Utility Stores to Be Restructured, Not Shut Down in 2024 – BISP Beneficiaries

There is a recent update for all the beneficiaries of the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) who have been worried about the closure of Utility Stores across the country. According to the latest information, the Minister for Industries and Production, Rana Tanveer Hussain, has announced that Utility Stores will not be closed but will be “restructured.” This restructuring aims to ensure that only eligible beneficiaries can receive subsidized food items from these stores.

Government’s Latest Statement on Utility Stores

When rumors about the closure of Utility Stores spread, there was widespread concern and anxiety across the nation. Many people, especially BISP beneficiaries, were worried about losing access to affordable essentials. However, the government has clarified that these stores will not be shut down. Instead, the company will be restructured to make sure that only deserving individuals can benefit from the subsidies provided on food items and groceries.

Focus on Eligible Beneficiaries

• Focus on Eligibility: Only eligible people will get subsidies
• Prevention of Misuse: Ensures that subsidies reach the needy
• Sustainable Support: Long-term availability of affordable essentials
• Improved Efficiency: Better management of resources

Protests by USC Employees

The announcement of the possible closure of Utility Stores led to protests by employees of the Utility Stores Corporation (USC) in various regions, including Muzaffargarh, Chishtian, Jahanian, and Jalalpur Pirwala. Workers were concerned that closing the stores would result in job losses for thousands of people. They voiced their dissatisfaction by gathering outside press clubs and chanting slogans against the government’s decision. They also threatened to launch a larger movement if the government did not reconsider its plans.

Reason Behind the Closure Concerns

The initial talk of closing Utility Stores was part of a broader plan by the government to streamline federal ministries and the organizations under them. The USC, which operates over 4,000 stores nationwide, was one of the enterprises identified for possible closure or privatization. During a Senate Standing Committee meeting on Industries and Production, it was discussed whether to completely shut down Utility Stores or transfer their control to the provinces. However, the recent announcement has clarified that instead of closure, the focus will be on restructuring.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the government’s decision to restructure Utility Stores rather than shut them down is a relief for BISP beneficiaries who rely on these stores for affordable essentials. The restructuring will ensure that only those who truly need assistance receive it, thereby preventing the misuse of subsidies. While the initial news caused concern and led to protests, the latest announcement reassures that Utility Stores will continue to operate, providing much-needed support to eligible individuals.

Also Read: Punjab Government Launches Easy Loan Program for Farmers

FAQs

Will Utility Stores be closed?
No, Utility Stores will not be closed. Instead, they will be restructured to ensure that only eligible beneficiaries receive subsidies.

What is the purpose of restructuring Utility Stores?
The restructuring aims to focus on providing subsidies only to eligible individuals and to prevent the misuse of government support.

How did USC employees react to the closure rumors?
USC employees protested against the potential closure of Utility Stores, expressing concerns about job losses and urging the government to reconsider.

4. What was discussed during the Senate Standing Committee meeting?
The committee discussed whether to close Utility Stores entirely or transfer their control to provincial governments. However, the decision was made to restructure the stores instead.