Prime Minister (PM) of Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif, on Friday announced that the federal government has introduced a transparent system to provide subsidised essential food items to underprivileged citizens under the Ramzan package.
The Prime Minister chaired a meeting to review the proposed Ramzan package. And the third-party evaluation of last year’s relief program.
Ramzan package
The Prime Minister has stated that subsidies for the Ramzan package would be distributed only through digital wallets to protect the dignity of the people.
He said this digital distribution would also be an important step toward a cashless economy.
The PM said, “The inclusion of the State Bank of Pakistan in the distribution of the Ramzan package will promote a cashless economy.”
He also instructed that a digital dashboard and structured monitoring system should be set up. To make sure there is proper supervision.
He praised the relevant institutions and ministries for the audit report.
He also noted that some deserving individuals had been deprived of benefits due to corruption in utility stores.
According to the findings of the meeting, last year’s Ramzan package was effective and transparent, as per the audit firm.
Benazir income support programme
A Social Protection Wallet system is also being put into effect under the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP).
This will include providing free SIM cards to the eligible individuals. From March of year 2026, all subsidies will be distributed digitally through these SIMs.
The Prime Minister also told all relevant institutions and ministries to work together. To develop a plan for the upcoming Ramazan and Eid packages.
The meeting was attended by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and Minister for Poverty Alleviation Syed Imran Ahmed Shah.
Additionally, by Minister for National Food Security Rana Tanveer Hussain, Minister for IT Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Prime Minister’s Special Assistant Haroon Akhtar, Chairman NADRA, Chairman PTA, and other officials.
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