CM Launches Honorarium Card Program for Mosque Imams

Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif has officially approved the launch of the “Chief Minister Punjab Honorarium Card” for all Imam Masjid Sahib across the province, marking a major step toward improving the welfare and financial stability of mosque Imams.

The approval was granted during a high-level meeting held on Wednesday, where the CM reviewed progress on the registration of Imams, security measures across Punjab, and various administrative reforms. A comprehensive briefing was presented to the Chief Minister regarding the mechanism and rollout plan of the new honorarium system.

Payments to Begin January 1, 2026

The CM directed that the first installment of honorarium payments will be issued starting January 1, 2026, through pay orders. From February 1, 2026, all payments will be transferred exclusively through the newly introduced Honorarium Card, eliminating manual methods and ensuring transparency.

Officials informed the meeting that 62,994 registration forms have already been submitted by Imams from across Punjab. Verification of these applicants is currently underway.

Honorarium Card Issuance to Be Completed by February 2026

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz instructed that the entire issuance process of the Honorarium Cards must be completed by February 2026. She strictly directed Assistant Commissioners to stay in direct coordination with mosque Imams and hold monthly meetings to address any administrative or welfare-related matters.

She emphasized that the registration process for Imams must continue without interruption, allowing those who missed earlier deadlines to still apply.

Strict Monitoring and Compliance Mechanisms

During the meeting, the CM was briefed that any Imam found involved in:

• Activities against national security,
• Moral misconduct, or
• Financial crimes

will have their honorarium immediately suspended.

The CM also ordered:

• Continuous combing operations in sensitive areas,
• Introduction of strict laws against damaging Safe City cameras and government property,
• Enhanced digital monitoring of individuals listed under the Fourth Schedule,
• Continued crackdown against illegally residing Afghan nationals.

Unique & Mandatory Requirements for Getting the Honorarium Card (Added as Requested)

In addition to the official criteria shared during the meeting, the following mandatory conditions are required for an Imam to qualify for the Honorarium Card:

Verified CNIC and Domicile of Punjab

The applicant must have a valid CNIC and proof of permanent residency in Punjab. Temporary residents will not be eligible.

Official Verification from Mosque Committee or Local Auqaf Department

Each Imam must submit a verification letter confirming:

• Their official position at the mosque
• Duration of service
• Conduct record and responsibilities

No Criminal Record Certificate (NADRA & Police Verification)

A clean police record is mandatory. Any involvement in legal or security issues will result in rejection.
Police Verification

Attendance in Monthly AC Meetings

Imams must attend the monthly meetings conducted by the Assistant Commissioner. Consistent absence may lead to suspension of benefits.

Registration in the Central Imam Database

Every applicant must be entered into the new Centralized Digital Imam Database, which will track service history, mosque details, and monthly honorarium payments.

Conduct & Compliance Agreement

Imams must sign a declaration confirming:

• They will not participate in any activity against national interest
• They will follow mosque management guidelines
• They will maintain ethical, peaceful, and responsible conduct

Bank Account Linked With Honorarium Card

A biometric-verified bank account must be connected to the Honorarium Card for digital payments starting February 2026.

Mandatory Re-Verification Every Year

All Imams receiving honorarium will undergo an annual re-verification to ensure that:

• They are still serving at the same mosque
• There is no change in conduct
• Their documents remain valid

Purpose of the Honorarium Card

The Honorarium Card is designed to:

• Ensure transparent and timely financial support
• Digitize the payment process
• Maintain a verified and updated record of all Imams
• Strengthen the religious administrative structure across Punjab