The Chairman of the Shariah Board Pakistan, Dr. Mufti Muhammad Zafar Iqbal Jalali, recently announced important details regarding Sadaqah Fitrana and Fidya for fasting in 2024. He stated that the minimum amount for Sadaqah Fitrana and Fidya this year is set at Rs. 300 per person. This means that those who can afford it are encouraged to give this amount as charity.
Dr. Jalali highlighted the importance of helping those in need and reminded wealthier individuals to fulfill their obligations by giving according to their means. He urged them to contribute generously to support those less fortunate.
For those who are unable to fast due to health reasons, the Fidya amount is also Rs. 300 per person. This is meant to provide assistance to individuals who are unable to observe fasting for valid medical reasons.
The specified values for different food items used to calculate Fidya are as follows: Rs. 600 for oats, Rs. 2,400 for dates, and Rs. 4,400 for raisins. Dr. Jalali also outlined the Fidya rates for fasting the entire month of Ramadan, which vary depending on the food item.
It’s important to note that Fidya is only applicable to individuals who are chronically ill or permanently unable to fast, with no hope of recovery. Travelers and those temporarily unable to fast are encouraged to make up for missed fasts when they are able to, as Fidya cannot replace fasting.
In addition to these announcements, the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Security has set the minimum Zakat amount at Rs. 135,179. This means that individuals with savings or investment accounts holding Rs. 135,179 or more will be required to pay 2.5% Zakat on their total account balance. This is aimed at helping those in need and supporting poverty alleviation efforts in the country.
