ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Thursday that government will provide financial assistance to low-income households through digital wallets during the holy month of Ramazan.
The government launched the relief initiative to help families manage rising household expenses during Ramazan, when spending on food, fruits and energy typically increases. Many Pakistanis continue to face high living costs despite easing inflation.
Under the new package, authorities will transfer cash directly to eligible individuals through digital wallets. Officials say the move aims to ensure families can afford sehri and iftar meals during the fasting month.
“The Government of Pakistan has launched a Ramazan package under which financial assistance will be transferred to deserving individuals through digital wallets so that households can maintain sehri and iftar meals,” Sharif said in a statement issued by his office.
For decades, the state-run Utility Stores Corporation distributed subsidised flour, sugar, ghee and pulses through special Ramadan packages. The programme often drew long queues in low-income neighbourhoods.
In recent years, however, authorities have scaled back the system due to mounting financial losses, corruption complaints and logistical inefficiencies. The government has instead shifted toward targeted cash transfers delivered through banking channels and digital platforms.
Officials say the new approach increases transparency, reduces leakages in subsidy programs and enables faster nationwide payments, especially in urban areas.
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However, the fully digital model also presents challenges. Smartphone access and reliable mobile internet remain limited in many rural regions. Some low-income households use SIM cards registered in another person’s name, complicating identity verification and fund transfers.
The government says it will work to address these issues to ensure smooth disbursement during Ramazan.
