Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman recently announced that digital payment adaptability in India has reached an impressive 87%. This figure significantly outpaces the global average, which hovers around 60%. The announcement highlights India’s leadership in the fintech revolution and its widespread adoption of digital financial tools.
Sitharaman shared these insights during an interaction with students at IIT Dharwad. She emphasized how digital adaptability in payments reflects the country’s rapid technological progress. This milestone underscores the transformative impact of digital infrastructure on everyday transactions.
The finance minister pointed out that India is now recognized as a world leader in digital payments. The country accounts for nearly half of all real-time digital transactions globally. This dominance is a testament to the efficiency and reach of India’s payment systems.
At the heart of this success is the Unified Payments Interface, or UPI. In the 2024-25 financial year, UPI processed over 18,580 crore transactions. These transactions were worth a staggering ₹261 trillion, showcasing the platform’s massive scale and reliability.
India’s robust Digital Public Infrastructure has been crucial to this achievement. This infrastructure includes Aadhaar, UPI, and DigiLocker. Together, they have helped bring millions of people into the formal financial system, promoting inclusion and accessibility.
Fintech is viewed as more than just an urban convenience in India. It serves as a crucial enabler of economic empowerment across the nation. The adoption of digital payments is strengthening even in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, driven by rising internet and smartphone penetration.
Sitharaman made these remarks while inaugurating the dhaRti BioNEST Incubation Centre at IIT Dharwad. This center is designed as a hub for innovation and bio-entrepreneurship. She encouraged students to explore opportunities in biotechnology and rural innovation, linking technology with grassroots development.
Her visit to Karnataka, scheduled from October 14 to 17, 2025, focuses on rural development and entrepreneurship. The itinerary includes multiple engagements aimed at boosting agro-processing and supporting micro-industries. These efforts align with the government’s broader vision for economic growth.
On October 15, Sitharaman inaugurated the Farmer’s Training Centre and Common Facility Centre for Agro Processing. She also visited a puffed rice MSME unit in Chilawadagi Village, Koppal. These visits highlight the government’s commitment to supporting rural micro-industries and enhancing agricultural value chains.
The day included an interaction with PMIS interns, fostering dialogue between policymakers and young professionals. Such engagements aim to inspire the next generation of leaders in technology and rural development. They also provide insights into government initiatives and career opportunities.
October 16 featured another Farmer’s Training Centre inauguration in Jawalgera Village, Sindhanur, Raichur. Sitharaman also visited the Gram Panchayat Library in Bagewadi, Siruguppa, Ballari. These stops emphasize the importance of grassroots knowledge centers and community resources.
Another farmer’s training center and agro-processing facility were inaugurated the same day. She reviewed the operations of Karnataka Grameena Bank at its headquarters in Ballari. This review underscored the role of regional banks in providing rural credit and supporting local development.
The visit concluded on October 17 with the inauguration of a Farmer’s Training Centre and CFC for Agro Processing at Kasapura Village in Kudligi, Vijayanagara. This event wrapped up a packed schedule focused on empowering rural communities. It reinforced the connection between digital progress and agricultural innovation.
India’s digital payment adaptability continues to set a global benchmark. The widespread use of UPI and other digital tools demonstrates the country’s commitment to technological advancement. This progress is reshaping how Indians transact and access financial services.