In a major initiative to support persons with disabilities (PWDs), the Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, has introduced the Himmat Card. This initiative aims to provide financial assistance to deserving PWDs, helping them meet their basic needs and live with greater independence.
Through this program, individuals who are unable to work due to their disabilities will receive a quarterly stipend of PKR 10,500. With a dedicated budget of PKR 2.658 billion, the government is committed to ensuring that the most vulnerable members of society receive the support they need. If you or someone you know is eligible for the Himmat Card, this guide will walk you through the process of applying.
What is the Himmat Card?
The Himmat Card is a government-issued card that provides PWDs with financial support and access to various services. Currently, the primary benefit of the card is a quarterly stipend of PKR 10,500, but additional services may be included in the future. This initiative is part of the Punjab government’s broader effort to promote inclusivity and empower individuals with disabilities.
Who is Eligible for the Himmat Card?
To qualify for the Himmat Card, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Certified Disability: The applicant must be certified as not fit to work by the Punjab Social Welfare Department.
- Not Currently Employed: The applicant must not be employed in any government or private organization.
- No Recent Financial Aid: The applicant should not have recently received aid from other programs such as Bait ul Maal, Zakat Fund, BISP (Benazir Income Support Program), or PSPA (Punjab Social Protection Authority).
- PMT Score of 45 or Below: The applicant’s Proxy Means Test (PMT) score, as issued by BISP, should be 45 or lower. This score is used to assess the financial status of applicants.
- Updated Personal Information: The applicant’s details, including their CNIC, address, mobile number, education, and work experience, must be updated in the Disabled Persons Management Information System (DPMIS). You can also check your eligibility on the official website here.
How to Apply for the Himmat Card: A Step-by-Step Process
If you meet the eligibility criteria, follow these steps to apply for the Himmat Card:
1. Obtain a Disability Certificate
The first step is to get a Disability Certificate from the Social Welfare Department of Punjab. This certificate confirms that you are not fit to work due to your disability, which is a key requirement for the Himmat Card.
2. Check Your PMT Score
Make sure your Proxy Means Test (PMT) score is 45 or below. This score is used to determine financial eligibility for various social welfare programs. If you don’t know your PMT score, you can check it through BISP or inquire at your local Social Welfare Office.
3. Update Your Information on DPMIS
Ensure that your basic personal information, such as your CNIC, address, mobile number, education, and work experience, is updated on the Disabled Persons Management Information System (DPMIS). This system keeps track of registered PWDs across Punjab and is a requirement for the Himmat Card.
4. Visit Your Local Social Welfare Office
Once you have your Disability Certificate and have ensured that your information is updated, visit the nearest District Social Welfare Office or a designated help desk. These offices are set up by the Punjab Social Welfare Department to assist PWDs in applying for the Himmat Card. Bring your necessary documents, including:
- CNIC
- Disability Certificate
- PMT score or relevant documentation
5. Field Verification
After submitting your application, a team of field verifiers will visit you to confirm the information you provided. This verification process is crucial to ensure that the Himmat Card reaches the most deserving individuals. It may take some time, as the government has deployed around 300 verifiers across Punjab to conduct these checks.
6. Open a Bank Account
Once your application is approved, you will need to open a bank account. The Bank of Punjab has partnered with the Social Welfare Department to help beneficiaries set up accounts. Camp sites have been established at the tehsil level to make this process easier. You will be guided through the steps to open an account during this phase.
7. Receive Your ATM Card
After opening your bank account, you will receive an ATM card. This card will allow you to withdraw your quarterly stipend of PKR 10,500 from any ATM or Branchless Banking Partner without incurring any additional charges. This feature ensures that you can access your funds easily and manage them independently.
Lastly,
The Himmat Card is a significant step forward in promoting inclusivity and empowering persons with disabilities in Punjab. By offering financial assistance and ensuring accessibility to services, the government is helping PWDs lead more independent and dignified lives. If you or a loved one qualifies for the Himmat Card, the application process is straightforward and designed to ensure that help reaches those who need it most.
For more information, visit your nearest Social Welfare Office or call the Punjab Social Welfare Department for guidance. Through ongoing efforts like the Himmat Card, the Punjab government is creating a more inclusive society where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can thrive.
