Google Pay, a leading digital payments platform, has announced the introduction of Aadhar-based authentication for UPI activation. This new feature, developed in collaboration with the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), aims to enhance convenience and accessibility for users across the country. By leveraging Aadhar details, Google Pay is removing the barrier of requiring a debit card for UPI activation, enabling a wider user base to enjoy the benefits of digital payments.

Streamlining UPI Activation with Aadhar-based Authentication:

Activating UPI ID on Google Pay through Aadhar-based authentication is a user-friendly and straightforward process. To proceed, users must ensure that their mobile number is linked to both their Aadhar card and bank account. Once the necessary prerequisites are met, users can follow the steps outlined below:

Launch the Google Pay application on your smartphone.
Select the Aadhar option to initiate the verification process for your bank account.
Enter the first six digits of your Aadhar number, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
Proceed by tapping the “Create PIN” option, which will generate a 6-digit Aadhar OTP (One-Time Password).
Enter the OTP to authenticate yourself and initiate the UPI activation process, handled by the respective bank.
Upon successful authentication, set a secure 6-digit UPI PIN to facilitate seamless transactions in the future.

User Privacy and Data Security:

Google Pay prioritizes user privacy and ensures the security of Aadhar details throughout the process. It does not store the complete Aadhar number during the authentication process. Instead, the first six digits are securely shared with the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) via NPCI for validation purposes. This safeguarding of personal information guarantees a secure and privacy-conscious user experience.

Driving Financial Inclusion and Access to UPI for All:

By introducing Aadhar-based authentication, Google Pay addresses a significant challenge faced by individuals who lack a debit card but possess a bank account. This advancement unlocks access to UPI for a broader segment of the population, fostering financial inclusion and enabling more individuals to participate actively in the digital economy. With nearly 99.9% of the adult population in India possessing an Aadhar number, this authentication method offers a scalable and inclusive solution.

Supported Banks for Aadhar-based UPI Activation:

The Aadhar-based authentication feature is currently supported by over 25 banks. These include popular banking institutions such as Punjab National Bank, Canara Bank, IndusInd Bank, Central Bank of India, Federal Bank, and many others. Google Pay users can leverage this feature if they hold an account with any of the participating banks, further expanding access to digital payments and UPI transactions.

Conclusion:

Google Pay’s introduction of Aadhar-based authentication for UPI activation marks a significant step towards simplifying and widening access to digital payments. By eliminating the requirement for a debit card, users can seamlessly activate their UPI IDs using Aadhar-based authentication, irrespective of their card-holding status. This move aligns with Google Pay’s commitment to driving financial inclusion, empowering individuals across the country to embrace the convenience and security of digital payments. As the digital payment landscape continues to evolve, initiatives like Aadhar-based authentication play a crucial role in creating an inclusive financial ecosystem for all.