In Pakistan, the government offers a variety of financial assistance programs aimed at supporting its citizens, particularly those from low-income back grounds. These initiatives are designed to alleviate poverty, promote education, and empower marginalized communities. This comprehensive guide provides an overview of get financial help from the government in Pakistan, their objectives, eligibility criteria, and application processes.
Here are 6 Ways to Get Financial Help from the Government in Pakistan
1. Ehsaas Program
Launched in 2019, the Ehsaas Program is Pakistan’s flagship social protection initiative aimed at reducing poverty and providing financial assistance to the most vulnerable segments of society. The program encompasses various sub-initiatives targeting different sectors of the population.
Ehsaas Kafalat Program
The Ehsaas Kafalat Program provides unconditional cash transfers to low-income families, focusing on empowering women. Eligible beneficiaries receive a monthly stipend to assist with basic needs.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Households with a monthly income below a specified threshold.
- Possession of a valid Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC).
How to Apply:
- Visit the official Ehsaas Program registration centers or apply online through the Ehsaas portal.
- Provide necessary documentation, including proof of income and CNIC.
Ehsaas Undergraduate Scholarship Program
This initiative aims to support students from low-income families in pursuing higher education by providing need-based scholarships.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Admission to a recognized public sector university.
- Demonstrated financial need.
How to Apply:
Apply online through the Higher Education Commission (HEC) portal.
Submit the application form along with supporting documents to the university’s financial aid office.
Ehsaas Disabled Person Program
This program offers financial assistance and social protection to individuals with disabilities, providing a monthly stipend to support their needs.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Individuals with a certified disability.
- Possession of a valid CNIC or B-form for minors.
How to Apply:
Register online through the Ehsaas Program portal or visit designated registration centers.
Provide necessary medical certificates and identification documents.
2. Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP)
Established in 2008, BISP is one of Pakistan’s largest social safety net initiatives, designed to alleviate poverty and provide financial assistance to low-income families. The program primarily targets women to empower them financially.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Households classified as low-income based on the National Socio-Economic Registry.
- Female members possessing a valid CNIC.
How to Apply:
- Visit the nearest BISP Tehsil office to register.
- Provide necessary documentation, including CNIC and proof of income.
3. Pakistan Bait-ul-Mal (PBM)
PBM is a charitable organization that provides financial assistance to the needy, focusing on rehabilitation, education, and medical treatment.
Individual Financial Assistance (IFA)
This scheme offers financial aid to individuals requiring medical treatment, education, or rehabilitation.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Individuals from low-income backgrounds.
- Submission of relevant medical or educational documents.
How to Apply:
- Obtain the application form from the PBM website or district offices.
- Submit the completed form along with supporting documents to the respective PBM office.
4. Kamyab Pakistan Program
Launched to promote economic self-sufficiency, the Kamyab Pakistan Program provides interest-free loans to low-income households, enabling them to start small businesses or improve existing ones.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Households with a monthly income below a specified threshold.
- A viable business plan.
How to Apply:
- Apply through designated microfinance institutions partnered with the program.
- Submit necessary documents, including CNIC and business plan.
5. Punjab Bait-ul-Maal
The Punjab Bait-ul-Maal offers financial assistance to needy and disabled individuals within the Punjab province.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Residents of Punjab with demonstrated financial need.
- Individuals with disabilities requiring support.
How to Apply:
- Visit the Punjab Bait-ul-Maal office or apply online through their official website.
- Provide necessary documentation, including proof of residence and medical certificates if applicable.
6. Higher Education Commission (HEC) Need-Based Scholarships
The HEC offers need-based scholarships to students pursuing higher education who face financial constraints.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Admission to a recognized public sector university.
- Demonstrated financial need.
How to Apply:
- Obtain the scholarship application form from the university’s financial aid office or download it from the HEC website.
- Submit the completed form along with supporting documents to the university’s financial aid office.
Conclusion
The Government of Pakistan offers a range of financial assistance programs to support its citizens in various aspects of life, from education and healthcare to economic empowerment. By understanding the objectives, eligibility criteria, and application processes of these programs, individuals can access the support they need to improve their quality of life.