Punjab CM Approves ‘Rehmat Card’ for Widows and Orphans

**Lahore:** Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has approved the launch of the **“Rehmat Card”** program aimed at providing financial support to widows and orphaned children across the province.

The decision was taken during a meeting chaired by the chief minister in Lahore, where officials briefed participants about the initiative. The program marks the first time in the country’s history that a structured scheme is being introduced in Punjab specifically for the welfare of widows and orphans.

According to the briefing, eligible families will receive direct financial assistance of up to Rs100,000. In the first phase, the Rehmat Card is expected to support more than 50,000 vulnerable households. The project will be formally launched soon after Eid al-Fitr.

Under the scheme, widowed women will receive Rs100,000, while orphaned children will be given Rs25,000 each. Applicants will be able to apply for the Rehmat Card through a mobile application, web portal, call center, or the Zakat office.

Speaking on the occasion, Maryam Nawaz said that widows in Punjab should no longer be forced to rely on charity, emphasizing that it is the state’s responsibility to ensure they receive dignified support as their rightful entitlement. She added that every citizen has a right to the province’s resources and the government will utilize all available means to ensure assistance reaches those who deserve it.

The chief minister further stated that Punjab aims to remain a province where every individual is cared for and supported through inclusive welfare initiatives.