PM Shehbaz Sharif Announces Rs 38 Billion Ramazan Relief Package

The holy month of Ramadan has officially commenced in Pakistan following the sighting of the crescent moon on the evening of Wednesday, February 18, 2026. While millions across the country prepared for their first fast on Thursday, February 19, the announcement was accompanied by a massive federal relief initiative aimed at easing the burden of inflation on the most vulnerable segments of society.

Historic Rs38 Billion Ramadan Relief Package Unveiled

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has formally launched a landmark Rs38 billion Ramadan Relief Package for 2026. This year’s initiative marks a significant shift from traditional methods, focusing on a "cashless" and digital distribution model to ensure transparency and preserve the dignity of citizens. Unlike previous years, which were often marred by long queues and substandard items at utility stores, the 2026 package provides direct financial assistance to approximately 12.1 million deserving families.

How to Register for the Rs13,000 Cashless Subsidy

Under the new federal guidelines, each eligible household is set to receive Rs13,000. The government has streamlined the registration process to be entirely mobile-friendly:

• SMS Verification: Citizens can send their 13-digit CNIC number (without dashes) to the official shortcode 9999 or 8070 to check their eligibility status.

• Digital Portals: Residents can also visit the official government portal at pmrrp.nitb.gov.pk to verify their family’s record in the national socio-economic database.

• Automatic Enrollment: Families already registered under the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) Kafalat scheme are automatically included in this relief phase.

Provincial "Nigehban" Support for Punjab Residents

In addition to the federal relief, the Punjab government has introduced the Ramadan Nigehban Card, offering an additional Rs10,000 or free ration hampers to low-income residents of the province. This dual-support system means some families in Punjab could see a combined relief value of up to Rs23,000 this month. Payments are being disbursed through biometric verification at authorized bank agents and digital wallets, eliminating the need for physical store visits.

Ensuring Transparency and Dignity in Distribution

The Prime Minister emphasized that the transition to a digital, cashless economy is a decisive move to dismantle "flawed and corrupt mechanisms." By utilizing the State Bank of Pakistan’s digital infrastructure, the government aims to provide a seamless experience for those in need. Citizens are advised to keep their registered mobile SIMs active and avoid sharing OTP codes with unauthorized persons to protect themselves from potential fraud during the disbursement process.