We have always dreamed of a world where managing and paying our utility bills like, electricity bills, recharging mobile, or settling the loan EMI is as simple as tapping a button. 

But It's no longer a fantasy. It’s all because of Bharat Connect, a technology that is revolutionizing the way people make payments in India, whether you're in a busy metro city or a rural area. Bharat Connect lets you pay all types of bills with 150+ digital channels and 35 lakh+ phygital outlets spiced up with secure payments with end-to-end encryption and all RBI regulatory compliance. 

Formerly known as BBPS (Bharat Bill Payment System), Bharat Connect is doing more than just providing bill payments—it is establishing the foundation for India’s digital future, making everyday transactions seamless, secure, and accessible to everyone. 
 
BBPS used to act as a one-stop shop to pay various bills in a quick, easy, and effortless manner. It aimed to simplify the process of bill payments for consumers by providing a unified and user-friendly platform for paying utility bills, such as electricity, water, gas, telecom, DTH, Fastag, insurance, taxes, and many more. Before BBPS, bill payment used to be an exhausting and expensive procedure, requiring customers to visit different service providers’ offices or use different platforms to pay each type of bill. 

Let’s dive into the exciting transformation and why Bharat Connect is so much more than a simple name change. 

From BBPS to Bharat Connect: Why the Rebranding? 

At the Global Fintech Fest (GFF) 2024, Vivek Deep, Executive Director of RBI, announced the rebranding of BBPS to Bharat Connect. But this isn’t just a name change—it’s a shift in vision too. Developed by NPCI, Bharat Connect isn’t merely a bill payment system anymore. 

In October 2024 alone, Bharat Connect processed transactions worth ₹1 trillion. With 22,000+ billers onboard, it now enables payments for utilities, telecom, DTH, municipal taxes, subscriptions, education fees, and more, through multiple channels like UPI, internet banking, and physical outlets. 

The name itself reflects the country’s ambition to create a unified digital ecosystem that connects every corner of the country.  

“It’s not just a name change—it’s a step towards connecting every corner of Bharat.” 

The Story Behind Bharat Connect 

Bharat Connect was established to resolve the challenges in bill payments and collections across India. It simplifies the process by providing a unified platform where customers can fetch and pay their bills easily without any hassle. This system resolves issues like limited payment modes, limited working hours, and urban-centric outlets. It supports multiple payment methods, that make transactions quick and smooth. With over 21,000 billers, it simplifies operations while ensuring ease, security, and real-time confirmation for the user. 

You can pay utility bills (electricity, gas, water), telecom bills (mobile postpaid, landline, broadband), DTH, Fastag, subscription services, and municipal taxes through Bharat Connect. The platform also supports loan EMI payments, insurance premiums, education fees, and other recurring expenses. It aims to streamline and simplify the payment experience across various categories. 

Participants of Bharat Connect 

• Customer: 
  Anyone who needs to pay for services in India, like electricity, phone, or insurance. They use online portals, mobile apps, or physical payment centers to make payments. 
• Agent: 
  Local businesses like Kirana stores or bank branches that help customers pay their bills. They act as a middleman between customers and Bharat Connect. 
• Agent Institutions: 
  Big organizations, like banks or other companies i.e. BANKIT, that manage a network of agents working with Bharat Connect. 
• Customer Operating Units (COUs): 
  RBI-authorized banks or companies that help customers get started on the Bharat Connect platform. They check customer details, link their accounts, and handle payments. 
• Bharat Connect Central Unit: 
  The main part of the system that oversees everything. It manages the COUs and BOUs, maintains the technology, and keeps the platform running smoothly. 
• Biller Operating Units (BOUs): 
  RBI-authorized banks or companies that bring service providers, like utility companies, onto the Bharat Connect platform. 
• Billers: 
  Service providers (like electricity boards, telecom companies, or insurance firms) that get paid through Bharat Connect. 

Benefits of Bharat Connect 

• Secure Platforms: Payments with Bharat Connect are safe and secure, with end-to-end encryption and full security for data checks. 
• Follows RBI regulatory compliances: Bharat Connect follows all RBI regulatory compliances.  
• 24*7 Operations: Always on with 24*7 operations and approx. 99.87% uptime. 
• Reduced Cost: Bharat Connect offers reduced costs through a digitalized process. 

Be the Part of Change with BANKIT 

Bharat Connect is a movement that is revolutionizing the way India connects, pays, and grows. It is more than just a platform. As a BANKIT agent, you just not only increase your income; but also empower your community, make smooth digital services accessible, and establish yourself as a reliable partner in India's digital transformation. Also, you represent yourself as a banker in your area.

You could be the bridge that connects rural hearts with urban possibilities, seeing your income grow while making life easier for your neighbors, friends, and countless other customers visiting your outlet. This isn’t just an opportunity; it’s a chance to lead change and make a difference. 

Take the first step towards building a brighter future for yourself and your community. Join BANKIT today and become a part of India’s digital revolution!