Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reviewed the progress of Pakistan’s shift toward a digital and cashless economy. In a meeting held in Islamabad, he asked provincial governments to fully support the expansion of the Raast payment system so that it reaches the district level.
Officials explained that a new system of digital identification will be launched under the Pakistan Digital Public Infrastructure (PDPI).
This system will link people’s CNICs, biometric details, and mobile phone numbers, making it easier and safer to make payments. With this integration, citizens will be able to complete transactions without relying on cash.
To support this change, work is also being done on improving fiber connectivity across the country. Stronger internet access is seen as essential for making the digital framework reliable and accessible for everyone, including those in remote areas.
The government believes this initiative will bring several benefits. First, it will make transactions faster and more convenient for ordinary people and businesses.
Second, it will increase transparency by reducing the chances of corruption and unrecorded cash dealings. Finally, it will help modernize the economy, bringing Pakistan closer to international standards in digital finance.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stressed that provincial cooperation is vital for success. Without joint efforts, the goal of building a digital and cashless Pakistan cannot be achieved.
The move toward a digital economy is expected to play a major role in strengthening financial systems, improving governance, and opening new opportunities for growth and innovation in the country.