Airtel Payments Bank Launches Instant NFC-Based Balance Update for its RuPay On-The-Go Cards

Airtel Payments Bank today announced the launch of its Instant
NFC-Based Balance Update feature for its RuPay On-The-Go Cards, enabled with NCMC. Customers
can now instantly check or update their card balance by simply tapping the card on their NFC-
powered Android smartphones, thus eliminating the need to visit metro station kiosks and enabling a
seamless, fully digital and contactless transit experience.
Airtel Payments Bank introduced this feature few months ago to gather real-world usage insights and
customer feedback. The pilot saw exceptionally strong adoption and highly positive customer
response, confirming the feature’s utility for daily commuters. With this positive feedback, the Bank is
now launching it for all users of its RuPay On-The-Go Cards.
With this enhancement, commuters can update or check their card balance in real time by tapping
the card on their linked NFC-enabled Android smartphone after logging into their bank account or
wallet on the Airtel Thanks app. From ordering and recharging the card to instantly updating or
checking the balance, the entire experience is now fully digital, queue-free, and effortless.
Mr. Ganesh Ananthanarayanan, Executive Director – Business Operations, Airtel Payments
Bank said, “At Airtel Payments Bank, our constant focus is to innovate in ways that make everyday
transactions simpler and more intuitive for our customers. The overwhelming response during the pilot
validated the need for instant balance updates on the go. With this launch, we are proud to bring
another industry-first solution that enhances commuter convenience and strengthens India’s digital
payments and mobility ecosystem.”
Airtel Payments Bank is one of the leading issuers of RuPay On-The-Go Cards, with over 5 million
cards issued to date. This launch marks a significant milestone in India’s transit landscape and
reinforces the Bank’s commitment to building cutting-edge financial and mobility solutions that
improve customer experiences.