The Chief Minister of Punjab has launched a groundbreaking welfare initiative called the Rehmat Card Program, designed specifically to provide financial assistance to widows and orphaned children across the province. This program represents the first comprehensive financial aid initiative of its kind in Punjab, demonstrating the government’s commitment to supporting the most vulnerable segments of society. Under this scheme, eligible beneficiaries receive financial assistance of 100,000 Pakistani rupees through digital banking channels.
The Punjab government has allocated 500 million rupees from the Provincial Zakat Fund to implement this program, ensuring sustainable funding for the welfare initiative. The scheme aims to restore dignity and self-sufficiency to beneficiary families while providing them with much-needed financial relief during challenging times.
Program Structure and Financial Benefits
| Beneficiary Category | Financial Assistance | Additional Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Widow (Bewa) | 100,000 PKR | Direct transfer via JazzCash |
| Single Orphaned Child | 25,000 PKR | Additional to widow’s amount |
| Two Orphaned Children | 50,000 PKR | Maximum benefit per widow |
| Three or More Children | 50,000 PKR | Capped at two children’s benefit |
The scheme operates on a straightforward structure where widows receive the primary financial assistance. If widow-headed households include dependent children, additional funds are allocated for their care and maintenance. Importantly, even widows with three or more children receive the same benefit as those with two children, with the maximum additional amount capped at supporting two children.
Eligibility Requirements for Rehmat Card
Applicants must meet strict eligibility criteria to qualify for the Rehmat Card scheme. These requirements ensure that assistance reaches those truly in need of government support.
The applicant must be a practicing Muslim widow from a low-income household. Income verification is mandatory, and applicants from affluent families are automatically disqualified. The widow must not be a government employee, nor should her deceased husband have been a government employee drawing a pension. This criterion prevents dual benefits and ensures resources reach those without stable government income sources.
The widow’s CNIC must reflect her widow status as officially registered with NADRA. Simply being a widow is insufficient; the status must be documented in the national database. This requirement often necessitates updating one’s CNIC at NADRA offices after a husband’s death. If your CNIC still shows “Married” status, you must visit the nearest NADRA office with your husband’s death certificate to update your status to “Widow” before applying.
A registered mobile number linked to your CNIC is mandatory for the scheme. This number serves as the primary contact and is essential for receiving disbursement notifications through JazzCash. The mobile number must be registered in your name with your cellular service provider and linked to your CNIC in the NADRA database.
If the application includes dependent children, each child must have an official B-Form from NADRA. Orphaned children require proper documentation of their orphan status. The applicant must be a permanent resident of Punjab province. Inter-provincial applicants are not eligible for this scheme.
Beneficiaries must be registered in the Punjab Socioeconomic Registry (PSER) database or must have their data verified through NADRA if not already registered. Government employees, pension recipients, and individuals classified as Sahib-e-Nisaab (wealthy according to Islamic standards) are ineligible for assistance.
Application Process Through Mobile Application
The most convenient method of applying for the Rehmat Card is through the official mobile application available on both Android and iOS platforms. The application streamlines the entire process and ensures faster processing of requests.
First, access the Google Play Store on your smartphone and search for “Rehmat Card.” Download the official application bearing the Punjab government logo. Once installed, launch the application to begin the registration process. The initial screen presents two options: Login and Register. Since this is your first application, select the Register option.
When prompted, specify your application type. Choose “Widow” if you are applying as a widow, or select “Orphan” if you are applying on behalf of orphaned children. If applying for orphaned children, you must provide information about their legal guardian.
Enter the widow’s full name exactly as it appears on your CNIC. Provide your CNIC number, ensuring accuracy as this information will be verified against NADRA records. Enter the mobile number registered on your CNIC. This number is crucial as all communication and fund disbursement notifications will be sent to this contact.
Create a secure password combining numbers and special characters. The system requires passwords containing at least one special character such as @ followed by letters. For example, a password might be formatted as “987563@ZB”. Confirm the password by re-entering it in the verification field.
The application will request consent for creating a JazzCash wallet account using your registered mobile number. This wallet serves as the primary channel for fund disbursement. Acknowledge that your provided mobile number is registered on your CNIC and that you consent to JazzCash account creation.
Click “Send OTP” to receive a one-time password on your registered mobile number. This four-digit code verifies your identity and confirms ownership of the mobile number. Enter the OTP in the designated field and click “Verify and Register” to complete account creation.
Personal Information Section
After successful registration and login, select “Start Application” to begin the formal application process. The first section requires comprehensive personal information about the widow.
Your name and CNIC number will be pre-populated from the registration data. Enter your date of birth by referring to your CNIC. Provide your CNIC issue date and expiration date. These dates help verify the validity and authenticity of your identification.
Select your district from the dropdown menu listing all Punjab districts. Upon selection, choose your sub-district (Tehsil) and provide your complete residential address including street name and house number. State your religion and confirm your marital status as widow.
Provide your registered mobile number again to confirm it matches your CNIC registration. Click “Next” to proceed to address verification and district confirmation sections.
Address and Verification Details
The second section focuses on residential address details and geographic verification. Select the district where you permanently reside. Punjab Rehmat Card assists only permanent Punjab residents, so accurately specify your district of residence.
Choose your Tehsil (sub-district) from the available options. Provide your complete residential address in detail. This address is used for potential physical verification and record-keeping by the Social Welfare Department.
Confirm your religion, typically Islam for most applicants. Reconfirm your marital status as widow. These confirmations ensure all information aligns across sections.
After completing all required fields, click “Proceed to Declaration” to move to the final stage. The application system will display all entered information for final verification. Review each field carefully to identify and correct any errors before final submission.
Declaration and Legal Affidavit
The final section requires you to provide a formal declaration affirming the truthfulness of all provided information. This affidavit confirms that you are indeed a widow from a low-income household and that all stated information is accurate.
In the declaration, you acknowledge that you are eligible for Zakat assistance as per Islamic standards. You confirm that you are not employed by any government or semi-government institution and are not receiving any regular government assistance such as income support programs.
You declare that the provided mobile number is registered on your CNIC and that all information provided is accurate to the best of your knowledge. You acknowledge that providing false information constitutes grounds for application rejection and potential legal action.
After carefully reading the complete declaration, click the checkbox indicating you have reviewed and understood all terms. Then click “Submit Application” to finalize your submission. The system will display a confirmation message indicating successful submission along with your application reference number for future tracking.
Application Status Tracking
Once your application is submitted, return to the home page and select “Application Status” to monitor your application progress. The system displays your application reference number and current status.
Applications typically show one of three status indicators: “Application Submitted” indicating successful submission, “Under Verification” showing that NADRA and other authorities are verifying your information, or “Approved” confirming acceptance into the program.
The processing timeline typically ranges from two to four weeks, though urgent cases may be expedited. Fund disbursement occurs through JazzCash wallet transfer to your registered mobile number. You will receive SMS notification once funds are available in your wallet.
Alternative Web Portal Application
For applicants preferring to apply through a computer rather than mobile application, the official web portal provides identical functionality. Visit the Punjab Rehmat Card website and select “Register” to create an account using the same process as the mobile application.
The web portal offers larger screens and may be more convenient for elderly applicants or those with visual impairments. All information requirements remain identical between the mobile application and web portal.
Important Contact Information
For additional information or assistance with the application process, contact the official helpline at 107. This toll-free number provides support in Urdu and is staffed by officials trained in Rehmat Card procedures. The helpline operates during standard business hours and can address frequently asked questions about eligibility and application procedures.
Alternatively, visit the official website at rahmatkard.punjab.gov.pk for comprehensive information about the scheme, including frequently asked questions, eligibility verification tools, and downloadable documents.
Critical Reminders Before Application
Do not apply multiple times. Submitting duplicate applications may result in rejection and potential disqualification from future government assistance programs. Each individual should submit only one application.
Ensure your CNIC reflects current status. If you are widowed and your CNIC still shows “Married,” visit NADRA immediately to update your status. Processing will be delayed or rejected without current status documentation.
Verify your JazzCash wallet is active before applying. Contact your cellular service provider if you are uncertain about your wallet status. Funds cannot be disbursed to inactive accounts.
Do not provide false information. Government officials conduct random verification visits and cross-check information with NADRA and other databases. Fraudulent claims result in criminal charges and permanent disqualification from government assistance.
Application Deadline
Currently, the Rehmat Card application window extends until May 14 of each year, though this deadline may be extended or modified by the government. Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues or processing delays.
Expected Disbursement Timeline
After application submission, expect initial processing within two weeks. If selected for assistance, you will receive SMS notification to your registered mobile number confirming fund availability in your JazzCash wallet. Funds are typically disbursed within four to six weeks from the submission date for approved applications.
Once funds are available in your JazzCash wallet, you can withdraw them at any designated JazzCash agent location, transfer them to your bank account, or use them for digital purchases and bill payments.
Conclusion
The Punjab Rehmat Card scheme represents a significant government commitment to supporting widows and orphaned children across the province. By following this comprehensive guide, eligible applicants can successfully navigate the application process and access much-needed financial assistance. Remember to verify your eligibility status, gather all required documents, and apply before the deadline to ensure your inclusion in this beneficial program.
