Government Plans 20% Increase in BISP Budget for 2025-26
Government Plans 20% Increase in BISP Budget for 2025-26 — a major announcement that brings new hope to millions of low-income families across Pakistan. The federal government has confirmed plans to expand financial support under the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) for the fiscal year 2025-26, increasing its budget by 20%. This move highlights the state’s renewed commitment to poverty reduction and social welfare amid rising inflation and economic challenges.
What the New Budget Increase Means
The BISP, Pakistan’s largest social safety net, currently assists more than 9 million families through quarterly cash stipends. With a 20% budget increase, the program’s funding will rise significantly, enabling more beneficiaries to be included and payments to be adjusted for inflation.
This means that the stipend amounts will likely be enhanced, and new families on the waiting list may finally be enrolled. The 20% boost will also strengthen other BISP components, such as Waseela-e-Taleem, Nashonuma, and Kafalat, ensuring that children’s education and maternal health support continue uninterrupted.
According to government sources, this adjustment aims to counter the impact of rising food and fuel prices while promoting equitable distribution of national resources among Pakistan’s most vulnerable citizens.
Focus on Women’s Empowerment and Rural Support
One of the core objectives of the Benazir Income Support Programme has always been women empowerment. The new budget expansion will primarily target female-headed households, especially in rural and remote areas, where poverty levels remain highest.
Through the 2025-26 increase, the government plans to introduce better digital systems for transparent transfers, mobile wallet payments, and improved verification under BISP 8171. These steps will minimize corruption, reduce delays, and make the payment process more accessible to women across all provinces.
Moreover, rural communities that depend heavily on agriculture will see expanded benefits. Many families that were earlier declared ineligible due to technical data mismatches will be re-evaluated through the upcoming dynamic survey.
Technology Integration and Transparency Goals
The upcoming financial year will also bring a stronger focus on digital inclusion. The government, in partnership with banks and telecom companies, plans to roll out digital payment methods like JazzCash, EasyPaisa, and HBL Konnect under the new BISP model.
Beneficiaries will be able to track their payment status online through the 8171 portal or mobile app. This digital transition is part of a long-term plan to make BISP fully transparent and user-friendly by 2026.
Officials have also stated that fingerprint verification systems will be improved at Tehsil-level centers to eliminate fraudulent claims and ensure that every rupee reaches genuine recipients.
How This Budget Expansion Will Help Families
The 20% budget increase is not just a financial change — it’s a lifeline for millions. For many families struggling to meet daily expenses, the additional funds can help pay for essentials like food, medicine, and children’s education.
It will also support new social protection programs that may be introduced alongside BISP, including skills training for women and micro-enterprise support initiatives. By strengthening the overall social safety framework, the government aims to create long-term economic resilience rather than short-term relief.
In the previous year, Pakistan’s social protection spending reached record highs, and this trend is expected to continue as international donors, including the World Bank, have expressed support for BISP’s digital expansion and transparency efforts.
Looking Ahead: A More Inclusive BISP
As Pakistan enters the next fiscal year, the BISP 2025-26 strategy reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to poverty alleviation and sustainable development.
The expansion of funds will not only secure the welfare of existing beneficiaries but will also help the inclusion of over 1 million new families currently waiting for approval.
By increasing the program’s reach and efficiency, Pakistan aims to ensure that no deserving citizen is left behind in the journey toward economic stability.
Conclusion
The Government’s 20% Increase in BISP Budget for 2025-26 marks a significant turning point in Pakistan’s social welfare landscape. With higher allocations, improved technology, and stronger oversight, this expansion will bring relief and dignity to millions of low-income families.
As digital payments and dynamic surveys continue to evolve, BISP remains a cornerstone of Pakistan’s poverty reduction strategy — providing hope, stability, and empowerment to those who need it most.
