The Government of Punjab has officially activated the Punjab Ration Card Scheme 2026 (also known as the Nigehban Ramzan Package) to provide immediate relief to low-income families. With the holy month of Ramzan approaching, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has directed that the registration and verification process be completed early to ensure doorstep delivery of aid.
This year’s scheme is more robust, combining a Rs. 10,000 cash grant with a free monthly ration hamper for the most deserving households.
Ramzan Relief Package 2026: What’s Included?
For 2026, the government has approved a massive Rs. 47 Billion package. Eligible families will receive the following benefits directly: Free Rashan Bag: A monthly hamper containing 10kg Wheat Flour, 2kg Sugar, 2kg Ghee/Oil, 2kg Rice, and assorted Pulses (Daal). Cash Assistance: A one-time relief payment of Rs. 10,000 through the Ramzan Nighaban Card or registered bank accounts. Monthly Grocery Subsidy: A recurring digital subsidy of Rs. 3,000 for cardholders to use at registered Utility Stores and local Karyana shops.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
The selection process is strictly merit-based, linked directly to the Punjab Socio-Economic Registry (PSER) and BISP data: Residency: Must be a permanent resident of Punjab with a valid CNIC. Income Limit: Monthly household income must be below Rs. 50,000. Poverty Score: Families with a PMT (Poverty Means Test) score below 32 are prioritized. Exclusions: Government employees, tax filers, and owners of registered vehicles (excluding motorcycles) are generally not eligible. Special Preference: Priority is given to widows, persons with disabilities, and daily wage laborers.
How to Apply Online Before Ramzan 2026
The government has introduced multiple channels to ensure everyone can register before the February 15, 2026 deadline.
Method 1: Online via PSER Portal (Recommended)
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Visit the official portal at pser.punjab.gov.pk.
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Enter your 13-digit CNIC and registered mobile number.
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Fill out the household survey form with accurate income and family details.
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Submit and wait for the verification SMS.
Method 2: SMS Registration (8070)
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Open your mobile messaging app.
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Type your CNIC Number (without spaces or dashes).
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Send it to 8070.
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You will receive a reply regarding your initial eligibility or instructions for further verification.
Method 3: Offline Registration If you don’t have internet access, visit your nearest E-Khidmat Markaz or the Assistant Commissioner (AC) Office in your Tehsil. Registration desks have also been set up at local Union Councils.
How to Check Your Status
If you have already applied, you can track your application status using the same channels: Web: Log in to the PSER portal to see if your status is “Verified” or “Pending.” SMS: Send your CNIC to 8070 to get an instant update on your eligibility for the Ramzan 2026 package.
Delivery and Distribution Process
To maintain the dignity of the citizens, the Punjab Government has eliminated long queues at distribution centers: Doorstep Delivery: Free ration bags will be delivered directly to the registered addresses of verified families via Pakistan Post or local administration teams. Ramzan Nighaban Card: Successful applicants will be issued a digital card. This card can be used at over 136 designated activation centers and registered retail shops to avail discounts and cash. Biometric Verification: Upon delivery or at the shop, the head of the household must provide biometric (thumb) verification to receive the items.
Important Warning: Registration for the Punjab Ration Card is free of cost. Do not pay any individual for “guaranteed approval.” Always use the official 8070 SMS service or the PSER web portal.