50,000 more to get Punjab ration cards under ‘Maryam Ko Batayein’ program

‘Maryam Ko Batayein’ program grows as Punjab to include 50,000 new beneficiaries in ration card. File photo

April, 27 2026 Author:

(Web Desk): Punjab government expands ration card scheme under “Maryam Ko Batayein” program as 50,000 more people set to receive financial support.

The Punjab government has decided to include 50,000 more people in the ration card scheme through the “Maryam Ko Batayein” program.

The decision was taken in a special meeting chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz where officials reviewed ongoing welfare programs. A detailed briefing was given on the performance of the Social Welfare and Bait-ul-Mal Department.

Officials informed that under the minority card program, 100,000 deserving individuals are receiving Rs10,500 every three months. More than 16,000 people have also received assistive devices including wheelchairs under a special initiative.

The briefing added that under the “Dhee Rani” program, 5,000 collective marriages have already been arranged. Over 1.6 million people have benefited from ration cards, Himmat cards, and minority cards in a short time.

Through the Himmat card, over 100,000 special persons have received financial aid. The government plans to extend this support to 200,000 people in the current fiscal year.

Meanwhile, more than 1.4 million individuals are already receiving monthly financial assistance through the ration card scheme across Punjab. Officials said these programs aim to support low-income families.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz directed authorities to complete the target of 9,000 marriages under the “Dhee Rani” program. She also ordered expansion of the program to include more deserving families.

She further instructed that services for maintenance and cleaning of wheelchairs and assistive devices should be ensured. Orders were also issued to establish proper orphanages for abandoned children.

The meeting also discussed improving women and children welfare by working with credible NGOs. Plans were shared to modernize welfare centers and involve the private sector for better services.

The chief minister directed digitization of medicine distribution through zakat funds. She also emphasized making the Social Welfare Department more public-friendly like European systems.

It was also decided to collect and map data of beggars across the province. Authorities believe this step will help in better planning and rehabilitation of vulnerable groups.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said the goal is to support people living below the poverty line. She added that helping low-income families through ration cards remains a top priority.

This decision shows the government is trying to expand financial help quickly. Adding 50,000 more people means more families will get basic support.

The focus is clearly on poor and vulnerable groups in Punjab. If implemented properly, it can improve daily life for many struggling households.