Language Accessibility in BISP: July 2025 Audit
The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) helps millions of poor families in Pakistan, but many people face one big problem — they don’t understand the language. In July 2025, a fresh audit revealed that language accessibility in BISP still needs major improvements. Many people, especially from rural areas or with disabilities, cannot understand forms, messages, or instructions. This article will explain everything about this issue and how the government can make things better for everyone.
What Is Language Accessibility in BISP?
Language accessibility means that every person, no matter where they live or what language they speak, can easily understand and use BISP services. This includes:
- SMS messages
- Online registration
- BISP mobile app
- Complaint centers
- Help desks and field offices
If a person doesn’t understand Urdu or English, or has a disability like hearing or reading problems, they might miss their chance to get help from BISP.
Why Is Language Accessibility Important?
Many people think everyone can read Urdu or use the internet. But in reality:
- 44% of Pakistanis can’t read or write
- Many rural women only speak local languages like Sindhi, Balochi, Pashto, or Seraiki
- People with disabilities (hearing, visual, or mental) face extra challenges
If BISP is not language-friendly, millions stay confused, make mistakes, or are left out.
July 2025 Audit – Key Findings on Language Gaps
A special audit done in July 2025 showed some shocking results about BISP language support:
| Issue | Problem Found |
|---|---|
| Forms | Only in English/Urdu, hard for locals |
| SMS Alerts | Not explained in local language |
| Complaint Process | Difficult for illiterate users |
| Disabled Users | No sign language or audio support |
| Staff Communication | Not trained in local languages |
These gaps show that BISP is not fully accessible for the people it aims to help.
Languages Spoken by BISP Beneficiaries
Here are some of the main languages used by poor communities in Pakistan:
- Punjabi
- Sindhi
- Balochi
- Pashto
- Seraiki
- Brahvi
- Urdu (urban areas)
BISP must support at least the top 5 regional languages to ensure inclusivity.
Language Accessibility for People with Disabilities
Disabled people face the biggest communication barriers. BISP should:
- Use sign language videos in help centers and websites
- Provide voice-based instructions on the BISP app
- Use symbols and visuals for those with low literacy
- Give Braille-friendly printed material for blind users
This will make BISP more inclusive and respectful.
Mobile App and Digital Access: Language Limitations
The BISP Mobile App is useful but has these problems:
- Only available in English and Urdu
- No audio guide or voice-over
- No option for Pashto or Sindhi
The app should offer voice support, regional languages, and simple UI for all.
BISP Forms: Are They Easy to Understand?
Most BISP forms (for registration or updates) are:
- Full of technical terms
- Written in difficult Urdu or English
- Missing simple instructions
Suggestion: Use illustrated forms, local translations, and step-by-step examples.
Field Office Communication Challenges
BISP field offices are often in urban language mode. Many officers:
- Only speak Urdu
- Don’t understand rural dialects
- Cannot explain processes clearly
Training field officers in basic local languages can fix this issue.
Complaint Handling and SMS Alerts – Still a Problem?
Yes. The 2025 audit found:
- SMS are in complicated Urdu
- No support for voice alerts
- Toll-free lines lack language options
To fix this, BISP should launch a multilingual SMS system and IVR (Interactive Voice Response) for easy complaint filing.
BISP Awareness Campaigns: Language Used?
Most TV and radio ads use formal Urdu, which:
- Confuses rural people
- Fails to engage women and elders
Campaigns should include regional channels and native speakers explaining things simply.
Women and Language Accessibility
Rural women often:
- Don’t read or write
- Speak only their local dialect
- Feel shy talking to male staff
Solutions:
- Use female field officers
- Provide voice instructions
- Run radio shows in local languages
Suggestions from the Audit Team (2025)
The official July 2025 audit suggested BISP to:
- Add regional language options in apps, websites, and forms
- Hire language trainers for field staff
- Add sign language and audio support
- Use pictorial and symbol-based guides
- Launch awareness campaigns in Pashto, Sindhi, and Balochi
What Can Government Do Next?
To make Language Accessibility in BISP a reality, the government should:
- Add language accessibility budget
- Create a language inclusion cell in BISP
- Partner with local NGOs and universities
- Test all materials with real users from rural areas
Benefits of Making BISP Language-Friendly
When BISP supports all languages, it will:
| Benefit | Impact |
|---|---|
| Easy access | More people apply correctly |
| Trust building | Public confidence increases |
| Less errors | Fewer complaints and mistakes |
| Inclusivity | Everyone feels respected |
| Efficiency | Faster registration and delivery |
FAQs – Language Accessibility in BISP
Conclusion
Language Accessibility in BISP is not just a small feature — it’s a basic human right. Everyone should be able to understand the help offered to them. From local languages to disability-friendly tools, every improvement will help Pakistan’s most deserving people live with dignity.
It’s time BISP becomes inclusive, multilingual, and people-first. That’s the only way to make sure no one is left behind.
