CM Punjab Ration Card/Rashan Card Scheme Launched: Complete Guide on PSER Registration and Eligibility for 1.25 Million Families

CM Punjab Ration Card/Rashan Card is the latest financial relief initiative launched by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to support 1.25 million low-income families across the province. Amid rising inflation and increasing food prices in cities like Lahore, Faisalabad, and Multan, the Punjab Government has allocated a massive budget of Rs. 40 Billion for this program. This investigative report details how the new digital system works, how to apply through the Punjab Socio-Economic Registry (PSER), and the ground realities of this relief effort.

The Shift to Digital Relief: Why Now?

The introduction of the CM Punjab Ration Card/Rashan Card marks a major shift in how the government distributes aid. Previously, during the Ramadan Nigehban package, citizens were seen standing in long queues in scorching heat in districts like Gujranwala and Rawalpindi. There were also reports of mismanagement in the distribution of flour bags.

To fix these issues, CM Maryam Nawaz has introduced a digital smart card system. Instead of physical goods, eligible families will receive Rs. 3,000 per month directly on their card. This money can be used to buy flour (Atta), ghee, sugar, and rice from registered Karyana (grocery) stores and Utility Stores.

Senior officials at the Civil Secretariat in Lahore confirmed to this reporter that the aid will officially start flowing from July 1, 2025. The data collection, however, is already underway through the PSER survey.

Understanding the Financial Aid Structure

The government has designed this program to help the “poorest of the poor.” The initial phase targets 12.5 Lakh (1.25 million) households. This includes 40,000 workers registered with the Mines and Minerals Department, many of whom work in the salt ranges of Khewra and coal mines in Chakwal.

The core objective is to ensure that no family in Punjab goes to sleep hungry. With the price of a 20kg flour bag fluctuating in markets like Akbari Mandi, this Rs. 3,000 subsidy acts as a shield against price hikes.

Eligibility Criteria: Who Qualifies for the Card?

Strict criteria have been set to ensure transparency. The government is using NADRA records and the new PSER database to filter applicants. To qualify for the CM Punjab Ration Card/Rashan Card, a family must meet the following conditions:

• Residency: Must be a permanent resident of Punjab (verified via CNIC).
• Income Limit: The monthly household income must be less than Rs. 50,000.
• Poverty Score: The family must have a PMT (Proxy Means Test) score of less than 35. This score is calculated based on your assets, house type, and lifestyle.
• Employment: Government employees are not eligible.
• BISP Status: Families already receiving money from the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) are currently not the primary target, as this is a provincial scheme, but policies may evolve.
• SIM Registration: The mobile number used for application must be registered under the applicant’s own CNIC.

The Role of PSER (Punjab Socio-Economic Registry)

This is the most critical part of the new system. The government is no longer relying on old data. A fresh survey called PSER is being conducted.

Teams are moving door-to-door in tehsils across Sheikhupura, Kasur, and Sialkot to register families. If you are not registered in PSER, you cannot get the Ration Card. This registry will also be used for future schemes like the Kisaan Card and the Himmat Card.

How to Apply for CM Punjab Ration Card/Rashan Card Online

For citizens in urban centers like Gulberg, Lahore, or Satellite Town, Rawalpindi, applying online is the easiest method. The government has launched a dedicated PSER portal.

Step-by-Step Online Registration:

1. Visit the Portal: Go to the official PSER website (pser.punjab.gov.pk).
2. Create an Account: Click on “Register.” Enter your full name, CNIC, mobile network, and phone number. You will receive an OTP (One Time Password).
3. Start New Application: Once logged in, select “New Application” for the Ration Card.
4. Fill Family Details: Enter the name of the head of the family. Add details for all family members, including children.
5. Asset Declaration: This is a legal declaration. You must honestly answer questions about:
   • Do you own a car or motorcycle?
   • What is the roof of your house made of (concrete/wood)?
   • Do you own agricultural land?
   • What is your source of drinking water?
6. Submit: Review the form and click submit.

Investigative Note: Providing false information here can lead to permanent disqualification. The system cross-checks your data with vehicle registration and land record authorities.

Offline Registration: e-Khidmat Markaz and Union Councils

For residents in rural areas like Rajanpur, Bhakkar, or Layyah, where internet access might be slow, the government has set up 5,000 registration centers.

• Union Councils: You can visit your local UC Secretary. They have tablets to register your data for the CM Punjab Ration Card/Rashan Card.
• e-Khidmat Markaz: These centers are operational in all Divisional Headquarters. Staff there will fill out the form for you free of cost.
• Door-to-Door Teams: Surveyors are visiting homes. They wear official jackets and carry ID cards. Always ask for ID before sharing your CNIC details.

Also Read: Ramzan Relief Package 2026: Govt Launches 8070 Registration for Free Atta and Cash Subsidy

Documents Required for Verification

When applying, whether online or offline, you must have the following documents ready:

• Original CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card).
• B-Form for children (to prove family size).
• Electricity or Gas bill (to verify address and expense level).
• Proof of income (Salary slip or a self-declaration on plain paper for daily wagers).
• Active Mobile Phone (must be with you for OTP verification).

Integration with Nigehban Program

There is good news for families who were already verified under the “Nigehban Ramadan Package.” Government officials state that their data has been automatically shifted to the Ration Card database. However, it is highly recommended to check your status on the PSER portal to ensure your phone number and address are current.

How to Use the Digital Smart Card

Once your application is approved, you will receive an SMS from “8123” or the official PSER sender ID.

1. Card Issuance: The Bank of Punjab (BOP) will issue the digital cards.
2. Merchant List: The government is registering thousands of Karyana stores across Punjab. These shops will have a green banner displaying the “Maryam Nawaz Ration Program” logo.
3. Transaction:
   • Go to the shop.
   • Select your groceries (Flour, Ghee, Pulses).
   • Present your Ration Card and CNIC.
   • The shopkeeper will scan the card or QR code.
   • You will receive a confirmation SMS of the transaction.

Ground Reality: Challenges and Solutions

While the scheme is promising, our investigation highlights some challenges. In remote areas of Dera Ghazi Khan, mobile network coverage is weak, which might delay OTPs. Furthermore, there is a risk of shopkeepers overcharging.

To combat this, the district administration in cities like Sialkot and Gujrat has been tasked with strict monitoring. Price Control Magistrates will inspect registered shops. If a shopkeeper demands a commission or charges extra, their license will be cancelled immediately.

Key Takeaways of the Program

• Financial Aid: Rs. 3,000 per month.
• Beneficiaries: 1.25 Million families in Phase 1.
• Coverage: All 36 districts of Punjab.
• Technology: Digital transparency to prevent theft.
• Start Date: Aid disbursement begins July 1, 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is the CM Punjab Ration Card/Rashan Card application free?
A: Yes, the application process is 100% free. Do not pay any agent or shopkeeper to fill out your form.

Q: Can I apply if I live in a rented house?
A: Yes. Owning a house is not a requirement. In fact, families living in rented houses often score lower on the PMT scale, making them more likely to be eligible.

Q: What if my PMT score is above 35?
A: If your score is above 35, you are currently not eligible for this specific scheme. However, you may still qualify for other initiatives like the “Apni Chat Apna Ghar” scheme if you meet those specific criteria.

Q: How do I check my application status?
A: You can log in to the PSER portal or send your CNIC number to the helpline code 8123. You can also call the toll-free helpline 0800-02345.

Public Advisory

The Punjab Government urges all citizens to complete their registration before the deadline. This database will be the foundation for all future subsidies on electricity, solar panels, and livestock. If you know a deserving family in your neighborhood—perhaps a widow, a daily wager, or a disabled person—help them register for the CM Punjab Ration Card/Rashan Card.

Helpline: 0800-02345
Official Website: pser.punjab.gov.pk
SMS Code: 8123