BISP Removes 1.9 Million Women in August 2025 – Reasons, Impact, and Reapplication Process

The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), launched in 2008 to support low-income households, has been a financial lifeline for millions across Pakistan. It provides quarterly cash assistance directly to eligible women, aiming to reduce poverty and empower communities.

In a major update for August 2025, the government confirmed that approximately 1.9 million women have been removed from the BISP beneficiary list. This decision, part of a targeted transparency drive, has triggered protests, debates, and confusion nationwide.

According to officials, the removal followed the BISP Dynamic Survey, designed to verify and update beneficiary data. Many were disqualified due to “failure to complete the Dynamic Survey,” “improved financial status,” “incorrect or missing data,” or a “high PMT score” — a poverty measurement index used by the program.

The Dynamic Survey collects details about income, household size, housing status, and assets to ensure that only deserving families remain in the system. Officials say the move aims to maintain fairness and transparency, but for many rural families, the impact has been severe — affecting food security, children’s education, and healthcare access.

BISP’s Taleemi Wazaif education stipends may still continue if children’s documents remain valid and linked, but outdated household data could lead to suspension.

Authorities have urged removed beneficiaries to reapply by visiting their nearest BISP centre with their CNIC, children’s B-Forms, and proof of address or hardship. Beneficiaries can check their status by sending their CNIC to 8171 or using the official BISP portal.

The government has also warned against “illegal deductions,” where agents or shopkeepers take a portion of payments. Beneficiaries are advised to demand receipts, refuse extra charges, and report any violations.