Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was updated on the significant progress made in disbursing financial aid under the Prime Minister’s Ramadan Relief Package 2026. During a high-level review meeting held in Islamabad on Wednesday, it was revealed that payments have successfully reached 89 percent of the intended beneficiaries. This milestone reflects the government’s commitment to supporting vulnerable segments of society during the holy month of Ramadan.
Chairing the session, the Prime Minister praised the efforts of all involved institutions for their dedication to ensuring that funds were distributed transparently and efficiently to those most in need. He emphasized that the use of Social Protection Wallets represents a major advancement in Pakistan’s financial technology landscape, fostering greater transparency and accountability in social welfare programs. This initiative not only streamlines the payment process but also helps curb corruption and leakage of funds.
Further underlining the importance of digital financial inclusion, Shehbaz Sharif instructed that all disbursements under the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) should be routed through the Social Protection Wallet system. This move is expected to enhance the reach and effectiveness of social safety nets by leveraging digital platforms, which also facilitate easier monitoring and reporting.
The meeting also highlighted that, to date, nearly two million digital transactions—specifically 1,955,620—have been executed under the Ramadan Relief Package. This volume of transactions underscores the growing acceptance and utilization of digital payment methods among the beneficiaries. Alongside this, a comprehensive awareness campaign has been launched to educate the public about the package, ensuring that potential recipients are well-informed about their entitlements and the procedures to claim assistance.
To maximize outreach, information about the relief package has been disseminated widely through various channels, including print media, electronic broadcasts, and social media platforms. The government has also established a dedicated helpline, 9999, which has received over 1.7 million calls, reflecting the high level of public engagement and interest. Additionally, more than 2.7 million SMS messages have been sent out to keep beneficiaries updated and answer their queries.
One of the notable outcomes of implementing Social Protection Wallets has been a marked reduction in the gender gap related to access to digital financial services. The initiative has empowered more women to participate in the formal financial system, which is a critical step towards inclusive economic growth and social equity in Pakistan. This progress aligns with broader government objectives to enhance financial literacy and inclusion across all demographics.
