The Punjab government, under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, will begin distributing ration cards to eligible families starting 14 August 2024. Beneficiaries can check their ration card status online via the Punjab Ehsaas Rashan Riayat Portal or by visiting designated distribution centers.
π Key Highlights of Punjab Ration Card Distribution 2024
- Distribution Start Date: 14 August 2024
- Eligibility: Low-income families registered under the Ehsaas Program
- How to Check Status: Online portal or SMS service
- Required Documents: CNIC, proof of income, utility bills
- Ration Entitlement: Subsidized wheat flour, sugar, ghee, and other essentials
π Who Is Eligible for the Punjab Ration Card?
The Punjab government prioritizes financially vulnerable households. Eligibility criteria include:
β
Families with a monthly income below PKR 30,000
β
Women-headed households
β
Registered beneficiaries of the Ehsaas Program or BISP
β
Households without a government employee earning above the threshold
Note: Existing beneficiaries of previous ration schemes must re-verify their details.
π How to Check Your Ration Card Status (Online & SMS)
Option 1: Online Verification via Ehsaas Rashan Portal
- Visit https://rashan.punjab.gov.pk
- Enter your CNIC number
- Click “Check Eligibility”
- View your ration card status and distribution center details
Option 2: SMS Service
Send your CNIC number (without dashes) to 8123. Youβll receive an instant update on eligibility.
Option 3: Helpline & NADRA Verification
- Call the Punjab Ehsaas Helpline: 0800-09000
- Visit your nearest NADRA center for manual verification
π Distribution Process & Collection Centers
- Phase 1 (14 August onwards): Urban areas (Lahore, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, Multan)
- Phase 2 (Late August): Rural and remote regions
- Required at Collection: Original CNIC and confirmation SMS
Pro Tip: Avoid last-minute rushesβcheck your status early and visit assigned centers on designated dates.
β Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What if my name isnβt on the ration card list?
Reapply via the Ehsaas Rashan Portal or visit a Tehsil Office for grievance redressal.
2. Can I transfer my ration card to another district?
No, ration cards are location-specific. Update your address via the portal if youβve relocated.
3. How often will ration be distributed?
Monthly, with biometric verification to prevent fraud.
4. Is there an offline application process?
Yes, designated Ehsaas Centers accept manual applications for those without internet access.
π‘ Why This Initiative Matters
The CM Punjab Ration Card Scheme aims to:
- Reduce inflationβs burden on low-income families
- Ensure transparent, biometric-based distribution to curb corruption
- Support over 5 million households with subsidized essentials
“No one should sleep hungry in Punjab,” emphasizes CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif.
π Final Checklist for Beneficiaries
β Verify eligibility before 14 August
β Keep your CNIC and mobile number active
β Collect ration only from official centers
β Report discrepancies via the helpline or portal
π Helpful Links
For real-time updates, follow @CMOfficePunjab on Twitter/X.