Prime Minister Narendra Modi Announces UPI Adoption in France, Extends Benefits for Indian Students

| 14 July 2023

In a remarkable address to a massive gathering of Indian community members in Paris, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made several significant announcements that strengthen the bilateral ties between India and France. The prime minister revealed that an agreement has been reached for the implementation of India's Unified Payments System (UPI) in France, paving the way for seamless digital transactions for Indian tourists in the country.

During his hour-long speech, PM Modi emphasized India's rapid development and highlighted the nation's evolving role in the changing global order. "In France, an agreement has been made for the use of India's UPI. It will be started from the Eiffel Tower in the coming days, and now Indian tourists would be able to make payments in rupees, through UPI, in Eiffel Tower,” the prime minister announced.

This development stems from the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2022 between the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and Lyra, France's fast and secure online payment system. With this agreement, France joins countries like the UAE, Bhutan, and Nepal that have already embraced the UPI payment system. Furthermore, UPI recently inked a cross-border transaction agreement with Singapore's PayNow, expanding its reach beyond national borders. NPCI International is currently engaged in discussions to extend UPI services to the United States, several European countries, and West Asia.

In addition to the UPI agreement, PM Modi also announced the establishment of a new Indian consulate in Marseille, which will provide essential consular services and foster stronger ties between India and the southern French region.

Addressing the aspirations of Indian students studying in France, the prime minister declared a significant enhancement to post-study work opportunities. "The last time I came to France, it was decided that Indian students studying in France would be given a 2-year post-study work visa. Now, it has been decided that Indian students pursuing Masters in France will be given long-term post-study visas of 5 years," PM Modi shared with enthusiasm.

The extended post-study work visas reflect India's commitment to supporting the academic and professional aspirations of its students abroad. This initiative will provide greater stability and opportunities for Indian students to gain valuable international experience, contribute to the French workforce, and foster cultural exchange between the two nations.

During his address, PM Modi also highlighted the cultural ties between India and France, expressing his longstanding attachment to the country. He recalled the establishment of a French cultural center in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, four decades ago, emphasizing the enduring bond between the two nations.

Furthermore, the prime minister lauded the global appreciation for Indian languages, citing the recent reference to tennis legend Roger Federer as "Thalaiva" (Leader in Tamil) by Wimbledon. This recognition signifies the world's growing appreciation for the diversity and richness of Indian languages and cultures.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to France has been marked by a red-carpet welcome and the prestigious Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, the highest honor bestowed by France. As the Guest of Honour at the French National Day celebrations, PM Modi joins President Macron in reaffirming the strong friendship and partnership between India and France.

The announcements made by Prime Minister Modi during his address in Paris demonstrate India's commitment to strengthening ties with France and furthering the welfare of its citizens abroad. The implementation of UPI in France and the extension of post-study work visas for Indian students represent significant milestones in enhancing bilateral cooperation and fostering cultural exchange between the two nations.