- Says provision of relief to daily wagers is govt’s top priority
ISLAMABAD, April 13: Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday appealed to overseas Pakistanis to donate generously in the ‘PM Relief Fund for COVID-19’ to help the government cope with the ongoing health crisis in the country.
In a video message released on Monday, the prime minister noted that the entire world is struggling against the COVID-19 pandemic.
The lockdown has adversely affected the world economy, resulting in growing poverty across the globe, especially in developing countries like Pakistan, he remarked.
The prime minister urged overseas Pakistanis to help their brethren in need.
“Donate generously and help the government win this war against corona[virus],” he said.
Earlier, Special Advisor to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Overseas Pakistanis Zulfi Bukhari had met PM Imran to discuss the initiative.
A special online portal has also been launched, through which expats can easily donate up to $35 or more for Pakistan. The amount can be donated on a monthly basis as well. Additionally, as a token of appreciation, the authorities have also decided to publish the names of donors on the website to encourage the spirit of generosity and national responsibility.
Pakistan has allocated Rs150 billion to provide relief to those worst affected by the lockdown. A cash grant of Rs12,000 will be given to over 12 million families across the country after registration and screening under the government’s Ehsaas programme.
Prime Minister Imran Khan said that the provision of relief to impoverished segments of society – including labourers, daily wagers and common people – is the top priority of the government.
The meeting, chaired by prime minister in Islamabad on Monday, reviewed implementation of the economic stimulus package announced by government to support economic activities in the country.
The premier was informed that around Rs25 billion have immediately been released to National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) for prevention, diagnosis and treatment of corona affected people, whereas Rs50 billion have been earmarked for the procurement of medical equipment and provision of facilities to medical staff.
About Rs15 billion were allocated for rebate in taxes on food items and goods relating to health sector and Rs10 bn of the allocated funds have so far been used in the process, the meeting was informed. With Rs6 billion been provided to expand the network of shelter homes, the meeting was informed that Rs70 billion are allocated to provide ease to the common people in petrol and diesel prices.-TLTP/Agencies
