RBI bid to promote safe and wider adoption of digital payment systems

ITANAGAR, Mar 13: In a bid to promote safe and wider adoption of digital payment systems, Dera Natung Govt College in collaboration with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Itanagar sub-office conducted a sensitization programme on “Digital Payments Awareness Week 2026” at the DNGC premises here today.

Speaking at the event, Ramjatan Kumar Paswan, Deputy General Manager RBI Itanagar, informed that 9–15 March is observed every year as Digital Payments Awareness Week across the country. He noted that the RBI Itanagar sub-office has been functioning since 2023 to strengthen banking outreach in Arunachal Pradesh. He emphasized the need for citizens to remain alert against online frauds, advising people not to scan QR codes for receiving payments, avoid sharing OTPs, and be cautious of unrealistic offers.

He also informed participants that victims of certain online fraud cases may receive compensation up to Rs 25,000 under applicable terms and conditions. Paswan further highlighted career opportunities in RBI, particularly the Grade B officer recruitment for graduates.

In his address, DNGC Principal Dr M Q Khan encouraged students to gain knowledge about banking processes and digital transactions. He expressed concern that people in Northeast India, particularly in Arunachal Pradesh, are increasingly becoming victims of online fraud. He thanked the RBI officials for selecting the college to conduct the awareness programme and for helping students and faculty understand various aspects of banking and digital security.

The technical session on ‘Digital Payments: Dos and Don’ts’ was delivered by Sanjeev Desai, Assistant Manager at RBI Itanagar. He explained different digital payment platforms such as debit and credit cards, ATMs, PoS machines, mobile wallets, UPI, AEPS, and the Central Bank Digital Currency. He also discussed secure digital banking services like NEFT, IMPS, and UPI, which enable fast and convenient 24×7 transactions.

Desai also highlighted several types of cyber frauds, including card skimming, phishing links, QR code scams, OTP fraud, and risks associated with public Wi-Fi. Participants were advised never to share sensitive information such as OTPs, PINs, or card details with anyone. He also introduced customer protection mechanisms like the RBI Integrated Banking Ombudsman Scheme, the DigiSaathi helpline, and RBI Retail Direct for investment in government securities.

The session also provided an overview of career opportunities in RBI. Desai explained that recruitment is mainly conducted through Assistant and Manager (Grade B) posts, with selection through competitive examinations and interviews. The programme concluded with an interactive discussion with the participants.

The event was hosted by Binya Ruji, a BSc second-year Mathematics student of the college.