The federal government is launching the Ramazan Relief Package 2024 worth Rs7.492 billion through Utility Stores Corporation (USC) outlets from tomorrow, (March 5, 2024).
Approved by the federal cabinet, this initiative will continue throughout the holy month of Ramazan, which is expected to commence from March 11. Targeted beneficiaries will benefit from subsidies on 19 essential items, including atta, sugar, pulses, rice, cooking oil, spices, and beverages. To ensure public awareness, Rs. 145 million has been allocated for an awareness campaign through electronic and print media.
The tradition of offering subsidized rates on essential items during Ramazan through USC outlets dates back to 1991, as highlighted by the Ministry of Industries. For the fiscal year 2023-24, a total of Rs. 35 billion has been allocated in the budget for subsidizing essential items, including both the Prime Minister’s Relief Package 2023-2024 and the Ramazan Relief Package 2024 distributed through USC outlets.
To adhere to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) directives on targeted subsidies, the government will extend subsidies exclusively to beneficiaries registered under the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) through the PMT-40 database. However, the Ministry of Industries and Production recommends directing subsidies towards beneficiaries registered under PMT-60 to potentially expand coverage to an additional 12.73 million households beyond the current 26.92 million households served under PMT-40. This suggests a broader reach for assistance during the holy month.
The Ramazan Relief Package 2024 aims to alleviate the financial burden on low-income households during the month of fasting, ensuring access to essential items at affordable prices. The government aims to efficiently distribute help while abiding by IMF rules through targeted subsidies and a comprehensive awareness campaign. This program demonstrates the government’s dedication to supporting social welfare and aiding the most disadvantaged groups over religious holidays.
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