Pakistan Boosts BISP Budget by 20% for 2025-26 – Here’s Who Benefits

The Government of Pakistan has announced a 20% increase in the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) budget, allocating Rs. 716 billion for the 2025–26 fiscal year, up from Rs. 592.5 billion in 2024–25. The move aims to shield vulnerable households from inflation and economic challenges.

Key Changes in BISP 2025–26

• Higher Quarterly Stipends: Expected to rise from Rs. 13,500 to Rs. 14,500 per family
• Inflation-Linked Adjustments: Payments to increase annually based on inflation rates
• Wider Coverage: Continues support for 10 million families nationwide
• Digital Expansion: Push for direct bank transfers to enhance transparency

Why the Increase Matters

The enhanced budget reflects the government’s focus on poverty alleviation:

• Counteracts inflation eroding household incomes
• Preserves purchasing power of beneficiaries
• Maintains critical aid for 10 million families
• Promotes financial inclusion via digital payments

Additional Support Programs

BISP will also sustain Conditional Cash Transfers (CCTs) for:

• Education – Incentives for school enrollment
• Health – Support for maternal and child care
• Nutrition – Aid for balanced diets
• NSER Updates – Ensuring accurate beneficiary data

Budget Breakdown

FAQs

Q: When will the new stipend rates apply?
A: Likely from January 2026, pending final approval.

Q: How will inflation adjustments work?
A: Annual hikes tied to official inflation data to maintain stipend value.

Q: Are digital payments mandatory?
A: Encouraged but not mandatory; options remain for traditional disbursement.

This budget hike marks Pakistan’s largest single-year increase for BISP, reinforcing its role as a social safety net cornerstone. With inflation-linked adjustments now institutionalized, the program is poised to offer longer-term stability to millions.