A decision has been made to include unmarried women above the age of 35 in the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP).
According to a private TV channel, the issue was discussed during a meeting of a subcommittee of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC). Committee member Bilal Mandokhail said that unmarried women were not currently included in the Benazir Income Support Programme.
He stated that unmarried women with no one to support them are among those most deserving of assistance.
In response, BISP officials informed the committee that unmarried women over the age of 35 are being included in the programme.
Proposal to increase BISP amount in Budget 2026
As part of the federal budget 2026-27, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has demanded an increase of Rs 5,500 in the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP).
According to sources, the IMF has suggested raising the amount from Rs 14,500 to Rs 20,000.
Sources say discussions are ongoing with the IMF mission regarding the Benazir Income Support Programme. The mission is being briefed on all operations of the programme.
During the talks, the IMF reviewed the social protection system of BISP, while officials also briefed the mission on data registered under the Kafalat programme.
According to sources, briefings were given on family registration, quarterly payments, and requirements for the upcoming fiscal year. The IMF has said that quarterly payments under the Kafalat programme should be increased in the next fiscal year.
Sources further say that a total of four meetings are scheduled today with the IMF mission, including one meeting with BISP officials and three with FBR officials.
The proposed increase is suggested in the context of high inflation and the difficulties of the BISP beneficiaries. This increase will provide big relief to the low stratum of society.
Also Read: Federal Budget 2026-27: IMF demands increase in BISP amount
