Going Offline: How to Make UPI Payments Without Internet

In India, the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has become one of the most popular modes of digital payments. With UPI, users can send and receive money instantly from their bank accounts, without the need for cash or cards. However, one of the biggest drawbacks of UPI is that it requires an internet connection to make payments. In this article, we will explore some of the ways in which you can make UPI payments without an internet connection.

Using USSD Codes

One of the easiest ways to make UPI payments without an internet connection is by using USSD codes. USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) is a protocol used by GSM cellular phones to communicate with the service provider’s computers. To use USSD codes for UPI payments, you need to dial *99# from your mobile phone and follow the instructions provided. You can check your account balance, send and receive money, and even check your transaction history using USSD codes.

Using BHIM App

BHIM (Bharat Interface for Money) is a UPI-based mobile payment app developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). The app can be used to make UPI payments even without an internet connection. To use BHIM app offline, you need to first register your mobile number with the app and set a UPI PIN. Once you have set up the app, you can dial *99# and follow the instructions provided to make payments offline.

Using Aadhaar Pay

Aadhaar Pay is another way to make UPI payments without an internet connection. Aadhaar Pay is a digital payment system developed by the NPCI that allows users to make payments using their Aadhaar-linked bank accounts. To use Aadhaar Pay, you need to have your Aadhaar number and bank account linked. You can then use a biometric scanner to authenticate the transaction and complete the payment.

Using NFC-Based Payments

Near Field Communication (NFC) is a technology that allows two devices to communicate with each other when they are placed close together. NFC-based payments allow users to make UPI payments without an internet connection by using a point of sale (POS) machine that supports NFC payments. To use NFC-based payments, you need to have an NFC-enabled mobile phone and an NFC-enabled POS machine. You can then simply tap your phone on the POS machine to complete the payment.

Conclusion

While UPI payments have become incredibly popular in India, the requirement for an internet connection can be a hindrance for some users. However, there are several ways in which you can make UPI payments without an internet connection, including using USSD codes, BHIM app, Aadhaar Pay, and NFC-based payments. These methods offer a convenient and secure way to make digital payments, even when you don’t have access to the internet. With the growing adoption of digital payments in India, it is essential that users are aware of these alternative payment methods to ensure that they can make payments even in offline mode.