Aid to vulnerable families during Ramadan to include Christians in Lent

The government of Punjab, led by Maryam Nawaz Sharif, is launching the “Nigahban Ramadan 2026” program for more than four million vulnerable families. Aid includes cards worth up to 10,000 rupees for essential goods and cash withdrawals. Christians observing Lent are also included; the initiative promotes inclusivity and social harmony, easing the impact of inflation.

Lahore (AsiaNews) – The government of Punjab has announced an important support initiative aimed at more than four million low-income families ahead of the holy month of Ramadan. The key word is inclusivity, with benefits extended to minority communities, including Christians who are observing the Lenten period.

Prime Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif launched the “Nigahban Ramadan 2026” program as part of a broader effort to lessen the impact of rising food prices on vulnerable households. Officials stated that assistance will reach needy families regardless of their religion, including Christian citizens who are observing Lent—40 days of fasting, prayer, and reflection before Easter.

Eligible families are being issued Nigahban Ramadan Cards, with support of up to 10,000 rupees (about 31 euros). Beneficiaries can use the cards to purchase essential food items or withdraw cash at thousands of ATMs. Authorities say that hundreds of thousands of cards have already been distributed. The remaining ones will be delivered directly to homes to facilitate access for the elderly, women, and people with disabilities.

Government representatives noted that the overlap of Ramadan and Lent this year offers an opportunity to demonstrate interreligious solidarity. Christian families—many of whom face economic hardship—will also be able to use the aid to purchase basic foods suitable for Lenten observance, during which many refrain from eating meat and follow simpler diets.

Yasar Talib, an activist for the social and economic empowerment of religious minorities in Punjab, spoke about the inclusion of Christians in the program. He emphasized that recognizing them during the Lenten period reflects a positive and concrete step toward inclusive governance for all citizens. By extending support beyond religious boundaries, the initiative reinforces the principle that state welfare measures should be based on need rather than religious identity.

Praising the prime minister of Punjab, Khalida Bibi, a Christian domestic worker, expressed gratitude for the government’s efforts. She stressed that earning a dignified living through humble jobs is extremely difficult, especially when supporting school‑age children and coping with monthly expenses such as rent and utility bills. “This assistance will surely bring much‑needed relief to families like ours,” she said.

Across Punjab, subsidized “Sahulat Bazaars” will also be set up for Ramadan, offering essential goods at reduced prices. Officials emphasized that these markets are open to all citizens and are expected to benefit minority communities living in low‑income neighborhoods, where food inflation has hit hardest.

Community welfare initiatives are also being encouraged. Philanthropists and civil society groups have been urged to organize free meals, not only for iftar and sehri, but also for vulnerable non‑Muslim families observing Lent. Authorities say that such efforts reflect Punjab’s commitment to social harmony and equal treatment for all citizens.

Observers point out that this year’s package is one of the province’s largest seasonal assistance programs and carries symbolic importance, as it coincides with major religious observances for both Muslims and Christians. By explicitly including minorities, the initiative signals an attempt to promote inclusivity and shared well‑being during a period marked by spiritual reflection and charity.