Shehbaz Sharif Urges Better Awareness as Only 20% of Ramadan Relief Funds Withdrawn

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has emphasized the need for better awareness regarding the Rs20 billion Ramadan Relief Package, as only 20% of the allocated funds have been withdrawn from digital wallets so far. He attributed this low usage to a lack of public awareness about the process and urged ministries to work closely with the private sector to improve outreach efforts.

Low Awareness Affecting Relief Distribution

During a review meeting at the National Telecommunication Corporation in Islamabad, PM Shehbaz Sharif expressed concern over the slow withdrawal of funds. He stated that many eligible individuals may not fully understand how to access the financial aid provided through the government’s digital wallet system.

To address this issue, the Prime Minister encouraged people to call 9999 for assistance, ensuring they receive clear guidance on how to use their digital wallets. He stressed that this package is not a favour, but a right for those who qualify for the relief.

First-Time Digital Cash Transfers for Deserving Families

PM Shehbaz highlighted that, for the first time, the government is distributing Rs5,000 per family in a completely transparent manner. Unlike traditional aid programs that provide pre-selected goods, this initiative allows beneficiaries to choose their own necessities based on their needs.

This approach aims to give four million families the freedom and dignity to purchase essential items during Ramadan, ensuring that relief reaches those who truly need it.

Expansion of the Relief Package Under Consideration

To improve the effectiveness of the program, PM Shehbaz directed relevant ministries to submit recommendations within a week on how the initiative could be expanded. This may involve increasing the number of beneficiaries or simplifying the withdrawal process to encourage greater participation.

Earlier in the meeting, officials provided detailed briefings on the monitoring system of the relief package, ensuring that funds are being distributed fairly and efficiently.

Final Thoughts: Encouraging Eligible Families to Claim Their Rights

The Ramadan Relief Package is a significant step towards supporting struggling families. However, low awareness about digital wallets is preventing many from accessing their funds.

PM Shehbaz Sharif’s push for a stronger awareness campaign and his emphasis on public participation could help ensure that more families benefit from this much-needed financial assistance.

For those eligible, the government urges you to call 9999 to get complete details on how to claim your funds. Every deserving family has the right to this support, and no one should miss out due to lack of information.