LAHORE: The Punjab Revenue Authority (PRA) has decided to launch a province-wide public awareness campaign aimed at curbing tax evasion and promoting voluntary tax compliance across Punjab.
The decision was taken during a meeting chaired by Moazzam Iqbal Sipra, Chairman of the PRA. Officials agreed that the campaign will begin in April and will initially focus on educational institutions throughout the province.
Under the initiative, students will be encouraged to act as PRA ambassadors, helping spread awareness about tax responsibilities and civic duties among the public.
As part of the campaign, citizens will be able to verify receipts issued by hotels, restaurants, gyms, and aesthetic clinics through the PRA mobile application as well as a dedicated WhatsApp number. Authorities said this measure is designed to enhance transparency and discourage businesses from issuing fake receipts.
In the first phase, the campaign will be jointly launched by the School Education Department Punjab and the PRA in schools across the province.
A PRA spokesperson said strict action will be taken against businesses found issuing fake receipts. As part of enforcement efforts, individuals who report tax violations may receive a reward of up to 20 percent of the recovered tax amount.
The spokesperson added that the Whistleblower Act will come into force immediately after receiving government approval.
Officials believe that offering financial incentives will encourage more citizens to report violations, strengthen tax compliance, and help build a stronger tax culture in Punjab by increasing public participation in ensuring transparency and accountability.
