BISP in Pakistan: Exploring Eligibility Criteria

The Benazir Income Support Program (BISP), established in 2008, is a vital social safety net program in Pakistan. It aims to alleviate poverty by providing financial assistance to deserving families and individuals. However, eligibility for BISP is not universal. This note delves deeper into the two main categories of people who qualify for BISP benefits.


2 Types People Are Eligible For BISP | Exploring Eligibility Criteria



2 Types People Are Eligible For BISP | Exploring Eligibility Criteria


1. Poor and Vulnerable Households:

This category forms the core target group for BISP. These households are identified through a rigorous process involving:

  • National Socioeconomic Registry (NSER): The NSER is a comprehensive database maintained by the BISP program. It contains socioeconomic data collected through surveys across Pakistan. This data includes household income, assets, demographics, and disability status. BISP utilizes a poverty scorecard methodology to assess a household's vulnerability based on the NSER data. Households falling below a pre-defined poverty line qualify for BISP.
  • Targeting Methodology: BISP employs a multi-pronged approach to identify deserving families. This may involve:
    • Proxy Means Test (PMT): This method uses factors like type of housing, ownership of assets (land, livestock) to estimate a household's wealth.
    • Community Input: Local community leaders or committees might be involved in identifying genuinely poor families within their areas.
    • Grievance Redressal Mechanism: A system exists for individuals or families who believe they were mistakenly excluded or included in the beneficiary list.

2 Types People Are Eligible For BISP | Exploring Eligibility Criteria


Characteristics of Eligible Households:

  • Low Income: Households with incomes falling below the official poverty line established by the government are prioritized.
  • Limited Assets: Ownership of minimal assets like land or livestock is indicative of a household's vulnerability.
  • Large Family Size: Families with a high number of dependents, particularly children, are considered more susceptible to poverty.
  • Presence of Vulnerable Individuals: Households with elderly members, widows, orphans, or individuals with disabilities are often prioritized due to their limited earning potential.
  • Geographical Location: Regions with higher poverty rates might be given weightage during the targeting process.

2 Types People Are Eligible For BISP | Exploring Eligibility Criteria

2. People with Disabilities:

The BISP program recognizes the distinct challenges faced by people with disabilities (PWDs). A separate category exists for providing financial assistance to this segment of the population.

Eligibility Criteria for PWDs:

  • Registration with National Database & Registration Authority (NADRA): Individuals with disabilities must be registered with NADRA, which maintains a database of PWDs in Pakistan.
  • Disability Verification: Verification of the disability type and severity might be required through medical certificates from government hospitals.
  • Age Limit: Specific age limitations for receiving BISP benefits under the PWD category might exist.

Focus on Inclusion:

The BISP program, through its focus on PWDs, aims to promote social inclusion and empower individuals with disabilities. The financial assistance can help PWDs meet basic needs, access healthcare, and potentially pursue income-generating activities.


2 Types People Are Eligible For BISP | Exploring Eligibility Criteria


Additional Considerations:

  • Transparency and Accountability: The BISP program strives for transparency in its beneficiary selection process. Mechanisms exist for individuals to verify their eligibility status and address any grievances.
  • Exclusion Criteria: Certain categories, such as government employees exceeding a specific income threshold, might be excluded from receiving BISP benefits.
  • Continuous Monitoring and Updates: The NSER data is updated periodically to ensure the program reaches the most deserving beneficiaries.

Conclusion:

The BISP program in Pakistan plays a crucial role in supporting underprivileged households and individuals with disabilities. Understanding the two main categories of eligible beneficiaries – poor and vulnerable households, and people with disabilities – is essential. The program's success hinges on its ability to effectively target those most in need and ensure the financial assistance reaches them efficiently.


2 Types People Are Eligible For BISP | Exploring Eligibility Criteria