CM Punjab Launches Rs. 40 Billion Ration Card Program 2025 August Update

The Punjab Government, led by the resource of CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif, has brought a landmark social welfare software — the Punjab Ration Card Scheme 2025. Officially released on April 29, 2025, this initiative has been allotted a price range of PKR 40 billion and goals to offer an awful lot-wanted grocery comfort to 1.25 million financially suffering households throughout the province.

Key Highlights of the Scheme

• Budget: PKR 40 billion
• Beneficiaries: About 1.2 million individuals and 8.4 million circle of relatives contributors.
• Monthly Support: Grocery subsidy of PKR 3,000
• Discounts: Get up to 20% percent off on staple ingredients like flour, sugar, rice, ghee &pulses.
• Where to Use: Available at utility stores and partner shops.
• Launch Date: June 1, 2025
• Card System: CNIC-based and verified through biometric authentication

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible, applicants have to meet those standards:

• Valid CNIC and everlasting residency in Punjab
• Household income below PKR 50,000/ month
• Belong to any of these groups:
  • Registered laborers and daily wage earners
  • Widows and families without property
  • Families enrolled in BISP or NSER records.
  • Families already receiving benefits under the Nigehban Ramzan Package
• Non-tax filers (active taxpayers are not eligible)
• Must not already hold another ration card

Documents Needed

Applicants should keep the following ready when applying:

• Original and a copy of CNIC
• Passport-size photo
• Address proof like a utility bill or rent slip.
• Proof of income or unemployment
• Bank account details for subsidy transfers
• Optional: BISP/NSER record or disability proof.

How to Apply

1. Online Application (From May 1, 2025)

• Visit the official portal: pser.punjab.gov.pk
• Create an account using your CNIC
• Fill out the form with family and income details
• Upload required documents (CNIC, photo, proof of address, etc.)
• Submit the application and save your reference number
• Check your application status with CNIC & reference number.

2. Apply via SMS

• Send your 13-digit CNIC to 8123
• You’ll receive a confirmation or further instructions via SMS

3. Offline Registration

• Visit the nearest Sewa Kendra, Food Department office, or Tehsil office
• Collect and fill out the paper form
• Attach photocopies of the required documents
• Submit and get a receipt with your reference number.

Important Dates

• Registration Opens: May 1, 2025
• Verification Period: 15–20 working days
• Card Distribution: End of May 2025
• Subsidy Payments Begin: June 1, 2025

How to Use Your Ration Card

• Your CNIC will act as your digital ration card
• Purchases can be made from utility stores and registered kirana shops
• Goods like flour, sugar, rice, and ghee will be sold at discounted rates
• Biometric verification will be done at the shop counter
• Payments and subsidies may also be accessible via ATM (HBL, Bank Alfalah) or bank transfer

Safety Guidelines

• Always follow via professional channels most effective (pser.Punjab.Gov.Pk or SMS 8123)
• No registration fee – report anyone demanding money
• Avoid sharing private info with unauthorized people or websites.
• Stay updated via official government announcements

Why This Program is Important

The Punjab Ration Card Program 2025 is one of the biggest welfare initiatives under CM Maryam Nawaz’s leadership. With coverage expected to attain over 14.2 million people, it is designed to reduce hunger, stabilize family budgets, and support Punjab’s running class and vulnerable groups. The program additionally enhances current welfare efforts like the Ehsaas Rashan Riayat, ensuring broader outreach.

For more details and updates, visit:

• ehsaas.punjab.gov.pk
• foodsuppb.gov.in