Pakistan to Issue New Currency Notes with Advanced Security Features by Late 2026

The federal government has decided to introduce new currency notes featuring enhanced security features and improved security threads, as part of efforts to modernise Pakistan’s currency system. The decision was taken during a meeting of the federal cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Cabinet members were informed that new banknotes will be issued in denominations of Rs100, Rs500, Rs1,000 and Rs5,000. Officials briefed the cabinet that the redesigned notes will incorporate advanced security threads and modern security features aimed at improving durability and reducing the risk of counterfeiting.

According to the briefing, the designs of the new currency notes will reflect Pakistan’s regional and geographical diversity as well as its historical landmarks. The cabinet was also informed that the new designs will highlight women’s contributions to national development and feature key social themes, including climate change, in line with evolving national priorities.

A cabinet statement said that a dedicated cabinet committee has been constituted to deliberate further on the designs of the new currency notes. The committee will review proposed features and imagery before final recommendations are submitted for approval.

Speaking to Geo News after the meeting, State Bank of Pakistan Deputy Governor Saleemullah said the new currency notes are expected to be issued between November and December 2026. He added that the federal cabinet is likely to grant formal approval for the new banknotes in the coming months following the completion of the design and review process.

In addition to the currency-related decision, the cabinet directed that the draft of the Private Hajj Policy 2027–2030, presented by the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, be referred to the Hajj Policy Committee. The draft policy relates to the registration and scrutiny of private Hajj operators through third-party mechanisms and will be reviewed further in light of the views expressed by cabinet members.

The federal cabinet also endorsed the decisions taken in the meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Energy held on the 24th of last month. Approval was likewise granted to the decisions made during the meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee of the cabinet held on the 23rd of last month.

The introduction of redesigned currency notes marks a significant step toward enhancing the security and representation of Pakistan’s national currency while aligning it with modern standards and broader social themes.

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