Muktinath Temple Goes Digital: BHIM UPI for Seamless Donations & Payments
16th March 2025, Kathmandu
In a landmark event, the BHIM UPI (Unified Payments Interface) service was officially launched today at the revered Muktinath Temple.
Muktinath Temple Goes Digital
The inauguration ceremony took place in the presence of Nepal Rastra Bank Governor Maha Prasad Adhikari as the chief guest, along with other dignitaries and banking officials.
With the introduction of BHIM UPI, Indian citizens can now seamlessly make donations, offerings, and payments at the Muktinath Temple by simply scanning a QR code using their bank accounts. This initiative aims to facilitate hassle-free, secure, and efficient digital transactions for Indian devotees visiting the temple. Moreover, the move is expected to strengthen Nepal-India financial relations by fostering seamless cross-border digital payments.
Strengthening Cross-Border Financial Ties
The launch of the BHIM UPI service is a significant milestone in promoting cross-border digital transactions between Nepal and India. It aligns with the broader vision of enhancing bilateral financial cooperation and integrating digital payment systems to benefit both countries. By enabling direct transactions from Indian bank accounts, the initiative is set to revolutionize how pilgrims contribute to religious offerings and payments at the Muktinath Temple.
A Distinguished Gathering
The grand launch event saw the participation of notable personalities, including:
Nepal Rastra Bank Executive Director Gunakar Bhatt
Nepal Rastra Bank Director Mukti Sapkota
Head of Nepal Rastra Bank, Pokhara Regional Office, Deepak Raj Lamichhane
Prabhu Bank Gandaki Province Head Raju Rana Magar
Representatives from local administration, the temple management committee, religious leaders, and senior banking officials
Governor Adhikari’s Vision for Digital Payments
During his address, Governor Maha Prasad Adhikari emphasized that the introduction of BHIM UPI at Muktinath Temple will significantly promote digital payment systems and financial inclusion in Nepal. He highlighted the importance of raising awareness about digital transactions and the need for nationwide adoption to enhance financial transparency and accessibility.
Governor Adhikari reiterated Nepal Rastra Bank’s commitment to the Digital Nepal initiative, stating that the central bank is dedicated to fostering innovative financial technologies to make digital payments more accessible across the country. He further assured that Nepal Rastra Bank will continue to implement necessary policies and programs to expand digital financial services nationwide.
Prabhu Bank’s Commitment to Financial Innovation
Representatives from Prabhu Bank expressed their dedication to leading advancements in banking technology. The bank currently operates 312 branches and 67 extension counters across all 77 districts of Nepal, providing top-tier banking and remittance services domestically and internationally. The introduction of the BHIM UPI service at the Muktinath Temple is a testament to their mission of integrating cutting-edge financial solutions to benefit devotees and customers alike.
A Major Step Towards Digital Financial Expansion
Banking and financial experts at the event acknowledged the launch of BHIM UPI at Muktinath Temple as a pivotal step in Nepal’s digital finance journey. This initiative is expected to set a precedent for further integration of digital payment systems across religious and tourism sites, thereby promoting digital financial inclusion.
With the availability of seamless digital payment options, devotees visiting the Muktinath Temple can now experience a modern and convenient transaction system, marking a new era in Nepal’s financial landscape.
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