PM Sets Roadmap For 100% Digital Payments System, Orders Shift From Cheques To Raast
Published November 06, 2026 | 04:30 PM
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed authorities to set timelines for nationwide digital payments, while cheque payments under Easy Assignment Accounts will end on November 15 and shift to Raast the following day.
Prime Minister's Directives
Chairing a high-level meeting on the promotion of a cashless economy, the prime minister stated that:
- Promoting a cashless economy is a top government priority, with positive results already visible.
- He appreciated the efforts of the Ministry of Finance and state institutions in this regard.
- Authorities were tasked with addressing consumer issues in the digital payment system immediately.
- The Raast QR Code system, for digital payments between consumers and merchants, will continue to be promoted.
- He emphasized the role of the Raast QR Code system in achieving the cashless economy vision.
- A media campaign will be launched to encourage electricity and gas consumers to use QR codes on their utility bills for payments.
Implementation and Progress
The meeting was informed about the following:
- Rapid progress in digitizing payments across federal and provincial government institutions, with most expected to be fully digitized by December 2026.
- 100% digital payments under the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP).
- Plans to introduce a digital payment system for areas without internet connectivity, alongside rapid infrastructure development for nationwide internet access.
Cheque Discontinuation
Payments through cheques under Easy Assignment Accounts will be discontinued from November 15, 2026. From November 16, all such payments will switch to the Raast digital payment system. Trained Drawing and Disbursing Officers (DDOs) will facilitate this transition.
Attended by: Federal Ministers, Prime Minister's Adviser, Minister of State for Finance, State Bank Governor, provincial chief secretaries, and senior officials.