The Benazir Kafalat Program has been a crucial lifeline for millions of underprivileged women across Pakistan. However, a recent decision by the BISP (Benazir Income Support Programme) has caused concern and confusion. A large number of women who were previously receiving financial aid under the program have suddenly been declared ineligible.
So, what happened?
It all goes back to a recent Dynamics (NSER) Survey. Women were asked to update or complete their information through this survey. Unfortunately, not everyone did it. As a result, women who either didn’t complete the survey or whose PMT (Poverty Means Test) score went above 32 have now been disqualified.
Who Exactly Has Been Disqualified?
Here’s a quick breakdown:
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Women who didn’t complete the Dynamics Survey: These individuals have been removed due to incomplete registration.
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Women with a PMT score over 32: Even if they completed the survey, they’re no longer eligible due to an improved economic score.
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Inactive profiles or incorrect data: Some women provided outdated or incorrect info and were removed.
It’s important to note that payments are still being issued, but only for those who qualify under the updated criteria. Others won’t receive future installments.
Can Disqualified Women Rejoin the Program?
This is the big question—and yes, some can!
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If your PMT score is above 32, unfortunately, you’ll have to wait three years before you can reapply.
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If you were disqualified because you didn’t complete the survey, there’s still hope. You can visit your nearest BISP Tehsil office and complete the Dynamics Survey again.
However, keep in mind: even after completing the survey, reentry isn’t immediate. BISP only adds new beneficiaries in specific yearly phases, so you’ll need to wait until they announce new registrations.
How to Check Your Eligibility from Home
Thankfully, BISP has made it easier to check your status without stepping out of your home. Here are the ways:
1. Use the 8171 Web Portal
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Visit the 8171 web portal
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Enter your CNIC number
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Instantly find out whether you’re eligible or not
2. SMS Method
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From your registered mobile number, send your CNIC number to 8171
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Wait for a confirmation message with your status
Also Read: BISP 8171 Second Phase Payment: Full District List and Payment Update
3. Visit the Nearest BISP Office
If you’re not comfortable using digital methods, just go to your nearest Tehsil BISP office, provide your CNIC, and the staff will guide you.
What Is the PMT Score and Why Does It Matter?
PMT stands for Poverty Means Test. It’s a scoring system used by BISP to determine financial need. The lower your score, the higher your chance of qualifying. If your score is above 32, it means your income or assets are considered slightly above the threshold for financial help.
The PMT score is based on various factors like:
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Household income
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Number of dependents
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Assets (house, car, livestock, etc.)
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Education level
Why Did BISP Do This Now?
BISP is under constant pressure to ensure that only the most deserving receive financial aid. With over a crore women in the system, there’s always a need to clean up outdated records, prevent fraud, and make room for new deserving applicants.
What If You Believe You Were Disqualified By Mistake?
If you believe your removal was unjust or due to some clerical error, here’s what you can do:
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Visit your BISP Tehsil office with your original CNIC
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Request for data verification or re-survey
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File a grievance or complaint, if needed
The officials may guide you on the next steps, or at least provide clarity on your disqualification.
Be Careful: Avoid Scams and Fake Messages
There’s a lot of misinformation being spread via WhatsApp, social media, and SMS. Be alert!
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Only trust information from official BISP numbers (like 8171) or their website
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Never share your CNIC or personal data with unverified individuals
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If in doubt, always visit the BISP office directly
Conclusion
The Benazir Kafalat Program remains a vital support system for low-income women across Pakistan. While the recent disqualification of many women has caused concern, there is a clear process in place for verification and rejoining.
If you or someone you know has been removed, don’t panic. Follow the right steps—check your eligibility, visit your nearest BISP office, and stay updated through official sources. There’s still hope to get back on the list, especially if your survey was incomplete.
FAQs
1. What is the PMT score cut-off for the Benazir Kafalat Program?
The current cut-off is a score of 32. Anyone with a score above this is not eligible for financial assistance.
2. How can I check if I’m still eligible for the program?
You can check your eligibility via the 8171 web portal or by sending your CNIC number to 8171 via SMS.
3. Can I rejoin the program after being disqualified?
Yes, if you didn’t complete the survey, you can reapply. But if your PMT score is too high, you must wait three years.
4. What documents are needed for survey completion at the BISP office?
You’ll need your original CNIC, children’s B-forms, and sometimes utility bills for verification.
5. Is there a way to speed up the re-inclusion process?
No, BISP includes new beneficiaries on a yearly basis. You’ll need to wait for the next official inclusion phase.