On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) Chairperson, Senator Rubina Khalid, announced a significant increase in stipends across multiple welfare programs. This move is designed to provide immediate relief to vulnerable households grappling with inflation just before the holy month of Ramzan.
New Stipend Breakdown (Effective Ramzan 2026)
| Program | Old Amount (Quarterly) | New Amount (Quarterly) | Increase |
| Benazir Kafalat | Rs 13,500 | Rs 14,500 | Rs 1,000 |
| Benazir Taleemi Wazaif | Varies by level | +Rs 500 | Rs 500 |
| Benazir Nashonuma | Varies by health status | +Rs 500 | Rs 500 |
Key Program Updates & Milestones
بینظیراِنکم سپورٹ پروگرام کے ڈائنامک سروے میں اندراج کا طریقہ کار۔ pic.twitter.com/NqXhsQRqnl
— Benazir Income Support Programme (@bisp_pakistan) February 18, 2026
1. Educational & Health Incentives
- Education: The Rs 500 increase for school stipends is linked to a mandatory 70% attendance requirement. This reinforces the government’s commitment to keeping children in the classroom.
- Maternal Health: The Nashonuma increase aims to combat stunting by supporting pregnant women and lactating mothers with improved nutritional supplements and cash support.
2. Financial Inclusion: One Crore (10 Million) Bank Accounts
In a historic shift, BISP has successfully opened 10 million bank accounts for women beneficiaries.
- Digital Wallets: Payments will now be made through a digital system linked to a Social Protection Wallet.
- Free SIM Cards: Beneficiaries will receive free mobile SIM cards (registered on their CNIC) at BISP offices. These SIMs act as digital wallets and receive official SMS payment alerts.
3. Choice & Interoperability
Coordinated with the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), the new system introduces interoperability across seven partner banks (including HBL, Bank Alfalah, BOP, and Easypaisa).
“Our beneficiary now has the freedom of choice. If one agent is not treating her right, she can go to another.” — Senator Rubina Khalid
4. Graduation via “Hunarmand” Program
Moving beyond aid, the Hunarmand Program has launched to provide vocational training. Currently, 1,500 trainees are nearing graduation, with 5,000 newly enrolled in market-relevant skill courses to help families eventually move off the support lists.
How to Check Your Payment Status
- SMS: Send your 13-digit CNIC number to 8171.
- Web Portal: Visit the official 8171 Web Portal and enter your CNIC.
- App: Use the BISP Social Protection Wallet app (if registered) to monitor funds.
Important Ramzan Reminders
- Punjab Ramzan Package: Residents of Punjab may also be eligible for the 9999 PM Ramzan Package, which offers free ration and additional cash assistance.
- Avoid Fraud: BISP never asks for processing fees. All services, including registration and SIM card issuance, are free of cost.
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