Ramzan package launch: atta absent from Utility Stores in Karachi

KARACHI: The federal government has introduced a Ramzan Package providing discounts on food items at utility stores, with atta flour notably absent from many, causing consumer inconvenience.

In Karachi, 19 essential items are being subsidized for those registered under the Benazir Income Support Fund (BISP).

However, at the launch in Karachi, flour was notably absent from most stores, despite being subsidized by over 50%.

Other subsidized items in the Ramzan package at utility stores include ghee oil, sugar, pulses, white gram, rice, besan, dates, canned milk, and beverages.

Federal cabinet approves Rs7.49 billion Ramzan Relief Package

Under the government’s subsidy, a 10 kg bag of flour is priced at Rs 648, compared to the market rate of Rs 1420. Similarly, sugar is Rs 190 instead of Rs 150, and ghee is discounted by Rs 25. Pulses and gram are discounted by Rs 25 per kg, while dates are Rs 50 per kg cheaper. Rice is available at a discounted price of Rs 25, tea at a reduced rate of Rs 100 for 800 grams, and Tetra Pack milk at Rs 30 off.

BISP registered individuals can purchase a maximum of 20 kg of flour, 5 kg of sugar, 5 kg of ghee, 3 kg of rice and pulses, and 5 liters of cooking oil per month.