The Punjab government has decided to introduce digital monitoring at marriage halls, marquees, farmhouses, and restaurants as part of a wider effort to stop tax evasion and improve revenue collection across the province.
The decision was taken during a high-level meeting chaired by Maryam Nawaz, where officials reviewed provincial revenue performance and discussed ways to make the tax system more transparent and technology-based.
Cameras to track business activity
Under the new plan, modern camera systems will be installed at marriage halls, marquees, farmhouses, and major food chains. These cameras will monitor business activity to help authorities compare actual operations with declared sales.
Officials said the system will make it harder for businesses to hide income or underreport sales, which has been a long-standing issue in the hospitality and event sectors.
Digital payments under consideration
The government is also considering making digital payments mandatory at selected restaurants. Officials believe that encouraging cashless transactions will create proper sales records and improve documentation, making tax collection more accurate.
Authorities said digital payments will reduce the use of cash, which is often used to hide real earnings from tax officials.
Crackdown on fake receipts and hidden sales
Officials warned that strict action will be taken against businesses found issuing fake receipts or concealing sales figures. Penalties may include fines, audits, and legal action.
They said the new digital monitoring system will help tax authorities quickly identify suspicious activity and strengthen enforcement against tax evasion.
Zero tolerance policy on tax evasion
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said the Punjab government would adopt a zero-tolerance approach toward tax evasion. She said technology will play a key role in making the tax system fair, efficient, and transparent.
According to her, digital tools and camera monitoring will help detect irregularities, improve compliance, and ensure that honest taxpayers are not burdened unfairly.
Punjab sets ambitious revenue target
The meeting was informed that Punjab has set a revenue target of Rs 528.5 billion for the financial year 2026–27.
Officials shared that collections by the Punjab Revenue Authority have increased from Rs 250 billion to Rs 346 billion, showing a growth of 38 percent. The rise was credited to improved enforcement and administrative reforms.
Tax authority expands reach across Punjab
Officials also said the Punjab Revenue Authority has expanded its operational presence from 10 districts to 26 districts.
Dedicated wings for intelligence, investigation, taxpayer audits, and legal affairs have been established to further strengthen tax administration and ensure better compliance.
Government aims to make tax system fairer
Officials said the digital monitoring initiative is part of a broader strategy to modernize Punjab’s tax system, reduce revenue leakage, and ensure that businesses pay their fair share.
The government believes these measures will not only increase revenue but also promote fairness, transparency, and trust between taxpayers and authorities in the long run.
