Dr. Rehan Jamil is a postdoctoral fellow in Public Policy and Administration at the Department of Government at the London School of Economics (LSE). In conversation with Zeerak Rana, he discusses the politics of cash transfer programs in Pakistan and in comparison with similar programs around the world.
The Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) in Pakistan is a social safety net initiative aimed at providing cash transfers to low-income households. It was launched in 2008 and was named after former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. BISP primarily targets vulnerable groups to alleviate poverty and improve their socio-economic conditions.
BISP's structure and goals are comparable to other cash transfer programs globally, such as Brazil's Bolsa FamÃlia, India's Direct Benefit Transfer, and Mexico's Oportunidades. These programs share the objective of reducing poverty by directly providing financial assistance to eligible recipients. They often involve conditionalities, such as children's school attendance and regular health checkups, to encourage human capital development.
In Pakistan, BISP's implementation has faced both praise and criticism. Supporters highlight its role in addressing poverty and improving the lives of marginalized communities. However, concerns have been raised about transparency, targeting accuracy, and potential misuse of funds. The program's politics are intertwined with debates on its efficiency, sustainability, and the role of political parties in its administration.
Overall, while BISP draws inspiration from similar programs worldwide, its effectiveness and political dynamics in Pakistan make it a subject of ongoing discussions and evaluations.
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