RBI launches offline ‘Digi Rupee’ to enable internet-free digital payments across India

Mangalore Today News Network

Mumbai, Oct 22, 2025: In a landmark step toward revolutionizing India’s digital financial landscape, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has launched the offline Digi Rupee, enabling money transfers without the need for an internet connection. Announced during the FinTech Fest 2025 in Mumbai, the initiative marks a major stride in advancing financial inclusion across the country.

As internet access becomes essential for everything from shopping and education to banking, the RBI’s new offline system addresses the digital divide. The offline Digi Rupee allows users to send and receive money in areas with limited or no internet or mobile network connectivity.

The Digi Rupee, India’s official digital currency issued by the RBI, mirrors the value of physical cash and functions as its electronic counterpart. Unlike UPI payments that require a bank account, the Digi Rupee facilitates direct wallet-to-wallet transactions, bypassing the need for banking infrastructure. Users can store and manage their digital currency through wallets offered by participating banks and make payments via QR code scanning, similar to UPI.

The system supports two offline modes:

* Telecom-assisted payments, which function with minimal network access, and

* NFC (Near Field Communication)-based payments, allowing completely offline, tap-to-pay transactions — ideal for remote areas with no connectivity at all.

With a simple tap of a smartphone, users can initiate both peer-to-peer and merchant payments, replicating the convenience of digital transactions even in offline environments.

Several major banks are participating in the rollout, including:

* State Bank of India, ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, Punjab National Bank, Yes Bank, IDFC First Bank, Union Bank of India, Bank of Baroda, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Canara Bank, IndusInd Bank, Federal Bank, Karnataka Bank, and Indian Bank.

Customers can access the Digi Rupee by downloading these banks’ mobile wallet apps from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. These wallets will support fund transfers, balance management, and offer features like wallet recovery in case of mobile loss.

The offline Digi Rupee is especially expected to benefit rural and underserved regions, reducing dependency on internet connectivity for day-to-day transactions — from personal payments to business dealings.

This forward-thinking initiative underscores the RBI’s commitment to building a more inclusive, resilient, and accessible digital financial system, ensuring that no citizen is left behind in India’s digital journey.