Malnutrition remains a major public health challenge in Pakistan. With 40.2% of children stunted, 28.9% underweight, and 17.7% wasting, the country ranks among the highest globally for child malnutrition. Recognizing the urgency, the Government of Pakistan launched the Benazir Nashonuma Program to combat this ongoing crisis, focusing on the critical first 1,000 days of a child’s life — a crucial window for healthy growth and development.
In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about the Benazir Nashonuma Program 2025, including its objectives, benefits, eligibility criteria, registration process, and contact information.
What is the Benazir Nashonuma Program?
The Benazir Nashonuma Program is a Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) initiative under the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP). It is designed to increase the uptake of health and nutrition services among pregnant women, lactating mothers, and their children under two years of age.
The primary goal is to prevent stunting, reduce malnutrition, and improve maternal and child health by offering financial support and access to nutritious food.
Initially piloted in 14 districts, the program has now expanded to 158 districts nationwide, with over 512 Nashonuma Centers (including mobile units) established to facilitate easy access for beneficiaries.
BISP’s Benazir Nashonuma Programme reaches to 770,000 beneficiaries
The Benazir Nashonuma Programme, under the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), has successfully reached 770,000 pregnant and lactating women (PLW) and their infants across Pakistan. The initiative provides nutritious food, quarterly cash stipends, and health awareness support to improve maternal and child health outcomes.
Initially launched as a pilot in August 2020, the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) programme has now expanded nationwide. Currently, 488 Facilitation Centers are operating across the country to deliver Special Nutritious Food (SNF) and cash transfers to eligible beneficiaries.
Goals of Benazir Nashonuma:
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Reduce stunting in children under two.
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Promote healthy weight gain during pregnancy.
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Decrease anemia and micronutrient deficiencies.
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Prevent low birth weight among newborns.
Malnutrition in Pakistan – The Challenge:
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40.2% of children under five are stunted.
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28.9% are underweight.
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17.7% suffer from wasting. These statistics rank Pakistan second in the region for child malnutrition burden.
Experts emphasize that the first 1,000 days of a child’s life are critical for brain development and long-term wellbeing. Investments in this window build human capital, which is a vital engine for national economic growth and productivity.
Key Objectives of the Benazir Nashonuma Program
The program focuses on several vital objectives:
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Prevent stunting in children under two years of age.
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Improve weight gain among pregnant women during pregnancy.
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Reduce anemia and micronutrient deficiencies.
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Enhance awareness about maternal and early child health and nutrition.
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Decrease disease burden by encouraging the use of available health and nutrition services.
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Prevent low birth weight in newborns.
Through these goals, the program aims to build a healthier and stronger next generation, supporting Pakistan’s progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
How the Benazir Nashonuma Program Works
Under the Benazir Nashonuma Program, registered mothers and children receive cash stipends as well as Specialized Nutritious Food (SNF). Here’s how it works:
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Pregnant Women (PLW): Receive PKR 2,000 per quarter.
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Boy Child (up to 2 years): Receives PKR 2,000 per quarter.
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Girl Child (up to 2 years): Receives PKR 2,500 per quarter (an additional PKR 500 to encourage gender equity).
Important: To continue receiving the benefits, mothers must:
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Attend regular antenatal health checkups.
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Participate in health and nutrition awareness sessions.
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Ensure their children are immunized and undergo regular health checkups.
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Consume the provided specialized nutritious food.
By fulfilling these conditions, families not only receive financial support but also crucial guidance to improve their overall health and nutrition.
Benazir Nashonuma Program Coverage and Impact
The Benazir Nashonuma Program has achieved significant milestones since its inception:
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Over 1,275,800 individuals reached, including:
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645,800 pregnant women
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630,000 children under two years of age
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512 Nashonuma Centers established nationwide.
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488 Facilitation Centers active across Pakistan.
The program’s rapid expansion demonstrates its success and the urgent need for such initiatives in combating child malnutrition and promoting maternal health.
Eligibility Criteria for the Benazir Nashonuma Program
If you are wondering whether you qualify for the Nashonuma Program, here are the basic eligibility requirements:
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Pregnant women or lactating mothers (PLW).
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Children up to 2 years old.
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Must belong to low-income families already registered with the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP).
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Must possess a valid CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card) and B-Form for the child.
Essentially, the program targets the most vulnerable segments of society to ensure that even the poorest children get a healthy start in life.
How to Register for the Benazir Nashonuma Program
Registering for the Nashonuma Program 2025 is straightforward:
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Visit the Nearest BISP Tehsil Office: Start by visiting your nearest BISP center.
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Proceed to the District Headquarters Hospital (DHQ): Here, you can express your interest in enrolling in the Nashonuma Program.
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Fill Out the Registration Form: You will be provided a form where you must fill in accurate details about yourself and your child.
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Submit Required Documents: Provide your CNIC and your child’s B-Form.
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Child Immunization Card: Ensure your child’s immunization card is updated, as it will be part of the record-keeping system.
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Await Confirmation: After submitting your documents, your registration will be processed, and you will be informed once it is confirmed.
Tip: Always keep your contact information updated to receive timely updates about your application.
Benefits of the Benazir Nashonuma Program
Enrolled families receive a range of valuable benefits:
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Cash Support: Financial assistance of PKR 2,000 to 2,500 quarterly to help cover nutrition and health-related expenses.
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Nutritious Food Supply: Mothers and children receive specialized food rich in essential nutrients.
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Health Education: Awareness sessions on maternal health, child development, breastfeeding practices, hygiene, and immunization.
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Reduced Healthcare Costs: Regular checkups and early disease detection lower long-term health expenses.
Empowerment of Mothers: Financial support empowers women, enabling better decision-making for their children’s well-being.
Benazir Nashonuma Program Helpline and Contact Information
If you have any questions or need assistance regarding eligibility, registration, or payments, you can contact:
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Nashonuma Program Helpline: 051-9210047
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Email: digital@pass.gov.pk
For any in-person queries, visit your nearest BISP Tehsil Office or District Headquarters Hospital.
FAQs
Conclusion
The Benazir Nashonuma Program 2025 is a vital step in Pakistan’s fight against child malnutrition and maternal health challenges. By providing targeted cash support, nutritious food, and health education, the program ensures a healthier future for the nation’s most vulnerable citizens.
If you or someone you know is eligible, don’t miss the opportunity to register and benefit from this life-changing initiative. A healthy start today promises a stronger, more prosperous tomorrow.
Apply now and secure a healthier future for you and your child!
