The Rise of Digital Payment in India: Benefits and How it Works

What is digital payment?

Digital payment is about handling financial transactions electronically without using physical money. It’s like sending money or value from one person or place to another through digital means. This could mean using devices like smartphones, computers, or even unique electronic cards like credit, debit, or prepaid cards. Digital payments make it easy for people and businesses to trade money digitally, making financial exchanges smooth and efficient online and changing how we think about traditional money transactions.

Why opt for digital transactions?

The transition to digital payment methods holds a treasure trove of advantages, especially for small businesses in India. Both individuals and companies now anticipate seamless digital payment options, driven by the quest for quicker, safer, and cost-effective transactions without any hassles or fees. When payers use mobile devices, an extra layer of security emerges through biometric verification, like fingerprints, reducing potential risks.

But the benefits don’t stop at individual transactions; they extend to business operations too:

1. Efficient cash handling : Doing away with physical cash lowers the theft risk, resulting in reduced security expenses and less storage worry.

2. Faster transactions : Digital payments inherently mean quicker transactions, leading to shorter lines and a better in-store experience for customers. This ease can boost sales.

3. Simplified tracking : Digital payment records create a clear path for seamless accounting, streamlining operations and ensuring adherence to tax regulations.

Moreover, mobile-based digital payment systems have become a gateway for recipients to collect valuable customer data. This data provides insights for analysis and targeted marketing, empowering retailers and banks to leverage digital payments and loyalty programs for engaging customers. The synergy between traditional credit card models and modern Buy Now Pay Later approaches, supported by digital payments, bridges the gap between old and new financial systems, providing accessible credit options to consumers.

How digital payments function: An overview

Beneath the surface simplicity of a few clicks, a sophisticated network of contributors works harmoniously to craft seamless digital transactions. This intricate web involves various players, including the merchant (receiving payment), the consumer (initiating payment), the bank, and the payment network. Within this landscape, the term ‘merchant’ encapsulates a range of entities, from local Kirana stores and shopping centers to online platforms and service providers facilitating digital transactions and settlements.

In the realm of transactions, two pivotal banks take center stage:

1. Issuer bank : This bank deducts the payment from the payer’s account. It’s the starting point for this financial journey.

2. Acquirer bank : Also known as the payee’s bank, it’s the destination where the received funds find their home. This bank deposits the funds, ensuring a complete cycle.

Both parties engaged in this transaction must possess an active bank account and access to online banking services, providing them with the passport to participate in the digital transaction landscape.

Advantages of digital payments In India

In the dynamic world of financial transactions, digital payments have emerged as a game-changer, offering a range of benefits that redefine convenience, security, and financial awareness. Let’s explore the impactful advantages driving India’s embrace of digital payments toward a brighter future.

1. Speedy and simple transactions : Say goodbye to lengthy paperwork and waiting in ATM lines. Digital payments break free from time and space constraints, enabling transactions to happen in an instant. The era of efficiency has arrived, bidding farewell to old hassles.

2. Enhanced security measures : Digital payments rest on a foundation of verification and authentication. Robust security features like One-Time Passwords (OTPs) and cross-verification guard transactions against potential fraud. In the digital realm, confidence prevails.

3. Empowerment through digital wallets : Digital wallets are gaining popularity as Indians seek convenience. These virtual vaults store bank details, credit, and debit cards, empowering users to make financial transactions effortlessly. Life gets more straightforward as payment methods gather under one roof.

4. Rewards and more : Digital transactions aren’t just about exchanging money but rewards and savings. Banks and digital wallets offer cashback, bonuses, rewards, and discounts, turning every payment into an opportunity to benefit from the digital economy.

5. Clear view of finances : Monitoring expenses becomes easy with digital payments. Transactions are neatly organised on a single dashboard, providing valuable insights into weekly and monthly financial activities. Financial awareness takes center stage.

6. Revolutionising tax payments : Digital payment platforms, combined with big data, revolutionize tax payments. Businesses can now settle tax obligations online, saving time and resources previously spent on manual processes.

7. Building an informed economy : The benefits of digital payments extend beyond individuals; they enrich the nation’s economy. Governments can easily track financial flows, making informed decisions. This shift also could reduce the costs associated with currency production, promoting fiscal responsibility.

Exploring how digital payments work: A story of Rajeev’s pottery purchase

Let’s dive into digital payments by walking through a simple scenario.

Meet Rajeev Kapoor, an enthusiastic traveller on a quest to uncover the beauty of Jaipur’s lively markets, renowned for their exquisite handicrafts. Rajeev’s eye catches a stunning piece of intricately designed pottery at “Craft Haven,” a charming shop in the heart of the bustling Pink City. Priced at INR 2,500, the pottery becomes Rajeev’s chosen treasure.

Rajeev decides to pay digitally for his cherished pottery in the spirit of modern convenience. Armed with his smartphone, he quickly navigates the process and scans the shop’s QR code to initiate the transaction. Though different from traditional payment methods, the following steps are captivating in their own right.

As Rajeev’s smartphone scans the QR code, a sequence of actions unfolds behind the scenes. His payment app connects with the pottery shop’s trusted payment partner. This partner, known for its secure and efficient solutions, establishes a secure connection with Rajeev’s bank.

The payment partner checks Rajeev’s account balance to ensure a seamless transaction. After confirming sufficient funds, Rajeev is prompted to authorize the payment. His fingerprint acts as a unique digital signature, adding an extra layer of security. Once permitted, the payment partner promptly transfers the funds from Rajeev’s account to “Craft Haven’s” merchant account.

The process has a slight twist in scenarios where Rajeev might have opted for a digital wallet, like a travel-friendly app consolidating various payment methods. The payment partner communicates with the digital wallet provider to verify Rajeev’s balance. Upon confirmation, the funds are swiftly deducted from the wallet and sent to the shop.

This intricate dance of modern technology and financial institutions orchestrates the world of digital payments. It empowers individuals like Rajeev to pursue their passions and seamlessly embrace the future of financial interactions.

Diverse digital payment choices available in India

Let’s explore various digital payment options that India has to offer:

1. Payment links : These links bring convenience, allowing online payments without needing a website or app. They ensure instant payments upon delivery, streamlining transactions.

2. QR codes : QR code-based payments have transformed India’s digital scene. With smartphones and the internet, users effortlessly send and receive payments. Indian banks even provide personalised mobile banking QR codes.

3. Banking cards : Banking cards are the ultimate choice, combining convenience, security, and offers. They redefine financial transactions with a range of features.

4. USSD : Using *99#USSD enables mobile transactions without apps or data. Championed by USSD and the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), it extends banking to underserved segments.

5. AEPS : Aadhar Enabled Payment System (AEPS) revolutionises banking with balance checks, withdrawals, deposits, and transfers backed by Aadhar verification. It’s efficient, cardless, and quick.

6. UPI : Unified Payments Interface (UPI) allows seamless money transfers using virtual accounts, replacing traditional account numbers or IFSC codes.

7. Mobile wallets : Securely storing banking details, mobile wallets redefine payment safety. They also facilitate merchant payments, online shopping, and fund transfers.

8. Bank prepaid cards : Unlinked from bank accounts, these offer an alternative to debit cards, loaded with funds and versatile functionalities.

9. ECS : Efficiently managing EMIs, ECS ensures systematic debits. Through NPCI’s NACH system, it simplifies financial transactions.

10. PoS terminals : Originally for in-store payments, PoS terminals have evolved with digital platforms, expanding transaction possibilities.

11. Internet banking : A portal for various financial services, internet banking breaks time barriers. It includes NEFT, IMPS, and RTGS, granting unrestricted access.

12. Mobile banking : Boosted by smartphones, mobile banking amplifies convenience. With UPI and digital payment apps, it’s shaping seamless transactions.

13. BHIM app : With a VPA, the BHIM app enables swift transactions. It links bank accounts, making mobile numbers, debit cards, and bank accounts conduits for funds.