LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has introduced the CM Ration Card and Nigehban Dastarkhwan schemes to support underprivileged families during Ramadan.
In a meeting on Ramadan preparations, she approved the CM Ration Card, the Nigehban Dastarkhwan initiative, Sasta Bazaar facilities, and other measures aimed at hassle-free assistance.
For card activation, 136 centers have been established, while activation will also be available at Bank of Punjab ATMs. During Ramadan, ration card holders across Punjab will receive Rs10,000 instead of the usual Rs3,000 monthly assistance.
A dedicated Ramadan Nigehban dashboard and complaint verification system have been established to ensure smooth processing. To support iftar needs, eight “Nigehban Dastarkhwan – Maryam ke Mehman” centers will be set up in each tehsil, serving 2,000 individuals daily. Fasting individuals will be provided with dates, samosas, milk, drinks, fruits, and biryani. Officials will oversee arrangements.
Additionally, 65 Sasta Bazaars and several mobile and temporary markets will operate across districts to provide essential goods at reduced prices. Stalls from flour mills, chicken suppliers, grocery merchants, and ghee producers will also be established.
Maryam Nawaz emphasized collective responsibility to assist families during Ramadan, stating that humanity and public service lead to true success. She further instructed price control efforts and cleanliness improvements in targeted areas, showing particular concern for conditions in Sargodha.
