The Punjab government has approved a new Ration Card Scheme aimed at providing financial support to 1.5 million labourers and daily wage earners across the province, officials said on Thursday.
The decision was finalised in a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz in Lahore, where it was agreed that eligible workers would receive a monthly stipend of Rs 10,000 under the new initiative.
The programme is designed to alleviate economic pressure on low-income households and is part of a broader set of reforms approved by the cabinet.
In a parallel development, the cabinet amended the Food Grains Licensing Control Order, 1957, making it mandatory for flour mills to procure at least 25% of their wheat supply through regulated sources.
Additionally, changes to the Punjab Consumer Protection Act, 2005, were approved. These amendments grant powers to Additional Session Judges to serve as Consumer Court authorities, enhancing legal oversight for consumer rights.
The ration scheme follows closely on the heels of the launch of the province’s SMART Environment Protection Force—a pioneering environmental initiative led by the chief minister. The high-tech force includes mobile labs, drone surveillance, and real-time air quality monitoring tools, aimed at curbing pollution and ensuring regulatory compliance.
The two schemes highlight the Punjab government’s multi-sector approach to reform and welfare, focusing both on economic inclusion and environmental sustainability.
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