In 2024, the governments of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) have taken significant steps to support their citizens through the Free Atta Scheme, aimed at providing essential relief to those in need. This initiative is particularly targeted at families with an income of less than 60,000 PKR, ensuring they have access to basic food supplies without financial burden. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to check for updates and apply for the scheme online.
Free Atta Scheme Overview
The Free Atta Scheme is part of the broader Ehsaas program, designed to alleviate the economic strain on lower-income families by offering them free wheat flour (Atta). This initiative is especially crucial during times of inflation and economic hardship, providing a much-needed safety net for the most vulnerable segments of society.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Free Atta Scheme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a resident of Punjab or KP.
- Have a monthly income of less than 60,000 PKR.
- For residents of KP, registration with the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) is also a prerequisite.
How to Apply
- Online Registration: Applicants must have a valid 14-digit Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) number. The process involves sending the CNIC number along with a registered mobile number to 8070, including the keyword “Atta”. This SMS-based registration is straightforward and accessible, ensuring wide participation.
- Web Portal: For those with internet access, the 8070 Free Atta Web Portal offers another avenue for registration. It’s important to note that there is no official app for the scheme, so applicants should avoid downloading any apps claiming to be associated with the Free Atta Scheme. Instead, focus on the web portal and SMS-based registration methods.
Application Process
- Visit the official website for the scheme (for KP residents, it’s www.freeatta.kp.gov.pk).
- Enter your CNIC number and mobile number to verify your eligibility.
Follow the instructions to complete your registration.
- Key Dates: Registration for the Free Atta Scheme typically opens in March, with specific dates announced annually. Keep an eye on official announcements to ensure you don’t miss the registration window.
Additional Information
- The scheme provides three 10kg bags of Atta per eligible family.
- Distribution is done through registered stores and utility points.
- No separate app is required for registration or to check eligibility.
Eligibility criteria for the free atta scheme
The eligibility criteria for the Free Atta Scheme are as follows:
- Applicants must be Pakistani citizens.
- They must have a monthly household income of less than 60,000 PKR
- Applicants must be registered with either the Punjab Social Protection Authority (PSPA) or the Benazir Income Support
Program (BISP)
- A valid Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) is required for registration.
- For residents of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), being registered with BISP is a prerequisite for eligibility
Process for applying the free atta scheme
To apply for the Free Atta Scheme, the process is relatively straightforward and can be completed through SMS or by visiting designated distribution points.
Here are the steps to apply
SMS Registration
- You can easily Open the messaging app on your phone.
- Type your 14-digit CNIC number followed by the keyword “Atta”.
- Send this message to 8070.
- Wait for a response SMS that will inform you about your eligibility and further instructions.
Web Portal Registration (For KP Residents)
- Visit the official website provided for the KP residents (www.freeatta.kp.gov.pk).
- Enter your CNIC number and other required details to check your eligibility and register for the scheme.
Distribution Points
If you are eligible, you can collect your free Atta from designated distribution points, which may include utility stores, truck points, or outlets registered under the Punjab Social Protection Authority (PSPA).
Utility Stores
- Visit your nearest utility store.
- Fill out an application form with your details, including your CNIC number.
- Submit the form to the staff at the store.
You will receive a confirmation SMS with details on how much Atta you are entitled to and when to collect it.
Duration of the free atta scheme
The duration of the Free Atta Scheme, as per the information provided, was specifically for the month of Ramadan in the year 2024. It commenced on the 25th of Shaban and continued until the 25th of Ramzan. During this period, eligible families received three 10kg bags of free Atta, distributed in three separate installments.
The scheme was designed to provide relief to low-income families during the holy month, helping them cope with the increased food prices that typically occur during this time. The scheme ended on the 25th of Ramzan, which was the 16th of April 2024, and applications submitted after this date were not eligible to receive free Atta from the scheme
Free atta scheme is available
The Free Atta Scheme was not available in all provinces of Pakistan. The scheme was specifically announced for the poor in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) provinces.
It was part of a ‘Ramadan package’ aimed at providing relief to low-income families during the holy month of Ramadan. There is no indication in the provided search results that the scheme was extended to other provinces such as Sindh, Balochistan, or Gilgit-Baltistan.
Documents are required
To apply for the Free Atta Scheme, the following documents are required:
- A valid Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) for Pakistani nationals.
- Proof of income, such as a payslip or bank statement, to demonstrate that the monthly household income is less than 60,000 PK.
- For online registration, clear images of your property ownership documents (if applicable) and your CNIC ID card need to be uploaded.
Conclusion
The Free Atta Scheme is a testament to the government’s commitment to supporting its citizens during challenging times. By providing essential food supplies to those in need, the scheme plays a crucial role in ensuring food security and alleviating poverty. If you meet the eligibility criteria, follow the application process outlined above to take advantage of this valuable initiative.
