Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday announced that the federal government has revamped the Ramazan package to provide subsidized essential food items to underprivileged citizens. The new system replaces a decades-old, corruption-prone mechanism at utility stores.
The prime minister chaired a review meeting on the upcoming Ramazan package and examined a report validating the transparency of last year’s relief initiative. He praised institutions and ministries involved, noting that previous corruption had denied deserving individuals for their rights.
Shehbaz Sharif directed that subsidy amounts under the Ramazan package be distributed exclusively through digital wallets. This measure aims to protect beneficiaries’ dignity while promoting a cashless economy. The inclusion of the State Bank of Pakistan in the distribution process is expected to strengthen financial transparency and efficiency.
The government is also implementing a Social Protection Wallet system under the Benazir Income Support Programmed (BISP). Free SIMs will be provided to eligible individuals, and starting from March 2026, all subsidies will be digitally transferred through these SIMs. This initiative ensures that the Ramazan package reaches the intended recipients without delays or leakages.
To maintain accountability, the prime minister ordered the creation of a digital dashboard and structured monitoring system. These tools will track the disbursement of subsidies and ensure effective oversight.
Officials confirmed that an internationally recognized audit firm had validated last year’s Ramazan package, declaring it transparent and effective. Based on these findings, the government is formulating a comprehensive strategy for the upcoming Ramazan and Eid packages. Special measures will be taken to include the poor, maintain administrative discipline, and ensure full transparency in subsidy distribution.
The review meeting was attended by senior officials, including Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Minister for Poverty Alleviation Syed Imran Ahmed Shah, Minister for National Food Security Rana Tanveer Hussain, Minister for IT Shaza Fatima Khawaja, NADRA Chairman, and Pakistan Telecommunication Authority Chairman.
This updated Ramazan package reflects the government’s commitment to supporting low-income families while leveraging technology to enhance transparency and accessibility.
The government’s use of digital wallets and free SIMs is changing how citizens access social welfare. For more updates on connectivity and digital services, see Zong Monthly Internet Packages Overview and Latest Offers in Pakistan.
