The partnership will offer Indian & Cambodian travellers the convenience of making QR code-based payments seamlessly across tourist attractions, restaurants, retail outlets and other establishments. Indian tourists in Cambodia will be able to use their UPI enabled apps to make merchant payments easily at more than 4.5 million KHQR merchant touch points. Similarly, Cambodian tourists in India will be able to scan more than 709 million UPI QRs to make merchant payments conveniently using their Cambodian payment apps. The collaboration will support businesses in both countries by offering a secure, interoperable, and frictionless payment experience via UPI and KHQR, significantly enhancing convenience for consumers in both markets.

Ritesh Shukla, MD & CEO, NPCI International, said, “Our partnership with ACLEDA Bank Plc. marks an important step in strengthening interoperable digital payment corridors between India and Cambodia. By enabling UPI and KHQR acceptance across both countries, we aim to make travel simpler and empower consumers with trusted and familiar payment options. This partnership reflects our commitment to expanding secure, inclusive, and scalable digital payments on a global scale.”

Dr. In Channy, President & Group Managing Director of ACLEDA Bank, said, “We are excited to sign this Service Agreement with NPCI International Payments Limited. The Service Agreement formalizes the technical and operational framework for interconnecting NPCI’s UPI (Unified Payments Interface) network with ACLEDA Bank’s KHQR ecosystem. This network-to-network setup will ensure secure, interoperable payments, allowing Indian consumers and businesses to use their mobile devices to scan QR codes from Cambodian merchants for payment. In addition, this collaboration represents an important step toward regional payment interoperability, aligning with ASEAN’s vision of advancing inclusive digital economies and fostering financial innovation in digital payments, empowering our customers with fast, affordable, and secure cross-border options that boost trade and tourism for both nations”.

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Bengaluru, 01 October 2025: National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), in collaboration with Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) and RBL Bank, has announced the integration of RuPay On-The-Go cards on all Bengaluru Metro Lines. This marks a significant step forward in expanding the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) program in Karnataka’s capital. Commuters can now tap their NCMC compliant RuPay On-The-Go cards to travel on the newly launched Yellow Line, making daily transit faster, easier, and seamless.

The RBL Bank BMRCL co-branded RuPay On-The-Go cards can be swiftly and easily availed from Ticket Office Machine (TOM) counters present at 83 BMRCL stations across three lines, including the Yellow Line connecting RV Road to Bommasandra. The integration serves lakhs of daily commuters by eliminating the need to purchase separate tickets or carry multiple cards, providing a seamless experience to officegoers, students, and travellers alike.

Commuters can top-up their RuPay On-The-Go cards via Cash, UPI, or any Debit, Credit or Prepaid card accepted at the TOM counters. Additionally, the card features a QR on the back, which can be scanned using BHIM, Google Pay, PhonePe or any other UPI applications to top-up the card seamlessly. Customers can also login into RBL Bank provided app for managing and loading their RuPay On-The-Go cards.

RuPay On-The-Go supports offline functionality as well, allowing for transactions even in low connectivity zones. It also facilitates stored value travel, enabling passengers to load balances and use the same card for recurring journeys.

Sohini Rajola, Executive Director – Growth, NPCI said, “With the integration of the RuPay On-The-Go card across Metro lines, Bengaluru is taking a significant step towards a smarter, more efficient urban mobility ecosystem. We are happy to partner with BMRCL and RBL Bank in expanding the RuPay On-The-Go ecosystem in Bengaluru to enable commuters to experience a truly digital, contactless, and seamless mode of transit.”

Ravi Pichan, Chief Information Officer & Head – Digital Banking at RBL Bank said “At RBL Bank, we are committed to delivering innovative and convenient digital payment solutions that make everyday transactions easier. Our partnership with NPCI and BMRCL to enable RuPay On-The-Go on Bengaluru Metro’s Yellow Line reflects our focus on enhancing customer experience while supporting the expansion of smart mobility solutions across India. This initiative aligns perfectly with our vision towards providing new age frictionless digital solutions that transforms the travel experience of daily commuters.”

Besides Bengaluru, RuPay On-The-Go cards are accepted across a growing network of transit systems, including metro services in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Ahmedabad, and Kanpur, as well as bus networks in Mumbai, Guwahati, Haryana, Jammu, Srinagar, Agra, Himachal Pradesh, and Aurangabad. For further information on obtaining a RuPay NCMC card, users can visit participating banks, metro stations, or designated offices to get started on their seamless transit journey.

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Indians are the second largest group of international visitors to Qatar*. This partnership will help them to make real-time transactions across the country, limiting the need to carry cash and currency exchange hassle. The acceptance of UPI in Qatar promotes interoperability and expands UPI’s global reach.

Moreover, it is expected to benefit Qatar’s retail and tourism sectors as UPI acceptance will increase transaction volumes of merchants acquired by QNB. This will further help them in scaling their business while offering convenience to customers.

Speaking on the partnership, Mr. Ritesh Shukla, MD & CEO, NPCI International, said, “We aim to enhance the acceptance of UPI globally and create a truly interoperable global payment network. The partnership with QNB is a step towards this journey. It will help millions of Indian travelers make seamless, secure digital transactions and reduce their dependence on cash. As UPI makes its mark, we are focused on driving interoperability and making cross-border payment experiences hassle-free for users.” 

Mr. Yousef Mahmoud Al-Neama, Group Chief Business Officer, QNB, said “We are excited to introduce UPI in Qatar and proud to be at the forefront of innovating the payment landscape. This milestone not only enhances the convenience for Indian travelers but also brings significant benefits to the Qatari market by promoting cashless transactions, boosting retail and tourist sectors, and strengthening interoperability in the payments ecosystem. Importantly, it will also enable local merchants to thrive by attracting more customers and providing them with seamless digital payment options.” 

Mr. Thabet Musleh, Chief Retail & Hospitality Officer, Qatar Airways Group said, “At Qatar Duty Free, we are committed to enhancing convenience and accessibility for travellers. As the first entity in Qatar to enable UPI as a payment option, we are proud to offer Indian travellers a seamless, secure, and cashless transaction experience at our outlets. This partnership with NPCI International and Qatar National Bank reflects our dedication to embracing innovative payment solutions that cater to the evolving needs of our diverse customer base. By integrating UPI, we aim to elevate the retail experience at Hamad International Airport, ensuring a smoother journey for millions of visitors.”

The partnership strengthens India’s digital payment footprint while offering a seamless and secure payment experience for Indian travelers in Qatar.

Tsuyoshi Ri, Representative Director and CEO of NETSTARS Co., Ltd., said, “We are honoured to be part of this strategic partnership and milestone, enabling UPI for the first time in Qatar together with NPCI International, Qatar Airways Group and Qatar National Bank. This aligns with our mission to expand seamless and secure payment experiences globally. We are proud to contribute to this launch in Qatar, which will empower local merchants in Qatar to accept digital payments conveniently and efficiently from millions of international travellers.”

*https://www.qatartourism.com/content/dam/qatar-tourism/qatar-tourism-reports/Qatar-Tourism-FY-2023-tourism-performance-report.pptx.pdf

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Bengaluru, July 16, 2025 – NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) the international arm of National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has further enhanced the UPI-PayNow real-time payment linkage by adding 13 more banks on the platform, extending its reach and simplifying cross-border remittances between India and Singapore. With this development, which will go live on July 17, 2025, users in both countries can remit funds to a wider base, making the service more accessible and convenient.

The expanded network for remittances to India now includes 19 banks – Bank of Baroda, Bank of India, Canara Bank, Central Bank of India, Federal Bank, HDFC Bank, IDFC FIRST Bank, IndusInd Bank, Karur Vysya Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Punjab National Bank, South Indian Bank, and UCO Bank alongside Axis Bank, DBS Bank India, ICICI Bank, Indian Bank, Indian Overseas Bank, and State Bank of India.

Recipients in India can receive remittances from Singapore in their accounts held with any of these 19 banks through their preferred UPI enabled apps such as BHIM, Google Pay and PhonePe, as well as bank apps. Outward remittances from India to Singapore is available through Canara Bank, HDFC Bank and Karur Vysya Bank along with ICICI Bank, Indian Bank, Indian Overseas Bank and State Bank of India. In Singapore, customers of DBS SG and Liquid Group can avail this service.

The UPI-PayNow service was launched as a joint initiative between the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). It facilitates real-time cross-border fund transfers between individuals, where Indian users can receive funds via UPI ID and send funds to users in Singapore via their mobile number or Virtual Payment Address (VPAs). As the world’s first cloud-based, real-time cross-border payment system, the initiative is a pioneering step in global payment connectivity.

This development is particularly beneficial for the Indian diaspora in Singapore, including migrant workers and students, bringing the ease of digital payments to everyday remittances. UPI is already accepted via QR codes at select merchant outlets in Singapore, further extending its utility.

Ritesh Shukla, MD & CEO, NPCI International said, “The expansion of the UPI-PayNow linkage marks a step forward in strengthening cross-border payment infrastructure. By enabling access to more banks in India, we are deepening the reach of real-time remittances and supporting greater financial connectivity between the two countries. This brings added convenience to users through a seamless and trusted platform”.

UPI-PayNow integration enables real-time cross-border remittance transactions, with funds reaching the recipient’s bank account within seconds. The service leverages strong security protocols to ensure safe and reliable transfers. It is ideal for small and frequent remittances, providing users with a convenient and cost-effective way to send and receive money anytime.

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·         Always check before you pay: Before making any payment, check the name that appears on the screen. Make sure it is the person or business you want to pay. Taking a few seconds to confirm can help avoid mistakes.

·         Use only trusted payment Apps and websites: Make payments only through official and well-known Apps or websites. Do not download Apps or click on links sent by people you do not know or trust.

·         Do not share your PIN or OTP with anyone: Your UPI PIN, OTP, or bank details are private and confidential. Never share them with anyone, even if they say they are from a bank or police or any government office.

·         Do not rush into any payment: If someone asks you to make a payment quickly or share your details urgently, take a moment. You can always say you will check and call back. It is okay to take your time.

·         Keep payment alerts on and check them often: Turn on SMS and App notifications for your payments. Read each alert carefully. If something looks wrong, contact your bank or payment App immediately.

By adopting a few mindful habits, every user can ensure they take charge of their digital safety. With awareness and responsible use, digital payments can continue to be a trusted and empowering part of daily life. Report suspicious number to the national cybercrime helpline by dialing 1930 or the Department of Telecommunication (https://sancharsaathi.gov.in/sfc/). Save messages, take screenshots and document interactions. This can help authorities if you need to file a report.

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As part of the agreement, the two organisations will jointly conduct targeted training programmes for tech and cyber professionals in the banking and digital payment services sector. These programmes will focus on key areas such as cyber security, resiliency and data privacy. The partnership will also lead to the development of an exclusive NPCI-certified payment security certification programme, aligned with emerging industry needs and regulatory expectations. In addition, IDRBT will also extend सचेत (IBCART 3.0), the threat intelligence services to NPCI and its ecosystem partners.

Mr. Dilip Asbe, MD and CEO, NPCI, said, “We are happy to partner with IDRBT to advance payment security and cyber resilience across the digital payment ecosystem in India. Strengthening cyber resilience is not just about technology, but also about people and preparedness. Our partnership with IDRBT will enable structured capacity building across the ecosystem through training, certifications and sharing threat intelligence. This collaboration reinforces NPCI’s commitment to proactive risk management and elevating security standards across digital payments.”

Dr. Deepak Kumar, Director, IDRBT, highlighted that IDRBT has been established for the adoption and absorption of technology in the banking and financial sector, as well as for nourishing the digital public infrastructure. In the context of the formal collaboration with NPCI, he said, “This will strengthen the broader payment ecosystem by promoting a culture of security awareness, capability-building, and proactive response. The subscription to सचेत (IBCART 3.0) will provide diverse, enriched, and contextualised threat intelligence feeds to organisations working with NPCI, further improving the robustness and resilience of the ecosystem.”

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Bengaluru, 19^th March 2025:  NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL), the international arm of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), has announced a partnership with HitPay, a Singapore-based full-stack payments infrastructure firm, to expand Unified Payments Interface (UPI) acceptance across Singapore. This partnership will offer Indian travellers the convenience of making QR code-based payments at establishments across tourist attractions, restaurants, retail outlets and more. 

Over 1.2 million Indian visitors travelled to Singapore in 2024. With this partnership, NIPL aims to provide a familiar payment experience to Indians travelling to Singapore. UPI acceptance will be rolled out progressively to over 12,000 merchants across Singapore. It will also offer businesses the opportunity to serve Indian consumers with a frictionless online and offline payment option via UPI.

Speaking on the development, Ritesh Shukla, Chief Executive Officer, NPCI International, said, “We are focused on expanding UPI’s global presence to make transactions easier for Indians traveling abroad. Our partnership with HitPay expands UPI acceptance in Singapore, offering Indians a reliable, cost-effective payment option during their travel. This collaboration also highlights our commitment to building a globally connected payments ecosystem”.

“UPI has transformed India’s payment landscape with unmatched speed, simplicity, and scalability,” said Aditya Haripurkar, CEO and Co-Founder of HitPay. “This integration reflects HitPay’s vision to be the trusted partner for merchants in Singapore, providing seamless access to the fastest-growing markets in Asia and beyond.”

This partnership is another step forward in UPI’s global journey, strengthening its role in the international digital payments landscape. By offering Indian travellers a smooth, familiar and affordable payment option, it enhances their experience while also deepening economic and technological connections between India and other countries.

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The two-day IDS 2025 is being organized by the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) in collaboration with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, and is supported by Digital India, Skill India and Make in India.

Elaborating on the phenomenal potential of UPI he said, “UPI has become the foundational infrastructure layer leveraged by all players, whether fintech startups in financial services or other industries. The journey of UPI transforming into this infrastructure layer over the last 8–10 years has been remarkable. The unwavering support from the RBI and the government has been crucial in driving continuous innovation. This support has only grown stronger, encouraging efforts to scale UPI further.”

Speaking on the growth of Rupay Mr. Asbe said, “The RuPay card network is growing rapidly and has the potential to become one of the largest in India. Currently, RuPay holds about 16-17% of the credit card market share, and with increasing momentum, we aim to make it an equal player within the next couple of years.”

“On the topic of security, while fraud and hacking can’t be entirely eliminated, much progress has been made. The RBI has a dedicated cyber security division, and institutions like NCIIPC and CERT-IN under MeitY are working to secure critical infrastructure. However, continued investments in skills, tools, and processes are mandatory to tackle the growing challenges,” he added.

IDS is being Powered by NPCI. Amazon.in and MPL are Platinum partners. Among Gold Partners are PhonePe; Australia Trade and Investment Commission; IDA Ireland; Paytm ads, Jagran New Media and Exotel. Route Mobile is the Cloud Communications Partner. Silver Partners include AWS, ShareChat, Shiprocket; Times Internet, and TV9 Network.

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What is digital arrest? 

Online scams are becoming more sophisticated, with ‘Digital Arrest’ scams being a prime example. In these scams, fraudsters pretend to be law enforcement officials, tricking victims into sending money or sharing personal information by making up fake legal cases involving victim or their family member. They initiate contact through phone calls and then switch to video calls using platforms like WhatsApp or Skype. Victims are threatened with a digital arrest warrant for alleged financial misconduct or other legal violations. Under fear, victims often give in, resulting in financial loss and the risk of identity theft.

How to Identify Potential ‘digital arrest’ scam:

• Unexpected Contact from ‘Officials’: Be cautious if someone claims to be from government agencies like the police, CBI, income tax officers, or customs agents, contacts you. Be cautious especially if they claim urgent legal action is being initiated or warranted. They might allege that you or one of your family members is involved in a serious crime like money laundering, tax evasion, or drug trafficking.
• Fear-Based Language and Urgency: Scammers may request video calls, disguising themselves in police uniforms, using government logos, or creating official-sounding background noise to appear legitimate. They often threaten arrest or immediate legal action, demanding a quick response and using legal terms to sound convincing. In some cases, they create a police station-like setup to further convince victims of their credibility.
• Request for Sensitive Information or Payment: Scammers may ask for personal information or demand large sums of money, promising that this will clear up your involvement in the alleged crime. They may also coerce you to transfer money to their account until the investigation is complete. Terms like “clearing your name”, “assisting with the investigation”, or “refundable security deposit/escrow account” might be used by them to persuade you into transferring money to specified bank accounts or UPI IDs.

Practical Steps to Stay Protected: 

• Pause and Verify: If you receive unexpected calls or messages about legal issues, take a moment to verify. Stay calm, as scammers rely on fear and urgency. Real government and law enforcement agencies will never ask for money or investigate cases through phone or video calls. Always confirm the caller’s identity and consult trusted sources before taking any action.
• Use Support Channels: Report suspicious numbers to the national cybercrime helpline by dialing 1930 or the Department of Telecommunication (https://sancharsaathi.gov.in/sfc/).
• Record and Report: Save messages, take screenshots and document interactions. This can help authorities if you need to file a report.

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Bengaluru, 26 November 2024: National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), conducted an event as part of the NPCI Synergy initiative featuring senior leaders from Small Finance Banks (SFBs) and Payments Banks to recognise their efforts in shaping the future of India’s digital payments through innovation, partnerships, and collaboration.

Dilip Asbe, MD & CEO, NPCI said, “Collaboration is crucial to unlock the true potential of India’s digital payments system. The event brought together industry leaders from SFBs and Payments Banks to discuss the key facets of digital payments in India. We want to create an encouraging environment where innovation thrives, partnerships flourish, and digital financial services are available across every corner of the country. SFBs and Payments Banks offer last-mile connectivity solutions, drive financial inclusion, and foster trust in underserved regions. Through initiatives like NPCI Synergy, we are committed to shaping the future of payments and driving inclusive growth for all.”

The event featured high-profile panel discussions. The panel, “Collaborative Models in Financial Services,” focused on how partnerships between SFBs, Payments Banks, and NPCI can spur growth and drive innovation. Key dignitaries from Fino Payments Bank, Unity Small Finance Bank, and India Post Payments Bank participated in the discussion, speaking on the critical role of collaboration in leveraging technology for developing innovative products to expand access to financial services and drive credit penetration in India, reaching the last mile. 

The panel, “Connecting the Dots: Expanding the Payment Ecosystem” focused on collaboration and sharing best practices among fintech players. The panel included leaders from NSDL Payments Bank, Jana Small Finance Bank, and Jio Financial Services. They discussed the opportunity and potential of improving access to digital payments services in small-towns in India. The discussion also emphasised on reducing cash reliance, driving merchant adoption for broader digital payments acceptance, and promoting financial inclusion.

Rajeeth Pillai, Chief Relationship Management, NPCI said, “The excellent conversations and discussions show the potential for growth and innovation that occurs when SFBs and Payments Banks come together. Collaboration must be focussed on aligning efforts and creating a seamless, user-friendly, and scalable payment solution. The NPCI has played a pivotal role in facilitating these partnerships, and we are excited to work with industry leaders to drive India’s digital payments journey ahead.”

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