Analysis reveals Benazir Income Support Programme positively affects poverty alleviation in Pakistan, indicating need for increased stipends and youth employment programs.
Reducing poverty is one of the sustainable development goals of the United Nations (UN).Concerns regarding poverty in Pakistan have intensified following a surge in inflation during the fiscal year 2023-2024, following erratic inflation trends after Covid-19 and the 2022 floods. In this context, the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), a large social safety net, has played a significant role in cushioning the economy against poverty. This study analyzes the impact of BISP’s unconditional cash transfer program on poverty alleviation. Literature indicates that these transfers positively affect health, social wellbeing, women empowerment, household wealth and political participation. However, these benefits often diminish time due to several factors discussed herein. A comparison with India’s social safety programs informs recommendations for improvement. This study suggests that BISP could increase its impact by raising stipends and expanding coverage, alongside re-evaluating beneficiary eligibility. Encouraging beneficiaries' participation in formal financial platforms could stimulate savings and broader financial activity.Investments in human capital, particularly through enhanced youth employment programs, could accelerate long-term poverty eradication while BISP is active.
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