November 18, Colombo (LNW): A pilot scheme enabling Sri Lankan Buddhist pilgrims to use a digital payment service while travelling in India was officially unveiled on Monday (17).
The initiative, spearheaded by the Sri Lankan High Commission in India in collaboration with the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), introduces the UPI One World platform to Sri Lankan travellers.
The system allows users to make secure, instant payments throughout India without needing an Indian mobile number, offering a modern alternative to carrying cash.
The launch, held at the High Commission in New Delhi, was attended by senior officials including Ven. Beragama Vimala Buddhi Thera, Administrative Secretary of the Buddhist Pilgrims’ Rest, along with Ravi Kant Sharma and Vivek Garg from NPCI.
Officials highlighted that the platform will also support Sri Lankans visiting India for medical purposes, providing safer and more flexible payment options during their stay.
According to the High Commission, the introduction of UPI One World is a significant step in enhancing the travel experience for Sri Lankan visitors, strengthening people-to-people connections, and reflecting growing collaboration between Sri Lanka and India in digital innovation and tourism facilitation.
