Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has officially launched the Rs. 25,000 Honorarium Card scheme for mosque imams, describing it as a major step in welfare for religious leaders.
This new initiative is designed to support the livelihoods of imams by providing them with a steady monthly income. Under the program, around 70,000 imams across Punjab will receive Rs. 25,000 every month directly into their bank accounts.
The government has planned for the card distribution to be fully completed by February 2026. After that, all honorarium payments will be made exclusively through Bank of Punjab ATMs, ensuring a secure and streamlined transfer process.
The Punjab government has allocated more than Rs1.2 billion each year to fund this scheme, reflecting its commitment to the welfare of religious scholars who play an important role in society.
CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif highlighted the crucial role that imams have in guiding communities and promoting social harmony.
She stressed that while the government is committed to supporting religious leaders, the honorarium will be suspended for any imam found to be involved in activities that are against the state or considered unethical.
This initiative is part of the Punjab government’s broader focus on welfare programs aimed at uplifting key community figures and providing financial stability to those who serve society.
By ensuring regular and direct payments to imams, the program aims to make their work more sustainable and recognized, while also encouraging ethical and responsible conduct in their communities.
