The Government of Punjab has introduced several welfare initiatives in 2026 to support low-income households, primarily through the Nigehban Ramzan Relief Program and the CM Punjab Ration Card scheme. These programs are designed to provide financial relief and food security during Ramadan and beyond.
2026 Punjab Relief Programs
| Feature | Nigehban Ramzan Program | CM Punjab Ration Card Scheme |
| Primary Benefit | Rs. 10,000 Cash + Ration | Monthly Subsidy of Rs. 3,000 |
| SMS Code | 8070 | 8123 |
| Portal | pser.punjab.gov.pk | pser.punjab.gov.pk |
| Target | Low-income households (Ramadan) | Ongoing monthly support |
How to Apply for Relief Programs
1. Registration via SMS (Fastest)
For both programs, the quickest way to check your eligibility or register is through your mobile phone:
- For Nigehban: Send your 13-digit CNIC (no dashes or spaces) to 8070.
- For Ration Card: Send your 13-digit CNIC to 8123.
- You will receive an automated reply confirming your status or providing further registration instructions.
2. Online Registration via PSER Portal
If you are not already in the government database, you must register through the Punjab Socio-Economic Registry (PSER):
- Account Creation: Visit the portal and click on “Register New Family.” Use your CNIC and a registered mobile number.
- Household Survey: Fill out the detailed survey, which includes information on household members, income sources, and housing type.
- Verification: Submit the form and upload required documents (scanned CNIC, recent electricity/gas bills). Your information will be verified against NADRA records.
3. In-Person Assistance
If you cannot use the online portal, you can visit any e-Khidmat Markaz or your local Tehsil Council/Union Council office. Bring your original CNIC and your mobile phone to complete the digital survey for free.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for these programs, households must generally meet the following requirements:
- Residency: Must be a permanent resident of Punjab.
- Income: Monthly household income should be less than Rs. 60,000.
- Poverty Score: A PMT poverty score (determined by PSER/BISP) must be within the approved limit (typically below 32–35).
- Asset Limits: Households should not own a registered car or commercial vehicle.
- Employment: Government employees and their families are generally excluded.
Important Safety Information
- Free Registration: All government registration processes are 100% free. Never pay any agent or third party who promises to register you for a fee.
- Official Sources: Only use the official websites ending in
.gov.pkor.gop.pk. Do not share your banking information, PIN, or OTP with anyone. - Collection: If approved, you will receive instructions via SMS on how to collect your cash or ration. Payments are typically made via biometric verification (thumb impression) at designated bank branches (like Bank of Punjab) or via branchless banking agents (JazzCash/Easypaisa).