What was the initial focus of the PIDF scheme, and how has it evolved over time?

Initially operationalized in January 2021 for three years, the PIDF scheme incentivized the deployment of payment acceptance infrastructure in tier-3 to tier-6 centers, north-eastern states, Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh. Later, in August 2021, beneficiaries of the PM SVANidhi Scheme in Tier-1 and 2 centers were included.