The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Minister for Food, Zahir Shah Toru, has announced significant progress in the distribution of financial aid to 777,419 eligible families registered with the Ehsaas Program as part of the Ramazan Relief Package in the province.
Currently, cheques worth Rs10,000 have been disbursed to one lakh families, with plans to extend aid to the remaining eligible families soon.
Minister Toru underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to serving the general public, aligning closely with the agenda of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government in the province and its founder, Imran Khan. He emphasized the necessity of concrete actions over mere rhetoric, reiterating the government’s dedication to public service.
Addressing concerns regarding artificial price hikes and food safety, Toru assured the public that daily inspections and monitoring activities are being rigorously carried out by deputy commissioners, assistant commissioners, and food inspection teams. He emphasized that stringent directives have been issued to ensure compliance and uphold food standards, reflecting the government’s proactive approach to safeguarding public health.
The Ramazan Relief Program, according to Toru, aims to alleviate the financial burdens on deserving families during the holy month, showcasing the government’s prioritization of citizen welfare.
Highlighting the distribution process, Zareef Ul Muani, Secretary of the Food Department, emphasized that the distribution of cheques under the Ramazan Relief Program is accessible through all branches of Bank Alfalah across the province.
In a press statement on March 15, Barrister Dr Mohammad Ali Saif, Advisor to the Chief Minister on Information and Public Relations, announced the release of funds for the Ramazan package by the finance department.
He reiterated that the Ramazan package is specifically intended for low-income families, with all relevant matters settled with a private bank.
Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, during a press briefing after a recent cabinet meeting, announced a Rs10,000 Ramazan package for deserving families, demonstrating the government’s proactive efforts to provide relief during these challenging times.
During its inaugural meeting on March 8, the cabinet took a significant step by approving a relief package for the needy populace during the holy month of Ramazan. This package, aimed at assisting 850,000 households already listed in Ehsas and BISP, entails providing Rs10,000 per household, amounting to a total cost of Rs8.5 billion. Additionally, 115,000 additional households, not covered by the aforementioned programs for various reasons, will also receive Rs10,000 per household.
During the meeting, Chief Minister Ali Amin emphasized the government’s commitment to promoting employment opportunities, with a focus on skill development for the youth. To facilitate this, interest-free loans will be provided, enabling individuals to start their own businesses according to their skills and capabilities. He reiterated the government’s dedication to utilizing available resources for the welfare of the people.
Chief Minister Ali Amin also addressed the issue of provincial rights, stating that the matter would be pursued with the Centre. He expressed hope for the media’s support in this endeavor.
Regarding the outstanding dues owed to the province, Chief Minister Ali Amin emphasized that Rs1,510 billion, in accordance with the net hydel power profit (as per the AGN Qazi Formula), are due from the federal government.
He stressed that this substantial amount could greatly assist the province in overcoming financial challenges. He clarified that the province isn’t seeking charity but rather its rightful and constitutional dues.
Published in The Express Tribune, March 25th, 2024.
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