An Analysis of the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) For Poverty Alleviation in District Khairpur: A Case Study of Taluka Faizgunj

Abstract

The Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) is one of Pakistan's largest social safety net programs aimed at alleviating poverty through cash transfers to low-income families. This research paper analyzes the effectiveness of BISP in poverty alleviation, focusing on Taluka Faizgunj, a rural area in District Khairpur, Sindh. The study evaluates the impact of the program on beneficiaries' socio-economic conditions, specifically focusing on women, education, health, and livelihood improvements. Through a mixed-methods approach, data was collected from survey questionnaires and interviews conducted with 150 BISP recipients across Taluka Faizgunj. The findings reveal that while BISP has had positive outcomes in enhancing household income and social mobility, its effectiveness in promoting long-term poverty alleviation is constrained by challenges such as limited awareness, delays in payments, and inadequate access to services. The research suggests the need for stronger monitoring and coordination mechanisms, as well as a more holistic approach involving local government and NGOs to maximize BISP’s impact. The paper also highlights the gaps in policy implementation, particularly in rural areas, and recommends improvements for better program delivery. This study contributes to understanding how cash transfer programs like BISP can be optimized to reduce poverty in rural Pakistan.