The Government of Punjab, led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, has officially launched the Nigehban Card Program 2025, a welfare initiative aimed at supporting millions of low-income families. Under this programme, registered citizens will receive Rs. 12,000 every three months, in addition to free rations and subsidised flour (atta). With inflation on the rise and poverty affecting countless households, the scheme comes as a major relief.
In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about the programme—including eligibility criteria, the registration process, and what benefits are included.
What is the Nigehban Card Program?
The Nigehban Card Programme is a welfare scheme launched by the Punjab Government to help poor and deserving families. The card will act as a gateway to several types of financial and food-related assistance. The government has allocated a significant budget to ensure this programme reaches every eligible citizen across Punjab.
Under this programme:
- Families will receive Rs. 12,000 every quarter, totalling Rs. 36,000 per year.
- Cardholders will be entitled to free rations, especially atta (flour), through government utility stores.
- The card will also allow access to other subsidised items under Punjab’s poverty alleviation programmes.
Key Objectives of the Program
The core objectives of the Nigehban Card Program are
- Providing financial stability to low-income households
- Ensuring food security through free and subsidized rations
- Supporting vulnerable groups, such as widows, orphans, and disabled persons
- Reducing dependency on private loans and charity
- Improving transparency and efficiency in welfare disbursements
Who is Eligible for the Nigehban Card?
To qualify for this scheme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a resident of Punjab
- Should belong to a low-income family, typically earning less than Rs. 50,000/month
- Should not already be receiving major financial aid under other government programs like BISP
- Priority will be given to widows, orphans, elderly citizens, and disabled persons.
- Must possess a valid CNIC
Required Documents
Applicants are expected to provide
- Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC)
- Recent utility bills (to verify address and income)
- Income certificate or proof of earnings
- Disability certificate (if applicable)
- Death certificate of husband (for widows applying)
How to Register for the Nigehban Card Programme?
The registration process is simple and will soon be fully digital. Here’s how you can register once the official portal opens:
Step 1: Get Ready with Your Documents
Keep all required documents ready in both hard and soft copy formats.
Step 2: Visit the Official Portal
Once launched, the Punjab government will release an official online portal for applications. Applicants will be able to fill out the form and upload their documents directly on the website.
Step 3: SMS-Based Registration (Expected Soon)
Just like previous welfare programs, you might also be able to register by sending your CNIC number via SMS to a government-issued number (likely to be 8123). You will receive a confirmation SMS if you’re eligible.
Step 4: Biometric Verification
You may be asked to visit a local centre for biometric verification, or a team may visit your house (as done during the Ramadan relief campaign).
Step 5: Receive Your Nigehban Card
After verification, successful applicants will receive their Nigehban Card, either by mail or from the nearest registration centre. This card can be used to withdraw cash and collect rations.
Read Also: BISP 8171 Payment Update July 2025 || Complete Guide to Check Eligibility and Payment
Benefits of the Nigehban Card
- Quarterly Cash Transfer: Rs. 12,000 every 3 months directly to your account or via cash distribution centers
- Free Flour Distribution: 10 kg bags of flour available free or at a very low price
- Subsidized Essentials: Discounted rates on basic groceries through utility stores
- Single Card Access: One card for multiple welfare programs in the future
July 2025 Update
According to the Punjab Government’s latest update in July 2025:
- The pilot phase of the Nigehban Card is already underway
- Over 6.4 million families are targeted to benefit from the programme.
- The Rs. 307 billion budget has been allocated for poverty alleviation in Punjab
- The government is working on linking the Nigehban Card with other support schemes, including Ehsaas Rashan Riayat
Important Tips for Applicants
- Only apply through the official government channels. Do not fall for scams or third-party agents.
- All services, including registration and card issuance, are completely free.
- Keep your CNIC updated, as expired or incorrect CNICs can lead to disqualification.
- You can check your eligibility and application status via SMS or the official website once live. e
Final Words
The Nigehban Card Program 2025 is a much-needed initiative by the Punjab government to ease the burden on vulnerable families. With financial aid and food support delivered through a single smart card, this scheme offers both dignity and convenience. Eligible individuals should prepare their documents and be ready to apply as soon as the registration process is officially announced.
If you or someone you know may qualify, stay informed and keep checking for updates on the government’s official welfare portal. This is your opportunity to gain support without standing in long queues or facing intermediaries.
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