PM Shehbaz Sharif Rs. 38 Billion Ramadan Relief Package 2026: How to Check Eligibility for Rs. 13,000 Cash Assistance
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced a landmark Rs. 38 Billion Ramadan Relief Package 2026 to support inflation-hit families across Pakistan. This guide explains how to check eligibility, receive the Rs. 13,000 cash assistance, and ensure timely payment through the 8171 system.
Overview of the Rs. 38 Billion Ramadan Relief Package
The government aims to help over 12.2 million families meet essential needs during Ramadan. Unlike previous utility-store-based “Rashan” schemes, this package provides direct cash assistance to eligible households, giving them the freedom to buy food, medicine, or clothing.
Table of Contents
Key Highlights:
- Total Budget: Rs. 38 Billion (Federal Allocation)
- Target Beneficiaries: 12.2 million households
- Cash Assistance per Family: Rs. 13,000
- Verification System: Integrated with 8171 BISP database
- Transparency: Biometric verification to prevent fraud
Who is Eligible for the Rs. 13,000 Cash Assistance?
Eligibility is determined using the Proxy Means Test (PMT) score through BISP.
Criteria Include:
- BISP Active Beneficiaries: Families currently receiving Benazir Kafalat installments are automatically eligible.
- Low PMT Score: Families with a poverty score below 32 in the NSER system are prioritized.
- Inflation-Affected Families: New registrations or updated BISP records for recently impacted families.
- No High-Value Assets: Households with luxury vehicles or frequent foreign travel are generally excluded.
How to Check Eligibility for the Ramadan Relief Package
The government has made checking eligibility simple using your CNIC through the 8171 service.
Method 1: Check via SMS
- Open your mobile SMS app.
- Type your 13-digit CNIC number (without dashes).
- Send it to 8171.
- Receive a reply confirming eligibility within minutes.
Method 2: Check via 8171 Web Portal
- Visit 8171.pass.gov.pk.
- Enter your CNIC number and the Captcha code.
- Click Check Eligibility.
- View your status, including regular Kafalat and Ramadan relief eligibility.
How to Receive Your Rs. 13,000 Cash Assistance
Once your eligibility is confirmed, you can withdraw the cash through:
- Bank ATMs: Use BISP card or biometric verification at designated HBL (Sindh, Balochistan, Punjab) or Bank Alfalah (KPK, GB, AJK) ATMs.
- Partner Retail Shops: Authorized POS agents in local markets after biometric verification.
- Dedicated Camps: Special distribution camps in remote areas for women and elderly.
Pro-Tip: Always request a printed receipt to ensure you receive the full Rs. 13,000 without deductions.
Impact on Inflation and Market Prices
Alongside cash assistance, the government directed the Utility Stores Corporation (USC) to provide a Ramadan Subsidy on 19 essential items including flour, sugar, pulses, and ghee. This dual strategy—cash for the poor and price stabilization—helps families manage costs during high-demand periods.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I apply if I am not in BISP?
A: Yes. Visit your nearest BISP Tehsil Office to complete an NSER survey. Eligible families will be included in relief cycles.
Q2: What if I send CNIC to 8171 and get no response?
A: Try again after 10 PM or early morning. Alternatively, use the web portal.
Q3: Is Rs. 13,000 separate from the regular Kafalat installment?
A: Yes, this is a special Ramadan supplement for 2026.
Q4: How to report an agent demanding a commission?
A: Call BISP helpline 0800-26477 to lodge a complaint.
Conclusion: A Step Towards a Welfare State
The Rs. 38 Billion Ramadan Relief Package ensures no deserving family goes without Sehri or Iftar during the holy month. Using 8171 and BISP digital systems, the government guarantees transparency and timely delivery of aid.
Families are advised to check their eligibility immediately and update records at NADRA and BISP offices to avoid delays in receiving the Rs. 13,000 cash assistance.
