The UPI gap in Indian homes: Why moms are the last to get it
In many Indian households, a digital divide persists, particularly when it comes to the adoption of Unified Payments Interface (UPI) technology. While men and younger family members often take the lead in controlling digital finances, older women, especially mothers, are frequently left behind. This phenomenon is not solely about technological understanding or vulnerability to scams; it's a complex interplay of societal norms, generational differences, and personal comfort with technology.
The story of Renu Sharma, a 58-year-old homemaker from Delhi, exemplifies this gap. Despite being a regular user of online shopping apps and quick-commerce services, her family members initially resisted her request to install UPI on her phone. The underlying assumption was that older women might struggle with technology or be more susceptible to online scams. This hesitation is not uncommon, as anecdotal evidence suggests a pattern across urban families.
The shift towards a cashless economy has only made this divide more apparent. In cities like Delhi and Mumbai, cash is becoming increasingly scarce in everyday transactions. Whether it's paying an auto-rickshaw driver, splitting restaurant bills, or buying vegetables from a street vendor, the default response is often "Online kardo" (make the payment online).
However, the reluctance among mothers to adopt UPI is not solely due to technological barriers. It's also tied to traditional gender roles within Indian households. Historically, men have handled banking, bill payments, and formal financial decisions, while women managed household savings and daily budgeting. As financial systems moved from cash to smartphones, many mothers found themselves in a transition they weren't fully prepared for.
One significant factor is the generational discomfort with rapidly changing technology. Women, often the primary savers and budget managers, are naturally more cautious about digital payments, fearing potential financial losses. This cautiousness can make digital payments feel intimidating rather than convenient.
Interestingly, not every household follows this pattern. In some cases, the divide is less about gender and more about familiarity, confidence, and willingness to adapt to technology. For instance, in Kanupriya Srivastava's family, her working mother uses UPI comfortably, while her working father avoids digital payments. This variation highlights the importance of individual factors in technology adoption.
Despite the challenges, the process of teaching mothers how to use UPI is becoming an act of inclusion. Children are increasingly taking the initiative to help their mothers set up payment apps, teaching them how to scan QR codes, transfer money, or book cabs independently. This small but significant shift is reshaping the relationship between women and money, mobility, and dependence within the home.
Pulkit Khandelwal's experience with his mother is a testament to this. After a three-hour video session, his mother was overjoyed when she successfully ordered something from Myntra and paid for it herself. This newfound financial independence brought a significant change to her life, as she no longer had to rely on her children for financial transactions.
In conclusion, the UPI gap in Indian homes is a multifaceted issue, rooted in societal norms, generational differences, and personal comfort with technology. Overcoming this gap requires a multifaceted approach, including education, awareness, and a willingness to adapt to new financial systems. By addressing these challenges, Indian families can work towards a more inclusive and financially empowered future for all.
