The Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) was launched in July 2008 by the Government of Pakistan to fight poverty and support low-income families. The program provides financial assistance to deserving women and their families across Pakistan—regardless of political, regional, or religious background.
It was started at a time when food prices were at a 30-year high and the economy was affected by a global crisis. Since then, BISP has grown into the largest social safety net in the country.
Goals of BISP
- Help poor families improve their financial condition
- Design targeted policies for underprivileged groups
- Reduce poverty and promote fair distribution of wealth
- Empower women and meet UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Key Features of BISP 8171
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Year | 2008 |
| Target Beneficiaries | Poor women and families |
| Monthly Cash Support | Yes (amount varies by scheme) |
| Registration Method | NSER Survey, CNIC via SMS 8171, or Online |
| Operational Offices | 385 Tehsil, 33 Divisional, 6 Regional, HQ in Islamabad |
| Official Website | https://8171.pass.gov.pk |
BISP Vision & Mission
BISP Vision
“To eradicate poverty and improve the lives of poor families, especially women, by creating a strong social safety system.”
BISP Mission
“To reduce poverty using multiple welfare tools that bring real change to excluded and deprived families.”
BISP 8171 Online Registration – How to Apply in 2025
BISP has launched a dynamic NSER registration system to ensure fair and updated data collection. Here’s how you can register:
Step-by-Step BISP Registration Process:
1. Check Your Survey & Eligibility
- SMS your CNIC to 8171
- Or visit: https://8171.pass.gov.pk
2. Visit the Nearest BISP Registration Center (BRC)
At the center, the following steps will take place:
- Provide CNIC (yours or any family member’s)
- Priority is given to:
- Pregnant women
- Disabled persons
- Senior citizens
3. CNIC Screening
You may fall under one of these categories:
- Already surveyed → Token issued for update
- Not surveyed → Token for new survey
- Received eligibility letter → CNIC verification required
4. Data Entry Counter
Provide the following documents:
- Your CNIC
- CNICs of household members
- B-Form of children
- Ensure NADRA info is updated (marital, widow, disability status)
5. After Survey
- Receive confirmation SMS from 8171
- If eligible, you’ll receive Benazir Kafalat Program letter
- Check online eligibility at https://8171.pass.gov.pk
- You can also visit your local Tehsil office for assistance
BISP Organization Structure
BISP operates at national and local levels for better service delivery.
BISP Office Network:
- Head Office: Islamabad
- Regional Offices: 6
- Divisional Offices: 33
- Tehsil Offices: 385+
Each region is led by Director Generals, and all offices report to the Secretary BISP, who is the top executive.
BISP Council – Top Policy Body
The BISP Council is the highest policy-making authority.
| Role | Person/Authority |
|---|---|
| Chief Patron | President of Pakistan |
| Executive Patron | Prime Minister of Pakistan |
| Members | Experts & Distinguished Individuals |
Functions of the Council:
- Guide on poverty reduction strategies
- Recommend donor outreach and resource mobilization
- Advise on program expansion and improvement
BISP Board of Directors
The Board handles operations, budget approval, and strategic planning.
Members of BISP Board:
Private Members:
- Dr. Kaiser Bengali
- Ms. Barrister Ayesha T. Haq
- Mr. Haris Gazdar
- Dr. Abid Qaiyum Suleri
Ex-Officio Members:
- Ms. Rubina Khalid (Chairperson BISP)
- Secretary BISP
- Secretary of Finance, Economic Affairs & Poverty Alleviation
- Chairman NADRA
Board Powers:
- Approve BISP budget
- Monitor transparency and performance
- Define eligibility criteria
- Approve program policies and manuals
BISP Kafalat Program – Special Support for Women
The Benazir Kafalat Programme under BISP offers monthly financial assistance to ever-married women from poor households.
- CNIC of female head is mandatory
- Beneficiaries are selected after NSER verification
- Payments are made through ATMs, retail shops, and mobile wallets
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is BISP 8171?
BISP 8171 is the official SMS and web portal for checking eligibility and registration status for financial aid under the Benazir Income Support Programme.
2. How to apply for BISP in 2025?
You can apply by visiting the Benazir Registration Center, or by checking your status online at 8171.pass.gov.pk or sending your CNIC to 8171 via SMS.
3. What documents are required for registration?
- CNIC of all family members
- B-form for children
- Valid mobile number
- Updated NADRA information
4. Who is eligible for the BISP Kafalat Program?
Low-income households, especially women, based on NSER poverty score and household data, are eligible for this support.
5. Is the BISP registration free?
Yes, BISP registration and all related services are 100% free. Do not pay any agent or middleman.
Final Words
The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) is a vital effort to help poor families live with dignity. With programs like BISP 8171, Kafalat, and NSER surveys, the government is taking big steps toward fighting poverty and empowering women in Pakistan.
To stay updated and check your eligibility, visit the official site:
https://8171.pass.gov.pk
Tip: Always keep your CNIC and mobile number updated in NADRA for smooth registration.