Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced a Rs20 billion relief package aimed at supporting four million families during Ramadan, set to start this Sunday. Each family will receive Rs5,000 to help alleviate financial challenges, despite a recent decline in inflation. The program will utilize a digital distribution system for transparency and efficiency.
On March 1, 2025, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif unveiled a relief package in Islamabad worth Rs20 billion (approximately $71.4 million) to assist needy families during Ramadan, which is set to commence on Sunday in Pakistan. This initiative aims to impact around four million families, providing each with Rs5,000 (approximately $17.87) as a support measure amid an environment where many citizens continue to feel the strain of economic challenges.
While the consumer inflation rate in Pakistan decreased to 2.4% in January, compared to 24% in the same month the previous year, many citizens express concerns regarding their financial hardships. Sharif highlighted the importance of this initiative, calling it a blessing from Almighty Allah, and noted the extensive coverage of the relief program across all provinces, including Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
The funds will be distributed to eligible families through a digital wallet system, ensuring efficiency and transparency. Sharif acknowledged the contributions of government institutions, international partners, and technology companies that facilitated the implementation of this relief system, emphasizing the collaborative effort underlying this noble cause.
As Pakistan moves toward economic stability under a $7 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF) program, upcoming reviews will further assess the country’s fiscal health. The finance ministry expressed optimism for sustained reduction in consumer inflation, aligning with the government’s ongoing commitment to support those in need during this holy month and beyond.
The Pakistani government has initiated a Rs20 billion relief package to support families during Ramadan. Despite a decline in inflation, many citizens experience economic difficulties. The distribution of funds will employ modern technology to ensure efficacy while the government remains dedicated to fostering economic recovery through collaborative efforts and international support.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
