The Punjab government has launched a major welfare initiative aimed at supporting mosque prayer leaders across the province. Under the Punjab Imam Honorarium Scheme, registered mosque imams will now receive a monthly honorarium of Rs25,000, providing long-awaited financial stability to thousands of religious leaders.
The announcement, made in January 2026, is being seen as a significant step toward recognizing the social and community role of imams, especially in underserved areas.
What Is the Punjab Imam Honorarium Scheme?
The Punjab Imam Honorarium Scheme is a provincial welfare program introduced by the Chief Minister of Punjab. Its main goal is to provide dignified financial support to mosque imams who lead prayers, teach religious education, and play a key role in maintaining community harmony.
Many imams rely on small donations. This scheme ensures a fixed monthly income, allowing them to focus fully on religious and social duties.
Monthly Honorarium Amount and Payment Method
How Much Will Imams Get?
Each eligible imam will receive Rs25,000 per month as a fixed honorarium.
How Will Payments Be Made?
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January 2026 payments started through pay orders
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From February 1, 2026, payments will be made via Honorarium Cards
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Cards can be used at ATMs for easy cash withdrawal
The government has linked payments with verified CNICs to ensure transparency.
Who Is Eligible for the Scheme?
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Punjab Imam Honorarium Scheme, applicants must:
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Be a serving mosque imam in Punjab
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Complete official registration
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Pass verification by local administration
Imams involved in illegal, financial, or moral misconduct are not eligible and may be removed from the program.
So far, over 62,000 imams have completed registration, while the province has nearly 80,000 mosques.
How to Apply for the Imam Honorarium
Registration Process
Imams can apply through official government channels by:
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Filling out the Imam Masjid Registration Form
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Submitting CNIC and mosque details
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Completing verification via local authorities
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Receiving confirmation for the honorarium card
Registration is handled through district administrations and mosque committees to make the process simple and accessible.
Why This Scheme Matters
Mosque imams are central figures in society. They guide communities, resolve disputes, and educate youth. Despite this, many face financial hardship.
This scheme:
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Supports imam households
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Encourages social stability
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Strengthens community leadership
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Promotes dignity for religious service
It is one of the largest imam welfare initiatives in Pakistan’s history.
Oversight and Transparency Measures
To prevent misuse, the Punjab government has formed:
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Mosque Management Committees
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Tehsil-level oversight teams
Any complaint or misconduct can lead to immediate suspension of the honorarium.
Latest Updates and Timeline
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Payments began: January 1, 2026
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Honorarium card rollout: February 2026
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Verification process: Ongoing
Officials aim to complete full registration without delays.
FAQs for Punjab Imam Honorarium Scheme
1. What is the Punjab Imam Honorarium Scheme?
It is a Punjab government program providing Rs25,000 monthly to registered mosque imams.
2. When did payments start?
Payments began in January 2026.
3. How are payments received?
Via pay orders initially, then through honorarium ATM cards.
4. Who can apply for the scheme?
Verified mosque imams serving in Punjab.
5. Can the honorarium be stopped?
Yes, in cases of misconduct or false information.
