Ramzan Package Launches with Rs20 Billion Relief

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has launched a Rs20 billion Ramazan package, aiming to benefit around 20 million people across the country, with each of the 4 million deserving families receiving Rs5,000 through digital wallets.

The package, which will be distributed in the first 10 days of Ramazan, is part of the government's efforts to ease the financial strain on lower-income groups, who are disproportionately affected by inflation during Ramadan. The government has allocated Rs20 billion for this purpose, a significant increase from the Rs7 billion allocated last year. The prime minister praised the relevant authorities, including ministries, the State Bank of Pakistan, and tech companies, for their efforts in implementing the package.

The Punjab government has also taken steps to provide relief to the people by withdrawing subsidies on food items and instead providing 17 essential items at wholesale rates at Sahulat Stalls in Model Bazaars. The government must ensure that the relief package is implemented effectively and efficiently, and that structural reforms are put in place to prevent artificial price hikes and hoarding.

President Asif Ali Zardari urged the nation to actively support those in need during Ramazan, emphasizing the importance of charity and alms-giving. He highlighted the need to remember the suffering of the needy and underprivileged, and to promote the spirit of sacrifice and generosity in society. The president described Ramazan as a month of mercy, forgiveness, and salvation, and encouraged the nation to use the opportunity to purify themselves and restart their lives with a renewed sense of purpose.

The successful implementation of the Ramazan package will not only provide relief to the deserving families but also contribute to building a strong, progressive, and compassionate society. The government must ensure that the relief efforts are not marred by bureaucratic inefficiencies or political posturing, and that the basic commodities remain affordable throughout the year, not just during Ramadan.