By THE NEWSMAN OF INDIA.COM| India’s rapidly expanding digital payments and financial technology ecosystem is entering a transformative phase with the emergence of agentic artificial intelligence (AI), and the sector now requires a dedicated regulatory framework to ensure its safe and orderly growth. This view was strongly articulated by NPCI Chief Executive Officer Dilip Asbe, who underscored the need for balanced regulation that encourages innovation while safeguarding users and merchants.

Speaking on the future of financial technology, Asbe emphasized that India must develop a comprehensive regulatory architecture for the “agentic world” — an ecosystem where AI-powered systems can independently perform tasks, make decisions, and facilitate transactions on behalf of users. According to him, the establishment of such a framework would pave the way for the structured implementation of emerging AI-driven use cases across the payments and fintech landscape.

Asbe advocated an open-minded approach toward technological advancement, stressing that experimentation with cutting-edge technologies should be encouraged. He noted that agentic technologies have the potential to create significant value by simplifying processes, improving efficiency, and enhancing convenience for both consumers and merchants.

At the same time, he highlighted the importance of strong governance mechanisms. Particular attention, he said, must be paid to how digital transactions are authorized, monitored, and audited in an AI-enabled environment. Equally important is the development of robust grievance redressal systems capable of addressing disputes and ensuring accountability when autonomous systems are involved in financial transactions.

India has emerged as a global leader in digital payments through platforms such as UPI, and the next phase of innovation is likely to be shaped by AI-driven financial services. As the country explores these possibilities, Asbe’s call for a regulatory framework reflects the growing recognition that innovation and regulation must evolve together to build trust, security, and long-term sustainability in the digital economy.

His remarks signal an important policy conversation as India prepares for the next generation of intelligent financial technologies.