BISP expands outreach as AJK PM inaugurates new office in Muzaffarabad

ISLAMABAD, Apr 21 (APP):Prime Minister Azad Government of the State of Jammu and Kashmir, Faisal Mumtaz Rathore, on Tuesday inaugurated a new office of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) in Muzaffarabad at the invitation of its Chairperson, Senator Rubina Khalid.

The BISP chairperson accompanied the prime minister during the inauguration ceremony. Both leaders later visited different sections of the newly established facility, reviewed the services being provided, and interacted with women beneficiaries present at the office.

Speaking to the media, Senator Rubina Khalid said that BISP reflected the vision of Benazir Bhutto, emphasizing that her life remains a symbol of courage, resilience, and struggle for women’s rights.

She noted that the programme continued to play a vital role in empowering vulnerable segments of society, particularly women.

According to a press release, she also thanked the Government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Prime Minister Faisal Mumtaz Rathore for providing the building, stating that its accessible location would facilitate deserving women and enhance service delivery.

Highlighting ongoing initiatives, the chairperson said that Asif Ali Zardari had launched the Benazir Hunarmand Programme last year on the birth anniversary of Benazir Bhutto.

The initiative, she added, aimed to promote women’s economic independence through skills development and improved employment opportunities.

On the occasion, Prime Minister Faisal Mumtaz Rathore termed BISP a crucial support system for underprivileged households and reaffirmed his government’s continued cooperation with the programme.
Director General BISP, Dr. Abdul Aziz Qureshi, was also present at the event.

Later, Senator Rubina Khalid visited the Kashmir Development Foundation in Thotha, where she was briefed on initiatives for the welfare of Kashmiri refugee women.

She also visited a women’s skills development center, interacted with trainees, and appreciated their work in stitching, embroidery, and garment making.

The chairperson discussed linking refugee women with the Benazir Hunarmand Programme to further strengthen their skills and improve livelihood opportunities.