Benazir Income Support to Job Support: Govt’s New Vision

The government of Pakistan has announced a major shift in its approach to public welfare. The focus is moving from cash handouts under the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) to job-oriented support. This new vision aims to create opportunities that help people stand on their own feet instead of depending only on financial aid.

Why This Change?

The Benazir Income Support Programme has helped millions of low-income families with direct cash transfers. However, critics often argued that cash aid alone cannot break the cycle of poverty. People need skills, training, and jobs to improve their lives in a lasting way. The government’s new policy is designed to fill this gap.

Key Features of the New Job Support Vision

The new plan does not end BISP but changes its direction. Instead of relying only on financial help, it will connect people to skill-building and employment.

Feature	Details
Skill Development	Training centers will provide modern skills in IT, agriculture, and industry.
Job Placement	Partnerships with businesses to create job opportunities.
Entrepreneurship Support	Small loans and guidance for starting businesses.
Digital Inclusion	Promoting online work opportunities for youth and women.
Reduced Dependency	Families will learn to earn instead of relying only on aid.

Impact on Beneficiaries

This shift is expected to bring a positive change for millions of families. Instead of waiting for monthly cash transfers, they can gain practical skills and secure jobs. Women, in particular, will benefit as they are the main recipients of BISP. With access to skills and jobs, they can support their families in a stronger way.

Example

• A woman receiving cash aid for household needs may now get training in tailoring or digital freelancing.
• A young man who depended on cash support could learn a trade like electrician work or computer programming, helping him earn more.

Challenges Ahead

While the vision is promising, there are hurdles too:

• Proper training infrastructure must be set up.
• Private sector cooperation will be necessary.
• Ensuring fair access for women in rural areas is critical.

Conclusion

The government’s shift from Benazir Income Support to Job Support is a bold and forward-looking step. Instead of keeping people dependent on cash aid, it offers them the chance to earn with dignity. If implemented well, this policy could reduce poverty in a sustainable way and open new doors for the youth and women of Pakistan.

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FAQs

Q1. Is the Benazir Income Support Programme ending?
No, it is not ending. The programme is being redesigned to focus more on jobs, skills, and employment opportunities rather than just cash handouts.

Q2. Who will benefit the most from this new vision?
Women and youth are expected to benefit the most, as they will get access to training, job placement, and entrepreneurship support.

Q3. Will people still receive cash assistance?
Yes, cash aid will continue, but more focus will be placed on helping families earn through work and businesses.

Q4. What kind of skills will be offered?
Training will include IT, agriculture, handicrafts, freelancing, and trades like electrician and tailoring.

Q5. How will rural areas be included?
The government plans to set up training centers in rural areas and promote digital inclusion so that rural women and youth can also access opportunities.

Q6. When will this shift take place?
The plan is being rolled out gradually, and details will be shared by the government step by step.