USAID launches scheme to drive cashless payments in India

The US Agency for International Development (USAID) today announced the launch of a new initiative -- 'Catalyst: Inclusive Cashless Payment Partnership'.
The multi-stakeholder partnership is designed to scale up digital payments systems in India which will act as a catalyst in the increase of cashless payments in select locations, the US Embassy said in a statement.
"These locations will be selected based on criteria such as smartphone penetration, the local economy and administrative feasibility," it said.
The initiative marks the next phase of partnership between USAID and the Union Ministry of Finance to help catalyse the rapid adoption of digital payments in India, it said.

The Embassy also announced its decision to increase the number of visa appointments till December, which it said has been made possible through a temporary increase in staffing.
"Applicants may reschedule previously-made appointments and encourage their family members and friends who may have delayed applying for a visa to apply now," it said.