Lahore, In a monumental relief effort directed by Chief Minister Punjab, the provincial government’s Nighaban Ramadan package has successfully delivered approximately 48.5 million ration bags to the doorsteps of deserving families across the province. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to alleviate the financial burden on underprivileged citizens during the holy month of Ramadan.
According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Punjab, an essential meeting took place at the Civil Secretariat to assess the progress of the Ramadan package and price control measures. Chaired by Chief Secretary Punjab Zahid Akhtar Zaman, the session was attended by key officials from various departments. Through a comprehensive video link setup, Additional Chief Secretary, all Divisional Commissioners, and Deputy Commissioners also participated, highlighting the widespread administrative involvement in the campaign.
The meeting disclosed that during Ramadan, a concerted crackdown on price manipulation resulted in 6,132 arrests and 2,109 cases being registered, demonstrating the government’s firm stance against illegal profiteering. Furthermore, price magistrates conducted inspections at nine million locations, levying fines totaling seven and a half crore rupees for various violations.
Chief Secretary Zaman lauded the administrative officers for their pivotal role in the smooth execution of the ration bag delivery program, acknowledging it as a significant challenge successfully overcome. He also commended the Punjab Information Technology Board for ensuring transparency and efficiency through digital monitoring of the distribution process.
In recognition of exemplary performance, it was decided that certificates of appreciation would be awarded to the top 10 districts in ration bag provision. The Secretaries of Industry and Agriculture provided detailed briefings on the ongoing measures to stabilize market prices and the impact of agriculture fair price shops in Ramadan markets, which have benefited over 1.5 million consumers by offering reduced prices on essential commodities.
This initiative underscores the Punjab government’s dedication to supporting its citizens through targeted relief efforts and stringent market regulation during the holy month of Ramadan.