The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced an offline version of the digital rupee (e₹) at the Global Fintech Fest 2025 in Mumbai, allowing users to make payments without internet or mobile network.
What is the Digital Rupee?
The digital rupee (e₹) is India’s Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) — a digital version of cash. It works just like regular money but is stored in a digital wallet. Users can scan or tap a QR code to make payments, even without an internet connection.
How to Use
Download the RBI-supported digital rupee app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Register on the app and load your wallet with e₹.
Make payments to individuals or merchants by scanning or tapping a QR code — no bank account access or internet required.
Who Benefits Most
The offline payment feature is designed to help people in rural or remote areas where internet connectivity is poor. Transactions will be supported through NFC (Near Field Communication) and telecom services, making payments faster and more accessible.
Banks Offering e₹ Wallets
The offline digital rupee will be available through multiple banks, including:
SBI, ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, Yes Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, IDFC First Bank, Bank of Baroda, Union Bank of India, Canara Bank, IndusInd Bank, Punjab National Bank, Federal Bank, and Indian Bank.
With the launch of offline e₹, India takes another step toward a cashless and inclusive digital economy.