In a major development aimed at fighting poverty and promoting women’s empowerment, the Government of Pakistan has announced the expansion of the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) Kafaalat initiative in 2025. As part of this expansion, 700,000 new families have been added, increasing the total number of women beneficiaries to 10 million. This significant step reflects the government’s strong commitment to supporting vulnerable households and improving the lives of women across the country.
Financial Help for More Families
The Kafaalat Program provides quarterly financial assistance to low-income women, helping them meet their basic needs. With the inclusion of these new families, more women will now receive direct cash support, enabling them to manage daily expenses, send their children to school, and access basic healthcare.
The government’s decision to expand the program is part of a broader strategy to reduce poverty, increase financial stability, and support gender equality. Women from rural and underprivileged communities will now have better access to this financial support system.
Budget Increased to Ensure Wider Reach
To make this expansion possible, the government has raised the BISP budget to Rs 716 billion, which is a 20% increase from the previous allocation. This increase is not just about adding more families — it also strengthens the overall infrastructure of the program, allowing better service delivery and efficient management of funds.
The larger budget will also help improve monitoring systems and ensure that aid reaches only those who truly qualify. With this funding, the government aims to make the welfare system more transparent and accountable.
Stipend Increased to Rs 14,500
Starting in January 2026, the amount given under the Kafaalat Program will rise from Rs 13,500 to Rs 14,500 per quarter. This increase comes at a time when inflation and living costs are rising, making it harder for poor families to survive. The extra amount will help cover essential needs such as food, medicine, and school expenses.
Even a small increase like this can have a big impact in remote areas, where many families rely solely on this financial aid. The new amount reflects the government’s awareness of economic realities and its willingness to adjust accordingly.
Easy Registration and Eligibility Process
To make the program more inclusive, BISP has simplified the registration process. Now, eligible families can check their status and apply through multiple methods:
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Send your CNIC number via SMS to 8171
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Visit the nearest BISP tehsil office
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Use mobile registration vans available in remote areas
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Participate in the ongoing 8171 Dynamic Survey
These convenient options help reduce the burden on applicants and make the process easier, especially for women who may not have digital access or literacy.
Also Read: Rejected on the 8171 Portal? Here’s How to Fix It and Reapply
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the BISP Kafaalat Program, a family must meet the following criteria:
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Monthly income should be less than Rs 25,000
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The applicant must have a valid CNIC
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The household should not own any large property or luxury vehicle
These rules are in place to ensure that the financial aid reaches only those who are most in need.
New Banking Options for Payments
Another major improvement in 2025 is the introduction of flexible banking choices for beneficiaries. Women can now choose the bank through which they want to receive their payments. This step makes withdrawals easier and safer, especially for those living in remote areas.
Benefits of the new system include:
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Secure and direct payments
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Access to cash from ATMs or bank branches
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Reduced chances of fraud
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More convenience and transparency
This upgrade supports the government’s efforts to digitize financial services and empower women with better control over their finances.
Final Words
The expansion of the BISP Kafaalat Program in 2025 is a positive step toward building a fair and supportive society. By adding 700,000 new families, increasing the stipend, and offering better registration and banking services, the government is showing its commitment to lifting people out of poverty — especially women.
If you or someone you know meets the criteria, don’t wait. Send your CNIC to 8171 or visit the nearest BISP center to register and become part of this life-changing initiative.