Pakistan Launches Rs20 Billion Relief Package for Ramadan Support

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a Rs20 billion relief package to support 4 million families in Pakistan during Ramadan, aiming to alleviate economic hardships. Each family will receive Rs5,000 despite a decline in inflation, with funds distributed through a digital system. This effort aligns with ongoing economic recovery initiatives under an IMF program.

On March 1, 2025, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a significant Rs20 billion ($71.4 million) relief package aimed at assisting needy families during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. This initiative is set to benefit approximately 4 million families across Pakistan, where the holy month begins on March 2. Despite a reported decline in consumer inflation to 2.4 percent as of January, many citizens continue to experience economic hardships due to rising living costs.

Under the relief package, each family will receive Rs5,000 ($17.87) to help alleviate the financial burden during Ramadan. “It is a great blessing of Almighty Allah that inflation has dropped down in this Ramadan as compared to the last year,” remarked Prime Minister Sharif during the launch ceremony in Islamabad. He emphasized that the funds would be distributed nationwide, reaching all provinces and regions through a digital wallet system.

This relief effort comes as Pakistan aims to stabilize its economy under the $7 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF) program instituted last year. The finance ministry has indicated a stabilization in consumer inflation, projecting that it will continue a downward trend relative to the previous year, aiding in economic recovery. Sharif expressed gratitude to government institutions, international partners, and technology firms for their collaborative support in implementing the fund distribution.

In conclusion, the Pakistani government’s launch of a Rs20 billion relief package reflects its commitment to support families during Ramadan amidst ongoing economic challenges. Despite improvements in inflation rates, many individuals still find themselves under financial strain. This initiative, which will distribute funds digitally, aims to ease economic pressures for millions of families nationwide as they observe the holy month.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com