RBI Launches ‘Offline Digital Rupee’; Enables Tap or QR Payments Without Internet

Mumbai: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Thursday unveiled the ‘Offline Digital Rupee’, marking a significant milestone in India’s Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) journey. The new feature enables users to make digital payments without internet or mobile network, allowing transactions through tap or QR, much like using cash.

According to the RBI, the Digital Rupee (e₹) is India’s official Central Bank Digital Currency — a digital version of the Indian Rupee (₹) — issued and backed by the central bank. It offers the same trust, safety, and legal status as physical currency.

The offline feature was launched at the Global Fintech Fest 2025 in Mumbai. It aims to bring digital payments to regions with limited or no connectivity, ensuring broader access and inclusion in India’s digital economy.

What Is the Digital Rupee (e₹)?

Branded with the tagline “Cash, but Digital”, the Digital Rupee allows both online and offline transactions while introducing programmability — meaning funds can be earmarked for specific uses such as government subsidies, welfare schemes, or corporate disbursements.

Stored in a digital wallet, e₹ can be used to send, receive, or make payments instantly, without the need for a bank account. This makes it distinct from UPI, which facilitates bank-to-bank transfers.

Currently, 15 banks, including SBI, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, YES Bank, and IDFC First Bank, are offering CBDC wallets for accessing and using e₹.

How Does the Offline Feature Work?

The offline mode of the Digital Rupee is designed for areas with poor or no internet coverage, providing users with a cash-like experience.

The RBI is testing multiple solutions — one that works through telecom signals, and another using Near Field Communication (NFC) for tap-based transactions without any network connectivity.

Payments between two e₹ wallets are settled instantly, and e₹ apps will soon be able to scan UPI QR codes, ensuring seamless interoperability.

With this innovation, India joins a select group of countries pioneering offline CBDC systems, further strengthening its position as a global leader in digital finance.

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Works on this offline first initiative have been underway for the past year. The system leverages two primary technologies: one that works through telecom signals, and another using Near Field Communication (NFC) for tap-based transactions without any network connectivity. Payments between two e₹ wallets are settled instantly, and e₹ apps will soon be able to scan UPI QR codes, ensuring seamless interoperability. With this innovation, India joins a select group of countries pioneering offline CBDC systems, further strengthening its position as a global leader in digital finance.

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