The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) plans to introduce an AI-powered agentic payments framework on the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) next week at the 2026 Global Fintech Fest in Mumbai, according to inc42.com. The new protocol, called the Unified Agent Protocol, will enable AI agents to execute small-value digital payments without requiring explicit user authorization for each transaction.
The Unified Agent Protocol will build on existing UPI features such as UPI Circle, which allows users to authorize trusted individuals to make payments on their behalf, and Reserve Pay, which permits users to block funds for multiple future payments. The initial rollout will focus on low-value, high-frequency transactions like grocery orders and routine digital purchases. NPCI is also developing infrastructure for merchants to integrate directly with the protocol and plans to let customers set rules for AI agents regarding payment limits and conditions.
This initiative marks an evolution in NPCI’s efforts toward “intelligent commerce,” following a pilot of an agentic AI framework for UPI launched last year. By automating routine payments, the protocol aims to streamline digital transactions and enhance user convenience. The move aligns with broader trends in fintech where AI is increasingly used to facilitate seamless and autonomous payment experiences.
The NPCI is expected to officially unveil the Unified Agent Protocol at the Global Fintech Fest in Mumbai next week, signaling a significant step in the adoption of AI-driven payment solutions on India’s UPI platform.