A Senate committee has recommended summoning the Finance Minister after learning that financial restrictions are blocking crucial new appointments at the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), a move that could jeopardize the expansion of the nation’s primary social safety net.
The directive came during a Tuesday session of the Senate Standing Committee on Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety, which convened to review the performance, projects, and finances of BISP and Pakistan Bait-ul-Maal.
BISP Chairperson, Senator Rubina Khalid, briefed the panel that the organization is currently operating with 11 senior officers on deputation, mostly from the Education Department. She cautioned that this practice not only creates voids in the officers’ parent departments but also weakens institutional memory upon their return.
She further explained that while BISP intends to recruit fresh employees to enhance its functionality, these plans have been stalled by restrictions from the Finance Division. In response, the committee, chaired by Senator Sardar Al Haj Muhammad Umer, moved to seek an explanation directly from the Finance Minister regarding the allocation of funds for new positions.
While defending the program’s integrity, Senator Khalid underscored that beneficiary eligibility is determined strictly by poverty parameters, leaving no room for outside influence. She noted that BISP is internationally recognized as one of the most transparent social protection programmes, with several countries seeking Pakistan’s expertise to replicate its model.
The committee chairman praised the social safety institution’s efforts and emphasized the need to expand its coverage nationwide, reiterating that BISP is a national programme not affiliated with any political party.
Members were also informed about successful initiatives under BISP’s umbrella. This includes the Benazir Nashonuma Programme, which has reportedly reduced food scarcity by 6.4% through nutritious food and healthcare for children, and the Benazir Hunarmand Programme, which provides vocational training to youth from beneficiary families.
Regarding Pakistan Bait-ul-Maal, the committee addressed an issue of advance payments made for products that were not delivered. Officials confirmed an inquiry is underway and pledged to submit a report within one month, with the chairman directing them to expedite the process.
The panel concluded by reiterating its call for the Finance Ministry to provide full support to strengthen the human resource capacity of both BISP and Pakistan Bait-ul-Maal for improved service delivery.