logo
Union Minister Piyush Goyal meets Paytm founder, discuss making India digital payments powerhouse

Union Minister Piyush Goyal meets Paytm founder, discuss making India digital payments powerhouse

India Gazette26-05-2025

New Delhi [India] , May 26 (ANI): In a significant step toward strengthening India's position in the global digital economy, Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Piyush Goyal, met with Paytm Founder and CEO Vijay Shekhar Sharma to discuss the future of fintech, digital payments, and inclusive e-commerce in India.
During the discussion, Minister Goyal highlighted the government's vision of making India a global fintech and digital payments powerhouse. The conversation focused on the potential to export India-made payment systems to the world -- a domain where Paytm has been a pioneering force with innovations like mobile payments, QR based payments, Soundbox, card machines and UPI-based services.
The two also discussed the inclusive potential of the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC). With a strong emphasis on empowering neighbourhood Kirana stores and small business owners, the meeting explored how platforms like Paytm can help onboard these merchants into the formal digital ecosystem -- improving access, transparency, and economic opportunity.
Following the meeting, Paytm posted, 'Thank you Hon'ble Minister @PiyushGoyal for the insightful discussion. We are committed to building for India and taking innovations from India to the world.'
According to a company release, as one of India's leading mobile payments and financial services platforms, Paytm continues to drive technology-led growth with an unwavering focus on empowering small merchants, expanding UPI innovation, and contributing to India's digital economy goals.
Paytm is the only payments platform that innovates user-centric products from downloading UPI statements in pdf and excel to hide or unhide payments and check bank account balance on the Paytm app, the release further states.
This meeting reaffirms the collaborative effort between the private sector and the government in building a future-ready, globally relevant fintech ecosystem -- made in India, for the world. (ANI)

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Softbank Group founder Masayoshi Son may invest $1 trillion to build AI manufacturing hub in US: Report
Softbank Group founder Masayoshi Son may invest $1 trillion to build AI manufacturing hub in US: Report

Time of India

time32 minutes ago

  • Time of India

Softbank Group founder Masayoshi Son may invest $1 trillion to build AI manufacturing hub in US: Report

SoftBank Group founder Masayoshi Son is reportedly planning a massive AI and robotics industrial zone in Arizona, a project that could cost up to $1 trillion if fully developed. The project, previously referred to as Project Crystal Land , aims to create a US-based manufacturing ecosystem for artificial intelligence and robotics technologies. The proposed site, informally dubbed the Arizona AI megaproject , is being compared to China's innovation and manufacturing hub. The project, as per reports, includes research and development labs, semiconductor production units, housing for tech workers, and integration with smart grid systems. Talks with Samsung, TSMC and US government Son has allegedly held discussions with major tech players like Samsung and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), as well as US government officials, including Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, to seek support for the initiative. The plan follows SoftBank's growing investments in artificial intelligence. The company recently committed $19 billion to Trump's Stargate Project, a $500 billion AI infrastructure initiative backed by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and Oracle's Larry Ellison. SoftBank has also invested $40 billion in OpenAI and spent $6.5 billion to acquire Ampere Computing. To fund the Arizona project, SoftBank is likely to adopt a project-based financing model, similar to the approach used in oil pipeline development. This would reduce upfront capital needs while using the firm's existing $23 billion liquidity and its stake in Arm Holdings as collateral. Following the reports, SoftBank's stock rose by 2%, while TSMC shares increased by 1.9%, reflecting market optimism around the potential scale and impact of the project. No formal timelines or construction details have been confirmed yet. The project's future will depend heavily on regulatory approval and securing support from industry partners and federal agencies. AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now

No more long delays: Defence secretary says India plans to reduce weapon buying timeline from 6 to only 2 years
No more long delays: Defence secretary says India plans to reduce weapon buying timeline from 6 to only 2 years

Time of India

time40 minutes ago

  • Time of India

No more long delays: Defence secretary says India plans to reduce weapon buying timeline from 6 to only 2 years

In a recent podcast, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh addressed India's evolving military strategy, post-operation assessments, and the broader transformation of defence procurement and exports. He offered rare insights into Operation Sindoor, Pakistan's response, and structural challenges within the defence acquisition process . Emergency procurement and stock replenishment After the operation, the government gave emergency powers to the three armed services, allowing them to use up to 15% of their capital budgets for the urgent purchase of ammunition and equipment to replenish operational stocks. Singh noted that although funding for modernization is sufficient, challenges remain in utilization. 'Capital expenditure has grown 7% over the past few years, but difficulty in absorbing funds meant we had to surrender some of the budget at the revised estimate stage. For the first time in five years, we fully utilized the budget last year, awarding contracts worth ₹2 lakh crore — up from ₹1 lakh crore in 2023–24. We are working to accelerate contract signing and improve fund absorption,' he said. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Buy Perforated Stainless Steel Sheets – Durable & Trusted Source Premium Stainless Steel Sheets | Search Ads Search Now Undo No shortage of funds, but procurement still too slow Dismissing any claims of inadequate capital allocation, Singh said, 'The Finance Ministry has confirmed there is no shortage of money for capital expenditure.' The real bottleneck, he explained, lies in the procurement timeline. 'It takes 5–6 years to buy a weapon — from issuing an RFP to field trials and cost negotiations. Ideally, this should take no more than two years.' Also Read: Raining Hell: India to get new 300-km range Pinaka missile system soon that can fire 12 missiles in 44 seconds Live Events The secretary added that he would like the armed forces to reduce the duration of field trials from two years to six to eight months. He cited the Rafale Marine deal as an example that nearly met this ideal timeline. Singh urged the services to complete field trials within 6 to 8 months instead of the current two-year period. 'We've issued directions to simplify and streamline procurement.' No formal talks on F-35A or Su-57E will focus on AMCA 'On F-35A and Sukhoi Su-57 E, whatever has been discussed has been informal. We don't have any formal consultation going on on these,' Singh told ANI in a podcast. He added that the focus is on indigenous capability: 'What I can talk about is our fifth-generation fighter, which will be the AMCA.' AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft)would be the first project which will see the the participation from our private sector which will create healthy competition for the government owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Simplifying the defence acquisition procedure Singh acknowledged the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) — the core manual governing acquisitions — is overly complex. 'We must avoid redundancy. Many steps can be conducted concurrently rather than sequentially. We've formed a committee to simplify DAP, and its deadline is six months. The new DAP 2025 should be shorter, simpler, and more outcome-focused.' He added that unnecessary conditions preventing domestic production need to be removed. The goal, he said, is to facilitate indigenous defence manufacturing without compromising standards. India's defence exports: From negligible to ₹23,000 Crore When asked about India's growing status as a defence exporter, Singh dismissed concerns that it might lead to international isolation or reduce reliance on traditional suppliers. 'I don't believe India is at risk of isolation. You've seen Prime Minister Modi's successful foreign visits — we continue to strengthen global partnerships.' India's defence exports have increased from virtually nothing in 2014 to ₹23,000 crore, and Singh expressed confidence in meeting the ₹50,000 crore target in the coming years. 'We currently account for only 2% of global defence exports. Only when we begin selling large platforms — like missiles and aerial systems — will others view us as serious competitors,' he said. Focus on high-value systems for export India has already exported systems like BrahMos missiles, Akash surface-to-air missiles, Bharat Forge's ATAGS artillery guns, and other towed gun systems. Singh added that there is growing interest in multi-barrel rocket launchers, which, though not used in Operation Sindoor, are attracting global queries. India also has robust capability in the production of small arms and various types of ammunition, particularly 155mm shells, which are in high demand worldwide. Singh highlighted that public sector companies increased their defence exports by 40%, while private sector firms grew by 10%, contributing significantly to India's emergence as a reliable global weapons supplier. Operation Sindoor and Pakistan's Response Singh confirmed that during Operation Sindoor, the Indian Armed Forces demonstrated their ability to strike deep inside Pakistani territory. 'Initially, we targeted only terrorist infrastructure. But when the Pakistan Army retaliated directly against our forces, it became clear these groups were their assets. In response, India struck multiple Pakistani military airfields — some of which remain out of commission,' he said. Following these strikes, Pakistan's Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) called for a ceasefire. Singh emphasized that such operations are followed by debriefs to assess performance. 'That process is ongoing. Lessons are being implemented for the future,' he added. Also Read: Pakistan caught red-handed again: FATF's new report exposes the dirty tricks of Islamabad

Patliputra–Gorakhpur Vande Bharat Express inaugurated; other Vande Bharat trains launched this year
Patliputra–Gorakhpur Vande Bharat Express inaugurated; other Vande Bharat trains launched this year

Time of India

timean hour ago

  • Time of India

Patliputra–Gorakhpur Vande Bharat Express inaugurated; other Vande Bharat trains launched this year

In a bid to boost connectivity between Patna and Gorakhpur, another Vande Bharat train was launched yesterday by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Patliputra–Gorakhpur Vande Bharat Express was inaugurated by video conferencing from Siwan, Bihar. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now This semi-high-speed train aims to enhance connectivity between the two prime cities in North India. The train is set to reduce travel time between the cities significantly on the 384 km route. Train Details: Train Numbers : 26502 (Gorakhpur to Patliputra), 26501 (Patliputra to Gorakhpur) Frequency : Operates six days a week (no service on Saturdays) Journey Time : Approximately 7 hours Coaches : 8-coach configuration with a seating capacity of 1,130 Classes : Executive Chair Car (EC) and Chair Car (CC) Fares : EC fares range from ₹715 to ₹1,820; CC fares range from ₹380 to ₹925, depending on the segment . Halts The train will go through major cities and halt at several stations including Gorakhpur, Bagaha, Narkatiaganj, Bettiah, Sagauli, Bapudham Motihari, Muzaffarpur, Hajipur, and Patliputra. Notably, the train halts at Bagaha, a station that was added following efforts by local MP Sunil Kumar . Amenities The Vande Bharat Express is equipped with modern amenities such as: Fully air-conditioned coaches Rotatable airline-style seats Onboard Wi-Fi and infotainment systems Bio-toilets and CCTV surveillance KAVACH anti-collision system Overhead baggage racks and tray tables Strategic Importance This new service is expected to enhance regional mobility, benefiting daily commuters, students, and business travelers. It also aligns with the government's "Make in India" initiative, showcasing India's capabilities in advanced railway manufacturing. On this note, let's have a look at some of the major Vande Bharat Trains introduced in 2025: In addition to the Patliputra–Gorakhpur Vande Bharat Express, several other Vande Bharat trains were launched in 2025: Sabarmati (Ahmedabad) – Veraval Vande Bharat Express: Route: Connects Ahmedabad with Veraval in Gujarat Journey Time: Approximately 7 hours Frequency: Six days a week (except Thursdays) Amenities: Similar to other Vande Bharat trains, including onboard catering and infotainment systems . Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Meerut City–Lucknow Charbagh Vande Bharat Express: Route: Connects Meerut City with Lucknow Charbagh in Uttar Pradesh Journey Time: Approximately 7 hours 10 minutes Frequency: Six days a week (except Tuesdays) Amenities: Onboard catering and entertainment systems . These additions are part of India's broader efforts to modernize its railway infrastructure and provide efficient, comfortable travel options for passengers across the country.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store