BISP, WB discuss data sensitisation, social protection reforms

Islamabad:Chairperson of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), Senator Rubina Khalid, held a meeting with Melis U. Guven, Lead Economist and Global Lead for Social Protection Delivery Systems World Bank, at BISP Headquarters here on Thursday.

The meeting focused on strengthening collaboration in the areas of data sharing, cybersecurity, and reforms in social protection delivery systems.

During the meeting, Senator Rubina Khalid emphasized the importance of organizing a national-level workshop involving stakeholders from all provinces to raise awareness on the sensitization of data sharing, the risks and challenges associated with cybersecurity, and the need to build trust among partners.

“After NADRA, BISP holds the second-largest household data repository in the country through the National Socio-Economic Registry (NSER),” said Senator Rubina Khalid. “We share this data responsibly and strictly in accordance with all safety protocols to support various social welfare initiatives. However, it is now critical that NSER data be centralized—similar to NADRA—so it can be effectively leveraged for development planning.”

Senator Rubina Khalid further stated that data sharing must follow the standards set by cybersecurity frameworks, especially considering the sensitivity of personal household information.

“We must ensure that all stakeholders understand the gravity of secure data handling. A workshop is essential to address concerns, streamline processes, and collectively commit to responsible data use,” she added. The meeting also covered several operational aspects including a review of the survey questionnaire, redefinition of household structures, training of enumerators, and the introduction of regular third-party spot checks to improve transparency and data reliability.

Melis U. Guven appreciated BISP’s ongoing efforts in strengthening social protection systems and reaffirmed the World Bank’s full support, expressing a commitment to hold regular follow-up meetings and provide continued technical assistance.