In a recent event in Islamabad, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif introduced a groundbreaking initiative—the Ramazan package. This package, totaling Rs20 billion, aims to provide relief to four million deserving families, benefitting approximately 20 million individuals in need across Pakistan.
During the launch ceremony, Prime Minister Sharif highlighted the significance of this initiative, emphasizing that each of the four million deserving families would receive Rs5,000 through digital wallets. He expressed his satisfaction with the efforts to curb price hikes, noting a reduction compared to previous years during the holy month of Ramazan.
The allocation of Rs20 billion for this year’s relief package signifies a substantial increase from the previous year’s amount of Rs7 billion. Prime Minister Sharif commended the collaborative efforts of various authorities and institutions, including ministries, the State Bank of Pakistan, NADRA, BISP, and technology companies, for their dedication in developing a digital mechanism to facilitate the distribution process.
Recognizing the support of foreign partners, Prime Minister Sharif expressed gratitude for their partnership in this noble cause. He further acknowledged their commitment and valuable contributions that have enabled the successful implementation of the initiative, ensuring benefits reach all corners of the country through an efficient digital system.
In his address, Prime Minister Sharif also underscored the government’s determination to address long-standing issues of corruption and pending litigation cases involving billions of rupees. He reiterated the government’s resolve to expedite decisions on cases amounting to Rs500 billion pending in various courts, emphasizing a strict stance against corruption.
Reflecting on previous challenges faced during the interim government’s tenure, Prime Minister Sharif highlighted instances where financial institutions had profited from fluctuations in currency rates, leading to legal interventions and court disputes. He cited a recent case in the Sindh High Court where Rs23 billion were recovered, underscoring the government’s commitment to combat corruption and streamline operations in public entities like the Utility Stores Corporation.
Additionally, Prime Minister Sharif expressed deep sorrow over a recent terrorist attack on Maulana Hamidul Haq at Madrassa Haqqania, a renowned center of Islamic studies. He condemned the attack and assured swift action by the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government to bring the perpetrators to justice. He also paid tribute to the sacrifices made by security forces and civilians in the fight against terrorism, vowing to continue the battle until its complete eradication.
Minister for Industries and Production Rana Tanveer Hussain praised the swift execution of the relief program, crediting the collaborative efforts of all relevant authorities in expediting the launch during the holy month of Ramazan. He highlighted the implementation of a foolproof mechanism to ensure the efficient transfer of funds to four million deserving families nationwide. Additionally, plans were underway to establish 600 stalls at the tehsil level to provide subsidized sugar at Rs130 per kilogram.
As the government’s Ramazan package unfolds, it stands as a beacon of hope for millions of families in need, reflecting a collective commitment to alleviate economic burdens and foster social welfare across the nation. Through strategic partnerships and innovative solutions, this initiative marks a significant step towards inclusive growth and sustainable development for all communities.
