In a landmark move, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has unleashed a series of transformative measures aimed at revolutionizing digital payments. These changes, effective immediately, promise to redefine the landscape of financial transactions, ensuring increased convenience and security for users.
1. UPI Limits Take a Quantum Leap:
Old Limit: Rs 1 lakh
New Limit: Rs 5 lakh
In a groundbreaking move, the RBI has increased the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transaction limit from Rs 1 lakh to a whopping Rs 5 lakh! Effective immediately, this significant surge aims to empower users to seamlessly manage more extensive healthcare and education expenses through the widely used UPI platform.
2. E-Mandates Get a Facelift:
Old Cap: Rs 15,000
New Cap: Rs 1 lakh
RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das announced a substantial hike in the cap for e-mandates used in recurring payments. The limit has been raised from Rs 15,000 to Rs 1 lakh, applicable to transactions such as mutual fund subscriptions, insurance premium payments, and credit card repayments. This move is a strategic step to encourage the use of e-mandates and simplify recurring payments for customers.
3. Fintech Repository Coming Soon:
The RBI has declared the establishment of a “Fintech Repository” in April 2024. Managed by the Reserve Bank Innovation Hub, this repository will serve as a centralized information hub for fintech developments. The goal is to enhance understanding, support, and voluntary participation from fintech companies, contributing to the growth of the sector.
4. Dedicated Cloud Facility on the Horizon:
Acknowledging the rising dependence on cloud technologies in the financial sector, the RBI has announced plans to develop a dedicated cloud facility for the industry. This initiative aims to ensure enhanced data security, integrity, and privacy, addressing the surge in data volumes handled by banks. The phased implementation over the medium term will facilitate scalability and business continuity.
5. Industry Applauds RBI’s Vision:
Bankers, payment companies, and healthcare institutions have welcomed the RBI’s decision to amplify UPI payment limits and e-mandates. State Bank chairman Dinesh Khara foresees UPI emerging as a public good, thanks to these policy changes. Zarin Daruwala of Standard Chartered Bank emphasizes that enhanced limits will foster the use of digital payment channels, while Saikrishnan Srinivasan of Experian Credit highlights the seamless experience for consumers.
These transformative measures by the RBI signify a paradigm shift in the digital payments landscape, promising a future where financial transactions are not just secure but also seamlessly integrated into our daily lives. Stay tuned for more updates as the RBI continues to shape the future of digital finance!
