Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has introduced a massive Rs20 billion Ramazan relief package to support four million deserving families across Pakistan. This initiative aims to provide financial assistance to nearly 20 million people, ensuring that they can meet their essential needs during the holy month of Ramazan.
Quick Digital Disbursement of Funds
The relief funds will be distributed digitally, with each eligible family receiving Rs5,000 within the first ten days of Ramazan. The prime minister emphasized that this year’s budget for the relief package is significantly higher than last year’s Rs7 billion, showing the government’s commitment to helping those in need.
The distribution process will be handled through a secure and transparent digital system developed with the cooperation of key institutions, including the State Bank of Pakistan, NADRA, and the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP). Technology firms have also played a role in ensuring a smooth transfer of funds, making it easier for families to access their assistance.
Government’s Commitment to Economic Stability
During the launch ceremony, PM Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the importance of financial transparency and accountability. He pointed out that billions of rupees belonging to the nation have been stuck in legal battles for years. The government is now pushing for quick court decisions on cases involving Rs500 billion in pending disputes.
He also addressed issues related to corruption in the Utility Stores Corporation, calling it one of the worst cases of financial mismanagement. To end public inconvenience, the government has decided to privatize the Utility Stores Corporation, ensuring better service and efficiency. Additionally, loss-making state-owned enterprises will be closed to prevent further financial losses.
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Recovery of Funds from Financial Irregularities
The prime minister revealed that during the previous caretaker government’s tenure, banks made excessive profits through exchange rate fluctuations. When the government introduced corrective measures, some banks obtained court stays to block the new regulations. However, a recent Sindh High Court decision resulted in the recovery of Rs23 billion from these financial irregularities, marking a significant victory in the fight against corruption.
Subsidized Sugar and Relief Stalls Across Pakistan
To further ease the financial burden on citizens, the government has set up 600 relief stalls at the tehsil level, where people can buy sugar at a subsidized price of Rs130 per kg. This step ensures that essential commodities remain affordable for the masses during Ramazan.
Condemnation of Terrorist Attack
Apart from economic matters, PM Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the terrorist attack on Maulana Hamid ul Haq at Madrassa Haqqania. Calling it a heartbreaking incident, he expressed deep sorrow over the scholar’s killing.
He urged the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government to take immediate action and arrest those responsible. He also recalled that Pakistan had successfully eradicated terrorism in 2018 after the sacrifice of 80,000 Pakistanis, including security personnel and civilians. He pledged that with the dedication of security forces and national unity, terrorism will be eliminated once and for all.
A Swift and Efficient Relief Plan
Minister for Industries and Production, Rana Tanveer Hussain, praised the efforts of government officials in launching the Ramazan relief program in just 20 days. He assured the public that authorities have ensured a smooth and transparent transfer of funds to the four million selected families.
This Rs20 billion Ramazan relief package reflects the government’s strong commitment to supporting the underprivileged. By providing timely financial aid, addressing corruption, and taking firm actions against terrorism, Pakistan is taking significant steps toward stability and progress.
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