The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) is expanding its Benazir Nashonuma initiative to tackle malnutrition across Pakistan. This is the largest nutrition initiative in the country, focusing on pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and children under two years old. In September 2024, BISP signed a two-year agreement with the World Food Programme (WFP) in Rome. This agreement aims to strengthen the initiative and extend support to over four million women and children. The goal is to build a healthier future for Pakistan by providing essential nutritional aid.
| Key Points of the Initiative | Details |
| Focus on malnutrition | Aims to reduce malnutrition in Pakistan |
| Support for women and children | Helps pregnant women and children under two years old |
| Partnership with WFP | Signed a two-year agreement with WFP |
| Expanding its reach | Over four million people to benefit |
Table of Content
Support for Women and Children
The Benazir Nashonuma initiative offers vital support to pregnant and lactating women, along with their children under the age of two. It provides additional cash benefits to help them meet their nutritional needs. For BISP beneficiary families, mothers receive Rs2,500 per quarter for boys and Rs3,000 per quarter for girls. The initiative also gives Rs1,500 to girls aged 15 to 19 years old. In areas affected by floods, the cash support is even higher, with Rs3,500 for boys and Rs4,000 for girls. This financial assistance helps families provide the necessary nutrition for their children.
Conditions for Receiving Benefits
To receive the benefits from this program, mothers must follow certain conditions. They are required to:
- Attend regular antenatal health checkups
- Participate in awareness sessions during pregnancy
- Eat specialized nutritious food (SNF)
- Take their children for immunization and health checks
These steps ensure that mothers and their children stay healthy and receive the best care during pregnancy and early childhood.
The Importance of Early Nutrition
Pakistan is currently facing a child nutrition crisis, with high rates of malnutrition. According to statistics, around 40.2% of children suffer from stunting, 28.9% are underweight, and 17.7% experience wasting. The first 1,000 days of a child’s life, from conception to two years old, are critical for their development. This period provides a window of opportunity to lay a strong foundation for the child’s future. By addressing malnutrition during this crucial time, the Benazir Nashonuma initiative aims to ensure healthier growth for children in Pakistan.
- Supports pregnant and lactating women
- Provides financial assistance per child
- Encourages regular health checkups
- Improves child immunization rates
Partnership with the World Food Programme
The World Food Programme (WFP) has been a key partner in implementing the Benazir Nashonuma initiative since its beginning. This partnership has enabled the program to reach more families in need and provide specialized food and care to mothers and children. The recent agreement between BISP and WFP is one of the largest government-funded projects in WFP’s history. Together, these organizations are committed to reducing malnutrition and improving the health of Pakistan’s future generations.
Conclusion
The Benazir Nashonuma initiative is a significant step towards addressing malnutrition in Pakistan. With the partnership of WFP, the program is expanding to help over four million women and children, providing financial support and access to essential healthcare services. This initiative will not only improve the health of Pakistan’s children but also ensure a brighter and healthier future for the entire nation.
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FAQs
What is the Benazir Nashonuma initiative?
The Benazir Nashonuma initiative is a program under BISP that aims to combat malnutrition in pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and children under two years of age.
Who benefits from the Benazir Nashonuma program?
Pregnant and lactating women and their children under two years old, especially those in flood-affected areas, benefit from the program.
How much financial support is provided under the program?
Mothers receive Rs2,500 per quarter for boys and Rs3,000 for girls. In flood-affected areas, the amount is Rs3,500 for boys and Rs4,000 for girls.
What are the conditions to receive benefits?
Mothers must attend regular antenatal checkups, consume specialized nutritious food, and ensure their children receive immunizations and health checkups.