Every year before Eid-ul-Fitr, millions of Pakistanis eagerly wait for the release of fresh currency notes to distribute as Eidi among children and relatives. Recently, however, social media posts sparked confusion by claiming that the central bank had cancelled the issuance of new currency notes for Eid-ul-Fitr 2026.
To address the growing concern, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) issued a clarification stating that the circulating notice is fake. In other words, the viral claim suggesting that new currency notes will not be issued for Eid-ul-Fitr 2026 is not authentic.
The central bank emphasized that Are new currency notes for Eid-ul-Fitr cancelled? SBP responds by clearly stating that it has not released any such notice and that the document circulating online does not originate from official sources.
This clarification aims to prevent misinformation and reassure the public that any announcement regarding new currency notes will come directly through the bank’s official channels.
Why Did the Rumour About Eid Currency Notes Spread?
The confusion began when a letter started circulating widely on social media platforms. The document claimed that the State Bank had decided not to issue new currency notes for Eid-ul-Fitr 2026.
The viral notice also suggested that:
• The usual SMS service used to obtain fresh currency notes would not be available this year.
• Citizens were encouraged to use digital payment methods instead of cash for Eid transactions.
Because these claims were presented in the form of an official-looking document, many people believed the message and shared it online.
However, the State Bank quickly clarified that the notice was completely fake and not issued by the central bank.
SBP’s Official Response to the Viral Notice
Officials from the State Bank of Pakistan rejected the circulating claims and explained that the bank had not issued any such notification regarding Eid currency notes.
Key Points from SBP’s Clarification
• The letter circulating online is not authentic.
• The central bank has not announced any cancellation of fresh currency notes for Eid-ul-Fitr 2026.
• Any official decision regarding currency issuance is communicated only through formal press releases.
The bank stressed that its official press releases remain the only verified communication channel used to inform the public and the media.
How the State Bank Communicates Official Announcements?
To prevent misinformation, the central bank explained how it officially communicates with the public.
Official Communication Channels
Information about currency notes, monetary policy, or banking announcements is released through:
• Official press releases
• The SBP website
• Verified media briefings
• Official social media accounts
According to SBP officials, screenshots, forwarded messages, unofficial letters, or random SMS alerts cannot be considered reliable unless they originate from these verified sources.
Why Fresh Currency Notes Matter During Eid?
In Pakistan, the distribution of fresh currency notes during Eid-ul-Fitr is a long-standing cultural tradition.
The Tradition of Eidi
Children typically receive Eidi (cash gifts) from parents, relatives, and elders during Eid celebrations.
Fresh banknotes are preferred because they:
• Symbolize celebration and goodwill
• Look cleaner and more presentable
• Add excitement for children receiving Eidi
Because of this tradition, banks often see long queues of people seeking new notes before Eid.
How the Eid Currency Note System Usually Works?
In previous years, the State Bank introduced several methods to distribute fresh currency notes efficiently.
In Pakistan, the distribution of fresh currency notes before Eid-ul-Fitr is usually organized through a structured system managed by the State Bank of Pakistan in coordination with commercial banks. A few weeks before Eid, the central bank supplies newly issued banknotes to selected bank branches across the country. In previous years, an SMS-based service was also introduced to make the process easier for the public. Through this system, people could send a message to a designated number and receive a code allowing them to collect a limited amount of fresh notes from specific bank branches. This approach helps control crowds, ensures fair distribution, and allows more people to obtain new notes for giving Eidi during Eid celebrations. Banks typically allocate specific quotas of different denominations—such as Rs10, Rs20, Rs50, and Rs100 notes—to ensure that small-value notes are available for gifting purposes.
Risks of Believing Unverified Financial Information
The viral currency note rumour highlights the growing problem of misinformation on social media.
When people rely on unverified information, it can lead to:
• Public confusion
• Panic or unnecessary concern
• Misinformation spreading rapidly
Common Signs of Fake Financial Notices
You should question any announcement that:
• Comes from unverified sources
• Is shared only through WhatsApp or screenshots
• Does not appear on official government websites
• Lacks confirmation from reputable news outlets
What the Public Should Do When Financial Rumours Spread?
Financial experts recommend a few simple steps to avoid being misled by false announcements.
Best Practices
• Check official government or regulatory websites
• Verify information with reliable news outlets
• Avoid forwarding messages before confirming them
• Look for official press releases or statements
These practices help reduce the spread of misinformation and ensure that people rely on accurate financial updates.
Eid-ul-Fitr 2026 Moon Sighting Prediction
While rumours about currency notes were spreading, another important update came from the Pakistan Meteorological Department regarding the expected sighting of the Shawal moon.
Meteorological Department’s Prediction
Officials stated that the Shawal moon is unlikely to be visible on the 29th of Ramadan.
According to the department:
• The new moon will be born at 6:23 AM on March 19.
• By sunset, the moon’s age will only be 12 to 13 hours.
Because the moon will be relatively young at that time, experts believe it will be very difficult to sight with the naked eye.
This means Eid-ul-Fitr may likely fall a day later than the earliest expected date, although the final decision will depend on official moon-sighting committees.
FAQs
Are new currency notes for Eid-ul-Fitr cancelled in Pakistan?
No. The State Bank of Pakistan has clarified that the viral notice claiming cancellation of new currency notes is fake and not issued by the central bank.
How does SBP announce the release of Eid currency notes?
The State Bank makes announcements only through official press releases, its website, and verified communication channels.
Is the SMS service for Eid currency notes cancelled?
There has been no official announcement confirming cancellation of the SMS service. The circulating message about its cancellation is fake.
Why do people prefer new currency notes during Eid?
Fresh banknotes are traditionally used to give Eidi (cash gifts) to children and relatives, symbolizing celebration and goodwill.
When is the Shawal moon expected to be sighted in 2026?
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, the moon is unlikely to be sighted on March 19 because it will only be around 12–13 hours old at sunset.
How can people verify financial announcements from SBP?
Citizens should check official SBP press releases, the bank’s website, or trusted news sources before believing any financial announcements.
Conclusion
The confusion surrounding Eid currency notes highlights how quickly misinformation can spread online. However, the clarification provided by the State Bank of Pakistan confirms that the viral notice about cancelling new currency notes is false.
In response to the growing speculation, Are new currency notes for Eid-ul-Fitr cancelled? SBP responds with a clear message: the circulating letter is fake, and any official announcement will always be issued through verified channels.
As Eid approaches, the public is encouraged to rely only on official statements and credible news sources rather than unverified social media posts. Staying informed through trusted platforms helps prevent unnecessary confusion and ensures accurate information reaches everyone.
