What changed
Previously, BBPS covered only recurring bill categories like electricity, water, and telecom, with mobile prepaid recharges explicitly excluded. Now, RBI has allowed mobile prepaid recharges to be added as a biller category on a voluntary basis, effective from the circular date and to be implemented by August 31, 2021.
What it means for you
This move broadens BBPS's utility, giving mobile prepaid customers more recharge options through an interoperable platform. For banks and payment system operators, it opens up a new revenue stream and increases transaction volumes, but requires system updates to onboard prepaid recharge billers.
What you must do
- Update your BBPS platform to support mobile prepaid recharge transactions by August 31, 2021.
- Coordinate with NPCI Bharat BillPay Ltd. and other system participants to ensure seamless integration.
- Communicate the new category to your customers and merchant partners to drive adoption.
- Review and adjust any customer convenience fee structures for prepaid recharges as per BBPS guidelines.
Who it affects
Scheduled Commercial Banks including RRBs, Urban Co-operative Banks, State Co-operative Banks, District Central Co-operative Banks, Payment Banks, Small Finance Banks, NPCI Bharat BillPay Ltd., BBPS Providers and System Participants, Prospective Bharat Bill Payment Operating Units
Is mobile prepaid recharge mandatory for all BBPS participants?
No, it is voluntary. Participants can choose to offer this category, but must implement it by August 31, 2021 if they decide to participate.
Does this change affect the existing recurring bill categories?
No, the existing categories like DTH, electricity, gas, telecom, and water remain unchanged. This is an addition to the list.
What is the regulatory basis for this directive?
It is issued under Section 10(2) read with Section 18 of the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007.