Punjab Launches Honorary Cards for Imams, Offering Monthly Stipends
In a landmark initiative, the Punjab government has announced the launch of a new program to provide financial support to mosque imams across the province. Under this scheme, registered imams will receive monthly stipends through specially issued “Honorary Cards,” a move aimed at ensuring financial stability and recognizing the vital role these religious leaders play in their communities.
12/3/20252 min read
What the Program Entails
The “Imam Masjid Honorary Card” program will enable eligible mosque imams to receive a monthly stipend of Rs 25,000. The program rollout is planned in phases:
January 1, 2026 – Initial payments will be made via pay-orders.
February 1, 2026 – Stipends will be disbursed directly through the Honorary Card system.
The registration process has already seen impressive participation, with nearly 63,000 imams across Punjab submitting their forms. The government is currently verifying these applications to ensure that only eligible candidates receive the stipend.
Eligibility and Oversight
To maintain transparency and accountability, the program includes several safeguards:
Only verified and registered imams are eligible for the stipend.
Imams involved in activities against national or moral interests, or those found guilty of financial or ethical misconduct, will have their benefits revoked.
Mosque Management Committees and Tehsil-level committees will oversee the administration of mosques and disbursement of stipends.
District-level administrators, including Assistant Commissioners, will hold monthly meetings with registered imams to address concerns and ensure proper implementation.
Why This Matters
For many imams, particularly those in smaller towns and rural areas, income can be limited and inconsistent. By providing a reliable monthly stipend, the Punjab government is offering financial security and dignity to religious leaders who serve their communities every day.
The program also represents a broader effort to institutionalize support for mosque leaders, reducing reliance on public donations and creating a standardized framework for imam welfare across the province.
Community Response
The overwhelming registration response demonstrates strong interest among imams. Once verification is complete, thousands of religious leaders in urban and rural areas alike will benefit from this initiative, strengthening community ties and ensuring mosque administration is well-supported.
Punjab’s Honorary Card initiative is a historic step in supporting religious leadership and enhancing the social infrastructure of the province. By recognizing the contributions of imams and providing them with stable financial support, the government is fostering a more secure and organized environment for religious and community activities.
Disclaimer
This update is shared based on publicly available information. VOTG News is not responsible for any decisions made based on this news. The image is AI-generated only for illustration