8171 BISP: New Installment of Rs. 10,500 and Overcoming Thumb Verification Issues

Pakistan's Benazir Income Support Program (BISP), also known as the Kafalat program, provides financial assistance to low-income families. Disbursement of these funds often involves biometric verification using fingerprints. However, recent news highlights the challenges some beneficiaries face due to thumbprint verification issues. This note explores the new installment of Rs. 10,500 and alternative methods to receive funds if fingerprint verification fails.

Understanding BISP and the New Installment:

  • BISP: Established in 2008, BISP is a social safety net program targeting underprivileged families across Pakistan. It provides financial assistance to registered women, who then use the funds to support their households.
  • New Installment: News outlets report a new installment of Rs. 10,500 being distributed through the BISP program. This amount could be part of a regular disbursement schedule or a special allocation.

Challenges with Thumbprint Verification:

  • Biometric Issues: Some beneficiaries may encounter difficulties with fingerprint verification due to factors like injuries, dry fingers, or technical malfunctions with the scanners.
  • Exclusion Risk: Inability to verify fingerprints could lead to exclusion from receiving the much-needed financial aid.

Alternative Methods to Receive Funds (Without Thumb Verification):

Here are some options available to beneficiaries facing fingerprint verification problems:

  • 8171 SMS Service: BISP utilizes the shortcode 8171 for various communication purposes. You can check eligibility and potentially receive information on alternative disbursement methods by sending your CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card) number to 8171.
  • BISP Web Portal: The BISP website might offer a login option for registered users. Here, you could potentially update information or find alternative ways to access your funds if fingerprint verification fails.
  • Contacting BISP Helpline: BISP likely has a dedicated helpline for inquiries and troubleshooting. Reaching out through this helpline could connect you with a representative who can guide you on alternative methods to receive your installment.
  • Visiting BISP Office: In case of persistent issues, visiting your nearest BISP office might be necessary. Carry your CNIC and any relevant documentation to explain the fingerprint verification problem. Officials can then guide you through the appropriate course of action.

Important Considerations:

  • Official Sources: While news reports mention the Rs. 10,500 installment, it's crucial to rely on official BISP communication channels for accurate information. The BISP website and social media pages are reliable sources for program updates and announcements.
  • Eligibility Criteria: The eligibility criteria for receiving BISP funds might involve factors like family income level and geographic location. Ensure you meet the program's requirements before pursuing alternative disbursement methods.
  • Documentation: Keep your CNIC and any other relevant documents handy for verification purposes when contacting BISP through any channel.

Potential Improvements for BISP:

  • Multiple Verification Methods: BISP could explore offering alternative verification options besides fingerprints. This might include facial recognition, iris scans, or one-time passwords sent to registered mobile numbers.
  • Improved Infrastructure: Upgrading fingerprint scanner technology and ensuring proper maintenance can minimize technical glitches that lead to verification issues.
  • Enhanced Communication: BISP can improve communication regarding alternative disbursement methods through its website, SMS alerts, and public service announcements.

Conclusion:

The BISP program plays a vital role in supporting underprivileged families in Pakistan. While fingerprint verification is a security measure, alternative methods should be readily available to ensure those facing verification issues still receive their rightful disbursements. By implementing the suggestions mentioned above, BISP can strive for a more inclusive and efficient program that reaches all eligible beneficiaries.