Context:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has enhanced its public awareness outreach by integrating WhatsApp as a new communication channel under its ‘RBI Kehta Hai’ campaign.
Background:
- The ‘RBI Kehta Hai’ initiative is the central bank’s ongoing effort to educate the public on financial literacy, safety, and best practices.
- Campaigns have been conducted via TV, text messages, radio, and digital platforms.
New Feature: WhatsApp Integration
- RBI will now send messages through a verified ‘Reserve Bank of India’ WhatsApp account.
- This move aims to reach users across urban and rural areas in a simple, direct, and effective way.
- Ensures that financial information is accessible regardless of geography, device type, or digital literacy level.
Objectives:
- Boost financial awareness and security in the era of digital payments and fintech.
- Build public trust in RBI’s advisories and the broader digital finance infrastructure.
- Help combat fraud by educating users about safe banking practices in real time.
Significance:
- WhatsApp has a massive user base in India, making it a powerful tool for real-time alerts and awareness.
- The initiative helps strengthen resilience in the digital financial ecosystem, especially among new or less tech-savvy users.