UPI now available in more locations across France: PM Modi
What's the story
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday announced the expansion of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in France. The announcement was made during his address to the Indian diaspora in Paris. PM Modi said that this expansion would deepen connectivity between India and France, adding, "Now, the scope of UPI usage in France is also going to expand further."
UPI rollout
UPI was launched in Paris last year
The UPI was initially launched in Paris on July 3, 2024. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri had earlier confirmed that the digital payments system was already operational at various locations across France, including the Eiffel Tower. The announcement of its wider rollout comes after discussions between PM Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron on expanding UPI services in the country.
Community initiatives
Visa-free transit facilities for Indians at French airports
During his address, PM Modi also spoke about other recent initiatives aimed at the Indian community in France. He mentioned the opening of India's consulate in Marseille and visa-free transit facilities for Indian nationals at French airports. "Before I leave, I have some more good news for all of you," he said while announcing these measures.
Educational cooperation
PM Modi on India-France educational exchanges
PM Modi also detailed ongoing efforts to strengthen educational and professional exchanges between India and France. He spoke about increasing student and professional mobility, mutual recognition of educational qualifications, and French university campuses opening in India. These initiatives reflect the commitment of both countries to deepen cooperation across sectors and strengthen people-to-people ties.
Diaspora contribution
PM Modi lauds Indian diaspora in Paris
Earlier in his address, PM Modi praised the Indian diaspora for showcasing India's diversity and values abroad. He noted that people from different regions of India were contributing to Paris's multicultural character. "When historians look back 50 or 100 years from now and assess this period in India's journey, one fact will stand out: this era was driven by the aspirations of the people of India. This is a new age of Indian aspirations," he said.
Technology address
PM Modi addresses technology leaders at VivaTech 2026
Earlier, PM Modi addressed technology leaders at VivaTech 2026, where he spoke about India's digital infrastructure and technological transformation. He said India has been undergoing a rapid transformation powered by technology over the last decade. The Prime Minister highlighted India's digital public infrastructure, stating that "You can now use UPI in France too at the Eiffel Tower or the Paris airport."