Author: M. Imran Nadeem
Published: October 6, 2023 | Updated: September 6, 2025
Introduction
The Chota Karobar Imdadi Package was launched to support Pakistan’s small traders and low-income workers whose livelihoods were badly affected by lockdowns and economic slowdowns. Under this initiative, the government announced Rs. 75 billion in relief, targeting small shopkeepers, self-employed individuals, and micro-business owners.
Through this package, beneficiaries can receive Rs. 12,000 cash assistance and three months of electricity bill coverage, helping them restart businesses without additional financial pressure.
Key Objectives of the Package
- Provide direct financial relief to small businesses hit hardest by restrictions.
- Cover electricity bills for three months to reduce operational costs.
- Ensure that millions of low-income families and shopkeepers excluded from Ehsaas Emergency Cash can still get support.
- Prevent closures of small shops and create financial breathing space.
Ehsaas Chota Karobar Imdadi Package 2023 – Details
The package was approved by the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of Pakistan. The Federal Minister for Industries and Production, Hammad Azhar, announced that the government would take responsibility for the electricity bills of small shopkeepers and traders.
- Beneficiaries: Around 4–6 million families.
- Relief Amount: Rs. 12,000 for eligible families.
- Utility Benefit: Free electricity for May, June, and July bills (based on previous year’s consumption).
- Duration: Applicable for six months from May 2020 (can be availed anytime within the period).
Benefits of the Chota Karobar Program
- Cash Assistance: Rs. 12,000 per family.
- Free Electricity Bills: Three months’ worth of bills paid directly into the accounts of small business owners.
- Targeted Relief: Focuses on daily wage earners, shopkeepers, tailors, barbers, mechanics, and vendors who lost income during closures.
- Ease of Access: Benefits disbursed through transparent Ehsaas mechanisms.
How to Apply for Chota Karobar Imdadi Package
The government announced that a dedicated online portal will be launched for registrations.
Expected Application Steps:
- Visit the official Ehsaas/Chota Karobar portal (link will be shared by the government).
- Enter your CNIC number.
- Provide business details (such as shop name, address, and electricity consumer number).
- Upload supporting documents if required (e.g., electricity bill, shop registration, or rent agreement).
- Submit the form and wait for verification.
- If approved, you will receive confirmation via SMS or portal notification.
Until the portal is officially live, small business owners are advised to keep their documents ready and follow updates from Ehsaas and PSPA official websites.
Who is Eligible?
- Shopkeepers and small traders with monthly commercial electricity bills under a defined limit.
- Families not already receiving Ehsaas Emergency Cash.
- Daily wage workers linked with micro or small enterprises.
- Individuals with a valid CNIC registered with NADRA.
Example: How This Helps a Small Shopkeeper
Imagine a barber in Lahore paying an average of Rs. 3,500 per month in electricity bills. During lockdown, he had no income but still had to pay rent and bills. Under this package, his three months of electricity bills are waived and he also receives Rs. 12,000 cash support, making it easier to restart his salon once restrictions ease.
This example shows how the package directly supports real people struggling to recover.
Challenges and Expectations
- Awareness Gap: Many small shopkeepers in rural areas may not know how to apply.
- Verification Delays: Ensuring fair distribution will require strong monitoring.
- Sustainability: One-time relief may not be enough if economic challenges continue.
Still, the package is a crucial first step in rebuilding small businesses and protecting vulnerable communities.
Related Programs
- Ehsaas Emergency Cash Program – Direct Rs. 12,000 assistance to low-income families.
- Ehsaas Labour Program – Support for workers who lost jobs due to lockdown.
- Ehsaas Punjab Imdadi Packages – Provincial-level schemes for traders and workers.
Conclusion
The Chota Karobar Imdadi Package 2023 is designed to help Pakistan’s small businesses survive and recover. By offering cash relief and free electricity bills, the government aims to reduce financial stress on struggling shopkeepers and workers.
For millions of families, this package can mean the difference between closing a business forever or starting again with hope. Stay updated through official Ehsaas channels and be ready to apply once the online registration portal is open.
About the Author
M. Imran Nadeem is a researcher and contributor at Today Update PK, specializing in government schemes, social protection programs, and economic reforms. With years of experience covering welfare initiatives in Pakistan, Imran simplifies complex policy measures so readers can easily understand and apply for benefits.
Contact: info@todayupdate.pk
M. Imran Nadeem has been reporting on Pakistan’s welfare and development programs for over a decade. He regularly researches BISP and Ehsaas initiatives to provide the public with accurate and verified information.
