Fintech Paytm has signed?an exclusive memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Goa government for the digitisation of all its departments

Indian fintech Paytm has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to help various departments of the Goa Government go digital.

Within the scope of new cooperation, Paytm?will deploy its proprietary payment devices such as Paytm QR code, Soundbox, and Card Machines to all Goa Government departments including panchayats and municipalities.

The new tools will enable users in Goa to pay for various government services and utilities e.g. municipal tax, water, electricity and panchayat payments through Paytm UPI, UPI Lite, Paytm Wallet, net banking, debit cards, and credit cards.?In addition, Paytm users in?Goa can pay for utility services through Paytm Super App.

As the adoption of digital financial services rises, Paytm will also conduct cyber security training for the local police. Jointly, the two entities will organise an online safety campaign to raise public awareness on the issue.

The move comes shortly after all panchayats across the country were mandated to use digital payments for development work and revenue collection and become UPI-enabled by India’s Independence Day which is on August 15.

Almost 98% of panchayats had already started using UPI-based payments. Others were obliged to?choose appropriate service providers by July 15 and finalise vendors by July 30.

Being India’s smallest state, Goa is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Since 2017, the state has also illustrated the highest rate of financial inclusion nationwide.