ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday increased the Ramadan relief package to Rs12.5 billion ($44.8 million), his office said, as Islamabad scrambles to provide relief to the masses by lowering the prices of essential items amid staggering inflation. 

Pakistan’s national and provincial administrations typically announce Ramadan packages ahead of the Muslim fasting month to provide relief to the public. These packages mostly reduce prices of essential food items such as flour, sugar, lentils, milk and dates through utility stores and other outlets to ease the burden of increased food consumption during Ramadan. 

They also include special Ramadan bazaars to help low- and middle-income families access other necessities. 

On Thursday, Sharif unveiled a Rs7.5 billion ($26.8 million) Ramadan relief package for the masses ahead of the holy month, during which millions of Muslims all over the world fast from dawn till sunset. 

“The prime minister has increased the volume of Ramadan relief package from Rs7.5 billion to Rs12.5 billion,” the PMO said. 

“Apart from increasing the volume of the package, he has also directed for its scope to be enhanced.”

The PMO said utility stores, Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) and mobile units will provide food items at low prices under the package to deserving families in Pakistan.

Sharif directed authorities to deliver food packages to as many poor people as possible.

“From the first of Ramadan till its end, food items will be provided at lower rates compared to the markets,” the PMO said.

Pakistan’s inflation rate was recorded at 23.1 percent in February, marking its lowest level since June 2022, on an annual basis despite surging food and energy costs, official data revealed this month. 

Pakistan continues to face historically high inflation, though the situation has improved from the all-time high level of 38 percent recorded last year in May.