On February 17, 2026, the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) announced a significant increase in stipends for its various programs ahead of Ramadan, providing financial relief to approximately 10 million families across Pakistan. The quarterly stipend for the Benazir Kafalat program will rise from Rs. 13,500 to Rs. 14,500, a Rs. 1,000 increase, as stated by BISP Chairperson Senator Rubina Khalid. She emphasized that this adjustment is a response to inflation and aims to support the most vulnerable segments of society, calling it a 'Ramadan gift' to beneficiaries. Additionally, the Benazir Education Stipends and Benazir Nashonuma programs will also see increases of Rs. 500 each, aimed at promoting educational attendance and improving maternal health outcomes, respectively. Senator Khalid highlighted the opening of 10 million bank accounts for women beneficiaries as a historic breakthrough in financial inclusion, stating, 'This is a moment worth celebrating.'