The Punjab Government is set to launch two crucial welfare programs: the Widow Card and the Ration Card, aimed at supporting low-income families, particularly widows and those without stable income, with registration through the PSER survey mandatory.
What Is PSER?
Punjab Socio-Economic Registry (PSER) Relaunch
• Province-wide survey collecting data on families’ financial, social, and household conditions.
• Relaunched on April 23, 2025, to include new families and update older data.
• Conducted by PSER teams (door-to-door).
• Purpose: Register families for upcoming welfare programs.
• Programs linked: Widow Card, Ration Card, other Punjab welfare schemes.
• Coverage: All districts of Punjab (phase-wise).
| Program | Purpose | How to Register | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| PSER Survey | Collects household data for welfare eligibility | Door-to-door by PSER teams | Access to the Widow Card, Ration Card, and other programs |
| Widow Card | Support for widows without income | Through the PSER survey | Monthly cash, free medical aid, welfare priority |
| Ration Card | Aid for low-income families for food essentials | Through PSER survey | Subsidized/free flour, sugar, ghee, rice, pulses |
| Registration Docs | Required for PSER participation | Shown to PSER team during visit | CNICs, B-Forms, Death Certificate (for widows) |
How the PSER Survey Works
PSER Survey Process
• PSER teams visit areas for surveys.
• Areas are informed in advance.
• Survey questions include household income, employment status, number of children, education, and health status.
• Required documents include original CNICs, B-Forms, and the widow’s death certificate.
• Tip: Prepare all documents before the visit.
Documents Needed to Register
PSER Survey Registration Requirements:
• Original CNIC of the household head.
• CNICs of all adult family members.
• B-Form for each child (issued by NADRA).
• Husband’s Death Certificate for widow applicants.
What Do Ration Cards and Widow Cards Serve?
Widow and Ration Cards Overview
• Widow Card: Monthly cash assistance, free medical aid, priority access to welfare programs.
• Ration Card: Subsidized or free ration items like flour, sugar, ghee, rice, and pulses.
FAQs
The Punjab PSER Survey: What is it?
The Punjab Socio-Economic Registry, or PSER for short, is a survey that gathers information for focusing social initiatives throughout the state.
How can I apply for a widow’s card?
You are not yet able to apply directly. The government will immediately issue the Widow Card if you are eligible after completing the PSER survey.
Can I register for PSER online?
No. Field teams come to your house to complete the PSER registration in person.
What if I fail to complete the survey?
When your region is being surveyed, it is crucial to participate since you may not be eligible for new assistance programs.