The Government of Punjab has recently announced the expansion of the Minority Support Card Program, a step aimed at providing direct financial relief to 75,000 minority families across the province. With this decision, thousands of underprivileged families belonging to minority communities will now receive quarterly financial assistance. The scheme has been designed to fight poverty, ensure inclusion, and provide essential support to households struggling with inflation.
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Table: Quick Information
| Category | Details |
| Program Name | Minority Support Card Program |
| Province | Punjab |
| Beneficiaries | 75,000 Families |
| Assistance Amount | Rs. 10,500 per quarter |
| Distribution Method | Direct transfer through card system |
| Announced By | CM Maryam Nawaz |
75,000 Minority Cards Announced for Families
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz confirmed that the government will now issue 75,000 Minority Support Cards. This major increase in the number of cards highlights the commitment of the Punjab government towards supporting marginalized groups.
Officials have said that this scheme will not only help families cover their basic expenses but also empower them to improve their standard of living. Many families in Punjab’s minority communities have long faced financial challenges, and this initiative is expected to bring real relief.
Quarterly Assistance of Rs. 10,500
Under the expanded program, each eligible cardholder will receive Rs. 10,500 every quarter. The financial aid will be transferred directly to the beneficiaries, ensuring transparency and preventing any misuse of funds. The assistance can help families manage essential needs such as food, children’s education, medicines, and household expenses. For many low-income households, this quarterly payment will act as a lifeline.
Eligibility Criteria for Minority Support Card Program
To ensure transparency and fairness, the government has set clear rules for eligibility. Only deserving and verified families will benefit from this initiative.
The main conditions are:
- The applicant must hold a valid CNIC registered with NADRA.
- The family should have a Poverty Means Test (PMT) score of 45 or below.
- Verification will be carried out through NADRA, BISP, and Punjab Social Protection Authority (PSPA) databases.
This digital verification process makes it harder for ineligible individuals to misuse the scheme.
| Requirement | Condition |
| CNIC Status | Must be valid and registered with NADRA |
| PMT Score | 45 or below |
| Verification Agencies | NADRA, BISP, PSPA |
| Beneficiary Type | Underprivileged minority families |
How to Apply for the Minority Support Card
The Punjab government has introduced multiple ways for registration to make the process easier for applicants. Citizens can use whichever method is most convenient for them:
- Call 1040: Applicants can register by contacting the official government helpline.
- Online Portal: A special online portal has been launched for simple digital applications.
- Official Website: Citizens can apply directly through the government website https://mcard.punjab.gov.pk/.
Applicants are advised to apply before the deadline of 30th September 2025 to ensure they are included in the next round of support.
Why This Initiative Matters
The Minority Support Card Program is more than just financial aid—it is a step toward inclusive development. By focusing on marginalized communities, the Punjab government is trying to build a society where every family, regardless of background, has access to basic financial support. Officials have also highlighted that this program strengthens the trust between minority communities and the government. When financial relief directly reaches the deserving, it not only reduces inequality but also creates hope for a better future.
Final Thoughts
The expansion of the Minority Support Card Program is a welcome move for thousands of struggling families in Punjab. With 75,000 cards being issued and Rs. 10,500 in quarterly support, the scheme will directly impact lives by helping families cover their daily expenses. For those eligible, timely registration is extremely important. Missing the September 30, 2025 deadline could mean losing out on this much-needed assistance.
