Rs25,000 and Rs40,000 Prize Bonds: Govt Explains How Winners are Picked in Balloting

ISLAMABAD – Behind prize bond draws offering rewards of up to Rs80 million is manual process involving hand-operated machines and committee supervision, according to details provided to National Assembly.

Ministry of Finance outlined how winning numbers for Rs25,000 and Rs40,000 registered premium prize bonds are selected, explaining that State Bank of Pakistan carries out its responsibilities under procedures prescribed by the federal government.

Winning numbers are drawn randomly through Hand Operated Draw Machines under a Single Common Draw System. Children with special needs, selected by the Regional Directorate of National Savings, operate the machines under the supervision of a committee constituted by the directorate. The entire proceedings are video-recorded. Official National Savings information also states that draw ceremonies are open to the public, with machines operated before committee members and attendees.

The ministry said no complaints regarding the transparency or fairness of the draw proceedings had been received from the general public. That statement represents the government’s assessment rather than an independent audit of the system.

The parliamentary response also clarifies responsibility for the scheme: prize bonds fall under the federal government’s Finance Division, while the State Bank acts as an agent for their issuance, redemption and payment of prize money.

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Both denominations currently operate as registered premium prize bonds and should be distinguished from the older Rs25,000 and Rs40,000 bearer bonds withdrawn from circulation.

For investors awaiting the next draw, the official 2026 schedule lists December 10 for both denominations, with Karachi hosting the Rs25,000 draw and Lahore hosting the Rs40,000 draw.