BISP looking to branch out

Govt working to expand scope of BISP operations with the help of foreign companies.

FAISALABAD: The federal government has decided to expand the scope of Benazir income support programme (BISP) with the active coordination and support of internationally reputed global firms that will help formulate global alliances to strengthen public-private partnership.

Formal proposals for achieving this task have been called from internationally reputed firms.

The BISP is the government’s major anti-poverty initiative which is recognised by the international community. “The initiative has won accolades from international financial institutions for its legitimacy and the transparency of its operations and purpose,” said BISP official Najam Khaliq.

BISP officials said that the programme had been entrusted to address poverty in the country and was a critical component of the Pakistan government’s commitment to the implementation of Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

The BISP is looking to expand its operations in all districts of the country and is in the process of launching a comprehensive multifaceted communications, education, public and government relations campaign in this regard.

In a meeting of BISP operatives in Faisalabad, the programme developers have invited technical and financial proposals from global public relations and government affairs firms with direct operations in USA, Western Europe, Central and Eastern Europe, South East Europe, Eurasia, Middle East, Asia Pacific and Asia. To participate in the selection process, companies should submit a formal letter of request (Technical Proposal) by November 30, 2010 along with a detailed profile on the basis of the above mentioned requirements.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 3^rd, 2010.