The Ramzan Nighban Program 2026 is a major welfare initiative introduced by the Punjab Government to support low-income families during the holy month of Ramadan. Launched under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the program focuses on providing direct financial relief so families can manage essential household expenses with dignity.
This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to transparent and fair distribution of public funds. Instead of traditional ration schemes, the program relies on verified digital records to ensure that assistance reaches only the most deserving households across Punjab.
What Is the Ramzan Nighban Card 2026?
The Ramzan Nighban Card 2026 is an ATM-enabled card that provides a one-time cash assistance of Rs 10,000 to eligible families. The aim is to help households manage food and daily necessities during Ramadan without standing in long queues or relying on fixed ration items.
Nearly 4.2 million families are expected to benefit from this program. Unlike federal programs, the Nighban Card is a Punjab-specific initiative and operates independently, though some beneficiaries may also be receiving support from other welfare schemes. Ramzan Nighban Program 2026 Online Registration
Importance of Punjab Socio-Economic Registry (PSER)
Registration in the Punjab Socio-Economic Registry (PSER) is the most important requirement for the Ramzan Nighban Program 2026. The Punjab Government now uses PSER data to assess household income, assets, and poverty scores instead of outdated manual lists.
You can also read: PM Ramzan Relief Package 2026
Only families who have completed or updated their PSER survey before 15 February 2026 are considered eligible. This system ensures transparency, reduces errors, and prevents ineligible applicants from receiving financial aid.
Eligibility Criteria for Ramzan Nighban Program 2026
The government has introduced strict eligibility conditions to ensure that the assistance reaches families who genuinely need support during Ramadan.
Key eligibility requirements include:
- Applicant must be a permanent resident of Punjab
- A valid, non-expired 13-digit CNIC issued by NADRA is mandatory
- Combined monthly household income must be below Rs 50,000 to Rs 60,000
- PMT (poverty) score must be under 30 or 35 according to PSER data
- Household must be registered in the PSER database
- No family member should be a current government employee
- Household should not own luxury vehicles or large land/property
Eligibility Overview Table
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Province | Punjab only |
| CNIC Status | Valid and active |
| Monthly Income | Below Rs 50,000–60,000 |
| PMT Score | Less than 30–35 |
| PSER Registration | Mandatory |
| Government Job | Not allowed |
| Assets | No luxury property |
Required Documents and Verification Process
The verification process is fully digital and biometric-based. This helps maintain transparency and prevents duplication or misuse of funds.
Applicants must ensure:
- CNIC details are correct and updated in NADRA records
- The mobile SIM used is registered on the applicant’s CNIC
- Biometric thumb verification is completed during card collection
Without correct SIM registration, applicants may not receive confirmation messages from 8070 or 8171.
How to Check Eligibility for Ramzan Nighban Card 2026
The Punjab Government provides two official and free methods to check eligibility.
SMS Method (8070)
Applicants can check their status by:
- Opening the SMS application
- Typing the 13-digit CNIC number
- Sending it to 8070
- Receiving an eligibility or update response
Online PSER Portal Method
Eligibility can also be checked online by:
- Visiting pser.punjab.gov.pk
- Logging in using CNIC and registered mobile number
- Viewing the application status for Ramzan Relief 2026
Benefits of Ramzan Nighban Card
The program is designed to offer flexible and respectful support rather than limited ration packages.
Main benefits include:
- Rs 10,000 direct cash assistance
- Withdrawal from ATMs or spending at registered stores
- No need to stand in long ration or flour queues
- Biometric verification ensures secure payment delivery
This allows families to decide how best to spend the assistance based on their needs.
You can also read: 9999 Online Check 10000 Nadra
Common Reasons for Rejection
Some applicants may not qualify due to data or eligibility issues even if they are financially weak.
Common reasons include:
- Incomplete or outdated PSER survey
- PMT score above the eligibility threshold
- Government employment within the household
- Incorrect CNIC or unregistered mobile number
Such applicants should visit their nearest e-Khidmat Markaz or Assistant Commissioner Office for correction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can residents of Sindh or KPK apply?
No, the Ramzan Nighban Program is strictly for permanent residents of Punjab.
Is BISP registration enough to qualify?
No, PSER registration is mandatory even for BISP beneficiaries.
What if no SMS is received?
Applicants should verify their PSER data at a government facilitation center.
You can also read: 8070 Registration Online 2026
Official Helpline and Safety Guidelines
For assistance and complaints, applicants can use official channels only:
- Helpline: 0800-02345
- SMS Code: 8070
- Official Website: pser.punjab.gov.pk
Registration and eligibility checks are completely free. Avoid sharing CNIC copies, ATM details, or PIN codes with anyone claiming to offer paid assistance. Ramzan Nighban Program 2026 Online Registration