Punjab Minister for Information and Culture, Azma Bokhari, has said that the participation of more than 300,000 citizens in the three-day “Ramazan Bachat Festival” reflects strong public trust in the government’s welfare initiatives.
Speaking to the media during her visit to the festival, she stated that more than 150 stalls were set up by multinational companies, renowned food chains, and local vendors, offering essential commodities at discounts of up to 20 percent. She emphasized that not a single complaint was received regarding prices, quality, or availability of goods.
She further highlighted that exemplary cleanliness arrangements were ensured under the “Suthra Punjab” campaign, and despite the attendance of hundreds of thousands of visitors, sanitation standards were effectively maintained.
Azma Bokhari announced that the Punjab government is launching a free Iftar program in every tehsil, providing meals to 2,000 people daily. She also shared that under the Nigahban Ramadan Card initiative of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, financial assistance of up to Rs10,000 is being provided to deserving families. Additionally, the Rashan Card amount has been increased from Rs3,000 to Rs10,000 for the month of Ramadan to ensure that laborers and sanitation workers can fully benefit during the holy month.
She stated that 160 special facilitation centers have been activated across Punjab, while 74 Ramadan bazaars are fully operational to provide maximum relief to citizens. In districts where permanent bazaars were previously unavailable, temporary arrangements have also been ensured.
Azma Bokhari noted that special facilities including a children’s play area and a free medical camp were also arranged at the festival. She congratulated Salma Butt and the concerned departments on the successful organization of the event and reaffirmed that the Punjab government remains committed to providing safe, quality, and affordable facilities to the public.
She added that despite the presence of thousands of visitors, no incidents of harassment or disorder was reported, reflecting the vision of a “Safe Punjab.” Women, children, and families participated in the event with confidence and comfort.
The Minister concluded by stating that the government aims to further improve Ramadan relief measures compared to last year and hinted that a similar festival may also be organized on the occasion of Eid to provide families with more opportunities to celebrate together.