India's free UPI payment ecosystem could soon witness its biggest policy shift since launch. The government has proposed amendments to the Payment and Settlement Systems Act that create a legal framework for introducing Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on selected digital payment modes in the future.

While no immediate charges have been announced, reports suggest the government is considering a 0.25% to 0.4% merchant fee on UPI transactions above ₹2,000 made to businesses. Person-to-person transfers are expected to remain free, while larger merchants could bear the charges based on their annual turnover.

UPI Payments May No Longer Be Free? Government Eyes Merchant Charges

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi has officially assumed charge of the Ministry of Education following the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan. The appointment comes after weeks of nationwide student protests over the alleged NEET paper leak and examination irregularities. Joshi will continue to hold his existing portfolios of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, and New and Renewable Energy, in addition to the Education Ministry. Speaking after taking charge, he thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for placing his trust in him and pledged to discharge his new responsibilities with dedication, humility and honesty.

Pralhad Joshi takes charge of Education Ministry after Dharmendra Pradhan resigns | NEET Protest 

The NEET examination controversy has triggered fresh political confrontation in New Delhi as Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Akhilesh Yadav, and other opposition leaders staged protests demanding education reforms and accountability over alleged exam paper leaks. Several leaders were briefly detained after demonstrating outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence. Meanwhile, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan defended the government's position, stating that the Centre is committed to discussing the NEET issue in Parliament while accusing the opposition of politicizing students' concerns. Here's everything you need to know about the latest developments in the nationwide education reform protests.

NEET row escalates: Opposition protests outside PM Modi’s residence, Centre responds | CJP Protest

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul added a musical touch to diplomacy during his official visit to Beijing by performing a classic song for Chinese Premier Li Qiang at a formal state lunch. The performance, accompanied by piano, received warm applause from guests and highlighted the Thai leader’s unique approach to cultural diplomacy. The moment follows several of his musical appearances during official visits across Asia, where he has combined music with international engagement.


Thai Prime Minister sings classic song for Chinese Premier Li Qiang during Beijing state lunch

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UPI Payments May No Longer Be Free? Government Eyes Merchant Charges

Pralhad Joshi takes charge of Education Ministry after Dharmendra Pradhan resigns | NEET Protest

NEET row escalates: Opposition protests outside PM Modi’s residence, Centre responds | CJP Protest

Thai Prime Minister sings classic song for Chinese Premier Li Qiang during Beijing state lunch