BISP still lacks permanent service structure after 18 years, NA panel told

The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) has yet to approve a permanent service structure despite operating since 2008, with officials telling a parliamentary panel that employees from directors to drivers are still serving on deputation.

The issue came under discussion at a meeting of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety, chaired by Mir Ghulam Ali Talpur.

The committee questioned why BISP had failed to appoint regular staff over the past 18 years and directed the organisation to submit a summary to the Ministry of Finance seeking approval for permanent recruitment.

An additional secretary informed the committee that all employees were currently serving on deputation and that the matter had already been referred to the Ministry of Finance. He said BISP’s workload had expanded significantly, while even sanctioned positions remained vacant.

Talpur described the situation as a crisis and pressed officials to resolve the matter.

BISP Secretary Amir Ali Ahmed said the organisation was ready to send a summary to the finance ministry’s austerity committee if directed by the parliamentary panel. He said that even partial approval would help make the organisation more functional.

The committee also instructed BISP’s six partner banks to increase the number of payment agents to improve access for beneficiaries.

Ahmed told lawmakers that BISP would move to a fully digital payment system from July 16.

Under the new arrangement, beneficiaries will be able to receive funds through bank accounts and digital financial services, including Easypaisa, JazzCash and UPaisa.

The new mechanism is intended to reduce queues at payment centres by transferring funds directly into beneficiaries’ accounts, allowing them to withdraw money when convenient.