In 2026, the CM Punjab Ration Card scheme has evolved into a centerpiece of the Nigehban Ramzan Package. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has significantly increased the budget and stipend amounts to combat inflation, especially as the province prepares for the holy month of Ramadan.
The most critical update for February 2026 is the integration of the Punjab Socio-Economic Registry (PSER). You no longer need a separate “card” for every scheme; your CNIC, once registered in the PSER database, serves as your gateway to the Rs. 3,000 monthly subsidy and the special Rs. 10,000 Ramzan cash grant.
CM Punjab Ration Card 2026
| Feature | Details for 2026 |
| Total Budget | Rs. 47 Billion (Increased from Rs. 40B) |
| Monthly Subsidy | Rs. 3,000 (For essential grocery items) |
| Ramzan 2026 Cash | Rs. 10,000 (One-time transfer for vulnerable workers/families) |
| Check Code | 8070 (New) or 8123 |
| Primary Portal | pser.punjab.gov.pk |
New Eligibility Criteria (Updated Feb 2026)
The government has raised the income threshold to include more middle-income families struggling with rising costs.
- Income Limit: Household income must be below Rs. 60,000 per month.
- PMT Score: Must be below 30-35 (verified via PSER survey).
- Vehicle Ownership: No registered car (luxury assets) in the applicant’s name.
- BISP Status: In a major shift, some families already receiving BISP may now also qualify for the Nigehban Ramzan cash top-up of Rs. 10,000.
How to Apply & Check Status in 2026
1. Online via PSER Portal (Recommended)
The PSER portal is the master database for all Punjab welfare.
- Visit pser.punjab.gov.pk.
- Create an account using your CNIC and a mobile number registered in your name.
- Complete the “Khshhali Survey” by entering details about your house, assets, and income.
- Status Check: Log in to your dashboard to see if your “Ration Card” status is Approved.
2. SMS Method (Quick Check)
- Open your mobile messaging app.
- Type your 13-digit CNIC (no dashes).
- Send it to 8070 for the Ramzan Package or 8123 for general Ration eligibility.
3. Physical Registration (E-Khidmat Markaz)
If you lack internet access, visit any E-Khidmat Markaz or designated Registration Center in your tehsil. Bring your original CNIC and a recent electricity bill for address verification.
What You Receive
- Muft Rashan (Free Ration): During Ramadan, a “Nigehban Bag” containing 10kg flour, 2kg sugar, 2kg ghee, and 2kg rice is delivered door-to-door to the most deserving.
- Digital Subsidy: A monthly balance of Rs. 3,000 is credited to your CNIC, which can be used at registered Utility Stores and private grocery outlets.
- ATM Cash Withdrawal: For the Rs. 10,000 Ramzan relief, eligible workers can withdraw cash directly from Bank of Punjab (BOP) ATMs using their CNIC and biometric verification.