New Delhi— Economic Affairs Desk: In a landmark move to deepen India’s digital financial ecosystem, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has officially launched the Offline Digital Rupee (e₹) — a breakthrough initiative that enables secure, real-time digital payments even without internet or mobile connectivity.
Unveiled at the Global Fintech Fest 2025, the rollout marks a significant milestone in India’s journey toward a cashless and financially inclusive economy.
Digital Payments, Now Without Internet
Unlike UPI and other online payment systems that depend on internet connectivity and linked bank accounts, the Offline Digital Rupee allows direct wallet-to-wallet transfers, making it a game changer for rural and remote areas with limited network access or banking infrastructure.
By removing the dependency on online networks, the RBI aims to bring millions of unbanked and underbanked citizens into the fold of secure digital transactions.
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Powered by NFC and Telecom-Assisted Technology
The e₹ operates through two key technologies that make offline digital payments possible:
- Near Field Communication (NFC): Enables instant fund transfers between NFC-enabled devices with a simple tap.
- Telecom-Assisted Payments: Allows transactions to take place even under minimal network conditions.
These innovations make digital transactions as simple, seamless, and universal as cash.
Wallets from 15 Participating Banks
Users can access the e₹ through digital wallets provided by 15 participating banks, including the State Bank of India (SBI), HDFC Bank, and ICICI Bank.
- No minimum balance requirement.
- Daily transaction limit: ₹50,000 or up to 20 transfers.
- Maximum wallet balance capped at ₹1 lakh.
- Secure recovery mechanisms protect users’ funds in case of device loss or theft.
The wallets are available through official banking apps, ensuring easy onboarding and widespread adoption.
Programmable Money for Targeted Use
The Digital Rupee introduces a new dimension — Programmable Money.
Funds can be:
- Geo-fenced for use within certain areas,
- Time-bound to ensure usage within a set period, or
- Restricted for specific purposes.
This makes the e₹ particularly useful for government welfare schemes, corporate payrolls, and benefit disbursements, ensuring funds are utilized exactly as intended — enhancing transparency and accountability.
“A New Phase in Digital Public Infrastructure” — RBI Governor
RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra described the launch as a “transformative step” in India’s digital evolution.
“The Offline Digital Rupee strengthens India’s Digital Public Infrastructure by offering citizens a secure, reliable, and inclusive payment alternative,” he said.
“With this initiative, India joins the select group of countries that have successfully operationalized a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) with offline functionality.”
Strengthening Financial Inclusion
Experts say the Offline Digital Rupee will significantly boost financial inclusion, particularly among low-income and rural populations who face network or banking barriers. It is also expected to reduce cash dependency, improve payment resilience, and pave the way for smart government transfers and corporate settlements.
The Bottom Line
The Offline Digital Rupee (e₹) is more than just another payment instrument — it represents the next chapter in India’s digital financial transformation.
By combining technological innovation with inclusivity, the RBI has positioned India at the forefront of CBDC innovation worldwide, ensuring that digital money is as easy, accessible, and secure as physical cash.
In essence: The e₹ isn’t just a currency — it’s a digital bridge connecting every Indian, from metropolitan cities to the most remote villages, to the future of money.
