The Ehsaas Program is Pakistan’s largest and most impactful social welfare initiative, changing the lives of millions of low-income families since its launch. Backed by the Government of Pakistan, it includes key schemes such as Ehsaas Rashan Riayat, 8171 Ehsaas Program 25000 BISP, and Ehsaas Kafalat all aimed at fighting poverty and supporting the most vulnerable.

But who is eligible, and how can you apply?

This updated 2025 guide covers:
Eligibility criteria – Income limits, CNIC verification, and household conditions
How to apply – Step-by-step guide using SMS, the 8171 web portal, or Ehsaas Centers
Latest updates – New cash amounts, increased coverage, and improved access
Benefits – Real impact on food security, education, and financial relief

Over 12 million families across Pakistan are now receiving Ehsaas support.

What is the Ehsaas Program?

The Ehsaas Program, which means compassion in Urdu, is one of the largest social safety and poverty alleviation initiatives in Pakistan. Launched in 2019 by Prime Minister Imran Khan, the program aims to create a welfare state by providing financial assistance, healthcare, education, and employment opportunities to those in need.

Eligibility Criteria for the Ehsaas Program

The eligibility criteria for the Ehsaas Program vary depending on the specific scheme or project. However, the general criteria ensure that aid reaches the most deserving individuals and families.

Income Level: Applicants must fall below a certain income threshold to qualify for assistance. This is to ensure that the program targets the poorest segments of society.

Family Composition: Priority is often given to families with more dependents, including children, elderly members, and people with disabilities.

Geographic Location: The Ehsaas Program targets, specific areas identified as particularly vulnerable or underserved.

National Identity Card (NIC): Applicants must have a valid NIC to apply for the program. This helps in maintaining accurate records and preventing fraud.

Existing Benefits: Individuals already receiving substantial government aid or pensions may be deemed ineligible for Ehsaas schemes to avoid duplication of benefits.

How to Apply

Online Registration: Many Ehsaas Program initiatives allow online registration through the official Ehsaas portal.

Ehsaas Centers: Physical application centers have been set up to assist those who may not have access to the Internet.

Mobile Application: The government has also introduced mobile applications to facilitate easy registration and application tracking.

Benefits of the Ehsaas Program

1. Financial Assistance

Ehsaas Emergency Cash Program: Provides immediate financial relief to families affected by economic shocks, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ehsaas Kafalat: Regular cash transfers to the most vulnerable women across Pakistan.

2. Educational Support:

Ehsaas Education Stipends: Financial incentives for families to send their children to school, thereby promoting education among the underprivileged.

3. Healthcare Services:

Ehsaas Health Insurance: Provides health insurance to low-income families, covering medical expenses and ensuring access to quality healthcare.

4. Economic Empowerment:

Ehsaas Interest-Free Loans: Loans to support small businesses and entrepreneurial ventures.

5. Social Safety:

Ehsaas Nashonuma: Focuses on improving nutrition for pregnant and lactating women and children under two years of age.

 
Impact of the Ehsaas Program

The Ehsaas Program has an impact on the lives of millions of Pakistanis. By providing financial support, healthcare, education, and opportunities for economic empowerment, the program has helped reduce poverty and improve living standards.

Conclusion

The Ehsaas Program represents a monumental effort by the Government of Pakistan to create a more inclusive and equitable society. By understanding the eligibility criteria and the extensive benefits it offers, individuals and families can better navigate the application process and access the support they need.

(FAQs) – Ehsaas Program 2025

1. What is the Ehsaas Program?
The Ehsaas Program is Pakistan’s leading social welfare initiative aimed at reducing poverty. It offers financial aid, nutrition, healthcare, and employment support. In 2025, it expanded with increased stipends and digital payment systems like Ehsaas Kafalat and 8171 Emergency Cash.

2. Who is eligible for the Ehsaas Program?
To qualify in 2025, you must:
Have a monthly household income under PKR 50,000
Live in a family with children, elderly, or disabled members
Be a widow or single mother (automatic qualification)
Verify CNIC through 8171 SMS or Ehsaas biometric centers

3. What are the key components of the Ehsaas Program?
Ehsaas Kafalat – PKR 14,000 quarterly support for women
Ehsaas Nashonuma – Nutrition support for mothers and infants
Ehsaas Amdan – Grants and interest-free loans for small businesses
Ehsaas Education Stipends – PKR 2,000–3,500/month per student
8171 Emergency Cash – One-time aid during national crises

4. How does the Ehsaas Program empower women?
Through direct cash transfers to over 9 million women
Providing mobile banking training for financial independence
Offering education stipends with a focus on girls
Supporting women-led businesses through Ehsaas Amdan

5. What impact has the Ehsaas Program made?
Lifted 7.9 million families above the poverty line
Increased school enrollment by 34% in low-income areas
Reduced malnutrition by 22% in beneficiary districts
Enabled 1.4 million women to launch small businesses