11 May 2026
Reserve Bank of India introduces Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) for retail use nationwide
UPSC
Banking
Economy
Science
Summary
RBI announced nationwide rollout of digital rupee (e₹) for retail transactions after 18 months of pilot. ~12 lakh users in pilot phase; transaction volume crossed ₹2000 crore. Now available via UPI-style mobile apps from all major banks.
Why it matters
UPSC GS-3 (Economy, Banking). Connect with CBDC vs cryptocurrency vs UPI; RBI Act 1934; BIS reports on CBDCs.