The Punjab government has announced a Ramadan package for 3 million deserving families in the province. This year, instead of providing subsidies at Ramadan bazaars, the government has decided to give cash directly to each family.
Under the package, each family will receive a pay order of Rs. 10,000. The Price Control and Commodities Management Punjab has sent a summary to the Punjab government for the release of funds.
On the other hand, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Tuesday that the federal government will introduce a Ramadan relief package this year without involving the Utility Stores Corporation (USC). This decision aims to prevent corruption and the distribution of low-quality goods.
In January, the federal cabinet formed a high-level committee to develop a plan for shutting down USC operations across the country. Traditionally, the prime minister’s Ramadan package was distributed through utility stores. However, the committee was also asked to work with the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) to provide the Ramadan package.
The budget allocation for USC was nearly doubled this year compared to last year. Recently, there have been proposals to restructure the corporation or close 1,000 loss-making stores. There are currently about 5,130 USC stores nationwide.
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During a federal cabinet meeting in Islamabad, the prime minister said, “As Ramadan is approaching, I have asked the Ministry of National Food Security to prepare a Ramadan package without involving the Utility Stores to prevent corruption and the sale of low-quality goods.”
He added, “I had raised this issue many months ago, stating that this cannot continue with the Utility Stores.” The prime minister also mentioned that last year, the government received many complaints about how the USC handled the Ramadan package.
It is important to remember that the Punjab government has introduced the ‘Nigahban Ramzan Relief Package’ to provide financial assistance to families facing economic challenges during the holy month of Ramadan. Eligible individuals must complete their registration by February 15, 2025, through various channels, including an online portal, local Union Councils, or municipal offices
Registration Channels
- Online Registration: Applicants can register via the Punjab Socio-Economic Registry (PSER) portal at pser.punjab.gov.pk.
- Step 1: Visit the portal and fill out the application form.
- Step 2: Provide accurate details about the family’s socio-economic status.
- Step 3: Upload scanned copies of required documents.
- In-Person Registration: Individuals can visit any of the 4,000+ Union Councils or local government offices across Punjab to complete their registration.
- Helpline Support: A dedicated helpline (0800-02345) has been set up to assist citizens with the registration process, answer queries, and provide guidance.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Nigahban Ramzan Relief Package, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- PSER Registration: Families must be registered with the Punjab Socio-Economic Registry (PSER).
- Income Assessment: Priority will be given to low-income families or those experiencing financial hardship.
Documents Required
Applicants are advised to prepare the following documents for a smooth registration process:
- CNIC of the family head
- Proof of income (if applicable)
- Proof of residence within Punjab
Deadline
The last date to submit applications is February 15, 2025. Applicants are encouraged to complete the process well before the deadline to ensure eligibility for the relief package.
The initiative aims to provide timely support to vulnerable families during Ramadan, ensuring they can observe the holy month with dignity and ease. For further assistance, citizens can contact the helpline or visit the official PSER portal.
