ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif announced a Rs20 billion Ramazan package aimed at providing relief to 4 million families across Pakistan, potentially benefiting approximately 20 million people.

According to a statement by Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the initiative was inaugurated during a ceremony, where the Prime Minister highlighted that the distribution would occur in the first ten days of the holy month. He emphasized the government’s commitment to resolving legal cases involving Rs500 billion, which have been pending in courts for years.

The Prime Minister addressed ongoing corruption issues, particularly within the Utility Stores Corporation, which he described as severe. Plans are underway for its privatization, aiming to alleviate public distress through a new digital system. Additionally, he affirmed the closure of other loss-making government entities.

During his address, Prime Minister Sharif expressed sorrow over a terrorist attack at Madrassa Haqqania, resulting in the death of Maulana Hamid ul Haq. He urged swift action from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government to apprehend those responsible, noting Pakistan’s past success in combating terrorism and the sacrifices made by its citizens and security forces.

Minister for Industries and Production Rana Tanveer Hussain also spoke at the event, elaborating on the swift approval of the program. He mentioned that 600 stalls would be set up at the tehsil level to provide sugar at a subsidized rate of Rs130 per kilogram, ensuring the prompt delivery of aid to deserving families.