In a major relief for Punjab’s working class, the Chief Minister has given the green light to launch the province’s largest monthly ration card program aimed at supporting industrial workers.
As shared by sources, the government has finalized a Rs. 40 billion scheme that will benefit around 1.25 million industrial labourers across the province. The official launch is scheduled for May 1st and will be led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.
To kick off the initiative, the provincial government will contribute Rs. 20 billion, while the Labour Department and Social Security Department will each add Rs. 10 billion from their budgets.
The Bank of Punjab will handle the distribution of ration cards, which will be issued in the name of the head of each household.
The monthly assistance amount provided through the cards is still being finalized and will be decided by the Punjab Cabinet.
Legislation will soon be introduced to give the program a formal legal framework. In total, the initiative is expected to support more than 8.4 million people.
Additionally, industrial workers who are already receiving help through the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) or any other government assistance scheme will also be covered under this new ration card program.