The Centre is planning to roll out a new campaign to promote digital transactions in the country, under which people may get cash-backs and discount on using such methods for payments.
“We are looking to incentivise all kinds of digital payments, including those made using BHIM and Bharat QR code. An action plan to be followed by ministries, states and public sector firms is being finalised,” an IT ministry official said.
The new cashless campaign is likely to be announced on October 2 on the occasion on Gandhi Jayanti. Cashbacks and discounts may be offered for limited period of time till the new year. The plan assumes significance as the level of currency in circulation has now reached 83% of the level that existed prior to the demonetisation of high-value currency notes in November last year. The government has argued that digitisation of the economy and less reliance on cash for transactions was one of the objectives of demonetisation.
On Thursday, Economic Affairs Secretary Subhash Garg said that the Centre is considering more incentives to spur digital payments and strengthen the infrastructure that supports digital payments.
As part of the exercise, it has been suggested that “visible discounts be given on digital payment vis-à-vis cash.” It has been recommended the telcos be asked to ensure “prominent display” of Bharat QR code at each recharge kiosk, while also offering discounts or additional talk time for digital payments. , and also displayed on government receipt counters. All bus, train and metro ticket counters will also have the code as a payment option, the official added.
