Gilgit Baltistan Approves PKR 76.5 Million Zakat Fund

In a significant step toward enhancing transparency and support for vulnerable communities, Chief Secretary of Gilgit-Baltistan, Abrar Ahmed Mirza, has approved a substantial PKR 76.5 million Zakat fund during the 55th meeting of the Provincial Zakat Council. This allocation, aimed at uplifting deserving families across the region’s remote districts, underscores the administration’s commitment to equitable welfare distribution amid ongoing economic challenges.

Held on September 30, 2025, at the Chief Secretary Conference Hall in Gilgit, the session marked a pivotal moment for social protection in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), a federally administered territory known for its rugged terrains and underserved populations. The meeting, which began with a recitation of the Holy Quran, brought together key stakeholders including Secretary Excise & Taxation and Zakat & Ushr, Rahman Shah; Additional Secretary Finance; Administrator Zakat & Ushr, Iqbal Jan; and representatives from all district-level Zakat committees. Discussions centered on streamlining Zakat collection, digitalizing distribution processes, and addressing bottlenecks to ensure aid reaches those in need promptly.

Key Approvals and Digital Transformation Push

At the heart of the agenda was the approval of PKR 76,502,736—precisely seventy-six million five hundred two thousand seven hundred thirty-six rupees—for the fiscal year 2025-26. This fund will be disbursed to eligible beneficiaries (mustahiq) through a tiered system: from the Provincial Zakat Council to District Zakat Committees, and finally to Local Zakat Committees at the grassroots level. Approximately 60% of the funds are earmarked for direct community-level distribution, prioritizing categories such as the destitute, orphans, widows, the disabled, and those facing medical hardships.

A highlight was the detailed briefing by Secretary Rahman Shah on GB’s evolving digital Zakat system. Launched to combat inefficiencies and corruption, this platform enables real-time tracking of applications, approvals, and payouts via a centralized database. Challenges like limited internet access in high-altitude valleys were acknowledged, with plans to integrate mobile apps and SMS alerts for broader reach. “Transparency is non-negotiable,” emphasized Chief Secretary Mirza. “We must leverage technology to ensure every rupee of Zakat fulfills its divine purpose—alleviating poverty and fostering dignity.”

The Broader Context: Zakat’s Role in Gilgit-Baltistan’s Welfare Landscape

Zakat, one of Islam’s five pillars, mandates annual giving of 2.5% of eligible wealth to support the underprivileged. In Pakistan, it forms a cornerstone of non-state social welfare, with national collections exceeding PKR 619 billion annually—outpacing many government programs in reach and impact. For Gilgit-Baltistan, home to over 1.5 million residents across 10 districts, Zakat is particularly vital. The territory’s economy relies heavily on tourism, agriculture, and remittances, but geographic isolation exacerbates poverty rates, estimated at 40% in rural areas.

Historically, the Provincial Zakat Council, established under federal ordinances in the 1980s, has overseen allocations tailored to GB’s needs. Past budgets, such as the PKR 120 million approved in 2019, focused on education stipends and health aid. This year’s figure, while modest compared to national totals, represents a 20-30% increase from prior years, reflecting post-flood recovery efforts and inflation adjustments. Funds will likely support over 10,000 households, based on average per-beneficiary payouts of PKR 5,000-7,000, enabling essentials like food, schooling, and shelter repairs—critical in a region prone to natural disasters.

Anticipated Impact and Community Empowerment

The ripple effects of this approval extend beyond immediate relief. Studies on Zakat distribution highlight its role in boosting household incomes by 15-20%, reducing malnutrition, and enhancing female empowerment through targeted aid for widows and single mothers. In GB, where women’s literacy lags at 40%, such initiatives could fund vocational training and micro-enterprises, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals for poverty eradication.

Local leaders have welcomed the move. “This isn’t just funding—it’s hope for our forgotten valleys,” noted a district committee representative. To maximize benefits, the council plans quarterly audits and community feedback mechanisms, ensuring accountability.

As Gilgit-Baltistan navigates fiscal constraints, this Zakat infusion signals a proactive welfare strategy. Residents seeking eligibility can apply via district offices or the upcoming digital portal, with distribution slated to begin in November 2025.