There are several reasons why it is important for all panchayats to be declared UPI-enabled on August 15: 1. Financial Inclusion: By making all panchayats UPI-enabled, the government aims to promote financial inclusion at the grassroots level. UPI facilitates instant and seamless digital transactions, allowing individuals in rural areas to access and participate in the formal financial system. 2. Democratization of Payments: UPI enables individuals to make payments and transfer funds without the need for physical cash or traditional banking infrastructure. This empowers citizens, particularly those in remote areas, to engage in digital transactions, promoting financial empowerment and reducing reliance on cash-based transactions. 3. Ease of Governance: UPI-enabled panchayats facilitate direct and transparent transfer of government benefits and subsidies to the beneficiaries' accounts. This helps in eliminating intermediaries and leakages, ensuring that the intended recipients receive their entitlements efficiently. 4. Digital India: Encouraging the use of UPI aligns with the government's Digital India initiative, which aims to transform India into a digitally empowered society. By adopting UPI, panchayats contribute to the broader goal of creating a digital ecosystem that enhances efficiency, convenience, and accountability. Overall, the directive to declare all panchayats UPI-enabled on August 15 signifies the government's commitment to promoting financial inclusion, empowering citizens, and advancing the concept of a digital economy.