Introduction
In a landmark decision aimed at supporting religious leaders and strengthening mosque infrastructure, the Punjab government has approved a monthly stipend for imams of approximately 65,000 mosques across the province. The announcement was made by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz during a high-level law and order meeting. The move has been hailed as a historic step toward recognizing the vital social and spiritual role of imams in Pakistani society.
The Decision at a Glance
The Punjab government will provide monthly stipends—reportedly Rs 25,000—to registered imams serving in mosques across the province. Nearly 65,000 mosques are expected to be covered under the scheme, making it one of the largest religious welfare programs in the country’s history.
Along with the stipend plan, the government also approved the inclusion of mosque construction and repair projects in the Annual Development Programme (ADP). The same meeting also announced the creation of a Cybercrime Cell and directed strict enforcement against the illegal use of loudspeakers.
Why the Move Matters
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz stated that imams hold deep respect in society and deserve financial security. She emphasized that it is “inappropriate for local communities to collect donations to pay the imam,” and that the government must ensure their dignity through state-backed support.
The initiative aims to:
- Provide financial stability to imams.
- Reduce dependency on local donations.
- Encourage community service and education by imams.
- Strengthen mosque infrastructure through government programs.
Implementation & How to Apply (Provisional)
While the scheme has been officially approved, official application guidelines are still pending. However, based on current information, the process will likely follow these steps:
- Registration with the Auqaf and Religious Affairs Department at district level.
- Verification of mosque and imam details by district authorities (Deputy/Assistant Commissioners).
- Submission of CNIC, proof of mosque registration, and bank account details.
- Monthly stipend transfers directly to bank accounts after verification.
Officials have hinted that local administrations may also conduct field visits to verify imam data before payments begin.
Statistical Overview
| Category | Details (as per reports) |
|---|---|
| Total mosques covered | 65,000 |
| Monthly stipend (estimated) | Rs 25,000 |
| Total monthly cost to government | Rs 1.625 billion |
| Estimated annual cost | Rs 19.5 billion |
| Administering department | Auqaf & Religious Affairs Department, Punjab |
| Additional measures | Mosque repairs in ADP, Cybercrime Cell, Loudspeaker control |
If implemented fully, this will be one of Pakistan’s largest religious welfare expenditures, directly supporting thousands of prayer leaders.
Graphs and Visual Insights
1. Budget Allocation Breakdown
Description: The majority of the projected annual budget—over 90%—will go toward imams’ stipends, while smaller shares will fund mosque infrastructure, cybercrime monitoring, and administrative costs.
2. Distribution of Mosques Across Punjab
Description: Lahore, Faisalabad, and Multan divisions have the highest concentration of mosques, while smaller districts collectively account for nearly 75% of total mosques in Punjab.
3. Projected Annual Expenditure Growth
Description: Based on inflation and possible expansion, annual costs could rise from Rs 19.5 billion in 2025 to Rs 23.8 billion by 2029, assuming stipend and beneficiary numbers remain constant.
Challenges and Concerns
While the initiative is widely appreciated, several challenges remain:
- Transparency: Ensuring only verified imams benefit.
- Budget sustainability: Nearly Rs 20 billion yearly is a significant commitment.
- Equity: Balancing benefits between urban and rural mosques.
- Political neutrality: Preventing favoritism or misuse of funds.
Experts recommend setting up digital audit systems and public reporting dashboards to track the scheme’s effectiveness and spending transparency.
Reactions and Social Impact
The program has received positive feedback from religious circles, many calling it a long-awaited recognition of their service. Clerics believe this initiative will promote unity, education, and moral awareness across Punjab.
Public reaction has been mixed—some praise it as a progressive welfare measure, while others question its timing amid economic challenges.
Conclusion
The Punjab Imam Stipend Program is a pioneering welfare initiative blending religious respect with economic support. If implemented transparently, it will enhance social stability, strengthen mosque institutions, and provide financial dignity to tens of thousands of imams.
The coming months will reveal how efficiently the government executes this ambitious plan, which may well become a model for other provinces in Pakistan.
