Punjab Minority Card 2026
Great news for minorities living in Punjab. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif launched the Punjab Minority Card on 22 January 2025, and the program is continuing in 2026 with an expanded quota. Under this welfare initiative of the Human Rights and Minorities Affairs Department, eligible minority families receive Rs 10,500 every three months. The department runs registration in phases through the official portal; therefore, applicants should check the portal or call helpline 1040 for the current phase.
Maryam Nawaz first announced the Minority Card at a Christmas ceremony in Lahore, where she praised the Christian community’s contributions to Pakistan. She then formally launched the card on 22 January 2025. Notably, she said it was the first time in Pakistan’s history that a provincial government was issuing minority cards.
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She said that if I had the chance, I would increase the budget for minorities by 5,000 percent. All my focus is on creating a society where you do not have to fear that someone will kill you or burn your house. No matter what religion you belong to, I am the Chief Minister of all. At the ceremony, Maryam Nawaz cut a special Christmas cake and also congratulated the Christian community on behalf of herself and PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif.
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Financial Support for Minority Families
As part of this initiative, the Punjab government provides financial assistance to deserving minority families in the province. Each eligible family receives Rs 10,500 every three months (quarterly) through the Human Rights and Minorities Affairs Department. The program started with 50,000 families in 2025 and has now expanded to 100,000 families in 2026. Consequently, this groundbreaking step is uplifting marginalized communities across Punjab. For step-by-step help, see our Minority Card registration guide.
While addressing the launch ceremony, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif said that for the first time in the country’s history, the Punjab government was issuing a minority card. Under this program, deserving people of the minority community receive Rs 10,500 through the card every three months.
All deserving minority families who hold a Minority Card receive Rs 10,500 every three months, which totals Rs 42,000 per year. The complete registration procedure is explained below. If you meet the Minority Card 2026 eligibility criteria, you can also receive this financial assistance from the Punjab government. Moreover, the Punjab budget for 2026-27 allocated Rs 3 billion to continue the program. For more background, read our detailed Rs 10,500 quarterly aid report.
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Eligibility Criteria for the Minority Card
The minority card is specifically designed for the residents of Punjab province belonging to minority communities such as Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, and others. Below are the eligibility requirements:
- Residency: The applicant must be a permanent resident of Punjab province.
- Minority Status: Only individuals from minority religions are eligible to apply.
- CNIC and Mobile Number: A valid Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) and a mobile number are mandatory.
- Family Head: The applicant must be the head of the family.
- PMT Score: The applicant’s Proxy Means Test (PMT) score must be 45 or less. You can obtain this score from the nearest BISP/NSER service center or their website.
- Other Assistance Programs: Applicants should not already be receiving financial support from programs like BISP or PSPA.
- Family Registration: The applicant must ensure that their family information is correctly registered (NADRA family record) before applying through the official portal mcard.punjab.gov.pk.
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Registration Process and Helpline
Online registration for the Minority Card is conducted in phases through the official portal. The previously announced registration windows have now closed. Therefore, eligible applicants should visit mcard.punjab.gov.pk to check the current phase. For assistance with registration, individuals can contact the helpline at 1040 during office hours.
A Special Commitment to Minorities
During the ceremony, Maryam Nawaz highlighted her dedication to fostering an inclusive society. She expressed her intent to significantly increase the budget for minority welfare programs and reaffirmed her commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of every citizen in Punjab.
This initiative, part of the Punjab government’s broader social welfare agenda, reflects its dedication to empowering underprivileged communities and promoting harmony across the province.
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FAQs
What is the Minority Card, announced by the Punjab Government?The Minority Card is a welfare initiative of the Punjab government that provides Rs 10,500 every three months to deserving minority families. The program started with 50,000 families in 2025 and expanded to 100,000 families in 2026.
Who can apply for the Minority Card?
Residents of Punjab belonging to minority communities, such as Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, and others who meet the eligibility criteria, can apply.
What are the key eligibility criteria for the Minority Card?
Applicants must have a valid CNIC, be the head of their family, and have a PMT score of 45 or less. They should not be receiving financial aid from other programs like BISP or PSPA.
How can I register for the Minority Card?You can register online through the official portal mcard.punjab.gov.pk whenever a registration phase is open. The previously announced windows (including December 2024–January 2025) have closed; therefore, check the portal or call helpline 1040 for the next phase.
Is there a helpline for assistance?
Yes, you can call the helpline at 1040 during office hours for registration guidance.
Conclusion
The Minority Card scheme by the Punjab government is a good step toward supporting underprivileged minority families in the province. This program not only provides Rs 10,500 in quarterly financial aid but also promotes inclusivity and equality. Eligible families are encouraged to register online through the official portal whenever a new phase opens. For the latest updates, follow 8171 BISP Information and ensure your family details are correctly registered.
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