Prime Minister Directs QR Codes on All Bills
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed all government institutions to introduce QR codes on bills to facilitate citizens and accelerate the country’s transition toward a cashless economy. The directive was issued during a review meeting in Islamabad focused on promoting digital payments and strengthening financial inclusion.
Shehbaz Sharif Reviews Cashless Economy Progress
Addressing the meeting, the Prime Minister emphasized that the targets set for the digital payments system must be achieved within the stipulated timeframe. He underscored the importance of coordinated efforts among relevant institutions to ensure timely implementation and broader public access to digital financial services.
Shehbaz Sharif appreciated the government’s economic team and the State Bank of Pakistan for advancing digital transactions through the RAAST system. He noted that RAAST has been effectively utilized for disbursing salaries, pensions, and direct payments to vendors at both federal and provincial levels.
Digital Payments via RAAST Gain Momentum Nationwide
The Prime Minister commended the Ministry of Finance for facilitating direct payments totaling 1.6 trillion rupees between July 2025 and January 2026. These payments were made by federal and provincial governments through digital channels, reflecting progress in streamlining financial operations and enhancing transparency.
He also praised the team of the Benazir Income Support Programme for distributing relief funds to 71 percent of eligible beneficiaries under the Prime Minister’s Ramadan Relief Package. The initiative was cited as an example of how digital platforms can improve the efficiency and reach of public welfare programs.
Officials informed the meeting that the number of individuals benefiting from digital banking services has surpassed 127 million. The milestone highlights significant growth in financial inclusion and public adoption of digital payment mechanisms across the country.
Participants were briefed on measures taken by the Ministry of Finance, the State Bank of Pakistan, the Benazir Income Support Programme, the Ministry of Information Technology, and other relevant institutions to expand the digital payments ecosystem. These steps include strengthening infrastructure, enhancing interoperability, and promoting awareness among citizens and businesses.
Over 127 Million Benefit from Digital Banking
The meeting also reviewed a comprehensive dashboard outlining the performance and expansion of the digital payments system. The dashboard provided data on transaction volumes, user growth, and institutional participation, offering an overview of progress toward a more integrated and transparent financial framework.
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The Prime Minister reiterated that promoting a cashless economy remains a key component of the government’s broader economic reform agenda. He stressed that digitalization of payments not only enhances convenience for citizens but also improves accountability and reduces reliance on cash-based transactions.
Shehbaz Sharif directed stakeholders to maintain momentum and ensure that public-facing services are equipped with QR codes and digital payment options to simplify transactions for citizens nationwide. He called for sustained collaboration among financial and technology institutions to achieve the country’s digital transformation goals within the defined timeline.
