Record Decline in Free Ramadan Ration Distribution This Year

At the start of Ramadan this year, free ration distribution to deserving families has dropped to its lowest level in three years as record inflation forces small social organizations to step back.

Many small city-based groups that previously distributed free rations annually have either halted operations or reduced aid by 30 to 50 percent.

Organizations that once supported 200 to 300 families have cut their outreach to around 100 families. They have also reduced the quantity of items in Ramadan gift packs.

However, Jamaat-e-Islami and its subsidiary organizations continue to play a prominent role in free ration distribution, while most smaller NGOs struggle to sustain the practice due to rising costs.

According to social organization secretary general Hafiz Haji Naveed Khan, a Ramadan gift pack that previously cost between Rs3,000 and Rs3,500 now costs Rs7,000 to Rs8,000.

Despite soaring prices, funding has not increased. In fact, contributions from wealthy donors have declined.

He said smaller NGOs that once supported 100 families have completely withdrawn from ration distribution.

Larger organizations and individual donors have reduced both the number of beneficiaries and the quantity of items, with some goods limited to half or one kilogram. A large juice bottle now costs Rs800.

This year, instead of distributing gift packs, his organization provided Rs2,000 cash envelopes to deserving families. Government-supplied subsidized flour was excluded from packs due to quality concerns.

Prices of pulses, gram flour, cooking oil, dates and flour have reached record highs. Many deserving families, especially women, faced difficulties while seeking free rations across the city.

A resident, R. Begum, said a local personality in Jhanda Chichi used to distribute free rations annually, benefiting many women. Last year, fewer families received assistance, and this year, no distribution took place.

Due to the decline in ration support, a growing number of citizens have decided to break their fast at mosques and free dastarkhwans this Ramadan.