Registration Process Of Transgenders In Benazir Kafalat started

News Desk

Islamabad: The Benazir Kafalat Program, which is run under the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP), has begun to register the transgender population nationwide.

In light of the socio-economic struggles the transgender community faces and to ensure that no vulnerable segment is left out of BISP, the decision of including the transgender community in the Program has been taken for the first time in history.

According to the National Socio-Economic Register (NSER) survey carried out by BISP, the total number of transgender persons is 53,800. Despite the limited number, the community has had several difficulties and is denied access to basic rights. They are forced to rely on begging as their primary source of income or they link themselves with a disreputable industry.

Transgenders Bajo and Sumera said that some people close their doors when we approach them in the street while others shove us away. “People ask why we do not work since we look healthy and fit. Who will give us jobs? They all make fun of us,” they stated.

The transgender population is forced to live a horrible life, below the poverty line, as a result of society’s inappropriate behaviour. To give this community the opportunity to live honourably, coordinated efforts are required at all levels.

The purpose of the BISP is to give about nine million families a stipend of Rs. 7000 every three months in order to help those who are struggling financially.

Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety Federal Minister Shazia Marri informed that the transgender community is requested to get their CNIC from NADRA and then register themselves at BISP tehsil office.

According to the National Socio-Economic Registry (NSER) study, families must typically have PMT scores below a particular threshold in order to be eligible for the Benazir Kafalat Program, however this requirement has been relaxed in light of the transgender community’s financial situation.

They have to take this CNIC and go to any office of BISP and get themselves assessed and apply for a financial help. After successful registration, they will receive a message from 8171that will guide them as to where and how to receive the money. They must act on the messages that are sent through 8171, after which an amount of Rs. 7000/will be paid to them from Point of Sale (POS) agent or ATM machine.