Islamabad, March 1, 2025: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday unveiled a Rs20 billion Ramadan relief package, aimed at supporting four million deserving families across the country.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, PM Shehbaz stated that the initiative would benefit around 20 million individuals, with relief funds distributed within the first ten days of Ramadan. Under the program, each family will receive Rs5,000 via digital wallets, ensuring swift and transparent disbursement.
The prime minister expressed satisfaction over a decline in inflation during Ramadan this year compared to previous years. “Last year, the allocated relief amount was Rs7 billion, but this year, we have increased it to Rs20 billion,” he noted.
He praised the collaborative efforts of various institutions, including the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA), the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), and technology firms, in developing a robust digital system for fund distribution. He also acknowledged the support of international partners in making this initiative possible.
Addressing broader economic concerns, PM Shehbaz lamented that billions of rupees remain tied up in litigation and vowed to expedite the resolution of pending cases worth Rs500 billion. He also emphasized the government’s firm stance against corruption, citing a recent Sindh High Court ruling that led to the recovery of Rs23 billion.
The premier described the corruption within Utility Stores Corporation as “one of the worst” and reaffirmed plans to privatize the entity. He reiterated the government’s commitment to shutting down loss-making state enterprises and enhancing public service efficiency through digitalization.
Meanwhile, Minister for Industries and Production Rana Tanveer Hussain highlighted that the Ramadan relief program was finalized within 20 days, thanks to the coordinated efforts of all relevant authorities. He assured that a foolproof mechanism was in place for the swift and transparent transfer of funds to beneficiaries.
Additionally, the government has set up 600 stalls at tehsil levels to provide sugar at a subsidized rate of Rs130 per kg, ensuring accessibility and affordability for the masses.
