New Delhi, Jul 4 (IANS): Karbonn Mobiles on Tuesday announced its partnership with National Payments Corporation of India (NCPI) to become the first Indian smartphone brand to integrate BHIM (Bharat Interface for Money) app in its latest device 'K9 Kavach 4G' which is priced at Rs 5,290.

With the launch of the BHIM-enabled smartphone, Karbonn Mobiles has taken a big step towards strengthening its service portfolio while contributing towards the 'Digital India' initiative and creating a less-cash economy, the company said in a statement.

"The partnership is an epitome of two 'Made in India' entities joining hands to enable digital Indians with smart telephones solutions. Our aim is to promote a cashless economy empowering and educating more and more people in tier 2,3 cities and rural areas about digital transactions and benefits," Pardeep Jain, Managing Director, Karbonn Mobiles, told reporters here.

The K9 Kavach 4G is powered with finger touch sensors in securing other applications and access to phone.

"This strategic partnership is a significant step towards providing acceptance tools for facilitating digital payments in India," added A.P. Hota, Managing Director and CEO, NCPI.