October 2025 Policy Changes: UPI Security Updates, Pension Reforms, and New Railway Booking Rules

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As October 2025 approaches, several significant regulatory changes will be implemented starting from the first day of the month. These modifications span across various sectors including digital payments, pension schemes, railway bookings, and online gaming, directly affecting daily life for many citizens.

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has announced the discontinuation of the peer-to-peer "Collect Request" feature on UPI platforms such as PhonePe, Google Pay, and Paytm effective October 1. This security measure aims to reduce online fraud incidents across digital payment platforms.

According to the official circular signed by Kunal Kalawatia, Chief of Products, "All member banks, payment service providers and UPI apps are directed to implement necessary changes in their systems to ensure no P2P collect transaction is initiated, routed or processed beyond October 2, 2025."

Changes to the National Pension System (NPS) will allow non-government subscribers to invest up to 100% of their pension corpus in equity-related schemes under the Multiple Scheme Framework, an increase from the previous 75% limit. Additionally, revised fees have been established for PRAN (Permanent Retirement Account Number) services - Rs 18 for e-PRAN kits and Rs 40 for physical PRAN cards for government employees, with varying rates for private sector participants.

The September 15 circular specified that "A central recordkeeping agency may collect service charges plus applicable taxes for providing services to subscribers of pension schemes covered under the Act." Importantly, annual maintenance charges will be waived for accounts with zero balance, and e-PRAN kits will become the default option when opening new accounts.

Indian Railways is implementing a new booking policy prioritizing Aadhaar-verified users for reserved general tickets during the first 15 minutes after reservations open. This measure, effective October 1, aims to prevent system abuse by unscrupulous elements and ensure fair access to reservation services.

The ministry's announcement stated, "With effect from 1.10.2025, during the first 15 minutes of opening general reservation, reserved general tickets can be booked through the IRCTC website/app only by Aadhaar authenticated users."

LPG cylinder prices, which undergo monthly reviews, may see adjustments starting October 1. These potential changes could impact household budgets nationwide, though it remains unclear whether prices will increase, decrease, or remain stable.

New regulations for online gaming will come into effect, focusing on transparency, security, and player protection. These rules establish age restrictions (18+ for real-money gaming) and licensing requirements for gaming platforms.

Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw recently commented, "We had engaged with the industry and had multiple discussions with them for almost three years. If they need more time, we will definitely consider a more consultative approach. However, at this point, we are targeting to start implementation of the new legislation from October 1, 2025."

Banking operations will see 21 holidays in October due to festivals including Dussehra, Diwali, and Chhath Puja. Customers should plan their banking activities accordingly. Additionally, financial analysts anticipate a potential 0.25% rate cut by the Reserve Bank of India, which could influence loan interest rates across the market.