Maryam Nawaz's Commitment to Continue Support through the Nigheban Program 2026

The wait is over for low-income families in Punjab! In a landmark move to combat rising inflation, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has not only launched the massive Nigehban Ramzan Package 2026 but has also made a firm commitment to continue this support long after the holy month. With a dedicated fund of over Rs. 47 billion, this program ensures that no deserving person feels alone during these tough economic times. The government has streamlined the process to deliver financial aid and ration packages directly to the doorsteps of the needy, ensuring transparency and dignity for all.

Feature	Details
Program Name	Maryam Nawaz Nigheban Program / Ramzan Package 2026
Launched By	CM Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif
Total Budget	Rs. 47 Billion
Eligible Families	4.2 Million families across Punjab
Financial Aid	Rs. 10,000 per family (One-time for Ramzan)

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Overview of Maryam Nawaz Nigheban Program 2026

The Nigheban Program is a comprehensive social welfare initiative by the Punjab Government, designed to provide a safety net for the economically weaker sections of society. Initially launched to provide relief during Ramadan, CM Maryam Nawaz has announced that the program will be a regular feature, continuing to provide financial aid and essential ration to deserving families throughout the year. The program utilizes a transparent digital system to identify eligible households and deliver them a monthly ration discount or cash assistance, helping them manage their expenses amid inflation.

Official Portal: https://pser.punjab.gov.pk/

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How the Poor are Included: Survey and PMT Score

Inclusion in the Nigheban program is based on a transparent survey process aimed at identifying the most deserving households. The government is utilizing the Punjab Social and Economic Registry (PSER) to conduct door-to-door surveys.

Door-to-Door Survey: Teams are visiting neighborhoods to collect data from eligible families. If teams are in your area, get your survey done immediately.
PMT Score: Your eligibility is determined by your Poverty Means Test (PMT) score. Your PMT score should ideally be less than 30% to qualify for the program.
NSER Update: If your score is high, visit the nearest Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) office to update your information through the National Socio-Economic Registry (NSER) survey. Ensure your details reflect your current low-income status.

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Eligibility Criteria for Maryam Nawaz Nigheban Program

If you wish to receive the ration package or financial aid, you must meet the following eligibility criteria. The government has made these requirements clear to ensure only deserving families benefit.

Requirement	Condition
Province	Must be a permanent resident of Punjab
Monthly Income	Less than Rs. 60,000
Poverty Score	PMT score under 30%
Vehicle Ownership	No personal vehicle (car, bike, etc.)
Land Ownership	Less than 3 acres

Here are the key conditions for eligibility:

Province: You must be a permanent resident of Punjab.
Income: Your monthly household income should be less than Rs. 60,000.
Poverty Score: Your PMT score should be under 30%.
Vehicle: You should not own any personal vehicle.
Land: Your family should own less than 3 acres of land.
Employment: No family member should be a government employee.
CNIC: You must possess a valid Computerized National Identity Card.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Register Online or Via SMS

You don’t need to visit a government office to register. The process has been simplified for your convenience. You can check your eligibility in minutes using the following two methods.

Method 1: SMS to 8070 (Fastest Way)

This is the simplest way to check your eligibility without needing the internet.

Open the SMS app on your mobile phone.
Type your 13-digit CNIC number (without any dashes or spaces).
Send this message to 8070.
Within moments, you will receive a reply confirming your eligibility status and further instructions.

Method 2: Online Registration via PSER Portal

If your SMS response shows you are not registered or your data is outdated, you can update it online.

Visit the official PSER portal: https://pser.punjab.gov.pk/ .
Click on the option for “Nigehban Ramzan Package” or “Dynamic Survey.”
Log in using your CNIC and the mobile number registered with NADRA.
Complete or verify your household survey details and submit.
Make sure your address and mobile number are correct to ensure doorstep delivery.

How the Nigehban Card Works and Distribution

Eligible families are being issued the Nigehban Card, a smart card that acts as a digital wallet for assistance.

Doorstep Delivery: District administration teams are delivering these cards directly to the homes of the 4.2 million eligible families to save them from any hassle.
How to Use: The card can be used to withdraw Rs. 10,000 in cash from Bank of Punjab agents or any ATM connected to the 1-Link network. It can also be used to purchase essential items from designated partner merchants.
Card Activation: To activate your card, you can visit any of the 136 dedicated activation centers set up across Punjab, or simply use any Bank of Punjab ATM.

Final Words

The Nigheban program is a testament to CM Maryam Nawaz’s commitment to public welfare. This support is not just for Ramadan. The government is making continuous efforts to ensure that monthly rations and financial assistance reach eligible people throughout the year. The system is designed to be transparent, with a digital dashboard monitoring the process and verification calls made to cardholders to ensure funds reach the right people.

Do not worry about the future. Ensure your survey is complete, keep your CNIC handy, and register to receive your monthly ration discount. The government of Punjab stands with you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I register for the Nigheban Program?

You don’t need to go to an office. The easiest way is to send your CNIC number to 8070 to check your eligibility. If you are eligible, your registration will be processed, and the Nigehban Card will be delivered to your home.

What is the total cash assistance provided under the program?

For the Ramzan period, 4.2 million families are receiving Rs. 10,000 each. Additionally, existing ration card holders have had their aid increased from Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 10,000 for the holy month.

What is the PMT score, and why is it important?

PMT stands for Poverty Means Test. It is a score that determines your family’s economic status. To be eligible for the Nigheban program, your PMT score should generally be less than 30%.

How will the Nigehban Card be distributed?

The government has started a massive door-to-door distribution campaign. Teams are visiting neighborhoods to deliver the Nigehban Cards directly to deserving families to ensure convenience and transparency.

Will the program continue after Ramadan?

Yes. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced that the Nigheban program will be continued completely. Efforts are being made to provide ration and support to deserving people even after the holy month of Ramadan.