PM Shehbaz directs to ensure nationwide internet access for cashless economy

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed to ensure internet availability across the country and easy public access to technology to promote a cashless economy. He was chairing a review meeting regarding promotion of the cashless economy in Islamabad today. The Prime Minister said promotion of a cashless economy is among the government’s top priorities and positive results have started emerging. He appreciated the ongoing efforts of the Ministry of Finance and all relevant state institutions to promote a cashless economy. Shehbaz Sharif directed the relevant authorities to present a clear roadmap, with specific timelines and targets, for establishing a 100 percent digital payment system across the country. He also gave directions to immediately address the problems faced by consumers in the digital payment system and ensure availability of internet and easy access to technology across Pakistan. The Prime Minister instructed to continue the government-backed initiative to promote digital transactions between consumers and merchants through the Raast QR Code system. He said the Raast QR Code payment system is contributing towards achieving the government’s vision of a cashless economy. The Prime Minister also called for an effective media campaign to encourage electricity and gas consumers to pay their utility bills through QR codes printed on the bills. He directed all ministries and government departments to ensure full implementation of the cashless economy plan. The meeting was briefed that work on digitizing payments in federal and provincial government institutions is progressing rapidly, with most institutions expected to complete the process by December this year. It was further informed that 100 percent of payments under the Benazir Income Support Programme are being made through digital wallets. The meeting was also told that work is underway to introduce an advanced digital payment system for areas without internet connectivity, while infrastructure development to ensure nationwide internet access is progressing swiftly. The participants were informed that payments through cheques under the Asaan Assignment Accounts will be discontinued from 15th of this month. From 16th of this month, all payments under these accounts across the country will be made through the Raast digital system. Training of Drawing and Disbursing Officers has also been completed in this regard.