The federal government of Pakistan has introduced a new short code, 9999, to help verify the recipients of the Prime Minister’s Ramadan Relief Package for 2025. The government aims to assist 3.9 million families, providing them with a one-time cash relief of Rs. 5,000. This package is expected to cost around Rs. 20.5 billion. The Ministry of Information Technology (IT) has been assigned the task of ensuring the verification of messages sent via short code 9999. This is part of the government’s effort to help those in need while ensuring a transparent process.
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Main Details of the Ramadan Relief Package
The Prime Minister’s Ramadan Relief Package for 2025 is designed to support families in need during the holy month of Ramadan. The government has allocated Rs. 20.5 billion for this initiative, which will help 3.9 million families across the country. Each family will receive a cash assistance of Rs. 5,000. The program is aimed at providing financial relief without relying on utility stores, which have faced criticism for inefficiency in previous years.
Budget Breakdown and Funding Sources
The total budget of Rs. 20.5 billion will be used for cash assistance to families and other administrative expenses. The funding for the package will come from various sources. Rs. 2 billion will be allocated from the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP), and Rs. 8.5 billion will be contributed by the Ministry of Finance. The remaining funds will cover costs such as media campaigns, NADRA fees, and the verification process.
| Package Details | Figures |
| Total Budget | Rs. 20.5 billion |
| Families to Benefit | 3.9 million families |
| Cash Assistance per Family | Rs. 5,000 |
| Verification Method | ID card & mobile number match |
Short Code 9999 Verification Process
The introduction of short code 9999 will simplify the verification process for the Ramadan Relief Package. Here’s how it works:
- Message Verification: Short code 9999 will be used to send verification messages to ensure that only eligible families are included.
- Matching Data: The system will match the identity card number of a family member with their mobile number to verify eligibility.
- Control Room Setup: A control room will be established by the National Telecommunication Corporation to monitor and manage the verification process efficiently.
- Transparency: This system will help avoid any issues related to corruption and ensure that the relief reaches the right people.
No Involvement of Utility Stores
This year, the government has decided to exclude utility stores from distributing the Ramadan Relief Package. In past years, the Utility Stores Corporation (USC) was the main distributor of Ramadan subsidies. However, the government has faced challenges with inefficiencies and corruption in these outlets. By providing direct cash assistance to families, the government aims to ensure that the aid is distributed without any issues. This change is part of the government’s efforts to improve the transparency and effectiveness of its relief programs.
Comparison with Punjab’s Ramadan Relief Package
In Punjab, a separate relief initiative has been announced to assist 3 million deserving families. Instead of offering subsidies at Ramadan bazaars, the Punjab government will distribute Rs. 10,000 to each family through pay orders. This direct cash assistance is similar to the federal government’s approach but with a higher payout in Punjab. The aim is to ensure transparency and to minimize corruption, as seen in the federal government’s decision to move away from utility stores.
Conclusion
The Prime Minister’s Ramadan Relief Package 2025 is an important initiative aimed at providing financial assistance to families in need during the holy month of Ramadan. By using short code 9999 for verification and excluding utility stores from the distribution process, the government hopes to ensure transparency and minimize corruption. The total budget for the package is Rs. 20.5 billion, and it is expected to provide cash relief to 3.9 million families. The government’s focus on direct cash transfers is a step towards making the relief process more efficient and accessible.
FAQs
How does short code 9999 work for the Ramadan Relief Package?
Short code 9999 will send verification messages to confirm that the identity card number matches with the registered mobile number. This helps ensure that only eligible families receive assistance.
Why is the government not using utility stores this year?
The government decided to avoid utility stores due to previous inefficiencies and corruption issues. Direct cash transfers will be made to families to ensure better distribution.
How much cash assistance will each family receive?
Each eligible family will receive Rs. 5,000 under the Prime Minister’s Ramadan Relief Package.
What other provinces are offering Ramadan assistance?
The Punjab government has also announced a relief package for 3 million families, providing Rs. 10,000 per family through pay orders.