IDFC Bank – Please enable Credit Card acceptance via UPI

Not sure as to where the fault is, but 100 % sure not the NPCI RuPay card issuer bank i.e Kotak Mahindra Bank.

         Today evening went to Pooja Jewellers, Uttharalli, Bangalore 560 061, just 100 metres from IDFC Bank, Uttharalli Branch.

After shopping, the owner enquired Card or UPI. Proudly mentioned UPI and logged into Supr.Money, scanned the QR Code on the IDFC Bank UPI QR Code machine.  

         Received a successful SMS from my card issuer.

         In the Supr.Money APP  the transaction status was still in  processing

         After few seconds to my horror, the payment status got updated to FAILED.

         Hopefully this post will reach the respective IDFC Bank Team and issue will be resolved by this month end.

I am advocating for World Safe ePay Day.

The final goal of all my Blog Posts and social media interactions is to have a Day declared as World Safe ePay Day.

 

 

Safe and Stylish: Unveiling World SafeePay and Blouse Day Delights

 

The need for observing World SafeePay Day and World Blouse Day arises from the absence of dedicated global celebrations for these concepts.

World SafeePay Day aims to celebrate the joy of safe electronic payments in all financial transactions, representing an abstract celebration that highlights the significance of secure and efficient digital financial interactions. As the world increasingly relies on electronic payment systems, having a designated day for SafeePay emphasizes the importance of secure and reliable digital financial transactions.

 

On the other hand, World Blouse Day seeks to celebrate the joys of wearing blouses in a more lively and visually impactful manner. The concept involves a powerful display of togetherness, with millions of people stepping out wearing blouses based on a chosen theme. This display celebration not only promotes a sense of unity but also serves as a unique and creative expression of shared identity through clothing.

 

The introduction of these days aligns with the United Nations' approach to designating specific days to raise awareness, promote action, and celebrate achievements related to various global issues.

While international days often focus on serious matters, World SafeePay Day and World Blouse Day offer a mix of abstract and lively celebrations, catering to the diverse interests and aspects of modern life.

In a world where electronic transactions and cultural expressions are integral parts of daily living, these designated days would contribute to fostering awareness and appreciation for safe ePayments and the joy of wearing blouses.

Read more about Credit Card payment via UPI App

01)Credit Card Spendings Via UPI Platform Touch New High –Check List Of Banks Offering Facility @ https://zeenews.india.com/personal-finance/credit-card-spendings-via-upi-platform-touch-new-high-check-list-of-banks-offering-facility-2775042.html

 

02)                NPCI records nearly ₹10,000 crore credit disbursed through UPI every month @ https://www.livemint.com/news/india/npci-records-nearly-rs-10-000-crore-credit-disbursed-through-upi-every-month-11722957780027.html

 

Know more  about   Super.Money @ https://prashantnepayments.blogspot.com/2024/06/supermoney-kudos-to-real-time.html

Disclaimer: These are my thoughts only. The only Bliss is promoting the Joy of Safe ePayments. World Safe ePay Day  is a medium to experience the Joy of Safe ePayments.

Copyrights, rest with the original copyright holders only.

 

 

NPCI Circular @ UPI Members __ Introduction of 3 New features for Credit Accounts

 

**Empowering Users: Unveiling 3 New Features in UPI for Credit Accounts**

 

In a dynamic financial landscape where convenience and flexibility are paramount, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) continues to spearhead innovations that reshape the digital payments landscape.

With a recent circular dated March 29th, 2024, NPCI has highlighted three groundbreaking features tailored specifically for Credit Accounts within the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) ecosystem.

These features not only streamline transactions but also empower users with greater control over their finances.

 

At the heart of these advancements lies the integration of RuPay Credit Cards or pre-sanctioned credit lines with UPI Virtual Payment Addresses (VPAs).

This foundational linkage serves as the gateway to a plethora of possibilities, ranging from flexible payment options to enhanced financial management tools.

However, the realization of this potential hinges upon the collaborative efforts of UPI App Teams and Credit Institutions, underscoring the importance of synergy in driving innovation.

 

In line with NPCI's commitment to fostering digital financial inclusion and innovation, I am pleased to spotlight three innovative features highlighted in the recent circular dated March 29th, 2024.

These features are specifically tailored for Credit Accounts within the UPI ecosystem, aiming to enhance user experiences and provide greater flexibility in managing financial transactions.

The 3 new features are: -

01)                 EMI Facility

02)                Credit Account Bill Payment/Instalment Payment

03)                Limit Management

 

**1. EMI Facility: **

 

The EMI (Equated Monthly Installment) facility revolutionizes the way users manage their credit accounts through the UPI app. With this feature, users can conveniently apply for an EMI facility directly within the UPI app interface. Upon selecting the desired credit account, users authorize the EMI application process by entering their UPI PIN, thus providing explicit consent as per relevant terms and conditions.

 

i. **Converting Past Purchases into EMI: ** Users gain the flexibility to convert past purchases made using their credit accounts into EMIs seamlessly. By accessing their transaction history within the linked UPI app, users can select specific transactions and convert them into manageable EMIs, spreading payments over a pre-defined period.

 

ii. **Instant EMI at the Point of Transaction: ** Furthermore, users have the option to opt for EMI at the time of making a new transaction. Whether it's purchasing electronics, booking travel tickets, or shopping for essentials, users can choose to convert their transaction into EMI directly within the UPI app interface, ensuring financial flexibility and convenience.

 

Additionally, the UPI app provides a dedicated section to display existing EMIs, offering users visibility and transparency into their repayment obligations. It's important to note that since EMIs are essentially loans, users are restricted from modifying or deleting EMIs, except for foreclosure, in adherence to the terms specified by the issuing entity.

 

**2. Credit Account Bill Payment/Instalment Payment: **

 

This feature streamlines the process of settling outstanding credit card bills or credit line installments through the UPI app, offering users enhanced convenience and flexibility in managing their finances.

 

i. **Creation of UPI ID for Bill/Instalment Payment: ** To initiate the payment process, the Payer PSP (Payment Service Provider) generates a unique UPI ID specifically designated for receiving credit account bill or instalment payments. This UPI ID serves as a secure channel for transferring funds from the user's linked bank account to the designated recipient.

 

ii. **Detailed Overview of Outstanding Bills/Instalments: ** Within the UPI app interface, users gain access to comprehensive details regarding their linked credit card's outstanding bill or credit line installment, including minimum amount due, total amount due, bill due date, and other relevant information. This transparency empowers users to make informed financial decisions and manage their repayment obligations effectively.

 

iii. **Real-time Clearance of Dues: ** Upon receiving payments through the UPI app, the issuing bank processes the transactions in real-time, ensuring prompt clearance of dues. Consequently, users benefit from an enhanced balance available for utilization, further enhancing their purchasing power and financial flexibility.

 

**3. Limit Management: **

 

This feature empowers users to exercise greater control over their credit limits, catering to diverse financial needs and preferences.

 

By enabling users to accept or apply for credit limit enhancements directly through the UPI app, this feature facilitates seamless access to additional credit resources. Whether it's for making large purchases, addressing emergencies, or covering ad hoc expenses such as festivals or family events, users can adjust their credit limits dynamically to suit their specific requirements.

 

Moreover, this functionality enables issuing banks to start with smaller credit limits, providing users with a tailored approach to credit management. Based on the user's spending behavior and repayment history, the bank may subsequently increase the credit limit, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship between users and financial institutions.

 

With the objective of enhancing user convenience and providing better control over their finances, users can initiate changes to their credit limits through the UPI app interface. Whether it's a generic adjustment or a temporary modification for a specific time period, users provide explicit consent by entering their UPI PIN, ensuring a secure and streamlined process.

 

These expanded features signify NPCI's commitment to driving digital financial inclusion and innovation, empowering users to navigate the evolving landscape of digital payments with confidence and convenience.

 

As we continue to evolve the UPI ecosystem to meet the changing needs of users, we encourage all stakeholders to explore and leverage these features to their fullest potential.

By embracing innovation and collaboration, we can collectively shape a future where digital financial inclusion knows no bounds.

Looking forward for the new features to roll out soon, very soon.

 

Disclaimer: These are my personal thoughts only. The bottom line is Spreading the Joy of Safe ePayments.

 

Safe and Stylish: Unveiling World SafeePay and Blouse Day Delights

 

The need for observing World SafeePay Day and World Blouse Day arises from the absence of dedicated global celebrations for these concepts.

World SafeePay Day aims to celebrate the joy of safe electronic payments in all financial transactions, representing an abstract celebration that highlights the significance of secure and efficient digital financial interactions.

As the world increasingly relies on electronic payment systems, having a designated day for SafeePay emphasizes the importance of secure and reliable digital financial transactions.

 

On the other hand, World Blouse Day seeks to celebrate the joys of wearing blouses in a more lively and visually impactful manner.

The concept involves a powerful display of togetherness, with millions of people stepping out wearing blouses based on a chosen theme.

This display celebration not only promotes a sense of unity but also serves as a unique and creative expression of shared identity through clothing.

 

The introduction of these days aligns with the United Nations' approach to designating specific days to raise awareness, promote action, and celebrate achievements related to various global issues.

While international days often focus on serious matters, World SafeePay Day and World Blouse Day offer a mix of abstract and lively celebrations, catering to the diverse interests and aspects of modern life.

In a world where electronic transactions and cultural expressions are integral parts of daily living, these designated days would contribute to fostering awareness and appreciation for safe ePayments and the joy of wearing blouses.

 

 

SafeePay's joy, transactions secure,

World Blouse Day, colors allure.

Digits dance, a digital delight,

Blouse themes bloom, in unity's light.

 

 

 

 

Ensuring Financial Inclusion: NPCI Circular on Direct Benefit Credits to Dormant Accounts

 

 Introduction:

In a recent development, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) issued a crucial circular emphasizing the importance of not returning Direct Benefit Credits to Inoperative or Dormant Bank Accounts. This directive, effective from April 1, 2024, aims to streamline the process of Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) under various government schemes.

 

Key Points from the Circular:

The circular, referencing the RBI communication RBl/2023-24/105 DOR.SOG (LEG).REC I 64 1 09.08.024 12023-24 dated January 1, 2024, outlines specific Return Codes (53 and 54) related to In-operative and Dormant accounts.

The NPCI NACH Team has explicitly instructed all NACH Banks not to return DBT Credits to accounts falling under these categories.

 

DBT under Government Schemes:

Understanding the significance of DBT in government schemes, especially for beneficiaries with zero-balance accounts, the circular addresses the challenges faced by Central and State governments. To tackle issues related to inoperative accounts due to non-operation for two years, the circular suggests that banks segregate these accounts in their CBS based on the purpose of their opening. This exemption aims to facilitate smooth fund transfers for welfare schemes, scholarships, and other benefits.

 

About DBT:

Briefly delving into the background, the post provides insights into the initiation of Direct Benefit Transfer on January 1, 2013. The DBT Mission's role, subsequent expansions, and its mission to bring efficiency, transparency, and accountability to the government system are highlighted. The importance of JAM (Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, and Mobile) as enablers for DBT is emphasized, with over 22 crore Jan Dhan Accounts and 100 crore Aadhaar and Mobile connections providing a robust foundation for the implementation of DBT.

 

In summary, this blog underscores the paramount importance and dedicated focus that Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) commands within the government's strategic priorities. Emphasizing its pivotal role, the measures outlined in the NPCI circular not only foster financial inclusion but also serve as a robust defense against potential fraud. These initiatives align seamlessly with the overarching vision of achieving "MAXIMUM GOVERNANCE MINIMUM GOVERNMENT," propelling our nation toward a more efficient, transparent, and accountable governance model.

 

Safe and Stylish: Unveiling World SafeePay and Blouse Day Delights

 

The need for observing World SafeePay Day and World Blouse Day arises from the absence of dedicated global celebrations for these concepts. World SafeePay Day aims to celebrate the joy of safe electronic payments in all financial transactions, representing an abstract celebration that highlights the significance of secure and efficient digital financial interactions.

As the world increasingly relies on electronic payment systems, having a designated day for SafeePay emphasizes the importance of secure and reliable digital financial transactions.

 

On the other hand, World Blouse Day seeks to celebrate the joys of wearing blouses in a more lively and visually impactful manner.

The concept involves a powerful display of togetherness, with millions of people stepping out wearing blouses based on a chosen theme.

This display celebration not only promotes a sense of unity but also serves as a unique and creative expression of shared identity through clothing.

 

The introduction of these days aligns with the United Nations' approach to designating specific days to raise awareness, promote action, and celebrate achievements related to various global issues.

While international days often focus on serious matters, World SafeePay Day and World Blouse Day offer a mix of abstract and lively celebrations, catering to the diverse interests and aspects of modern life.

In a world where electronic transactions and cultural expressions are integral parts of daily living, these designated days would contribute to fostering awareness and appreciation for safe ePayments and the joy of wearing blouses.

 

 

SafeePay's joy, transactions secure,

World Blouse Day, colors allure.

Digits dance, a digital delight,

Blouse themes bloom, in unity's light.

 

Disclaimer: I am solely responsible for errors, if any. The Only happiness is spreading the Joy of Safe ePayments.

Welcome to 2024: Embarking on a New Era of Stock Trading Excellence! SEBI's n NPCI’s UPI ASBA Initiative for secondary market trades.

 

Revolutionizing Stock Trading: SEBI's and NPCI’s UPI ASBA Initiative and QSBs Propel Investors into a Future of Secure and Seamless Transactions!"

🌐 Breaking News: QSB Designation and UPI Revolution in Secondary Market! 🚀

In the dynamic landscape of financial markets, 2024 marks a pivotal moment as we witness groundbreaking changes orchestrated by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI).

With a visionary approach, SEBI introduces the UPI ASBA initiative, leveraging the power of the Unified Payments Interface for Share Secondary Market.

This transformative move aims not only to streamline transactions but also to enhance security and efficiency.

 

As we step into this promising year, the designation of 15 Stockbrokers as Qualified Stockbrokers (QSBs) adds another layer of reliability to the financial ecosystem.

These industry leaders, including Zerodha, Angel One, HDFC Securities, and others, are entrusted with additional responsibilities in financial stability, audit, related-party transactions, cyber security, and risk management.

The regulatory commitment intensifies with enhanced monitoring set to commence on July 1, 2023 ensuring a robust and accountable trading environment.

 

The transition to UPI ASBA signifies a paradigm shift in user-friendly transactions.

Pioneered by QSBs like Groww, the activation of UPI ASBA for Share Secondary Market promises a seamless experience for investors.

The forthcoming beta run will provide valuable insights, allowing for strategic adjustments and fine-tuning.

 

In this symbiotic relationship between stockbrokers and banks, readiness is paramount. The collaborative efforts of both entities ensure the full potential of UPI ASBA is harnessed. Regulators, post-beta run, may play a crucial role in ensuring the preparedness of banks, aligning with the evolving needs of the financial landscape.

 

The unveiling of building blocks, starting with the RBI's announcement of single-block-and-multiple debits in UPI, highlights a comprehensive approach towards a technologically advanced and secure trading environment.

The UPI ASBA feature, a result of these building blocks, simplifies various transactions, offering unprecedented ease in e-commerce, securities investments, hotel bookings, and more.

 

As we eagerly anticipate the Beta launch of 'UPI for Secondary Market,' led by Groww and supported by key stakeholders like BHIM, YES PAY NEXT, and others, the financial landscape is poised for positive disruptions.

Initially accessible to HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank customers, this collaborative effort ensures a robust implementation.

 

In conclusion, as we welcome 2024, investors, brokers, and stakeholders are invited to embrace this change and be part of a historic transformation in Indian secondary market trading. SEBI's circular and the imminent UPI for Secondary Market not only promise enhanced security and streamlined processes but also herald a new paradigm in financial transactions.

Welcome to a year of possibilities and positive shifts in the world of stock trading!

 

📆 Key Circular Announcement:

On June 23, 2023, SEBI (Securities and Exchange Board of India) made a historic announcement through circular SEBI/HO/MRD/MRD-PoD-2/P/CIR/2023/99, ushering in a transformative era in secondary market trading.

This directive, directed towards Recognized Stock Exchanges, Clearing Corporations, Recognized Depositories, and the National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI), introduces an innovative UPI block facility aimed at enhancing investor protection.

 

🔄 Transition to UPI ASBA:

QSBs are expected to spearhead the activation of UPI ASBA (Unified Payments Interface Application Supported by Block Amount) for Share Secondary Market, introducing a new dimension in user-friendly transactions.

While trailblazers like Groww lead the way, other QSBs are poised to follow suit in the coming months. Strategies may undergo refinement based on insights garnered from a meticulous beta run, ensuring a seamless transition.

 

🏦 Banks and Brokers Symbiosis:

A pivotal note underscores the symbiotic relationship between stockbrokers and banks. The preparedness of both entities is paramount; if banks are not adequately prepared, stockbroker account holders won't be able to fully leverage the potential of UPI ASBA. Regulators, post-beta run, may play a role in nudging banks towards readiness.

 

🔗 **Building Blocks Unveiled:

This transformative journey unfolds as a sequence of building blocks. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) laid the foundation in December 2022 with the announcement of single-block-and-multiple debits in UPI. Each subsequent announcement contributes to a comprehensive ecosystem, ensuring a smooth transition towards a technologically advanced and secure trading environment.

 

🚀 **UPI ASBA Feature Unveiled:

The UPI ASBA feature, leveraging single-block-and-multiple debits functionality, was unveiled by the RBI, marking a paradigm shift in payment systems. Earmarking funds for debits simplifies various transactions, including e-commerce, securities investments, hotel bookings, and more.

 

💡 **Beta Launch and Stakeholder Collaboration:

The upcoming week heralds the Beta launch of 'UPI for Secondary Market,' initially focusing on the equity cash segment.

This launch is a collaborative effort, with key stakeholders such as clearing corporations, stock exchanges, depositories, stockbrokers, banks, and UPI app providers actively contributing to its success.

During the Beta phase, a select group of pilot customers will experience this functionality, enabling them to block funds in their bank accounts.

Clearing Corporations will then debit these funds upon trade confirmation during settlement, streamlining the process and ensuring a swift payout on a T+1 basis.

 

The Beta launch of 'UPI for Secondary Market' is imminent, led by Groww, supported by BHIM, Groww, and YES PAY NEXT.

Initially accessible to HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank customers, this collaborative effort ensures a robust implementation. Key stakeholders, including Zerodha, Axis Bank, and Paytm, are gearing up for certification and active participation in the Beta launch.

 

🔄 Integration Challenges and Solutions:

The Beta run prompts critical questions about the potential contribution of 'UPI for Secondary Market' to overall UPI volumes. The initial phase grants access to UPI through UPI Screens for HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank account holders. However, a crucial step for full UPI benefits is holding an account with the Groww brokerage app.

 

The QSB list includes Zerodha, Angel One, 5paisa Capital, HDFC Securities, ICICI Securities, IIFL Securities, Jainam Broking, Kotak Securities, Motilal Oswal Financial Services, NextBillion Technology, Nuvama Wealth and Investment, Sharekhan, Anand Rathi Share and Stock Brokers, RKSV Securities, and Globe Capital Market

In summary, SEBI's circular sets the stage for a transformative shift in secondary market trading, with the UPI block facility poised to redefine security, efficiency, and investor protection.

As the countdown to January 1, 2024, begins, the financial landscape is on the brink of a new era. Investors, brokers, and other stakeholders are encouraged to embrace this change, heralding an era of enhanced security and streamlined processes in the Indian secondary market.

 

Contextual Expansion: SEBI Circular and UPI for Secondary Market:

 

On June 23, 2023, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) issued a pivotal circular, SEBI/HO/MRD/MRD-PoD-2/P/CIR/2023/99, signaling a groundbreaking shift in the landscape of secondary market trading.

This circular, addressed to all Recognized Stock Exchanges, Clearing Corporations, Recognized Depositories, and the National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI), outlines a strategic move to enhance investor protection and streamline trading processes.

 

Introduction of UPI Block Facility:

The core objective of this circular is to introduce a supplementary process for trading in the secondary market, mitigating risks associated with defaulting trading and clearing members.

SEBI has ingeniously devised a framework wherein funds in an investor's bank account are blocked, as opposed to being transferred upfront to the trading member.

This revolutionary move aims to provide an added layer of security, known as the 'UPI block facility,' integrating the RBI-approved Unified Payments Interface (UPI) mandate service.

 

 

 

 

Key Features of the Proposed Framework:

Under this proposed framework, funds remain in the client's account but are blocked in favor of the clearing corporation (CC) until the expiration of the block mandate or its release by the CC.

Settlement for funds and securities is seamlessly handled by the CC, eliminating the need for trading members to handle client funds and securities directly.

Client Flexibility and Options:

The circular emphasizes investor empowerment, allowing the availing of the UPI block facility to be at the option of the investor.

This non-mandatory facility, to be provided by stock brokers, permits investors to choose UPI-based trading under specific brokers while opting for non-UPI trading under others.

However, once opted for the UPI block facility under a particular broker, specific guidelines must be adhered to concerning cash collaterals, equivalent collateral, securities collateral, and funds pay-in settlement.

 

Segment-wise Collateral and Settlement:

Collateral and settlement are designed to be segment-wise, requiring clients, trading members, and clearing members to transfer or reallocate collateral between segments. Running account settlement is not supported, ensuring a meticulous and daily settlement process facilitated by the CC using the UPI block facility.

 

Timelines and Implementation:

Fast forward to December 29, 2023, when SEBI's visionary approach materialized into a significant development. An ASBA-like facility, termed 'Trading supported by blocked amount in Secondary Market,' gained approval. Leveraging the RBI-approved UPI mechanism, the implementation timeline for this transformative change is set for January 1, 2024.

 

🚨 Disclaimer:

This informational expansion is based on available data and projections as of January 1, 2024. However, changes may occur based on regulatory updates and industry dynamics. Users are encouraged to verify current information and consult relevant authorities for the latest details.

 

🚀 Conclusion:

As the countdown to January 1, 2024, begins, the financial landscape stands on the brink of a new era. SEBI's circular and the imminent UPI for Secondary Market promise not only enhanced security and streamlined processes but also herald a paradigm shift in Indian secondary market trading.

Investors, brokers, and stakeholders are invited to embrace this change and be part of a historic transformation.

 

Additional Reading: Pilot phase of 'UPI for secondary market' to begin Jan 1; CRED's Kunal Shah says 'big moment for India' @

https://www.businesstoday.in/markets/top-story/story/pilot-phase-of-upi-for-secondary-market-to-begin-jan-1-creds-kunal-shah-says-big-moment-for-india-411331-2023-12-29

 

 

 

UPI Volumes going Up and UP. Cross 1,00,000 Lacs in August 2023

 UPI Volumes going Up and UP. Cross 1,00,000 Lacs in August 2023

 

Conceived and introduced by the National Payments Corporation of India in 2016, UPI has evolved into one of the most favored payment solutions within India, boasting more than a billion transactions each month.

August Volumes upto 30th August only 

Thanks to GPT for the following poem

Amidst digital streams, UPI flows, Volumes surge, a financial prose.

100000 lacs, a grand ballet, Transactions dance, night and day.

Crossing rivers of numbers, it glides, Economy's rhythm, where commerce resides.

A tale of progress, in digital rhyme, UPi's success, a sign of our time.

 

Disclaimer: These are my personal views only. The bottom line is Safe ePayments.

Take Care of Diabetes, not Manage it

#DiabetesCareMotivator

 

Zero 2 Hundred-NPCIs Instant Payment Service trajectory in India

          A major milestone in India’s eTransactions journey was crossed in July 2015 with the total number of banks at 100 on NPCIs IMPS channel.

          Yes, as on date 100 banks are part of this 100% ‘Made In India’, eTransactions mode.

          The benefits of IMPS are being enjoyed by a large populace spread across the nook and corner of our country.

          The chief advantage of IMPS is that transactions can happen around the clock, irrespective of holidays, with nil dependence on bank staff.

          The initial transactions will be a bit strange, as the funds move at the speed of light at any point of time.

          There are number of channels through which the bank customers can choose to transact through the IMPS mode.

          There are a number of products which can be tailored by Finance Industry participants to enhance the customer experience.

          The technology is robust enough to support extremely high volumes at all times.

          Banks and PPIs are constantly innovating to expand the user base.

          Only a fraction of the target populace has been touched by IMPS and in the coming years, IMPS will embrace new group of people into its fold.

         

NPCI partners with Indusind Bank and Western Union for International funds transfer

                        Majority of Western Unions SEND customers to India reside in U.S., U.K., France, Germany and Australia.

 The major options for Western Union RECEIVE customers are a) across the counter at a Western Union Agent Location or b) Bank account credit.

For Bank account credit, Western Union piggybacked on the NEFT platform. However, NEFT has its own limitations as compared to IMPS.

Way back in September 2013, Western Union innovation team closely looked at NPCIs’ Immediate Payment Service (IMPS) to enhance its customer’s experience.

Due to the time difference between India and other countries there was a lag between the SEND time and the RECEIPT time, even when the RECEIVE option was a Bank Account.

NPCI’s IMPS with its feature of instant money transfer was a very attractive proposition. Reserve Bank of India recently approved IMPS to facilitate cross-border money transfer within minutes to select banks.

This led to Western Union to offer funds transfer through NPCIs’ IMPS to its SEND customers. The service has been launched in collaboration with IndusInd Bank.

The process flow is as under

01) The SENDER opts to transfer through cash and debit cards at participating Agent locations, or debit and credit cards at www.westernunion.com.com at this time.

02)The funds move to the Western Union settlement account at Indusind Bank.

03)Finally through NPCIs IMPS channel the RECEIVER the funds in his/her bank account.

Benefits of this Channel:-

01) 24*7 service

02)Facility available on Holidays too

03)Quick reversal of funds in case of invalid account number or any other reasons if credit is not possible

Link 1, Link 2

NPCI adopts Verhoeff Algorithm for validation of Aadhaar Numbers

NPCI adopts Verhoeff Algorithm for validation of Aadhaar Numbers

          The NPCI Aadhaar Seeder is the bridge connecting the Government Departments and the Bank Account Holders for receipt various Government subsidies, scholarships etc.

          Due to the LPG subsidy rollout program in the last couple of months, the number of Aadhaar numbers being seeded in Bank Accounts and NPCI Database has zoomed up drastically.

          It might be noted that Aadhaar is just another number, if the Biometrics validation of the Resident is not done.

          At present, basing on the Aadhaar Number Card, the seeding is done on Bank accounts or with LPG companies. The actual biometric validation has not yet commenced.

          Hence, it becomes still more important to capture the correct Aadhaar number.

          Recognizing that the Aadhaar number will be manually keyed in numerous occasions, UIDAI had adopted the Verhoeff Algorithm method, to minimize data-entry mistakes.

          The Algorithm logic is in public domain. However, computation cannot be done manually, and only computer programs are capable of validating a number in the Verhoeff Algorithm method.

          NPCI vide its circular dt. July 09, 2013, advised all banks which are part of the NACH-APB system to implement the Verhoeff Algorithm in their systems to validate Aadhaar numbers before seeding the same in customer accounts. If this is not done, any invalid Aadhaar number will be rejected by NPCI mapper with the reason, ‘Invalid Aadhaar No_ Verhoeff Checksum validation failed’.