Punjab Expands Minority Card Program to 75,000 Beneficiaries – Here’s How to Apply

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced a major expansion of the Minority Card initiative, increasing the number of cards to 75,000. The program is aimed at providing direct financial support to low-income families from minority communities across the province.

Financial Assistance for Deserving Families

Under the new directives, each eligible cardholder will receive Rs 10,500 every quarter (three months). This financial aid is designed to help families meet their daily expenses, including food, healthcare, and education. Officials said the expansion reflects the Punjab government’s commitment to promoting inclusivity, equality, and welfare for all citizens, regardless of their religion.

Strict Eligibility Criteria

To ensure transparency and fairness, the government has laid down clear eligibility conditions.

• Applicants must have a valid CNIC.
• They must be registered with NADRA.
• Only individuals with a Poverty Means Test (PMT) score of 45 or below will be included.
• Data will be verified using NADRA, the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), and the Punjab Social Protection Authority (PSPA).

This strict verification process is meant to make sure that only the most deserving families benefit from the program.

How to Apply for the Minority Card

The Punjab government has made the application process easy and accessible. Citizens can apply in two simple ways:

1. By Phone: Call the 1040 helpline. Trained staff will guide applicants through the process.
2. Online Portal: An official web portal has been launched, allowing people to register from home without having to stand in long queues.

Deadline for Registration

The last date for online registration is September 30, 2025. Authorities have advised eligible citizens not to delay and to complete their applications before the deadline.

A Step Toward Equality

The expansion of the Minority Card program marks another step by the Punjab government to support minority communities and strengthen their trust in social welfare schemes. Maryam Nawaz’s administration has emphasized that the initiative is not just about financial aid, but also about ensuring equal opportunities, protecting minority rights, and building a more inclusive society.

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