BHIM
(Bharat Interface for Money) 

BHIM (Bharat Interface for Money) is an Indian mobile payment app developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), based on the Unified Payments Interface (UPI). It was launched on December 30, 2016, and is intended to facilitate e-payments directly through banks and encourage cashless transactions. Here are some key features of BHIM:

• BHIM is an open-source app that is available in 20 languages1.
  
  

• BHIM allows users to send or receive money to or from UPI payment addresses, or to non-UPI based accounts (by scanning a QR code with account number and IFS code or MMID code)1.
  
  

• Unlike mobile wallets (Paytm, MobiKwik, M-Pesa, Airtel Money, etc.) which hold money, the BHIM app is only a mechanism which transfers money between different bank accounts1.
  
  

• Transactions on BHIM are nearly instantaneous and can be done at any time, including weekends and bank holidays1.
  
  

• BHIM is an aggregator of UPI services and allows users to access multiple bank accounts in a single app2.
  
  

• BHIM is named after the architect of the Indian constitution, Dr. BR Ambedkar2.
  
  

• No transaction charges are levied by NPCI for using BHIM2.

References: 1 wikipedia 2 tomorrowmakers



Here are some key details about BHIM:

1. Purpose: BHIM aims to simplify digital payments and make them accessible to all, including individuals who may not have smartphones or internet access. It provides a user-friendly interface and allows users to link their bank accounts to the app, enabling them to send and receive money using their mobile phones.
   
   

2. Availability: BHIM is available for download on Android and iOS devices. Users can install the app from their respective app stores and follow the registration process to set up their accounts.
   
   

3. Bank Account Integration: BHIM supports multiple banks, allowing users to link their accounts from various participating banks to the app. Users can select their preferred bank during the registration process and link their account using their mobile number and other required details.
   
   

4. Transaction Types: BHIM supports various transaction types, including sending money to other BHIM users, transferring funds to non-BHIM bank accounts using the account number and IFSC code, scanning QR codes for merchant payments, and requesting money from other BHIM users.
   
   

5. Security Features: BHIM incorporates several security features to protect user data and ensure secure transactions. These include user authentication through the mobile number and UPI Personal Identification Number (UPI-PIN), encryption protocols for data protection, and two-factor authentication for enhanced security.
   
   

6. Multiple Language Support: BHIM is designed to cater to users across India, and it supports multiple languages, including English and several regional languages. This makes it more accessible to a wider user base.
   
   

7. Integration with USSD: Apart from the mobile app, BHIM also offers Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) functionality. This allows users to access BHIM services through feature phones or devices without internet connectivity by dialing a specific USSD code.
   
   

8. Promoting Financial Inclusion: BHIM plays a crucial role in promoting financial inclusion by offering a simple and convenient digital payment solution. It allows individuals, especially those in rural areas or with limited access to traditional banking services, to participate in the digital economy and make cashless transactions.
   
   

9. Continuous Updates and Improvements: BHIM undergoes regular updates and improvements to enhance its functionality, security, and user experience. These updates may include bug fixes, performance enhancements, and the addition of new features to meet the evolving needs of users.
   
   

10. Integration with Other UPI Apps: BHIM is interoperable with other UPI-enabled apps, which means that BHIM users can send and receive money to and from users of other UPI apps seamlessly. This interoperability ensures the convenience and ease of transactions across different platforms.
    
    

BHIM has played a significant role in promoting digital payments and financial inclusion in India. It has simplified the process of making transactions, reduced dependency on cash, and provided a secure and efficient platform for individuals and businesses to engage in digital commerce.