This comprehensive guide explains the newly announced PM Shehbaz Sharif Rs. 38 Billion Ramadan Relief Package, how to check your eligibility via the 8171 service, and the step-by-step process to receive the Rs. 13,000 cash assistance.
PM Shehbaz Sharif Announces Rs. 38 Billion Ramadan Relief Package: How to Check Eligibility for Rs. 13,000 Cash Assistance
In a landmark move to provide immediate financial cushion to the inflation-hit masses, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has officially greenlit a massive Rs. 38 Billion Ramadan Relief Package. This initiative is specifically designed to support the most vulnerable segments of society during the holy month, ensuring that over 12.2 million families can manage their kitchen expenses and basic needs with dignity.
As the cost of essential commodities rises globally, this targeted cash intervention of Rs. 13,000 per family marks one of the largest seasonal relief efforts in Pakistan’s history.
The Core of the Package: Rs. 38 Billion for 12.2 Million Families
The 2026 Ramadan Relief Package is significantly larger in scope compared to previous years. The Prime Minister emphasized that while the country faces economic hurdles, the government’s priority remains the “Mustahiqeen” (deserving).
By allocating Rs. 38 Billion, the federal government aims to cover nearly one-third of the country’s population. Unlike previous “Rashan” programs that were limited to discounts at Utility Stores, this package focuses on direct cash assistance, giving families the freedom to purchase food, medicine, or clothing according to their specific requirements.
Key Highlights of the Relief Program:
Total Budget: Rs. 38 Billion (Federal Allocation).
Target Beneficiaries: 12.2 million households.
Individual Assistance: Approximately Rs. 13,000 per family.
Verification System: Integrated with the 8171 Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) database.
Transparency: Utilization of biometric verification to prevent fraud.
8171 Check Online: Step-by-Step Eligibility Verification
The government has streamlined the process to ensure that citizens do not have to wait in long queues. Eligibility can be checked from the comfort of your home using your Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC).
Method 1: Check Eligibility via 8171 SMS Service
This is the fastest method for those without an internet connection:
Open the SMS application on your mobile phone.
Type your 13-digit CNIC number (without dashes).
Send the message to 8171.
You will receive a reply message within a few minutes stating whether you are eligible for the Rs. 13,000 Ramadan assistance.
Method 2: Use the 8171 Web Portal
For a more detailed status check, including payment history:
Visit the official 8171 Pass Web Portal (8171.pass.gov.pk).
Enter your CNIC number in the designated box.
Enter the Captcha code (image code) displayed on the screen.
Click on the “Check Eligibility” button.
The system will display your current status for both the Kafalat program and the special Ramadan relief.
Who is Eligible for the Rs. 13,000 Cash Assistance?
To ensure the money reaches the truly deserving, the government has set specific criteria based on the PMT (Proxy Means Test) Score.
BISP Active Beneficiaries: All families currently receiving the Benazir Kafalat installments are automatically eligible.
Low PMT Score: Families with a poverty score below 32 (as per the National Socio-Economic Registry – NSER) are prioritized.
Inflation-Hit Segments: New registrations or updates at BISP Tehsil offices are being fast-tracked for those whose economic status has changed recently.
No High-Value Assets: Individuals owning luxury vehicles or those who have frequently traveled abroad (excluding labor/Hajj) are generally excluded from this relief.
How to Withdraw Your Ramadan Relief Payment
Once you receive the “Eligible” message, you can withdraw your Rs. 13,000 cash assistance through the following channels:
Bank ATMs: Use your BISP card or biometric verification at designated HBL (Sindh, Balochistan, Punjab) or Bank Alfalah (KPK, GB, AJK) ATMs.
Partner Retail Shops: Authorized POS (Point of Sale) agents in your local markets can provide the cash after biometric verification.
Dedicated Camps: In remote areas, the government sets up special distribution camps to facilitate women and the elderly.
Pro-Tip: Always demand a printed receipt after your biometric verification to ensure you receive the full amount of Rs. 13,000 without any unauthorized deductions by agents.
Impact on Inflation and Market Prices
While the cash assistance helps the poor, the government has also directed Utility Stores Corporation (USC) to provide an additional “Ramadan Subsidy” on 19 essential items including flour, sugar, pulses, and ghee. This dual-action strategy—giving cash to the poor and lowering prices at stores—aims to stabilize the market during a high-demand period.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I apply for the Ramadan Package if I am not in BISP?
A: Yes. You should visit your nearest BISP Tehsil Office to get an NSER survey done. If your poverty score falls within the required range, you will be included in future relief cycles.
Q2: What if I send my CNIC to 8171 and get no response?
A: This usually happens during high server traffic. Try again after 10 PM or early in the morning. Alternatively, use the web portal for an instant check.
Q3: Is the Rs. 13,000 separate from the regular Kafalat installment?
A: Yes, for 2026, the Prime Minister has specifically labeled this as a special Ramadan supplement to help families cope with the festive month’s high costs.
Q4: How do I report an agent demanding a commission?
A: You can call the BISP helpline at 0800-26477 to register a complaint against any shopkeeper or agent trying to deduct money from your relief payment.
Conclusion: A Step Towards a Welfare State
The Rs. 38 Billion Ramadan Relief Package announced by PM Shehbaz Sharif is a vital intervention at a time when global inflation has strained the purchasing power of the common man. By utilizing the digital infrastructure of 8171 and BISP, the government ensures that not a single rupee is wasted and that the aid reaches the correct doorstep.
Families are urged to check their status immediately and update their records at NADRA and BISP offices to avoid any delays in receiving their Rs. 13,000 assistance. This Ramadan, the goal is clear: no family should have to worry about their “Sehri” or “Iftar” due to a lack of funds.
For more updates on 8171 Check Online and the PM Relief Package 2026, keep following our portal.
