1.1 Million Register for Punjab’s ‘Maryam Ko Batayein’ Relief Program

LAHORE: (Web Desk) – Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif announced that 1.1 million people have registered within 10 days for the provincial relief initiative ‘Maryam Ko Batayein’ (MKB), with thousands of eligible beneficiaries already receiving Rs10,000 directly into their JazzCash mobile wallets linked with CNIC records.

According to official figures, 910,000 registrations were completed via the mobile app, 140,000 through Helpline 1000, and 50,000 via the web portal. The average daily registration has exceeded 100,000 applicants. Authorities reported an overwhelming response, with 1.8 million call attempts in one hour on Helpline 1000 — approximately 30,000 calls per minute.

Chairperson of the 1000 Helpline and Chief Minister Complaint Cell, Saima Farooq, said the program operates under a transparent digital system based on PSER data and PMT scoring. The call center can handle 800 simultaneous calls, while additional callers receive a busy notification. Each applicant is issued a unique tracking ID, and verification is conducted through robocalls, SMS, and outbound confirmation calls to prevent fraud or duplication.

She clarified that individuals already benefiting from Ramazan Nigahban, Ration Card schemes, Benazir Income Support Programme, or the Prime Minister’s Ramazan Relief Package are not eligible for the MKB assistance.

Maryam Nawaz launches Pakistan’s first e-taxi scheme nationwide

CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif described the massive response as a reflection of public trust and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring financial assistance reaches deserving families directly without intermediaries.

CM Calls for Peace, Dignity Amid Protests

In a message shared on X, the Chief Minister directed police and district administrations to treat protesters with dignity and respect, acknowledging widespread grief among citizens. She emphasized that maintaining peace and law and order is a collective responsibility, stating, “In this hour of grief, we stand united.” Arrangements for iftar meals for protesters are also being made.

World Civil Defence Day Message

On World Civil Defence Day, CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif underscored the importance of strengthening civil defence institutions to safeguard lives and property during natural disasters and emergencies. She highlighted the need for public awareness, training, and preparedness to mitigate risks from earthquakes, floods, and other unforeseen calamities, while paying tribute to emergency responders for their dedicated services.