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PMT Score Updated for Benazir Kafaalat 2025
The Government of Pakistan has introduced a significant policy update to the Benazir Kafaalat Program, raising the PMT Poverty Means Test score threshold to 34. This long-awaited change will extend financial assistance to thousands of additional women across the country, enabling them to receive a monthly stipend of 13500.
This development reflects the government’s commitment to empowering women, alleviating poverty, and supporting underprivileged families. Let’s delve deeper into this update, its implications, and how you can benefit from it.
What Is the PMT Score, and Why Is It Important?
The PMT (Poverty Means Test) score is a critical metric used by the Government of Pakistan to assess the financial condition of households. It determines eligibility for various social protection programs, including the Benazir Kafaalat Program.
How Is the PMT Score Calculated?
The PMT score is derived from data collected through the National Socio-Economic Registry NSER survey. This comprehensive survey evaluates factors such as:
- Household Income: Monthly earnings of the family.
- Household Size: Number of family members, including dependents.
- Access to Basic Amenities: Availability of electricity, water, healthcare, and sanitation.
- Education and Employment: Levels of education and job status of household members.
A low PMT score indicates greater financial vulnerability, making the household eligible for financial assistance programs. Until recently, only women with PMT scores below 34 could qualify for the Benazir Kafaalat Program.
The recent decision to raise the threshold to 34 means that women who were previously excluded those with scores of exactly 33 or 34 can no w qualify for this vital support.
Overview of the Benazir Kafaalat Program
The Benazir Kafaalat Program is a flagship welfare initiative of the Benazir Income Support Program It aims to provide consistent financial support to low-income women across Pakistan, helping them meet essential needs like food, healthcare, and education.
Key Features of the Program:
- Monthly Stipend: 13500 is provided directly to eligible women via secure channels, ensuring transparency.
- Focus on Women Empowerment: By targeting women, the program empowers them to play an active role in household decision-making.
- Coverage Across Pakistan: The initiative benefits families in urban, rural, and remote areas, ensuring inclusivity.
Since its inception, the Benazir Kafaalat Program has served as a lifeline for millions of women, providing them with financial stability and the means to support their families.
Details of the Updated PMT Score Threshold
The decision to increase the PMT score threshold from below 34 to 34 is a welcome change. Here’s how this update will impact beneficiaries:
- Increased Eligibility:
- Women who narrowly missed qualifying for the program due to a PMT score of 33 or 34 can now reapply.
- This expanded eligibility will bring financial relief to thousands of deserving families.
- Broader Coverage:
- The updated policy ensures that more regions, particularly underserved areas, receive support through the program.
- Increased Financial Inclusion:
- Women from diverse backgrounds, including those facing economic shocks like inflation, can now benefit.
How This Update Benefits Women and Families
With a monthly stipend of 13,500, eligible families can meet their basic needs, such as:
- Food Security: Ensuring regular meals for children and other family members.
- Healthcare Access: Covering medical expenses and improving overall well-being.
- Educational Support: Enabling children to attend school and continue their studies.
The financial independence provided through this program strengthens women’s ability to make decisions regarding household expenses, children’s education, and healthcare.
As beneficiaries spend their stipends on local goods and services, it boosts economic activity at the community level.
By supporting underprivileged women, the program helps lift entire families out of extreme poverty, giving them a chance to rebuild their lives.
How to Register or Reapply for the Program
If you believe you now qualify under the updated PMT score threshold, here’s how you can register or reapply:
Step 1: Prepare the Required Documents
- CNIC Computerized National Identity Card: For personal identification.
- Mobile Number: To receive updates and notifications.
- Child’s Form B: To verify family and dependent details.
Step 2: Visit Your Nearest BISP Tehsil Office
Bring all required documents to the nearest office to initiate the registration process.
Step 3: Complete the Dynamic NSER Survey
Answer questions about your household income, dependents, and living conditions honestly. This survey will be used to calculate your PMT score.
Step 4: Wait for Notification
Once your PMT score is processed and verified, you will be informed if you qualify for the program.
Understanding the Dynamic NSER Survey
The Dynamic NSER Survey plays a crucial role in ensuring the fairness and transparency of the Benazir Kafaalat Program. It collects up-to-date information about households, enabling accurate PMT score calculations.
Survey questions typically cover:
- Family income sources.
- Property ownership.
- Access to education, healthcare, and utilities.
Providing accurate and honest answers is essential to ensure eligibility and avoid disqualification.
Why This Update Matters
The government’s decision to raise the PMT score threshold reflects a proactive approach to tackling poverty and supporting vulnerable populations.
- Increased Inclusivity: More women can now access financial aid, reducing social disparities.
- Targeted Poverty Reduction: By focusing on low-income women, the initiative addresses poverty at its root.
- Community-Level Benefits: Increased purchasing power among beneficiaries stimulates local economies.
- Social Upliftment: Empowering women financially has a ripple effect on their families and communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PMT score?
The PMT score is a poverty assessment metric used to determine eligibility for social protection programs. It is calculated through the NSER survey.
What is the new PMT score threshold for the Benazir Kafaalat Program?
The new threshold is 34, meaning women with PMT scores of 34 or below are eligible.
How much financial aid is provided under the program?
Eligible beneficiaries receive a monthly stipend of PKR 13,500.
Can I reapply if I was previously disqualified?
Yes, women previously disqualified due to a PMT score of 33 or 34 can now reapply.
How do I apply for the program?
Visit your nearest BISP Tehsil office with your CNIC, mobile number, and Form B to begin the registration process.
Conclusion
The updated PMT score threshold for the Benazir Kafaalat Program is a transformative step toward reducing poverty and empowering women in Pakistan. By extending eligibility to more women, the government is ensuring broader social and economic inclusion.
If you meet the new criteria, don’t wait—complete your registration or reapplication today. This program not only offers financial assistance but also provides hope, stability, and the means for a brighter future for thousands of families across the country.