Punjab govt approves Rs30bn Ramadan relief package

WEB DESK: The Punjab government has green-lighted a Rs30 billion financial assistance programme under the Ramadan Nigehban Relief Package, aimed at supporting families living below the poverty line, low-income households, and low-paid employees during Ramazan and ahead of Eidul Fitr.

Authorities have issued instructions for province-wide registration of eligible beneficiaries, which can be completed online or at Union Council offices, as well as at municipal corporation and local body offices across Punjab.

This year, the government has discontinued Utility Stores and will not establish official Ramazan bazaars. Instead, low-cost facilitation markets will be set up on a self-help basis at locations where weekly Friday and Sunday bazaars are already held.

Financial aid will be provided through Punjab Bank, with ATM cards issued to beneficiaries after verification of their registration. The online registration portal has already been activated, and Assistant Commissioners across the province will directly oversee the process.

In Rawalpindi, Deputy Commissioner Hasan Waqar Cheema has called a key meeting later this week on the Ramazan Nigehban Package, which will include heads of all relevant departments to ensure smooth implementation of the relief programme.