Advisor to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Senator Rana Sanaullah, has indicated that the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) may not continue in its current form, stressing that the scheme either requires major reforms or complete abolition.
Speaking on Ghareeda Farooqui’s show, he said the federation spends a significant amount on BISP, which is no longer seen as feasible given the country’s economic situation. Instead, he suggested transforming the program into initiatives like the “Benazir Rozgar Scheme” or “Honarmand Scheme,” focusing on permanent employment and skill development to empower beneficiaries.
Rana Sanaullah added that discussions on this matter will take place in parliament, while consultations with Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leaders have also been held, who appear open to reforms. He further noted that BISP was not used to assist flood victims and argued that the program should move beyond cash handouts toward fostering self-reliance.
The remarks have sparked concern, as any closure or fundamental restructuring of BISP could impact millions of low-income families who rely on the program for basic survival. The debate has already gained traction in political and public circles and is expected to emerge as a major national issue in the days ahead.
