Pakistan Approves Funds for Ramazan Relief Package

The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of Pakistan has approved the release of Rs19 billion (approximately $63.5 million USD) for a Ramazan relief package announced by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. This package aims to provide assistance to over 12 million families, totaling around 36 million people, through direct digital payments.

Ramazan Relief Package Details

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif initially announced the Rs38 billion (approximately $126.8 million USD) relief package on February 12th. The program will utilize data from the National Socio-Economic Registry (NSER) to ensure transparent and objective beneficiary selection. Funds will be disbursed directly through formal banking and digital channels to ensure secure and efficient delivery.

ECC Approval and Funding Release

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb chaired the ECC meeting remotely, during which the immediate release of Rs19 billion was approved. The remaining funds, up to Rs25 billion, will be released as fiscal space allows. Any unutilized funds will be returned to the national treasury in accordance with established procedures.

Additional ECC Approvals

In addition to approving the Ramazan relief package funding, the ECC also granted in-principle approval for Rs1 billion (approximately $3.3 million USD) in operational expenses. Detailed cost breakdowns must be submitted to the Finance Division to ensure transparency, fiscal prudence, and compliance with financial regulations. The ECC emphasized the importance of balancing swift relief delivery with strong financial oversight.

Recent Leadership Changes in the ECC

Recent changes have seen Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb appointed as the Chairman of the ECC, replacing Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. This reshuffle occurred after initial plans for the Prime Minister to chair the committee with the Finance Minister serving in his absence were reported according to Geo News. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar was also removed from the committee as reported by Daily Ausaf.

These changes reflect a broader reorganization of cabinet committees by Prime Minister Sharif, including committees focused on energy, Chinese investment projects, privatization, State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), and legislative cases as detailed in The News International.