The Punjab government has taken a major step toward improving tax collection by introducing digital monitoring systems for marriage halls, marquees, farmhouses, and restaurants across the province. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to reduce tax evasion and make the revenue system more transparent and technology-driven.
The decision was made during a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, where provincial revenue performance and new enforcement measures were reviewed. The government aims to modernize tax collection and ensure that all business activities are properly recorded.
Under the new plan, advanced camera systems will be installed at marriage halls, marquees, farmhouses, and large food outlets. These systems will help monitor real-time business operations and ensure that transactions are accurately reported. In addition, authorities are considering making digital payments mandatory at selected restaurants to reduce cash-based transactions and improve financial tracking.
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Officials have warned that strict action will be taken against businesses involved in issuing fake receipts or hiding actual sales. The government believes that digital surveillance will play a key role in identifying tax evasion and improving compliance across the hospitality sector.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz stated that the government is committed to a zero-tolerance policy against tax evasion. She emphasized that modern technology and digital tools will be used to detect irregularities and strengthen the tax system.
During the meeting, it was also revealed that Punjab has set a revenue target of Rs. 528.5 billion for the financial year 2027. The Punjab Revenue Authority has shown significant progress, increasing its collections from Rs. 250 billion to Rs. 346 billion, marking a 38 percent growth.
Officials further shared that the authority’s operational network has expanded from 10 to 26 districts, with new intelligence, investigation, audit, and legal departments established to improve enforcement and efficiency.
This digital transformation is expected to bring greater transparency and help build a stronger, more accountable tax system in Punjab.
