The CM Punjab Honorarium Card 2026 has been introduced as a historic welfare initiative by the Punjab government to provide financial stability to religious leaders across the province. By transitioning from manual grants to a secure digital banking system, the state ensures that those serving in mosques receive their monthly dues with dignity and transparency.
What is the CM Punjab Honorarium Card?
The CM Punjab Honorarium Card 2026 (also known as the Azazia Card) is a dedicated financial support tool launched by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif. It is designed to provide a fixed monthly stipend of Rs. 25,000 to mosque Imams and Moazzins throughout Punjab.
This card functions as a standard debit card issued through the Bank of Punjab (BOP), allowing recipients to withdraw their monthly honorarium from any ATM across Pakistan. Unlike previous one-time grants, this card integrates religious leaders into a formal digital payment framework, ensuring that approximately 70,000 eligible individuals receive consistent financial support for their essential community services.
Also read the article : Hunarmand Punjab Scholarship Card 2026
Financial Benefits of the Honorarium Card
The scheme is designed to provide financial dignity and stability to religious leaders who previously relied on inconsistent local donations.
Monthly Stipend Details
A fixed amount of Rs. 25,000 is provided per month to ensure a baseline of financial security for religious leaders.
The “Zakat & Ushr” Exemption
The Rs. 25,000 stipend is officially classified as an Honorarium (Azazia), not a formal government salary. Because these funds are categorized as an honorarium, they are currently exempt from provincial income tax and do not impact your eligibility for the Kissan Card or other non-cash agricultural subsidies.
Payment Method and Processing
Funds are delivered via direct transfer to the Bank of Punjab (BOP) Honorarium Card account. For identity verification, the Initial Payment is typically issued as a physical Pay Order, which is then followed by automated digital monthly transfers.
The “1Link” Interoperability
While the CM Punjab Honorarium Card 2026 is branded by BOP, you are not restricted to their machines. You can withdraw your stipend from any 1Link ATM across Pakistan. However, using a BOP ATM will ensure zero transaction fees specifically for this welfare card, whereas other bank ATMs may apply standard service charges.
Withdrawal and Accessibility
Cardholders have the flexibility of 24/7 Withdrawal through any Bank of Punjab ATM or partner bank branches, making the funds accessible even in rural areas.
Eligibility Criteria for CM Punjab Honorarium Card
To ensure the Imam stipend scheme Punjab reaches genuine recipients, the following mandatory requirements must be met.
Professional Role and Service
Applicants must be an actively serving Imam or Moazzin in a mosque physically located within the boundaries of Punjab.
Mosque Registration Requirements
The mosque must be registered with the Auqaf Department or formally recognized by the local district administration or Union Council to qualify for the scheme.
The “Sect-Neutral” Registration Policy
The CM Punjab Honorarium Card 2026 is a non discriminatory initiative. CM Maryam Nawaz has explicitly stated that the card is available to Imams of all sects (Deobandi, Barelvi, Ahl-e-Hadith, Shia). Imams from all recognized schools of thought are eligible, provided they serve in a mosque recognized by the Auqaf Department or local Union Council.
Identity and Residency Verification
All applicants must possess a valid and active 13-digit CNIC and be a permanent resident of Punjab as verified by the NADRA database.
Exclusivity and Financial Compliance
Under the Exclusivity rule, the applicant should not be receiving a similar honorarium or salary from any other federal or provincial government welfare scheme.
How to Apply for CM Punjab Honorarium Card 2026
The registration process has been digitized to eliminate middlemen and ensure transparency. Follow these steps to enroll:
Step 1: Data Collection & Documentation
Gather the following documents before starting your application:
- Original CNIC and a clear photocopy.
- Mosque registration certificate or proof of appointment from the Mosque Committee.
- Two recent passport-size photographs.
- Active mobile number registered on the applicant’s CNIC.
Step 2: Registration Process
- Online Portal: Visit the official Auqaf Department Punjab portal or the designated Bank of Punjab (BOP) registration link.
- Form Submission: Enter your personal details, CNIC, and the specific registration number of your mosque.
- Verification: Your data will undergo cross-verification by NADRA (for identity) and the District Auqaf Committee (for mosque service).
Step 3: Verification & Card Issuance
Once the district-level scrutiny is complete, approved Imams will be notified via SMS. You will then be required to visit a designated Bank of Punjab branch for biometric verification and to collect your physical Honorarium Card.
The “Maryam Ki Dastak” Integration
For elderly Imams or those in remote areas, the CM Punjab Honorarium Card 2026 now offers home-based registration assistance through the “Maryam Ki Dastak” (Doorstep) App. If an Imam is unable to visit a BOP branch or Auqaf office due to age or health, they can request home-based biometric verification through the app. A government representative will visit the mosque or residence to complete the process.
The “Imam Khidmat” Training Synergy
In early 2026, the Auqaf Department linked the stipend to an optional “Imam Khidmat” Training Program focusing on Digital Literacy and Community Leadership. Imams who participate in this optional training may receive priority for higher-tier benefits, including interest-free house-building loans in future phases of the program.
Honorarium Card Status Check by CNIC
Applicants can track their progress in real-time through the official portal.
- Online Tracking: Visit the status check page and enter your 13-digit CNIC number.
- Status Indicators:
- In-Process: Your data is currently being verified by the Auqaf Department.
- Approved: Your card is ready for issuance.
- Incomplete: You must visit the nearest Auqaf office to resolve documentation errors.
How to Receive the CM Punjab Honorarium Card
The distribution of the card follows a specific security protocol to ensure the funds reach the correct individual.
Initial Pay Order Collection
Before the digital card is issued, the first installment of Rs. 25,000 is provided via a physical Pay Order. This document must be collected from the Office of the Assistant Commissioner (AC) in your respective tehsil. This step serves as the final physical verification of the Imam’s service at their designated mosque.
Biometric Verification and Card Pickup
After receiving the initial pay order under the CM Punjab Honorarium Card 2026, you will be directed to a designated Bank of Punjab (BOP) branch. You must undergo biometric verification (thumb impression) to activate your account. Once verified, the bank will issue your permanent Honorarium Debit Card, which will be used for all future monthly transfers.
Common Problems and Solutions
The “Quarterly Audit” Clause
To prevent fraud, the Auqaf Department has introduced a Quarterly Digital Audit. To keep your Honorarium Card active, the Mosque Committee must submit a simple “Service Confirmation” via the portal every three months. Failure to verify active service may result in a temporary payment hold until the District Auqaf Committee performs a physical check.
Mosque Not Registered Issues
If your mosque is not in the official database, the Mosque Committee must first apply for registration at the Assistant Commissioner’s (AC) office or the local Auqaf Department before you can proceed with your application.
CNIC Expiry and Data Sync
Ensure your CNIC is always updated for the CM Punjab Honorarium Card 2026; expired identities will automatically lead to a “Rejected” status in the NADRA sync, halting your payments.
Biometric and Payment Delays
In case of Payment Delays where your card is active but the balance is zero, visit a BOP branch immediately to verify your biometric status. Note that direct transfers usually occur within the first week of every month.
Conclusion
The Maryam Nawaz Honorarium Card 2026 is the first comprehensive financial support system for Imams in Punjab’s history. By integrating 70,000 mosques into a digital banking framework, the government is not only providing financial relief but also ensuring that religious scholars can focus on their community leadership roles without the stress of basic economic survival.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the monthly salary for Imams under the CM Punjab scheme?
The Punjab government provides a fixed monthly stipend of Rs. 25,000 to all registered and verified Imams through the Honorarium Card.
Can a Moazzin apply for the CM Punjab Honorarium Card?
Yes, the scheme explicitly covers both Imams and Moazzins who are actively serving in mosques across the province.
How do I check my Imam stipend status by CNIC?
You can visit the official Auqaf Department or Punjab IT Board (PITB) portal and enter your 13-digit CNIC number to see if your application is approved or in-process.
Is the Bank of Punjab the only bank involved?
The Bank of Punjab (BOP) is the official executing partner for account opening and card issuance, though you can use your card at any 1Link ATM.
What should I do if my mosque is not registered?
You must coordinate with your Mosque Committee to register the mosque with the local Auqaf office or Assistant Commissioner’s office, as registration is a prerequisite for the stipend.
Is there an age limit for the Punjab Imam Support Program?
There is no specific upper age limit; however, the applicant must be physically and mentally fit to perform their duties as an active Imam or Moazzin.
