The Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) is a crucial initiative in Pakistan aimed at helping low-income families. Recently, the Senate Standing Committee on Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection held a meeting to discuss important issues related to the program. One major concern raised during this meeting was the need for equal representation from all provinces on the BISP board, especially highlighting the importance of including Balochistan due to its population size and specific challenges.
| Details | Information |
| Provinces Represented | Sindh, Punjab |
| Required Representation | Balochistan |
| Current Vacancies | 1,163 positions |
| Benefiting Families | 480,000 |
Table of Content
Concerns About Representation
During the meeting, chaired by Senator Jan Muhammad, members of the committee expressed their dissatisfaction with the current representation on the BISP board. They pointed out that provinces like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan do not have any members on the board, which raises concerns about fair representation. The committee argued that Balochistan, in particular, deserves at least one member on the board due to its significant population and unique issues.
Ministry’s Clarification on Board Appointments
The Ministry of Poverty Alleviation provided clarification during the meeting, stating that the 2010 BISP Act does not require a specific quota for board member appointments. Currently, the board has three private members from Sindh and one from Punjab. This imbalance has led to demands for reform in how board members are selected to ensure that all provinces are represented fairly.
Staffing Issues in the BISP
Another critical point discussed was the staffing situation within the BISP. The committee noted that there are currently 126 vacant positions at the BISP headquarters and an alarming 1,037 vacant positions in various provincial offices. This lack of staffing can hinder the effectiveness of the program and its ability to reach families in need.
Key Staffing Issues:
- 126 positions are unfilled at the headquarters.
- 1,037 positions are vacant in provincial offices.
- Difficulty in managing and implementing programs effectively.
- Potential delays in service delivery to families.
Benefits and Challenges of the BISP
The Ministry reported that approximately 480,000 families are currently benefiting from the BISP. However, several challenges have been identified that impact the effectiveness of the program. One major issue is the number of unregistered families that cannot receive assistance due to not having National Identity Cards. This has created barriers for many families who are in need of financial support.
Problems in the Cash Distribution Process
During the meeting, concerns were raised about the cash distribution process for beneficiaries. Long queues have become common during cash collection, which often results in frustration among recipients. Additionally, reports of mistreatment of elderly women during the distribution process were highlighted, drawing attention to the need for better management and sensitivity in the treatment of vulnerable groups.
Also Read: Utility Stores Across Pakistan Reopen for Affordable Purchases 2024
Conclusion
The discussions held by the Senate Standing Committee on Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection shed light on the urgent need for reform within the Benazir Income Support Program. Ensuring equal representation from all provinces is essential for making the program more inclusive and effective. Addressing staffing shortages and improving the cash distribution process are critical steps that must be taken to enhance the BISP’s ability to support low-income families effectively. The committee’s commitment to these issues is a positive sign towards achieving a fair and efficient support system for those in need.