Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif launched a ₨20 billion relief package for Ramadan aimed at supporting 4 million families in Pakistan. Each family will receive ₨5,000. Despite a decrease in inflation, many still face economic challenges. The allocation responds to ongoing support needs ahead of the holy month, utilizing digital systems for distribution.
On March 1, 2025, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif introduced a ₨20 billion (approximately $71.4 million) Ramadan relief package aimed at supporting needy families in Pakistan. This initiative is expected to benefit approximately 4 million families, providing each with ₨5,000 (around $17.87) during the holy month of Ramadan, which commences on March 2 in Pakistan. Despite a noted decrease in consumer inflation to 2.4% in January, many citizens express ongoing economic difficulties ahead of Ramadan.
The Prime Minister commented on the significance of reduced inflation this year compared to previous years, declaring it a “great blessing of Almighty Allah.” He emphasized the package’s objective of delivering aid to deserving families across all provinces, including Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, utilizing a digital wallet system for efficient distribution.
This relief measure comes as Pakistan navigates a challenging economic landscape stabilized under a $7 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF) program, with a review by an IMF mission anticipated the following week. The Finance Ministry has projected a continued downward trend in consumer inflation compared to the previous year.
Prime Minister Sharif expressed gratitude towards governmental institutions, international partners, and technology companies for their roles in executing the relief package. He acknowledged their collaborative efforts in facilitating the distribution of funds to families in need, recognizing the importance of such partnerships in supporting this noble cause.
The ₨20 billion Ramadan relief package launched by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif aims to alleviate the financial burden faced by needy families in Pakistan. Despite declining inflation rates, many citizens still struggle economically. This initiative, which utilizes modern technology for fund distribution, reflects the government’s commitment to supporting its populace during the holy month of Ramadan amidst broader economic recovery efforts.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com