RBI Takes Measured Approach to CBDC Rollout, Eyes Cross-Border Potential
The Reserve Bank of India is prioritizing interoperability and global coordination over speed in its central bank digital currency rollout. Deputy Governor T. Rabi Sankar emphasized that cross-border transactions will be the killer app for the digital rupee—but only when multiple nations deploy CBDCs in tandem.
India's retail pilot continues scaling, now reaching 7 million users and 17 participating banks. Non-banking entities have recently been permitted to offer CBDC wallets, signaling gradual ecosystem expansion while maintaining cautious oversight.