Bhubaneswar, Jul 30: Starting August 1, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) will implement seven major changes to the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) system aimed at enhancing security and reducing server strain. These changes are expected to improve user experience and streamline digital transactions across India.

One of the most significant updates is the introduction of biometric authentication for UPI payments. Users will now be able to authorize transactions using their fingerprints or facial recognition, offering an alternative to the traditional PIN-based system. While PINs will still be available for those who prefer them, biometrics will add an extra layer of security.

In a major relief to users, the government has clarified that no GST will be levied on UPI transactions, even for payments exceeding ₹2,000. This applies to popular apps like PhonePe, Google Pay, and others, ensuring that digital payments remain cost-free for consumers.

To address frequent complaints about server delays and transaction failures, NPCI has introduced limits on balance checks. Users will now be allowed to check their account balance only 50 times per day via UPI apps. Additionally, users can check bank accounts linked to their mobile number up to 25 times daily. These limits aim to reduce unnecessary server load and improve transaction speed.

India currently sees over 1,600 crore UPI transactions per month, making it one of the largest digital payment ecosystems globally. However, the surge in usage has led to occasional technical glitches, prompting these regulatory changes.

Key Changes in UPI Rules: AT A Glance

Biometric Authentication: NPCI is testing biometric payment options—fingerprint, face ID, and iris scan—as alternatives to PINs. This Aadhaar-linked feature will improve accessibility for elderly and rural users.

Balance Check Limit: Users can check their bank balance only 50 times per day per UPI app. After this, further requests will be blocked for 24 hours.

Linked Account View Cap: You can view bank accounts linked to your mobile number only 25 times per day per app.

Fixed AutoPay Windows: Recurring payments (EMIs, subscriptions, SIPs) will be processed only during non-peak hours: Before 10:00 am, between 1:00 pm and 5:00 pm, and after 9:30 pm.

Transaction Status Checks: Status of pending transactions can be checked only 3 times, with a mandatory 90-second gap between each attempt.

Payee Name Visibility: UPI apps must display the registered name of the recipient before any money transfer to prevent fraud.

No GST on UPI Transactions: The government has confirmed that no GST will be levied on UPI transactions, even those above ₹2,000.

These updates are expected to make UPI transactions safer, faster, and more reliable, while maintaining the convenience that has made UPI a household name in India’s digital economy.

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