Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia unveiled the UPI–UPU Integration Project at the 28th Universal Postal Congress in Dubai. The system combines UPI’s digital payment speed with the global reach of the postal network. It is designed to lower costs and cut delays in sending money across borders.

Partnerships Behind the Project

The initiative is a joint effort of the Department of Posts, NPCI International Payments Ltd, and the Universal Postal Union. With 192 member countries, the UPU offers reach that few financial systems can match. By plugging into UPI, the platform gains a tested model of fast and affordable payments already used by millions in India.

Focus on Families and Migrants

High fees and slow transactions have long burdened families depending on remittances. Scindia described the project as “a social compact,” saying it blends trust in postal services with the speed of UPI. The goal is to ensure migrants can send money home with less friction, helping households that rely heavily on such flows.

India’s $10 Million Commitment

India pledged $10 million to strengthen the global postal sector, with focus on digital finance and e-commerce. The plan includes hosting regional workshops and capacity-building sessions to ensure wider participation. Scindia highlighted that this investment is not just about technology but about building an inclusive system of financial access.

Scale and Inclusion as India’s Template

India is drawing on its domestic experience. Under schemes such as Jan Dhan and Aadhaar-linked accounts, over 560 million bank accounts have been opened, most in women’s names. India Post delivered more than 900 million letters and parcels last year, a scale Scindia said reflects the inclusivity the country wants to carry onto the global stage.

Global Role and Next Steps

Alongside the integration launch, India announced its bid for seats on UPU’s Council of Administration and Postal Operations Council. Scindia stressed cooperation, saying India seeks to offer partnership and technical expertise to the global postal community, not just proposals.