Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday praised the launch of a digital payment system for the Ramadan Relief Package 2025, claiming it had eradicated corruption in utility stores and brought transparency to the distribution of financial aid.
During his visit to the National Telecom Headquarters, the Prime Minister reviewed the monitoring system for the Ramadan relief package and received a briefing on its execution. He described the initiative as a “comprehensive and commendable” step toward ensuring assistance for the underprivileged.
“For the first time, the government has introduced a transparent system, and there have been no complaints so far,” he remarked, emphasizing that the welfare of the people remained the government’s foremost priority.
The Prime Minister noted that, under the Rs 20 billion Ramadan Relief Package, Rs 5,000 would be directly transferred to each household through a digital wallet, benefiting around four million families.
While acknowledging that implementing such a system had its challenges, he commended the collaborative efforts of banks and IT companies for its success.
‘Corruption in Utility Stores Was Rampant’
In a veiled reference to previous mismanagement, PM Shehbaz highlighted the widespread corruption in utility stores, asserting that the government had put an end to it with this digital solution.
“The worst corruption was seen in utility stores. Public funds were wasted, and we had to bid farewell to that system forever,” he said.
He emphasized that the digital wallet system would ensure timely, efficient distribution of funds without delays or bureaucratic obstacles. “This initiative will not only offer relief during Ramadan but will also serve as a model for future welfare programs,” he added.
The Prime Minister also instructed officials to expand the scope of the digital payment system, stressing the need for technological advancements to improve transparency and efficiency in public welfare programs.
Budget Allocations
Officials stated that the initial cost of the Prime Minister’s Ramadan Relief Package 2025 was Rs 20.5 billion. Of this, Rs 2 billion was allocated from the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), and Rs 8.5 billion was provided by the Ministry of Finance.
Unlike previous years, the relief package will no longer be distributed through utility stores. Instead, it will be delivered through direct cash transfers to beneficiaries, aiming to support 20 million deserving individuals.
The Prime Minister reiterated that the system was designed to assist those in need with dignity and transparency, ensuring that funds reached their intended recipients without leakage or mismanagement.
‘Helping the Deserving is a Noble Act’
Concluding his address, PM Shehbaz emphasized that assisting those in need was a noble responsibility. The government, he said, was committed to making social welfare programs more effective through modern technology.
He also commended the efforts of the teams involved in the project and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to eliminating corruption from welfare programs through digital reforms.
