Economy
Government Confirms UPI Transactions Will Remain Free for Consumers
The Hindu2h
THE BRIEF
1
The government clarified on August 8, 2026, that UPI transactions will remain free for consumers, dismissing speculation regarding potential charges on the digital payments network.
2
In July 2026, the UPI platform processed 2,366 crore transactions worth ₹29.9 lakh crore, maintaining its status as the world's largest real-time payment system.
3
Any future merchant discount rate, if introduced under the Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, would only apply to a limited set of merchant transactions above a specific threshold.