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Senator Rubina Khalid, Chairperson of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), conducted a live E-Katcheri session today at BISP Headquarters. During the session, Senator Rubina Khalid directly interacted with beneficiaries via BISP’s official Facebook account, listening to their concerns and issuing immediate directives for the resolution of their complaints.

Over the course of the one-hour live session, 34 people from across the country called in. The callers asked questions related to their enrollment in the Benazir Income Support Programme, eligibility criteria, and stipend information for the Benazir Kafaalat, Taleemi Wazaif, and Nashonuma programmes. Senator Rubina Khalid addressed their queries in real time and instructed officers to resolve the issues on an urgent basis.

The Chairperson informed the callers that if, for any reason, a deserving woman is unable to withdraw her stipend on time, the amount is added to her next installment, which she can receive as a lump sum. Senator Rubina Khalid further explained that payments are currently being made under a new banking model to ensure the distribution of funds to deserving women in a dignified and transparent manner.

We celebrate the transformative power of education and literacy, the pillars of our nation’s future, on this International Literacy Day. This year’s theme, “Promoting Multilingual Education: Literacy for Mutual Understanding and Peace,” underscores the critical role of literacy in fostering unity, cultural appreciation, and peaceful coexistence. As per Article 25A of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, education is a fundamental human right and “the State shall provide free and compulsory education to all children of the age of five to sixteen years”. Today, we renew our commitment to making education accessible to all, regardless of circumstances.

Recognizing the urgent challenge of illiteracy, Pakistan has declared a National Educational Emergency, aiming to enrol out-of-school children and educate 70 million adults. Under the Prime Minister’s Roshan Pakistan Literacy Drive, the National Commission for Human Development (NCHD) launched the “Each One Teach One” (EOTO) Program, which calls on every literate citizen to teach at least one illiterate person. 

In order to enhance literacy, the government is providing Conditional Cash Transfers up to the higher secondary level through Benazir Taleemi Wazaif for educating underprivileged children. Stipends up to Rs 4000 for boys and Rs 4500 for girls per quarter are being offered in all districts of Pakistan. Currently, 9.7 million children are enrolled under the programme. Furthermore, 102,000 scholarships have been given to students from low-income families to ensure that all qualified students have access to undergraduate education.

On this International Literacy Day, we need to recommit ourselves to the national cause of promoting the universal right to education. Together, we can ensure that every Pakistani has the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to a more educated, inclusive, and prosperous nation. Each of us has a vital role in shaping the future of our beloved country. May our collective efforts bring about lasting peace, mutual understanding, and a brighter future for all.

President Asif Ali Zardari on Saturday paid tribute to the security forces for a successful operation against Khawarij and foiled a terrorist attack on FC Headquarters in Mohmand. “Our security forces successfully eliminated all the four Khawarij involved in the attack,” the president said in a statement issued by the President’s House. He commended the security forces for eliminating all four terrorists involved in the attack. President Zardari praised the security forces’ effective and courageous action against the terrorists, saying that the entire nation was proud of its brave soldiers who were always ready to defend the motherland. He reiterated that terrorists will not be allowed to succeed in their nefarious designs.

The leaders of Pakistan Peoples Party called on Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Thursday at Zardari House, Islamabad. 

Sindh minister for Planning, Development and Energy, Syed Nasir Hussain Shah met Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and apprised him of the measures taken by his ministry for the promotion of solar energy in Sindh. 

The Member of the National Assembly, Mir Ghulam Ali Talpur also had a meeting with Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. They discussed the situation in Badin after the floods. Mr. Talpur informed the Chairman about the difficulties faced by the people due to torrential rain and the government’s efforts for the relief to the people. They also discussed the prevailing political situation in the country.

Former federal minister Naveed Qamar MNA called on Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and discussed political situation in the country. 

PPP leader Arbab Alamgir and the member of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly, Arbab Zarak Khan Khalil also met Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. They discussed the political situation of Peshawar and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Chairperson of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), Senator Rubina Khalid, has stated that BISP is Pakistan’s largest social safety net. Founded by Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and launched by President Asif Ali Zardari in 2008, the programme has played a vital role in giving recognition to the poor women of Pakistan. She emphasized that BISP is the key for economic empowerment of deserving women across the country. Senator Khalid shared these views during a media briefing held at the BISP headquarters.

Addressing misconceptions, Senator Khalid pointed out that there is a negative perception that BISP turns the poor into beggars, whereas similar social security programmes exist worldwide. She stressed that it is the state’s responsibility to support the poor. BISP provides essential financial assistance to deserving individuals to help them meet their basic needs.

Senator Khalid also announced the launch of the Benazir Skill Training Programme, aimed at providing skill development opportunities to deserving women and their family members. Consultations are underway with the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) and the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis to ensure training programs align with international standards and meet the demands of both local and global markets. This initiative is expected to improve the socio-economic conditions of beneficiaries, allowing more families to benefit from BISP.

Furthermore, she highlighted that, on the special directives of the President, Prime Minister, and Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, BISP is prioritizing support for the people of Balochistan. The poverty score threshold for inclusion in education and nutrition programs in the province has been raised from 32 to 60, allowing more families to benefit. A new banking model has also been introduced to address complaints regarding women not receiving the full amount under the Kafaalat programme. Under this model, the country has been divided into 15 clusters, with 6 banks assigned to ensure transparency. Senator Khalid warned that strict action would be taken against anyone found guilty of deducting money or mistreating beneficiaries during fund distribution.

Earlier, Secretary BISP, Amer Ali Ahmad, briefed media representatives about the programme’s initiatives, stating that BISP is currently providing financial support to over 9.3 million families in a dignified manner. Under the Kafaalat programme, Rs. 10,500 is distributed to needy women quarterly. He added that 9.7 million children have been enrolled in schools through the Taleemi Wazaif initiative, and over 2 million mothers and children are benefiting from the Benazir Nashonuma programme.

The BISP Savings Scheme has also been launched, with 150,000 people currently participating in the pilot phase. Under this scheme, BISP will contribute an additional 40% of the savings accumulated by participants on a quarterly basis. To date, more than 7,000 women have been trained under BISP’s Digital and Financial Literacy programme. Additionally, 25 Mobile Registration Vans are currently operating in remote areas of Sindh and Balochistan, with plans to increase their number.

In collaboration with National Telecommunication, BISP has also launched an Integrated Call Center to provide accurate information and quickly address complaints from beneficiaries and the general public. Senator Khalid urged people to only trust messages or phone calls from BISP’s official number, 8171.

Secretary BISP concluded by announcing a comprehensive awareness campaign, supported by the media, to provide authentic information to the public and BISP beneficiaries. Following the briefing, both the Chairperson and Secretary responded to media questions and appreciated suggestions for improving the programme.

Her Excellency Ms. Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, First Lady of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, has reaffirmed her commitment to combating Tuberculosis (TB) in Pakistan and on the global stage. In a high-level meeting with the leadership of the Dopasi Foundation and a delegation of esteemed parliamentarians, led by Dr. Shazia Sobia Aslam Soomro, the discussion centered on addressing Pakistan’s TB burden and identifying solutions for closing persistent gaps in TB care, especially for underprivileged communities.

The delegation from the Dopasi Foundation, led by CEO Ms. Kinz-ul-Eman, included key figures such as Dr. Usman Rasool Lodhi, Program Manager; Dr. Tilal Asif, Director of Programs; Ms. Mishaal Javed, Manager of Communications; along with Dr. Syed Karam Shah, Senior Technical Advisor and head of the Stop TB Partnership Pakistan. Parliamentarians in attendance included Dr. Mehreen Bhutto, Ms. Sehar Kamran, Mr. Khursheed Junejo, and Ms. Musarat Rafique—prominent voices in the fight against TB.

The meeting provided an opportunity to reflect on Pakistan’s progress since the United Nations High-Level Meeting on TB in 2023, while exploring new strategies to tackle ongoing challenges in TB notification and treatment.

In a landmark commitment, Ms. Bhutto Zardari announced her role as a champion for TB advocacy, pledging to lead national and international efforts.

“I am proud to lend my voice to the fight against TB. The fight against Tuberculosis is not just a health issue, but a matter of dignity and justice for the millions affected by this preventable disease. Together, we can create a future where no one is left behind, and every individual has access to the care and support they deserve,” said Ms. Bhutto Zardari.

During the meeting, she was briefed on the upcoming Regional Leaders’ Summit 2024 on TB and Climate Change and the TB Survivors Event, where she graciously accepted the role of chair for the Survivors Event. She vowed to advocate for the rights of TB survivors and push for equitable access to quality healthcare across all provinces.

Ms. Bhutto Zardari also praised the work of the End TB Parliamentary Caucus, led by Dr. Shazia Sobia Aslam Soomro, which is hosted by Dopasi Foundation in partnership with the Stop TB Partnership. The initiative promotes cross-provincial collaboration to strengthen TB advocacy. The First Lady urged broader participation from parliamentarians across the country to create a unified and strong response to TB.

Dopasi Foundation, a leading non-profit organization in Pakistan, continues to be at the forefront of TB control and related health interventions. Through its partnerships with the Ministry of Health and global stakeholders, the Foundation is making significant strides toward achieving Pakistan’s TB-related health targets, especially among marginalized populations.

Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari spent a busy day at Zardari House Islamabad on Monday, holding separate meetings with party leaders.

Chief Minister Balochistan, Sarfraz Bugti called on the Chairman PPP and briefed him about the performance of the provincial government and the measures taken to control the terror incidents in Balochisatan. He also informed the Chairman regarding the actions taken to give brief to the victims of torrential rain in the province.

The Secretary General Pakistan Peoples Party Parliamentarians, Syed Nayyar Hussain Bukhari and the incharge Human Rights Committee of the party, Farhatullah Babar also called on the Chairman and discussed political and organizational issues.

The President Pakistan Peoples Party Central Punjab Raja Pervez Ashraf also called on Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and discussed the political situation of Punjab and organizational matters. 

Today, we are observing the third death anniversary of the iconic Kashmiri leader, Syed Ali Shah Geelani. We pay tribute to his heroic struggle for the rights of the oppressed people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). For decades, he was a beacon of hope and resistance, inspiring countless Kashmiris to stand firm in their quest for self-determination. His tireless efforts and sacrifices for the just cause of the Kashmiri people will forever be etched in our hearts and minds.

Syed Ali Shah Geelani was a great leader and his commitment to the right to self-determination for the people of Jammu and Kashmir was unyielding. Despite being subjected to house arrests and incarcerations by the Indian Occupation Forces, he continued to raise his voice for the people of IIOJK. His personal hardships, including years of confinement, could not break his spirit or deter him from his mission.

Geelani Sahib remained focused on the ultimate goal, and never allowed the attention of the Kashmiri people to be diverted from the pursuit of their fundamental right to self-determination. The legacy of Syed Ali Shah Geelani is a powerful driving force that continues to inspire the people of IIOJK. His leadership and unwavering stance against oppression have left a lasting impression on the people of IIOJK.

Today, we reaffirm the resolve to not let the sacrifices of Syed Ali Shah Geelani and countless others go in vain. We will continue to advocate for the realization of the people of IIOJK’s right to self-determination as enshrined in the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions. I assure my Kashmiri brothers and sisters that Pakistan will continue to provide moral, diplomatic, and political support for their just cause.

As we remember Syed Ali Shah Geelani, we must learn from his exemplary courage and unwavering commitment to freedom and justice. May Allah Almighty shower His blessings on Syed Ali Shah Geelani. Ameen!

Senator Rubina Khalid, Chairperson of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), held a meeting with a delegation of Riphah International University, to explore possible avenues for collaboration between BISP and Riphah in providing market-oriented skill training for BISP beneficiaries and their family members.

During the discussion, Senator Rubina Khalid emphasized the importance of international certifications in fields such as hospitality, nursing, midwifery, and home care, highlighting how these qualifications can improve job prospects for beneficiaries. The delegation shared that Riphah International University has already launched several skill development programs in partnership with NAVTTC.

Additionally, Senator Rubina Khalid proposed engaging fresh graduates of media and mass communication for internships in BISP’s media wing. She also suggested organizing a graphic design competition at the inter-university level to raise awareness about BISP’s mission.

Senator Rubina Khalid reaffirmed BISP’s commitment to empowering women, a vision championed by Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. She urged the swift finalization of modalities with Riphah University to launch these skill development programs, which will also include education on basic work ethics and hygiene.

Chairman Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has fulfilled yet another promise made under his election manifesto, the ‘Awami Muashi Muahida’ (People’s Economic Agreement). Today, he launched an ambitious project to distribute solar home systems to 1.6 million low-income households across Sindh in phases. This initiative is a key component of the 10-point ‘Awami Muashi Muahida’, which pledged to provide free solar electricity to underprivileged families.

According to a press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP inaugurated the first phase of the solar energy project, which aims to provide relief to the people severely affected by expensive electricity and load shedding. The project, initiated by the Government of Sindh, will see 200,000 families, eligible under the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), receive free solar home systems in two districts of the province. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony held at the Chief Minister House here, Chairman PPP emphasized his party’s commitment to sustainable solutions for public issues. He stated that this project aligns with the PPP’s manifesto vision, which, if given the federal mandate, would have been implemented nationwide to support the poor through solar energy. He furthered that PPP wants to ease the burden on the lower-income segments of society.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari highlighted that when he initially proposed the idea of providing solar energy to low-income families, it was met with criticism from various quarters, including the media and caretaker government. However, he noted with satisfaction that the entire nation has now recognized the need to facilitate the poor with affordable electricity. He further explained that BISP beneficiaries are the top priority for this initiative, which will eventually be expanded to all districts of Sindh.

Chairman PPP reaffirmed his party’s Sindh government’s commitment to delivering affordable electricity to the public, in line with the vision of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, through public-private partnerships such as the Thar Coal project. He pointed out that K-Electric is currently receiving the cheapest electricity from two Sindh government plants. Moreover, the Sindh government is making additional investments in wind power and encouraging the private sector to participate. He also disclosed that work is underway on three energy parks in Sindh under public-private partnerships.

“Our vision is for a bright Pakistan, and I have consistently spoken about this during our election campaign,” said Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. He stressed that implementing the provision of free 300 units of electricity is feasible. “We can strategically support the lower-income groups. Currently, those consuming less than 200 units of electricity receive subsidies, paying only Rs. 14 per unit.”

PPP Chairman criticized the federal electricity system, stating that not only is it dysfunctional, but no federal department is operating effectively. He pointed out that the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) is unable to collect taxes, leading to the imposition of taxes through electricity bills, which shocks the public when they receive them. “We want to provide relief to the people through solar energy, and gradually, by utilizing the same subsidy, we aim to bring households onto solar power for up to 300 units at the government’s expense to fulfill our promise of 300 units of free electricity,” he explained.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari reiterated his desire for a sustainable solution to the electricity crisis and asserted that relief in electricity bills could be achieved through green energy. He highlighted the plight of the people of Larkana, who endure 18 hours of load shedding daily.

Commenting on the recent announcement by the Punjab government, led by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), to reduce electricity costs for consumers to Rs. 14 per unit, the PPP Chairman expressed his cautious optimism. “We welcome the announcement to the extent that it aims to lower electricity costs, but the decision remains perplexing to me,” he said. He warned that if short-term relief leads to long-term suffering, such projects are not in the public interest. He recalled the public long march led by him against the previous puppet government, which resulted in a temporary reduction in petrol prices, but the public is still suffering from the subsequent increase in the prices of electricity, petrol, and other essentials. He questioned the rationale behind the PML-N government’s decision, given that no long march or no-confidence motion is currently in sight.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari directed the Chief Minister of Sindh to discuss the electricity relief matter with the Prime Minister. He added, “If the federal government can convince us of its cheaper electricity plan, we are ready to forego our solar home system project and follow theirs. But if they cannot, then they should support us.” He stressed that when making decisions affecting the fate of the people, the national interest should take precedence over political agendas.

The event was attended by Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, former Chief Minister Qaim Ali Shah, PPP Sindh President Nisar Ahmed Khuhro, Provincial Minister for Energy Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, provincial ministers, members of the assembly, and party leaders.