Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced a major Ramazan Nigahban Package worth Rs47 billion to support 4.2 million deserving families across the province.
Under the package, each eligible family will receive Rs10,000, benefiting nearly 10 million people. The CM emphasized that no deserving person should go without support during the holy month of Ramazan.
The Ramazan Nigahban Package includes issuing Nigahban Cards to beneficiaries. These cards allow cash withdrawals through Bank of Punjab branchless agents, One Link Network ATMs, and purchases from designated shopkeepers. District administrations will distribute the cards door-to-door in relevant areas.
To facilitate usage, 136 activation centres have been set up across Punjab, with additional activation available at Bank of Punjab ATMs. A dedicated dashboard and counter-verification system have been established to ensure transparency. Beneficiaries may also receive verification calls to confirm card issuance.
The CM also approved the continuation and expansion of existing social support initiatives, including CM Ration Card, Nigahban Dastarkhwan, and Sahulat Bazaars. Ration cardholders will receive Rs10,000 during Ramazan, up from the regular Rs3,000 monthly assistance.
As part of food support, eight Nigahban Dastarkhawans – Maryam Ke Mehman will operate in every tehsil, serving iftar to 2,000 fasting people daily. The Punjab Food Authority will conduct daily inspections to ensure quality and hygiene.
To improve access to essentials, 65 Sahulat Bazaars, including permanent and mobile markets, will operate in 30 districts, with temporary markets set up in 11 additional districts. Authorities have also been instructed to identify land for permanent convenience markets in 60 tehsils.
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CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif stressed that serving the public during Ramazan is a shared responsibility. She urged affluent citizens to assist those in need while the government ensures proper support through the Ramazan Nigahban Package.
