The Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced that the provincial government will provide Ramadan Care Cards to more than 4 million families this year. Speaking at a meeting on the Nigehban Ramadan programme, she said the initiative aims to support deserving families during the holy month of Ramadan.
Maryam Nawaz noted that while prices of essential items usually rise during Ramadan in Pakistan, other countries offer special savings schemes. Under the programme, families will no longer need to visit government offices for ration distribution. The cards, already distributed to 400,000 families, allow holders to purchase ration worth PKR 10,000. Funds can be accessed via 9,200 ATMs across the province or used at designated convenience markets. No card activation is required.
She emphasized that citizens should report any store charging extra; Punjab Police will take immediate action. “This PKR 10,000 is your right,” she said. The programme also extends support to the Christian community during Ramadan.
Maryam Nawaz added that strict action will be taken against hoarders and overpricing, with para-force units deployed across Punjab solely for price control. The government has also set up 1,500 sale points in addition to convenience markets, offering 10kg flour bags at PKR 850, lower than market prices, along with reduced prices for sugar and cooking oil.
In total, approximately 4.2 million families will benefit from the cards. A dedicated helpline (1000) allows unregistered families to apply by providing their CNIC, with transfers processed within 24 hours. Control rooms will monitor the programme throughout Ramadan.
The Chief Minister also praised citizens for maintaining discipline during the Basant festival, calling it an example of exemplary public conduct. She encouraged philanthropists to participate in Ramadan by organizing food arrangements for the needy, with government-issued certificates recognizing their contributions.