The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) is Pakistan’s largest cash transfer initiative, supporting millions of poor households since its launch in 2008. While its core mission is to provide financial assistance to vulnerable women, critics argue that it has also carried political influence and clientelism, raising questions about transparency and fairness.
Origins of BISP – A Welfare Tool with Political Roots
BISP was introduced in July 2008 by the PPP government at a time when Pakistan faced rising inflation, food insecurity, and unemployment. Named after the late Benazir Bhutto, the program carried both humanitarian value and political symbolism, strengthening PPP’s social contract with low-income families during a period of crisis.
Early Challenges: Political Nominations and Exclusion
In its initial phase, parliamentarians nominated beneficiaries, which created opportunities for bias. Supporters of ruling parties often received priority, while poor families in opposition areas were excluded. This practice shaped the perception that BISP was more than a welfare scheme—it was also a political loyalty tool.
Introduction of the Poverty Scorecard
To make the process more transparent, the government launched the Poverty Scorecard (NSER survey) in 2009. This new eligibility system measured household income, assets, and living standards, reducing political interference. It also created a national database that helped BISP become more data-driven and less dependent on political patronage.
| Reform Impact | Benefits |
| Poverty Scorecard Survey | Reduced political bias in selection |
| Female Head-of-Household Rule | Empowered women financially |
| Digital Verification (CNIC + Biometrics) | Increased transparency |
Why BISP Still Faces Political Clientelism
Despite reforms, political influence still lingers in BISP. Its association with Benazir Bhutto keeps a symbolic link to PPP. During election years, ruling parties highlight or expand the program to gain popularity. In some districts, coverage patterns reflect political geography rather than pure poverty targeting.
BISP Compared Globally – A Common Trend
Pakistan is not alone in facing welfare politicization. Around the world, similar cash transfer programs often benefit ruling parties:
- Brazil’s Bolsa Família boosted both poverty reduction and government popularity.
- Mexico’s Oportunidades linked welfare to electoral cycles.
- Kenya & Ghana showed favoritism towards ruling party strongholds.
This shows that clientelism in welfare is a global challenge, not unique to Pakistan.
Positive Outcomes of BISP
Despite political debates, BISP has had undeniable social benefits:
- Millions of families survive on quarterly stipends.
- Women beneficiaries enjoy greater control over household spending.
- Poverty rates have declined in several districts.
- Linked initiatives like Benazir Taleemi Wazaif improved school attendance.
These impacts show that even when politicized, BISP remains a lifeline for Pakistan’s poorest households.
Key Challenges in 2025
For BISP to remain credible and fair, certain reforms are essential:
- Update NSER Surveys regularly to reflect ground realities.
- Publicly audit beneficiary lists to increase transparency.
- Depoliticize branding so beneficiaries see BISP as a national program, not a party tool.
- Strengthen institutional safeguards to block political interference.
What Citizens and Civil Society Can Do
Citizens and watchdog groups play a vital role in keeping BISP accountable. Communities can:
- Monitor beneficiary selection locally.
- Report misuse or agent deductions.
- Raise awareness that BISP is a legal right, not political charity.
- Push media to highlight irregularities and transparency gaps.
FAQs
Is BISP still political?
Not fully. Political bias has reduced since the poverty scorecard reform, but symbolic and electoral influence remains.
Has BISP reduced poverty?
Yes. It has lifted millions from extreme poverty and provided financial security, especially for women.
Why do experts call it clientelistic?
Because politicians once controlled nominations, turning welfare into a political loyalty tool.
Do other countries face this problem?
Yes. Many developing countries’ welfare programs are linked to electoral politics.
Conclusion – The Future of BISP in Pakistan
The Benazir Income Support Programme is both a lifeline for the poor and a symbol of political debate. It has helped millions of families but still faces challenges of transparency, fairness, and political neutrality. If future reforms strengthen its independence and data accuracy, BISP can truly evolve into a program of social justice and equality, free from political influence.
