DIP: 18.02.1006/20261101 
DOI: 10.25215/2455/11011006 
Abstract
This research paper explores the evolution of Indian financial instruments by comparing the ancient Hundi system with modern digital payment landscapes under the framework of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The study defines both systems and analyzes their socio-economic utility for diverse stakeholders, including small merchants, large retailers, and individual users. By utilizing secondary data, the research demonstrates how ancient trust-based systems facilitated long-distance trade and how modern technology-driven systems have expanded financial inclusion. The findings highlight that while digital payments offer superior speed, Hundi provided a unique model of community-based accountability. Integrating these lessons into modern curricula can foster a more comprehensive understanding of ethical and efficient wealth management.
The author(s) appreciates all those who participated in the study and helped to facilitate the research process. 
The author(s) declared no conflict of interest. 
ISSN 2455-670X