ECC approves release of Rs19bn for PM’s Ramzan Relief Package 2026

The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet approved on Thursday release of Rs19 billion for the Prime Minister’s Ramzan Relief Package (PMRRP) 2026, the Finance Division said in a statement.

“The ECC considered a summary submitted by the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety seeking approval of funds amounting to Rs25 billion for the Prime Minister’s Ramzan Relief Package 2026.

“The Finance Division informed the Committee that Rs19 billion had already been budgeted for the Ramzan package for the current financial year and that the remaining requirement would be released as and when necessary.

“The ECC accordingly approved the immediate release of Rs19 billion to enable prompt commencement of disbursement, while agreeing that any additional funds would be considered in line with evolving requirements and available fiscal space,” the statement said.

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The committee also discussed the operational expenditure component proposed in the summary and stressed the importance of providing a detailed breakdown of costs, including payments to partner financial institutions and expenses related to outreach and communication.

“The ECC granted in-principle approval for operational expenses of Rs1 billion, subject to submission of comprehensive details to the Finance Division to ensure that allocations are aligned with actual needs and financial rules.”

The ECC also took note of the urgency involved in initiating payments and regularised the steps already taken to facilitate early disbursement through re-appropriated funds.

“It was agreed that expenditures would be managed in a manner consistent with Pakistan’s fiscal commitments and that any unutilised funds would be surrendered in accordance with established procedures.”

The ECC reaffirmed the government’s commitment to extending timely and dignified support to deserving segments of society during Ramzan, while upholding fiscal responsibility and robust oversight in the implementation of relief measures. It emphasised the need to balance expeditious disbursement of relief with fiscal prudence and transparency in operational expenditures.

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The PM’s Ramzan Relief Package 2026 has been designed to provide targeted financial assistance to vulnerable families during the holy month of Ramzan. The package aims to ensure transparency and objectivity in beneficiary selection through the use of data from the National Socio-Economic Registry (NSER). It envisages one-time cash assistance to identified low-income households, along with enhancement of existing social protection support, with funds to be disbursed directly to beneficiaries through formal banking and digital channels to ensure secure and efficient delivery.