Dr. Mufti Muhammad Zafar Iqbal Jalali, Chairman of the Shariah Board Pakistan, recently disclosed significant information regarding Sadaqah Fitrana and Fidya for fasting in 2024. He specified that the minimum amount for both Sadaqah Fitrana and Fidya this year is fixed at Rs. 300 per person. This suggests that individuals capable of doing so are encouraged to contribute this sum as an act of charity.
Dr. Jalali underscored the importance of assisting those less fortunate and reminded individuals of means to fulfill their obligations by giving according to their capacity. He appealed to them to donate generously to aid those in need.
For individuals unable to fast due to health reasons, the Fidya amount is also set at Rs. 300 per person. This is intended to offer assistance to individuals unable to observe fasting for valid medical grounds.
The prescribed values for various food items used in calculating Fidya are as follows: Rs. 600 for oats, Rs. 2,400 for dates, and Rs. 4,400 for raisins. Dr. Jalali also delineated the Fidya rates for fasting the entire month of Ramadan, which vary depending on the type of food item.
It’s crucial to note that Fidya applies solely to individuals who are chronically ill or permanently incapable of fasting, with no prospect of recovery. Travelers and those temporarily unable to fast are encouraged to make up for missed fasts when they are able to do so, as Fidya cannot substitute for fasting.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Security has established the minimum Zakat amount at Rs. 135,179. This implies that individuals with savings or investment accounts holding Rs. 135,179 or more will be obligated to pay 2.5% Zakat on their entire account balance. This initiative aims to assist those in need and support poverty alleviation endeavors in the country.