The Nigehban Rashan Program (also known as the Ramzan Nigehban Package) has returned in 2026 with major upgrades. Launched by the Government of Punjab under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, this program is designed to provide dignified relief to millions of families during the holy month. Unlike previous years where people had to stand in long queues, the 2026 initiative focuses on doorstep delivery and digital smart cards.
What is the Nigehban Rashan Program 2026?
The Nigehban Rashan Program is a historic Rs. 47 billion welfare initiative in Punjab providing Rs. 10,000 cash assistance, “Nigehban ATM Cards,” and free ration bags to roughly 4.2 million deserving families. In 2026, the program also includes “Nigehban Dastarkhwans” for free daily iftar and doorstep delivery of relief packages to maintain the dignity of citizens.
If you are looking for the latest updates on how to check your eligibility or what the new Nigehban Card offers, here is everything you need to know.
Major Updates for Ramzan 2026
The 2026 program is much larger than before. The government has combined cash relief with traditional ration support. For families already holding a “Rashan Card,” their monthly assistance of Rs. 3,000 has been increased to a one-time Rs. 10,000 payment for the month of Ramzan.
1. The Nigehban ATM Card
For the first time, the government is issuing Nigehban Smart Cards. These cards allow beneficiaries to withdraw their Rs. 10,000 cash assistance from Bank of Punjab (BOP) ATMs or any 1-Link network ATM across Pakistan. This eliminates the need to visit crowded distribution centers.
2. Doorstep Delivery
To ensure people are not treated like they are “begging” for aid, the district administration is tasked with delivering the ration bags and Nigehban Cards directly to the homes of verified beneficiaries.
3. Nigehban Dastarkhwan
In every Tehsil, eight “Nigehban Dastarkhwans” (serving centers) are being established. These centers will provide a respectful Iftar to nearly 2,000 people daily, featuring dates, samosas, Rooh Afza, and chicken biryani.
How to Check Your Eligibility (8070 & 8171)
The easiest way to see if you are eligible for the 2026 package is through the official SMS service. You do not need an internet connection for this.
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SMS Method: Open your mobile messenger, type your 13-digit CNIC (without any dashes), and send it to 8070 or 8171.
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Web Method: You can visit the official PSER (Punjab Socio-Economic Registry) portal at
pser.punjab.gov.pkto check your status or update your household data if you were missed during the initial survey.
| Program Feature | 2026 Latest Update |
| Total Budget | Rs. 47 Billion |
| Cash Assistance | Rs. 10,000 per family |
| Primary SMS Code | 8070 (Punjab) / 8171 (Federal/BISP) |
| Distribution Method | Doorstep Delivery & ATM Cards |
| Priority Groups | Widows, Disabled, & Daily Wage Workers |
Eligibility Criteria for 2026
To qualify for the Nigehban Rashan Program this year, you must meet the following basic requirements:
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You must be a permanent resident of Punjab.
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Your monthly household income should be below Rs. 45,000 – 50,000.
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Your poverty score (PMT Score) must be below 30.
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You should not have any family member living abroad or a vehicle registered in your name.
Conclusion
The Nigehban Rashan Program 2026 is a significant step toward a more organized and respectful welfare system in Pakistan. By using ATM cards and home delivery, the government is making sure that help reaches the people who need it most without the hassle of long lines. If you haven’t checked your status yet, send your CNIC to 8070 today to ensure you are included in the 2026 relief lists.
(FAQs)
1. Is the Rs. 10,000 cash separate from the ration bag?
In the 2026 Punjab program, the Rs. 10,000 cash assistance is the primary relief provided via the Nigehban Card. Many families also receive a physical ration bag (Muft Rashan) containing flour, sugar, and oil, depending on their specific eligibility level within the PSER database.
2. Can I use the Nigehban Card at any shop?
The Nigehban Card can be used to withdraw cash from ATMs. Additionally, it can be used at Utility Stores and authorized karyana (grocery) shops that are registered with the Punjab government to purchase essential food items at subsidized rates.
3. What is the last date to register?
For the Ramzan 2026 cycle, registration and PSER data updates are expected to close around mid-February 2026. It is highly recommended to verify your status now so that your card can be activated before the first of Ramzan.
Would you like me to help you draft an appeal letter if your CNIC check comes back as “Ineligible” despite meeting the income criteria?