India – Carlos Maiz in English

Can i use Airtm in India ?

In India, you can sign up and use Airtm, but there are significant legal and operational risks, especially when withdrawing via the P2P network.

🏦 Legal & Regulatory Concerns

Indian users report issues with Peer‑to‑Peer withdrawals, which involve exchanging AirUSD for INR through random cashiers. Multiple people have had their bank accounts frozen or put on hold by the cybercrime division or RBI due to these transactions:

“AirTM uses P2P to exchange your crypto to INR with a stranger… your bank account will be frozen along with the people whom you sent money to”

“Withdrawing money from Airtm is turning out to be a real headache… bank account will get blocked”

One person even lost access after receiving funds through UPI via Airtm and visiting the cyber cell.

⚖️ Grey Zone – FEMA Violations

Peer-to-peer INR withdrawals may violate India’s Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), which restricts unregulated forex transactions. Reddit users advise that this method is “violative of FEMA law” and call it “shady”.

✅ Airtm Does Offer Direct Withdrawals to India

Airtm officially supports Direct (non‑P2P) direct withdrawals to Indian banks, including HDFC, SBI, ICICI, Axis and many more:

Funds reach your bank in 1–2 business days.
Limits: up to $1,800 per transaction and $8,000 per month.
More secure; does not rely on random cashiers.

🔍 Summary Table

Withdrawal Method	Legal Risk	Bank Risk	Speed	Best Use
P2P INR	High	High	Minutes~Hours	Avoid — accounts may freeze or be held
Direct Bank	Low	Low	1–2 business days	Use this official method — safer & reliable

📝 Final Advice

Avoid P2P withdrawals to INR in India—legal issues and freezing risk are high.
Use Direct Withdrawals via Airtm to your verified Indian bank. It’s officially supported, faster, safer, and within compliance.
Alternatively, consider using PayPal Business (with GSTIN) or government‐approved crypto mixers/exchanges like CoinDCX for cashing out foreign earnings.
If you’ve already used P2P and your account is held, consult your bank and local cyber cell promptly.

✅ Conclusion

Yes, you can use Airtm in India, but only safely utilize the official “Direct” withdrawal method to Indian bank accounts. Avoid P2P INR withdrawals at all costs—they’ve led to account freezes and legal complications for many users. Let me know if you’d like help navigating setup or alternative withdrawal options!

Travel to India: A Journey Through Time, Color, and Culture

India isn’t just a country — it’s an experience. From snow-capped Himalayan peaks to tropical beaches, sacred temples to buzzing cities, serene backwaters to golden deserts, India stuns the senses and stirs the soul. Rich in history, spirituality, and diversity, every region offers something uniquely mesmerizing.

📍 Where Is India?
Located in South Asia, India shares borders with Pakistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar, and is bounded by the Indian Ocean to the south.

Capital: New Delhi
Popular travel hubs: Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Jaipur, Kochi, Goa

✈️ How to Get There

Major international airports:

Indira Gandhi International (Delhi)
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International (Mumbai)
Kempegowda (Bengaluru)
Rajiv Gandhi (Hyderabad)
Cochin International (Kochi)

Direct flights from:

USA, UK, Europe, Middle East, Southeast Asia, Australia

🛂 Entry Requirements

eVisa available for tourists from 160+ countries
Passport valid for 6+ months
Return/onward ticket recommended
COVID-19 protocols lifted, but check for updates before travel

🏨 Where to Stay

India caters to all budgets:

Budget:

Zostel (hostels across India)
Backpacker Panda
Local guesthouses in every city

Mid-range:

Treebo Hotels
FabHotels
Boutique stays in places like Udaipur, Kerala, and Rishikesh

Luxury:

Taj Hotels
Oberoi Hotels
The Leela Palaces & Resorts

🌍 Top Things to Do in India

🏰 Explore Historic Wonders

Taj Mahal – Agra’s world-famous marble mausoleum
Jaipur’s forts & palaces – Amber Fort, City Palace
Varanasi ghats – Spiritual hub on the Ganges River

⛰️ Hike the Himalayas

Trek in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, or Ladakh
Visit hill stations like Manali, Shimla, Darjeeling

🌊 Relax in Goa or Kerala

Chill on Goa’s golden beaches, or unwind on Kerala’s backwaters
Houseboat cruises, Ayurvedic massages, and coconut cuisine

🕌 Spiritual Experiences

Meditation or yoga retreats in Rishikesh
Visit ancient temples in Tamil Nadu or Odisha
Golden Temple in Amritsar and holy sites in Varanasi

🐅 Go on Safari

See tigers in Ranthambore, Bandhavgarh, or Kanha
Spot elephants and leopards in Periyar or Kabini

🎨 Join a Festival

Holi (Festival of Colors – March)
Diwali (Festival of Lights – Oct/Nov)
Pushkar Camel Fair, Navratri, Durga Puja, and many more

🍴 What to Eat in India

India’s food is as diverse as its culture:

North India:

Butter chicken, samosas, paneer tikka, naan, biryani

South India:

Dosas, idli-sambar, coconut curries, seafood

Street Food:

Chaat, pani puri, vada pav, kebabs, jalebi

Drinks:

Masala chai, lassi, fresh lime soda, filter coffee

(🌶️ Pro tip: Always ask for “less spicy” if unsure!)

📶 Practical Info

Currency: Indian Rupee (INR)
Languages: Hindi, English widely spoken, plus 20+ regional languages
Electricity: 230V, Type C/D/M plugs
Transport: Domestic flights, trains (book early!), Uber/Ola, tuk-tuks
Best Time to Visit: Oct–March (cooler & drier), April–June for mountains, July–Sept is monsoon

🌟 Why Visit India?

Because nowhere else offers so much in one place. India is an explosion of color, contrast, and culture — a land where the ancient and modern intertwine, where every moment is an adventure, and every corner tells a story. Whether you’re wandering through centuries-old temples, trekking in remote valleys, or sharing chai with locals, India will leave a mark on your soul.

Would you ride a camel through the desert, celebrate Holi in the streets, or meditate by the Ganges?
Tag a travel partner who’s ready for the magic of India 🇮🇳🌍🌸🕌

Best Hosting in India

India has a diverse range of hosting providers offering services tailored to different needs, from personal blogs to large-scale enterprises. Here are some of the best hosting providers in India, offering reliable services with great performance and customer support:

1. Hostinger India

Overview: Hostinger is one of the most affordable and reliable hosting providers globally, and their Indian services are no exception. They offer shared hosting, VPS hosting, cloud hosting, and WordPress hosting.
Features:
- Local data centers in India for faster load times.
- 24/7 customer support with chat and email.
- Free SSL certificates and domain registration on select plans.
- Excellent uptime and performance.
Best for: Budget-conscious businesses, personal websites, and bloggers in India.

2. Bluehost India

Overview: Bluehost is one of the most popular hosting providers worldwide, and its India-specific offerings are just as reliable. They offer shared hosting, VPS hosting, and managed WordPress hosting.
Features:
- Free domain and SSL certificate with most plans.
- 24/7 customer support (phone, live chat, and email).
- Excellent uptime and fast website performance.
- Easy-to-use cPanel and one-click WordPress installation.
Best for: Small to medium-sized businesses, bloggers, and WordPress users in India.

3. A2 Hosting India

Overview: A2 Hosting is known for its high-performance hosting solutions, particularly its Turbo servers, which offer blazing-fast speeds. They provide shared hosting, VPS hosting, and managed WordPress hosting.
Features:
- Turbo servers for 20x faster website speeds.
- Free website migration and SSL certificates.
- 24/7 customer support via live chat, phone, and email.
- Excellent uptime and great performance for high-traffic websites.
Best for: Websites that require fast load times, such as eCommerce stores, business websites, and blogs in India.

4. HostGator India

Overview: HostGator is a global hosting provider with a strong presence in India. They offer affordable hosting solutions including shared hosting, VPS hosting, and dedicated servers.
Features:
- Free domain and SSL certificate with most plans.
- 24/7 customer support via live chat, phone, and email.
- Reliable uptime and great performance.
- User-friendly control panel (cPanel) and website builder tools.
Best for: Small businesses, bloggers, and WordPress users in India.

5. BigRock

Overview: BigRock is an Indian hosting provider offering affordable services for personal websites, businesses, and blogs. They provide shared hosting, VPS hosting, and domain registration.
Features:
- Local data centers in India for faster website performance.
- 24/7 customer support in local languages.
- Free domain and SSL certificates on certain plans.
- Affordable pricing and reliable uptime.
Best for: Small businesses, personal websites, and startups in India.

6. MilesWeb

Overview: MilesWeb is a fast-growing Indian hosting provider known for its budget-friendly plans and great customer support. They offer shared hosting, VPS hosting, dedicated servers, and WordPress hosting.
Features:
- Local customer support in India.
- Free SSL certificates and website migration.
- Reliable uptime and fast server speeds.
- User-friendly control panel and optimized hosting for WordPress.
Best for: Small businesses, bloggers, and eCommerce websites in India.

7. SiteGround

Overview: SiteGround is a global hosting provider known for its excellent performance and customer support. Though based internationally, it offers services in India with great reliability.
Features:
- Free daily backups and free SSL certificates.
- 24/7 customer support via live chat, phone, and email.
- Excellent uptime and fast loading speeds.
- Easy-to-use control panel and WordPress optimization.
Best for: Small to medium-sized businesses, WordPress users, and bloggers in India.

8. InMotion Hosting

Overview: InMotion Hosting is a premium hosting provider offering shared hosting, VPS hosting, and dedicated servers. Known for its fast performance and reliable customer support, it is an excellent choice for growing businesses.
Features:
- Free domain, SSL certificates, and website migration.
- 24/7 customer support via live chat and phone.
- High uptime and fast page load times.
- Optimized hosting for WordPress and other CMS platforms.
Best for: Growing businesses and high-traffic websites in India.

9. iPage India

Overview: iPage offers affordable and reliable hosting services with a strong presence in India. They provide shared hosting, VPS hosting, and WordPress hosting solutions.
Features:
- Free domain, SSL certificates, and website builder.
- 24/7 customer support via phone, chat, and email.
- Easy-to-use cPanel and one-click installation for WordPress.
- Excellent uptime and fast website performance.
Best for: Personal websites, blogs, and small businesses in India.

10. ResellerClub

Overview: ResellerClub is an Indian hosting provider known for its reseller hosting services but also offers shared hosting, VPS hosting, and dedicated servers.
Features:
- Affordable pricing with scalable hosting plans.
- Local customer support and reliable uptime.
- Free domain and SSL certificates with select plans.
- Optimized for WordPress and other popular CMS platforms.
Best for: Resellers, small businesses, and WordPress users in India.

11. GoDaddy India
- Overview: GoDaddy is a global hosting giant that has a significant presence in India. They offer a wide variety of hosting services, including domain registration, shared hosting, and VPS hosting.
- Features:
  - Free domain with hosting plans.
  - 24/7 customer support via phone and chat.
  - Reliable uptime and fast website speeds.
  - Easy-to-use website builder and cPanel.
- Best for: Small businesses, individuals, and eCommerce websites.

Key Considerations:

Local Support: Opting for a provider with customer support in India can ensure faster response times and better understanding of local issues.
Server Location: Local data centers in India will ensure faster load times for Indian users, which is essential for providing a smooth user experience.
Uptime and Speed: Look for hosting providers that offer a high uptime guarantee and fast server speeds to avoid any disruptions in your website’s performance.
Pricing: India has many affordable hosting providers, such as Hostinger, BigRock, and MilesWeb, making it ideal for small businesses and personal websites.
Scalability: If you plan to scale your website in the future, choose a provider that offers scalable solutions, such as VPS or cloud hosting.

Would you like more details on any of these hosting providers or assistance with choosing the best one for your specific needs?

Buy Bitcoin in India

To buy Bitcoin in India, follow these steps:

1. Choose a Crypto Exchange:

There are several exchanges that allow users in India to buy Bitcoin. Some of the most popular platforms include:

WazirX: WazirX is one of the most popular cryptocurrency exchanges in India. It allows users to buy Bitcoin using Indian Rupees (INR) through bank transfers, UPI (Unified Payments Interface), and debit/credit cards. WazirX also offers a P2P (peer-to-peer) platform, which is useful for users who want to buy Bitcoin directly from others.
CoinDCX: CoinDCX is another popular exchange in India that allows you to buy Bitcoin using INR. It supports bank transfers and offers an easy-to-use interface for both beginners and experienced traders.
ZebPay: ZebPay is one of the oldest cryptocurrency exchanges in India and allows users to buy Bitcoin with INR. It supports various payment methods, including bank transfers and UPI.
Koinex: Although Koinex ceased operations in 2019, it was once a major exchange in India. Now, WazirX and CoinDCX have become the go-to exchanges.
Paxful: Paxful is a P2P exchange where you can buy Bitcoin directly from sellers using various payment methods, including bank transfers, Paytm, Google Pay, and even cash in person.

2. Sign Up and Verify Your Identity:

Once you choose an exchange, you’ll need to create an account. Most exchanges require identity verification (KYC – Know Your Customer) to comply with Indian regulations. To complete the verification process, you will need to provide:

A government-issued ID (e.g., Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID).
Proof of address (e.g., utility bill or bank statement).
A selfie for identity verification in some cases.

Verification usually takes a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the exchange.

3. Deposit Funds:

Once your account is verified, you can deposit funds into your exchange account using various methods:

Bank Transfer: Most exchanges like WazirX, CoinDCX, and ZebPay support bank transfers through NEFT, RTGS, or IMPS. You can transfer INR from your bank account to fund your exchange account.
UPI (Unified Payments Interface): UPI is widely used in India and supported by platforms like WazirX. You can use UPI to deposit INR instantly into your exchange account.
Debit/Credit Card: Some exchanges, like WazirX and CoinDCX, allow you to buy Bitcoin using a debit or credit card. However, card payments may come with higher fees compared to bank transfers.

4. Buy Bitcoin:

Once your account is funded, you can buy Bitcoin:

Go to the “Buy” section of the exchange platform.
Select Bitcoin (BTC) as the cryptocurrency you want to purchase.
Enter the amount of Bitcoin you want to buy, or the amount of INR you wish to spend.
Review the transaction and confirm the purchase.

If you’re using a P2P exchange like Paxful, you can select a seller who accepts your preferred payment method (e.g., bank transfer, Google Pay, Paytm) and complete the transaction directly with the seller.

5. Store Your Bitcoin:

While exchanges allow you to store Bitcoin on their platform, it’s generally safer to transfer your Bitcoin to a private wallet. There are several options for storing your Bitcoin:

Software Wallets: These are apps you can install on your phone or computer. Examples include Trust Wallet, Exodus, and CoinDCX’s own wallet.
Hardware Wallets: For the highest level of security, consider using a hardware wallet like Ledger or Trezor. These wallets store your Bitcoin offline, reducing the risk of hacking.

It’s recommended to store large amounts of Bitcoin in a hardware wallet to ensure maximum security.

6. Consider Fees and Limits:

Transaction Fees: Each exchange has its own fee structure for buying, selling, and withdrawing Bitcoin. Check the fee details before completing a transaction.
Withdrawal Limits: Some exchanges may impose withdrawal limits, especially for new users. Ensure you understand the withdrawal limits before attempting to transfer large amounts of Bitcoin.

7. Tax Considerations in India:

In India, the tax treatment of cryptocurrencies is still evolving. However, the government has recently introduced a tax on cryptocurrency transactions:

Tax on Income: Any profits from the sale of Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies are considered taxable income. This means that you may need to pay taxes on any capital gains you make from trading Bitcoin.
Tax Deducted at Source (TDS): As of April 2022, a 1% TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) is applicable on cryptocurrency transactions exceeding ₹10,000 in a financial year. This tax is deducted by the exchange at the time of the transaction.

It’s recommended to consult with a tax professional for more detailed guidance on tax reporting and compliance related to cryptocurrency in India.

8. Stay Safe and Secure:

Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Always enable 2FA on your exchange account to add an extra layer of security.
Beware of Scams: The cryptocurrency space can be prone to scams, especially on P2P exchanges. Always verify the reputation of the sellers and buyers before completing any transactions.
Avoid Storing Large Amounts on Exchanges: While exchanges provide convenience, they are also vulnerable to hacking. Store large amounts of Bitcoin in a private wallet for better security.

By following these steps, you can safely and securely buy Bitcoin in India. Choose a reliable exchange, verify your account, fund it using a preferred payment method, and store your Bitcoin in a secure wallet.

How to Buy Cryptocurrencies in India

India, with its large and tech-savvy population, has seen rapid growth in cryptocurrency adoption. Despite facing regulatory challenges, the country’s interest in digital currencies continues to rise. This guide will help you understand how to buy cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and others in India.

1. Introduction to Cryptocurrencies

Cryptocurrencies are decentralized digital currencies that use cryptography for secure transactions. Bitcoin, created in 2009, was the first cryptocurrency, but many others, such as Ethereum, Ripple, and Litecoin, have emerged since. Cryptocurrencies are attractive due to their potential for high returns, as well as their ability to provide financial services to the unbanked.

In India, cryptocurrencies are gaining popularity, especially among the younger generation. They offer an alternative investment option and a hedge against inflation. However, despite their growing popularity, the Indian government has yet to provide a clear regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies, which has led to uncertainty in the market.

2. Regulatory Environment in India

India’s stance on cryptocurrency regulation has been inconsistent. In 2018, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed a banking ban that restricted banks from providing services to cryptocurrency exchanges. However, in 2020, the Supreme Court of India lifted this ban, which reignited the cryptocurrency market.

Currently, there is no clear legislation governing cryptocurrencies, and the government is exploring the possibility of regulating the industry. While cryptocurrencies are not considered legal tender in India, they are not illegal to buy, sell, or hold. The Indian government has been working on a draft bill that may introduce regulations on cryptocurrencies and even create a central bank digital currency (CBDC).

The Income Tax Department in India has also started taxing cryptocurrency transactions. This means that individuals who earn profits from cryptocurrency trading must report their earnings and pay taxes accordingly.

3. Best Cryptocurrency Exchanges for India

Several cryptocurrency exchanges cater to Indian users, offering a platform to buy, sell, and trade cryptocurrencies. Here are some of the most popular exchanges in India:

WazirX: WazirX is one of India’s largest and most trusted cryptocurrency exchanges. It offers a variety of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple, and others. WazirX also has a user-friendly interface and supports Indian Rupee (INR) deposits and withdrawals.
CoinDCX: CoinDCX is another leading Indian cryptocurrency exchange that offers access to a wide range of cryptocurrencies. The platform supports INR deposits and withdrawals and provides features such as margin trading and staking.
ZebPay: ZebPay is one of the oldest cryptocurrency exchanges in India. It offers a simple and secure platform for buying, selling, and trading Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. ZebPay also allows INR deposits and withdrawals.
Koinex: Koinex is another Indian exchange that supports INR deposits and withdrawals. It offers a variety of cryptocurrencies and features a simple interface for new users.
Unocoin: Unocoin is focused on Bitcoin and allows users to buy, sell, and store Bitcoin in India. It also offers a recurring Bitcoin investment plan for regular investors.

4. How to Buy Cryptocurrencies in India

Buying cryptocurrencies in India is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Choose a Platform

Choose a cryptocurrency exchange that supports INR deposits and withdrawals. Popular exchanges like WazirX, CoinDCX, and ZebPay offer easy-to-use platforms for buying and selling crypto.

Step 2: Create an Account

Sign up on your chosen platform by providing your email address and creating a secure password. You will likely need to complete Know Your Customer (KYC) verification, which involves submitting documents like your PAN card, address proof, and a selfie.

Step 3: Deposit Funds

Deposit INR into your exchange account. Most exchanges accept bank transfers, UPI, and even mobile wallets like Paytm for deposits. Ensure that the deposit method you choose is available on the platform.

Step 4: Buy Cryptocurrency

Once your account is funded, you can place an order to buy the cryptocurrency you want. You can buy Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other altcoins. You can place a market order (buy at the current market price) or a limit order (buy at a specific price).

Step 5: Secure Your Cryptocurrency

After buying cryptocurrencies, it’s important to store them in a secure wallet. You can either store them on the exchange’s wallet (for convenience) or transfer them to a personal wallet (software or hardware) for better security.

5. Payment Methods in India

In India, the most common payment methods for buying cryptocurrencies include:

Bank Transfers: Most exchanges support bank transfers through NEFT, RTGS, or IMPS. UPI is also a popular option for deposits.
Mobile Wallets: Some exchanges accept mobile wallets like Paytm, PhonePe, and Google Pay for buying cryptocurrencies.
Debit/Credit Cards: Some international exchanges may accept debit and credit cards, though this option may not be widely available in Indian exchanges due to regulatory concerns.

6. Security and Safety Tips

Use Reputable Exchanges: Stick to well-known and trusted exchanges like WazirX, CoinDCX, and ZebPay. Always check user reviews and the platform’s reputation before making a transaction.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Protect your account by enabling 2FA, which adds an extra layer of security to your exchange account.
Use Secure Wallets: After buying cryptocurrencies, transfer them to a personal wallet (either software or hardware) for better security. Avoid leaving large amounts of crypto on exchanges.
Beware of Scams: Be cautious of fraudulent schemes and offers that sound too good to be true. Always verify the legitimacy of the platform and sellers before making any transactions.

7. Popular Cryptocurrencies in India

Some of the most popular cryptocurrencies in India include:

Bitcoin (BTC): The first and most well-known cryptocurrency.
Ethereum (ETH): A decentralized platform that enables smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps).
Ripple (XRP): Known for fast and low-cost cross-border transactions.
Litecoin (LTC): A peer-to-peer cryptocurrency designed to offer faster transaction times than Bitcoin.
Tether (USDT): A stablecoin pegged to the US dollar, providing stability in a volatile market.

8. Conclusion

Despite regulatory uncertainty, the cryptocurrency market in India continues to grow, driven by a tech-savvy population and a desire for alternative investment options. By following this guide, you can easily navigate the process of buying cryptocurrencies in India, ensuring a safe and secure experience. Keep in mind that it’s important to stay informed about the regulatory landscape and make educated decisions about your cryptocurrency investments.