The State Bank of Pakistan has launched a nationwide “Go Cashless” campaign for Eidul Azha 2026 to promote secure and digital transactions in cattle markets across Pakistan.
According to the central bank, the initiative aims to reduce reliance on cash payments during the Eid season and encourage the use of digital financial services, including mobile banking apps, QR code payments, branchless banking wallets, and Raast-enabled transactions.
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Under the campaign, the number of cattle markets covered has been increased significantly from 54 markets in 2025 to 96 markets nationwide this year. Around 22 participating banks will establish special camps and kiosks in selected cattle markets to facilitate buyers and sellers with digital payment services.
The banks will help cattle traders, transporters, and related service providers open accounts and adopt QR code-based payment solutions for smoother transactions during the busy Eid-ul-Azha season.
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The central bank also announced temporary relaxations in transaction and account balance limits from May 14 to June 5, 2026, to support higher payment volumes during Eid-related trading activities.
In addition, mobile banking vans, ATMs, and Cash Deposit Machines (CDMs) will be deployed near cattle markets where feasible to improve access to banking and financial services.
Officials said cattle markets witness massive commercial activity every year during Eid-ul-Azha, with most transactions traditionally carried out in cash. The “Go Cashless” campaign is part of broader efforts to accelerate Pakistan’s digital payment ecosystem and improve financial inclusion nationwide.
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The State Bank said digital payments offer greater convenience, transparency, and security while reducing risks associated with carrying large amounts of cash in crowded cattle markets.
The initiative comes as Pakistan continues expanding digital banking adoption through services such as Raast and branchless banking platforms, with authorities increasingly encouraging cashless transactions in retail and commercial sectors.
