Islamabad : Pakistan and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a loan agreement for the Integrated Social Protection Development Program (ISPDP) Additional Financing, amounting to USD 330 million. This agreement builds on the ongoing ADB-funded program to strengthen and expand social protection systems in Pakistan through the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP). The additional financing aims to enhance institutional capacity and improve access to education and healthcare, particularly for women, adolescent girls, and children from low-income families.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Secretary Economic Affairs Dr. Kazim Niaz emphasized the importance of concessional financing in addressing socio-economic challenges. He expressed the government’s commitment to creating equitable opportunities for marginalized communities and thanked ADB for its continued support. ADB Country Director Emma Fan reaffirmed the Bank’s dedication to aiding Pakistan in its efforts to strengthen social safety nets and achieve inclusive growth.
The additional funding will support the program’s objectives, which include expanding grassroots-level social protection, increasing school enrollment for children from poor families, and improving access to healthcare and nutrition for women and girls. These initiatives are designed to foster long-term socio-economic resilience and reduce poverty across vulnerable segments of society.
According to the ADB’s statement on its X account, the results-based loan has already helped alleviate poverty and improve education and healthcare access for disadvantaged families. This agreement represents a significant step forward in enhancing Pakistan’s social protection systems and highlights the shared commitment of Pakistan and ADB to sustainable and inclusive development.
