The Balochistan government has launched the Peoples Minority Card Balochistan program to support the socio-economic development of minority communities, offering healthcare, education, employment opportunities, and phased financial assistance for low-income families.
The Balochistan government has approved the launch of the Peoples Minority Card aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions of minority communities in the province.
Under the initiative, minority households will receive support in healthcare, education, employment, and small-business development. Financial assistance will also be provided in phases to low-income families.
The decision was taken during a consultative meeting chaired by Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti, which approved the initial framework of the programme. The provincial government has allocated Rs500 million for the Minority Endowment Fund in the current fiscal year, with plans to increase this amount to Rs1 billion in the next budget.
Chief Minister Bugti said that protecting minority rights and ensuring their welfare remains a top government priority. “The Peoples Minority Card will serve as a practical step toward promoting social harmony and equality in Balochistan,” he stated.
To ensure transparency, a digital monitoring system will be introduced. The policy framework is being finalised in consultation with minority representatives.
According to provincial estimates, minorities make up around one percent of Balochistan’s population, with a majority belonging to economically vulnerable, daily-wage-earning households.
Speaking to Balochistan Pulse, Sanjay Kumar, Parliamentary Secretary for Minority Affairs, termed the government’s decision timely and significant. He said nearly 40 percent of the minority community in the province faces economic hardship.
“The Peoples Minority Card will bring a ray of hope for vulnerable families. It will not only provide financial support but also strengthen minorities’ trust in the state,” Kumar said. He added that the initiative would help bridge social gaps between communities. “Just like the white and green in our national flag stand side by side, such steps will bring hearts closer and promote interfaith harmony.”
Experts view the launch of the card as an example of expanding the welfare-state model at the provincial level. They believe that sustained implementation and transparent utilisation of funds could help foster economic resilience, religious tolerance, and public trust in state institutions.
