 23, 2021, the BISP Board decided to maintain the current PMT cut-off score of 32. However, households with a member with disabilities must achieve a PMT cut-off score of 37 to qualify.
Program Details
- Program Name: Benazir Kafalat Program
- Launch Year: 2008
- Main Initiative: Unconditional Cash Transfers (UCT) program
- Short-term Goal: Shielding the economically disadvantaged, particularly women, from adverse economic effects
- Long-term Goal: Empowering women and alleviating severe and persistent poverty
- Current Aid Amount: Rs. 8,500 per beneficiary per quarter
FAQs:
1. Who qualifies for the Benazir Kafalat Program?
- Eligibility is determined based on socio-economic factors, primarily through the Proxy Means Test (PMT), targeting Pakistan’s most vulnerable households.
2. How can I check my eligibility for the program?
- You can verify your eligibility through the Benazir Kafalat Program Check using your Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC).
3. How do I apply for the program?
- Applications are typically submitted through designated centers or online portals, requiring documentation and verification processes.
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Conclusion:
The Benazir Kafalat Program serves as a pivotal initiative, providing essential financial assistance to millions of vulnerable households in Pakistan, aiming to alleviate poverty and empower women while mitigating economic challenges.