CM Punjab Rashan Card 2026 The Government of Punjab, under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, has taken a massive step toward poverty alleviation with the launch of the CM Punjab Rashan Card 2026. This digital initiative is designed to provide sustainable relief to millions of low-income families across the province. Instead of traditional physical distributions that often lead to long queues and safety concerns, this smart card system ensures that aid reaches the doorstep of every deserving citizen with dignity and transparency.
What is the CM Punjab Rashan Card Scheme?
The CM Punjab Rashan Card is a specialized smart card that functions as a digital wallet for essential grocery purchases. For the year 2026, the program has been expanded to cover over 1.25 million families. Under this scheme, eligible cardholders receive a monthly subsidy of Rs. 3,000, which can be used to buy items like flour (atta), sugar, ghee, rice, and pulses at subsidized rates.
A significant highlight for 2026 is the integration of the Ramzan Nigehban Relief. During the holy month of Ramadan, cardholders are eligible for a one-time special grant of Rs. 10,000 to help manage the increased cost of food items for Sehri and Iftar.
Who is Eligible for the Rashan Card in 2026?
To ensure the funds are utilized by those in genuine need, the Punjab government has established strict eligibility criteria. You are likely eligible if you meet the following requirements:
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Provincial Residency: The applicant must be a permanent resident of Punjab with a valid CNIC.
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Income Threshold: Total monthly household income must be less than Rs. 50,000.
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PSER Survey: It is mandatory to be registered in the Punjab Socio-Economic Registry (PSER).
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Poverty Score (PMT): Your Proxy Means Test (PMT) score should generally be below 35.
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Employment Status: Government employees and high-income taxpayers are strictly excluded from the program.
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Mobile Verification: The applicant must have a mobile SIM card registered in their own name and CNIC.
How to Check Your Status via 8123 SMS
One of the easiest ways to verify your eligibility is through the official SMS service. You do not need a smartphone or internet for this method:
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Open the messaging app on your phone.
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Type your 13-digit CNIC number (without any dashes or spaces).
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Send the message to 8123.
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You will receive an automated reply informing you if you are “Eligible,” “Ineligible,” or if your “Data is under verification.”
Online Registration Process through PSER
If you are not yet registered, you can complete your profile online via the PSER (Punjab Socio-Economic Registry) portal. Follow these simple steps:
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Visit the Official Website: Go to pser.punjab.gov.pk.
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Create an Account: Register using your full name, CNIC, and mobile number.
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Fill the Prosperity Survey: Provide accurate details about your family members, housing conditions, and monthly income.
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Submit Documents: Upload a scanned copy of your CNIC and a recent utility bill if requested.
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Final Submission: After double-checking your details, click the submit button. You will receive a tracking ID for future reference.
For those who find the online process difficult, the government has established over 5,000 registration centers at e-Khidmat Markaz and Union Council offices across Punjab.
Where and How to Use the Rashan Card
Once your card is approved and issued, it can be used at various designated locations:
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Government Utility Stores
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Registered Karyana (Grocery) Shops
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Authorized Ehsaas Rashan Outlets
To make a purchase, simply present your original CNIC and Rashan Card at the counter. The shopkeeper will verify your identity via a biometric thumb impression or an OTP sent to your registered mobile number, and the subsidy will be deducted from your card balance.
Important Documents Checklist
Before heading to a registration center or applying online, make sure you have these documents ready:
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Original CNIC (NADRA verified).
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Mobile phone with a SIM registered on your CNIC.
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B-Forms for your children.
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A recent copy of your electricity or gas bill.
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Proof of income (if any).
The CM Maryam Nawaz Rashan Card 2026 is a milestone in digital welfare, providing a much-needed financial cushion against inflation. By following this guide and completing your PSER registration, you can secure monthly food support for your family.