
The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) continues to solidify its dominance in India’s financial landscape, achieving a record 15,547 crore transactions worth ₹223 lakh crore between January and November 2024, according to the Finance Ministry.
In a social media post on X (formerly Twitter), the ministry highlighted UPI’s transformative impact on India’s payment ecosystem and its growing global footprint under the hashtag #FinMinYearReview2024. Countries including the UAE, Singapore, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, France, and Mauritius now use UPI, showcasing its international relevance.
Driving India’s Digital Payment Revolution
Launched in 2016 by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), UPI integrates multiple bank accounts into a single smartphone application, offering seamless peer-to-peer transactions, merchant payments, and cash transfers. Its instant payment capabilities have played a pivotal role in transitioning India toward a cashless economy.
In October 2024, UPI processed a record-breaking 16.58 billion transactions worth ₹23.49 lakh crore, a 45% increase compared to October 2023’s 11.40 billion transactions. Currently, 632 banks are part of UPI’s network, reflecting its expanding reach and reliability.
The Covid-19 pandemic further accelerated UPI’s adoption as users sought contactless payment solutions. Migratory workers, small businesses, and street vendors have significantly benefited from UPI’s simplicity and efficiency in financial transactions.
International Milestones and Future Prospects
UPI’s success is driven by its robust infrastructure and a shift in consumer behavior toward digital payments. Its accessibility and trustworthiness have cemented its widespread acceptance in India and beyond.
France became the first European nation to adopt UPI, marking a significant milestone for the system’s global expansion. This integration facilitates seamless cross-border transactions for Indian businesses and consumers.
As UPI continues its upward trajectory, it not only represents the backbone of India’s digital payment revolution but also paves the way for deeper international collaborations in the financial sector.
Sources By Agencies