The Negahban Rashan Program 2026 (officially the Ramazan Nigehban Package) has been significantly upgraded by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif. For the first time, the program is shifting from just a physical ration bag to a hybrid model of food supplies and Rs. 10,000 direct cash assistance via the newly launched Nigehban Card.
With a massive budget of Rs. 47 Billion, the 2026 package aims to support over 4.2 million families across Punjab. If you want to secure your benefits, you must act before the registration cutoff on February 15, 2026.
What’s New in the 2026 Negahban Package?
The 2026 update introduces the Nigehban Card, a digital welfare card that replaces the old paper-based lists.
| Relief Type | 2026 Details |
| Direct Cash Grant | Rs. 10,000 one-time payment for Ramadan. |
| Nigehban Card | A smart card for ATM cash withdrawals and grocery discounts. |
| Free Ration Bag | 10kg Flour, 2kg Sugar, 2kg Ghee, 2kg Rice, and 2kg Pulses. |
| Doorstep Delivery | Teams will deliver rations directly to the homes of verified families. |
| Nigehban Dastarkhwan | Free Iftar for 2,000 people daily in every Tehsil of Punjab. |
Eligibility Criteria (February 2026 Update)
To qualify for the Rs. 10,000 cash and free ration, households must be registered in the Punjab Socio-Economic Registry (PSER) and meet these strict criteria:
- Monthly Income: Must be below Rs. 60,000.
- PMT Score: Your Poverty Means Test score must be below 30 (verified via BISP/PSER data).
- Assets: No car, tractor, or heavy land ownership (above 3 acres).
- Government Employees: Current employees and pensioners are not eligible.
- Utility Bills: Monthly electricity bills should generally be below Rs. 5,000–8,000.
How to Apply & Check Status (Official Methods)
Most eligible families are being selected automatically from existing PSER and BISP data. However, if you are not registered, you must follow these steps:
Method 1: SMS to 8070 (Immediate Check)
- Open your mobile SMS app.
- Type your 13-digit CNIC (without dashes).
- Send to 8070.
- Reply Meaning:
- Eligible: Your Nigehban Card is being processed.
- Record Not Found: You must visit the PSER portal or a registration center immediately.
Method 2: PSER Online Portal (Full Registration)
If you are told to register, visit pser.punjab.gov.pk.
- Click on “New Registration” and enter your CNIC and mobile number.
- Fill in your household details, including income and family size.
- Upload a copy of your CNIC and a recent Electricity Bill to help lower your PMT score.
Deadlines to Remember
- PSER Registration Deadline: February 15, 2026.
- Verification Period: March 1 – March 10, 2026.
- Distribution Start: Expected March 12, 2026 (just before the first of Ramzan).
How to Get Your Nigehban Card & Cash
Once approved, the government will contact you via 8070.
- The Card: You will be notified to collect your physical Nigehban Card from the nearest E-Khidmat Markaz or Assistant Commissioner’s office.
- Cash Withdrawal: You can use your Nigehban Card at any Bank of Punjab (BOP) ATM or 1-Link ATM to withdraw your Rs. 10,000.
- Ration Delivery: If you are elderly or disabled, your ration bag will be delivered to your doorstep via verified district teams.