International Research Journal of Education and Technology

Aim: This study aims to examine the growth of Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions in India following the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on factors such as government initiatives, technological advancements, and shifts in consumer behavior. It also explores UPI's role in financial inclusion. Methodology: The research uses secondary data collected from reports by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), and other financial institutions. Data from online and offline platforms, including government publications and industry reports from 2020 to 2022, were analyzed to track UPI transaction trends and adoption patterns. Findings: UPI transactions grew substantially from 2020 to 2022, with a 70% increase in transaction volumes (NPCI, 2022). Rural areas saw a 40% rise in adoption, driven by government programs and better digital access. UPI contributed significantly to financial inclusion, particularly for underserved populations. However, security concerns were prevalent, with 38% of users worried about fraud and privacy issues. Recommendations: The study recommends enhancing security features, including multi-factor authentication and fraud detection systems, to address user concerns. It also suggests expanding financial literacy initiatives in rural areas and improving digital infrastructure to further support UPI adoption.

Keywords: Unified Payments Interface, UPI, digital payments, COVID-19, financial inclusion, India, secondary data, government initiatives