What is e-RUPI
e-RUPI is a QR code or SMS string-based e-Voucher, which is delivered to the mobile of the beneficiaries. The users of this seamless one-time payment mechanism will be able to redeem the voucher without a card, digital payments app or internet banking access, at the service provider.
e-RUPI connects the sponsors of the services with the beneficiaries and service providers in a digital manner without any physical interface. It also ensures that the payment to the service provider is made only after the transaction is completed. Being pre-paid in nature, it assures timely payment to the service provider without involvement of any intermediary.
The instrument has been developed by the National Payments Corporation of India on its UPI platform, in collaboration with the Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and National Health Authority.
Can also be used for other government schemes
It can also be used for delivering services under schemes meant for providing drugs and nutritional support under Mother and Child welfare schemes, TB eradication programmes, drugs and diagnostics under schemes like Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana besides fertilizer subsidies.
A PMO release said that the Prime Minister has always championed digital initiatives. Over the years, several programmes have been launched to ensure that the benefits reach their intended beneficiaries in a targeted and leak-proof manner, with limited touchpoints between the government and the beneficiary. The concept of electronic voucher takes forward this vision of good governance, the release said.
Another tool for good governance
Over the years, several programmes have been launched to ensure that the benefits reach its intended beneficiaries in a targeted and leak-proof manner, with limited touch points between the government and the beneficiary. The concept of electronic voucher takes forward this vision of Good Governance.
Mobile telephony & India
While the DBT scheme relies on the troika of Jan Dhan accounts, Aadhaar numbers — although Aadhaar is not mandatory — and mobile phones, the e-RUPI system will not require users’ bank account details. The only requirement is for the beneficiary’s mobile phone number. The DBT scheme notes that it relies on 100 crore mobile connections to reach aid to beneficiaries.
