In Pakistan, mothers and children both lack proper food and medical treatment. It can lead to long-term issues due to malnutrition, poor health, and weak immunity during early childhood. To tackle this, the government initiated the Benazir Nashonuma Program as part of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP). It aims to provide both cash benefits and healthcare counseling to pregnant women and young children under two years of age.
This article describes how it works, who can gain from this, and why it’s so critical to Pakistan’s future.
What Is the Benazir Nashonuma Program?
The Benazir Nashonuma Program was initiated in order to decrease malnutrition and enhance the health of mothers and their infants, particularly among poor populations. It provides cash for nutrition and medical examination, and it also informs mothers about health and child care.
The program invests in a mother and her child from conception through the child’s second birthday. This is sometimes referred to as the “first 1,000 days” — a pivotal period for the brain and body of a child.
Who Can Apply?
To enroll in the Nashonuma Program, you need to satisfy the following requirements:
- The woman should be an existing BISP Kafalat beneficiary.
- She should be pregnant or have a child who is two years of age or younger.
- A child’s B-form (NADRA birth certificate) is necessary.
- The mother and child should receive regular health checkups and education at a Nashonuma center.
This initiative is specifically targeted for the low-income families so they can bring up healthy children despite difficult circumstances.
How Much Money Does the Program Give?
The support is given every three months (quarterly) and includes:
| Beneficiary | Amount (Rs/Quarter) |
|---|---|
| Pregnant or breastfeeding mother | Rs. 2,500 |
| Girl child under 2 years | Rs. 2,500 |
| Boy child under 2 years | Rs. 2,000 |
| Travel support (one-time) | Rs. 500 |
The higher amount for girl children is part of the government’s effort to fight gender discrimination and encourage equal care for daughters.
How to Register
Registering for the Benazir Nashonuma Program is simple:
- Visit the nearest Nashonuma Center, usually located in a health facility.
- Bring your original CNIC and your child’s B-Form.
- Undergo a basic health screening for mother and child.
- If eligible, your name will be added to the program list.
- Attend the health and nutrition sessions regularly.
After successful enrollment, the payments begin. You’ll receive an SMS or notification when your payment is ready.
What Are the Health Sessions About?
Mothers who enroll in the program are required to participate in health awareness sessions where they learn about:
- Balanced diet during pregnancy and lactation
- Vaccination schedule for infants
- Growth monitoring
- Hygiene practices in a safe manner
- Baby feeding skills, including breastfeeding
These sessions not only educate women on necessary life skills but also empower them regarding their ability to care for their families.
Why This Program Is So Important
Pakistan has large levels of malnutrition, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach areas. Most families can’t afford food, let alone see a doctor. Consequently, children experience stunted growth, brittle bones, and weak immunity.
The Benazir Nashonuma Program bridges this gap by:
- Providing financial assistance to mothers
- Motivating regular health visits
- Increasing care for boys and girls to be equal
- Breaking the cycle of poverty and ill health
Through concentration on the first two years of a child’s life, the program lays a solid foundation for a lifetime of health and learning.
FAQs – Quick Answers
Q: Can I join if I am not registered with BISP?
No. You must already be receiving BISP payments to sign up.
Q: How often do I receive the money?
You receive payments every three months.
Q: What if I do not attend a health session?
Your payment could be delayed or suspended. You must attend regularly.
Q: Can my baby still receive help after two years of age?
No. The program supports children only up to 24 months old.
Q: Is there a fee to enroll in the program?
No. The program is free and government funded.
Final Thoughts
The Benazir Nashonuma Program 2025 is not all about providing money. It’s about saving lives, better health, and a good start in life for children. If you are a beneficiary of BISP and pregnant or have an infant younger than two years, this program will make a tangible difference in your life and that of your child.
Stay aware, keep your documents in hand, and head to your local Nashonuma Center to enroll. With small steps such as this, Pakistan can approach a healthier, stronger future for everyone.
Read next: [How BISP July Payments Help Women Start Small Businesses in Pakistan]
Read here: [BISP 8171 SMS Status Check 2025 – Instantly Know If Your Payment Is Ready]
Disclaimer: This blog post is meant for informational purposes only. We are not affiliated with BISP or the government agency. For official updates, kindly visit the official BISP website.