BISP adopts poverty alleviation strategy, says Marvi

Minister of State and Chairperson BISP MNA Marvi Memon said Thursday that BISP has adopted a multi pronged strategy to address the curse of poverty and endeavoring to focus on poverty exit strategy as well.

She expressed these remarks while addressing a round table meeting of the beneficiaries with Governor Punjab Malik Muhammad Rafique Rajwana at BISP secretariat. The chairperson apprised the governor that quarterly stipend has been increased to Rs 4,700. Chairperson mentioned that BISP is updating National Socio Economic Registry; a step further towards financial inclusion of the poorest. To make registry dynamic and get better value for data collection BISP would adopt desk approach in addition to door to door approach. It would be complemented with a hotline as well.

She added that BISP is upgrading its payment mechanism to biometric system that would make the payment procedure more efficient and easy.

Chairperson BISP reiterated that BISP not only believes in financial inclusion but financial empowerment as well. BISP intends to harness entrepreneurial potential of its beneficiaries through E- commerce. BISP E-Commerce initiative would provide market access to beneficiaries making them self-reliant. She highlighted that it is a positive sign that 100,000 beneficiaries have already started their own businesses benefiting from PM Interest Free Loan Scheme.

Governor Punjab Rafique Rajwana stated that it was a golden opportunity to come in direct contact with socially and economically marginalized women. The governor stated that it is a misperception that BISP is a financial aid. BISP depicts humble efforts of government to ensure social justice and only compassionate can understand this notion. Governor Punjab praised Prime Minister Muhammd Nawaz Sharif for his untiring efforts for poverty alleviation.

Governor

Punjab

appreciated

the services of Chairperson BISP Marvi Memon. He added that under the dynamic and committed leadership, BISP has turned into a blessing for the vulnerable. Poverty free society built on the principles of compassion and equity is our ultimate goal. The governor highlighted that PM Interest Free Loan Scheme and PM Health Insurance are specifically designed to benefit the neediest.

BISP beneficiaries apprised Governor Punjab and Chairperson BISP of their requirements and concerns. They narrated the change BISP has brought in to their lives through cash grants and other initiatives. They highlighted that they feel financially empowered as the stipend serves to meet their basic needs of food and shelter.

The beneficiaries mentioned that their children are able to attend school just because of Waseela-e-Taleem initiative. Beneficiaries expressed deep interest in PM loan scheme so that they may transform into an entrepreneur from beneficiary.