Eidi, a beloved Eidul Fitr tradition, involves elders giving monetary gifts, especially to children. Many prefer crisp new banknotes for this occasion, prompting the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) to typically issue fresh currency notes ahead of Eid. However, for Eidul Fitr 2025, which is expected to fall on March 31, reports indicate that the central bank is unlikely to distribute new notes.
Sources suggest this decision stems from the SBP’s plans to introduce redesigned banknotes later this year. However, the central bank has not yet released an official statement on the matter.
Amid this uncertainty, some individuals have resorted to buying fresh banknotes from shopkeepers at inflated rates. Reports indicate that a Rs10 denomination bundle, originally worth Rs1,000, is being sold for Rs1,200 to Rs1,250.