Benazir Kafaalat

Benazir Kafaalat – Registering NGOs and Welfare Companies in Pakistan

In Pakistan, Benazir Kafaalat stands as a flagship program under the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP). It provides direct cash transfers and welfare support to millions of women from low-income households. With its wide reach, the initiative has become a pillar of poverty alleviation.

For NGOs and welfare companies, there is a unique opportunity to partner, assist, and innovate within the framework of Benazir Kafaalat. However, the first step is to properly register and structure your welfare entity so it can work legally and effectively in Pakistan. 

This blog offers a detailed, step-by-step outlook for social entrepreneurs, activists, and organizations looking to contribute.

Understanding Benazir Kafaalat & Its Importance

Benazir Kafaalat is more than just financial aid—it is a gateway to social empowerment.

  • Provides monthly stipends to eligible women, ensuring household stability.
  • Links beneficiaries with education stipends, health coverage, and vocational programs.
  • Acts as a national safety net, especially for rural and underserved communities.

NGOs and welfare companies are often crucial in bridging the gap between government programs and communities. They help by:

  • Identifying deserving families
  • Facilitating awareness campaigns
  • Providing skills and livelihood opportunities alongside cash support
  • Ensuring transparent delivery of welfare

How to Register an NGO / Welfare Company in Pakistan

1. Select Legal Structure

Before starting, decide how you want your organization to operate:

  • Non-Profit Company under Section 42 of SECP
  • Society registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860
  • Trust under the Trust Act, 1882

If you opt for a company, you’ll need a  Memorandum of Association (MOA) outlining charitable objectives.

2. Company Registration Process

The registration steps vary slightly depending on the chosen structure:

  • For companies: Use SECP’s e-services for incorporation.
  • For societies and trusts: Register with the provincial social welfare departments.

Click here to get to know the complete Company Registration Process.

3. Obtain Required Documentation

  • Name reservation certificate
  • MOA & Articles of Association
  • CNIC copies of directors/trustees
  • Address Proof and the affidavits
  • Audited accounts (if required)
  • Details of proposed welfare activities

4. Registration with Relevant Authorities

  • Charity Commission / Provincial Social Welfare Department
  • Pakistan Centre for Philanthropy (PCP) for certification and donor credibility
  • BISP / Benazir Kafaalat registration if you plan to partner directly

5. Compliance & Ongoing Obligations

  • Annual returns to SECP (if a company)
  • Financial audits and transparent record-keeping
  • Adherence to FBR tax laws for non-profits
  • Renewals and periodic reporting

Compliance is critical—lack of transparency can lead to license cancellation or funding rejection.

Interface with Benazir Kafaalat Program

NGOs and welfare companies can engage with the program in different ways:

  • Partnership / Vendor Role: Delivering services such as health awareness, skill training, or digital literacy.
  • Beneficiary Identification: Assisting in field verification of eligible women via NADRA data.
  • Awareness Drives: Educating communities about eligibility criteria, registration methods, and grievance redressal.
  • Monitoring & Evaluation: Conducting impact assessments for donors and the government.

This collaboration allows NGOs to extend the reach of Benazir Kafaalat and add complementary welfare programs.

Legal & Regulatory Considerations

  • Tax Exemption: Apply for tax-exempt status with the FBR to attract donors.
  • Foreign Donations: NGOs must register with the Economic Affairs Division (EAD) if receiving funds from abroad.
  • Governance: MOA/Articles must reflect non-profit, charitable objectives to avoid misuse.
  • Accountability: Boards must include qualified individuals with a clear code of ethics.

Example of NGO Contribution

In recent years, welfare NGOs have partnered with government bodies to distribute health kits, scholarships, and microloans alongside Benazir Kafaalat. 

For instance, local women’s organizations in Sindh successfully combined Kafaalat cash stipends with sewing machine distribution, enabling women to start small businesses.

Such blended models ensure sustainability and empowerment rather than just short-term relief.

For global best practices on governance and NGO management, check out the UNDP NGO Toolkit. It covers transparency, accountability, and community-driven approaches.

Conclusion

Registering NGOs and welfare companies in Pakistan is a structured but rewarding process. Once legally recognized, these entities can partner with the government to strengthen the reach of Benazir Kafaalat, uplift vulnerable communities, and drive sustainable social change.

Whether you are an individual activist, a group of professionals, or a large-scale welfare organization, aligning with this framework ensures your efforts are credible, impactful, and compliant.

In the long run, NGOs registered under proper legal frameworks not only gain donor trust but also contribute meaningfully to the national mission of poverty reduction and empowerment in Pakistan.