The federal government has given the green light for new designs on several Pakistani rupee banknotes. In a recent cabinet meeting, approval was granted to update the Rs100, Rs500, Rs1,000, and Rs5,000 notes, with a special committee set up to review the final proposals.
Islamabad – Pakistan’s federal cabinet has cleared the way for redesigned currency notes in key denominations, aiming to bring modern security features and fresh visual elements to the national currency.
The decision came during a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the Prime Minister’s House on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. The Ministry of Finance presented details on the proposed changes, prepared by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).
New designs target better security and national representation
The updated notes will follow current global standards for banknote production. International experts have contributed to the process to ensure high-quality results.
Key improvements include stronger security threads and other features to make counterfeiting much harder. This step addresses ongoing concerns about fake currency in circulation.
The visual side will showcase Pakistan’s wide range of landscapes, cultural sites, and historical places. Designs will also recognize women’s role in the country’s progress and address issues like climate change, giving the notes a broader national meaning.
A dedicated cabinet committee now has the task of examining the proposed designs in detail before they move to final printing and release.
Other matters discussed in the cabinet session
The meeting also dealt with religious travel arrangements. The draft Private Hajj Policy for 2027–2030 was sent back to the relevant committee for more review, focusing on registration rules and checks for private Hajj companies.
In addition, the cabinet confirmed earlier approvals from the Cabinet Committee on Energy (meeting on December 24, 2025) and the Economic Coordination Committee (meeting on December 23, 2025).
Also Read:Good News for Margalla Enclave Owners: Possession in February
What comes next
No exact date has been set for when the new notes will enter circulation, but reports from sources close to the process suggest issuance could happen toward the end of 2026, possibly between November and December. Old notes are expected to stay valid during a transition period.
The State Bank of Pakistan handles such updates periodically to keep the currency secure and reflective of the times
