15 Major Rule Changes Effective from October 1, 2025: LPG Prices, Rail Tickets, UPI, Pension & More

As October begins, several new rules will come into effect across India that directly influence household budgets, banking habits, investments, and everyday services. From LPG cylinders to UPI transactions, rail ticket booking, pension contributions, and even postal services—many sectors will undergo regulatory updates starting October 1, 2025. Here is a detailed look at 15 key changes you need to know.

1. LPG Cylinder Prices to Be Revised

On the first of every month, oil marketing companies update fuel and LPG rates. This October, domestic LPG prices may be revised, although household cylinder rates have remained steady for several months. Commercial cylinder prices, however, have witnessed frequent fluctuations.

2. Rail Ticket Booking Linked to Aadhaar Verification

The Indian Railways will implement a new booking system. For the first 15 minutes after online reservation opens, tickets will be available only to passengers who have completed Aadhaar verification. Previously, this applied only to Tatkal bookings, but from October 1, it will extend to general reservations as well. Counter bookings will remain unaffected.

3. UPI ‘Collect Request’ Feature Discontinued

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has decided to phase out the UPI ‘collect request’ option citing security reasons. Users will no longer be able to request money directly from friends or relatives via UPI.

4. Higher UPI Transaction Limit

The maximum limit for UPI transactions will increase from ₹1 lakh to ₹5 lakh per transaction. This change is expected to greatly benefit real estate deals, large business payments, and high-value personal transactions.

5. UPI Auto-Pay for Subscriptions

UPI users will now have the option to set up auto-pay mandates for recurring bills and subscription services. Every auto-debit will trigger a notification for transparency and security.

6. Higher Minimum NPS Contribution

The National Pension System (NPS) will raise the minimum monthly contribution from ₹500 to ₹1,000. This aims to strengthen retirement savings and encourage disciplined investment.

7. Tier-Based NPS Options

The NPS will now officially operate under two tiers:

• Tier-1: Designed for retirement, offering tax benefits.

• Tier-2: A flexible savings option, but without tax incentives.

8. New Fee Structure in Pension Schemes

The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) has revised its charges. Opening a new PRAN will now cost ₹18 for an e-PRAN kit. Fee structures for NPS Lite customers have also been simplified.

9. 100% Equity Investment Option in NPS

Private NPS subscribers can now invest their entire contribution in equities. While this opens the door to higher returns, it also increases market-linked risks.

10. Multiple CRA Framework for NPS

Subscribers will be able to operate schemes from multiple Central Recordkeeping Agencies (CRAs) under a single PRAN, giving them greater flexibility and service choices.

11. Stricter Rules for Online Gaming

From October, online gaming companies must obtain a license from the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY). The minimum participation age in real-money gaming will be set at 18 years.

12. RBI Monetary Policy Meeting

The Reserve Bank of India’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) will meet on October 1. Any cut in the repo rate could bring relief to home loan and car loan borrowers by reducing EMIs.

13. Small Savings Scheme Interest Rates

Interest rates for small savings schemes such as PPF, SCSS, and Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana are reviewed quarterly. Fresh rates applicable from October 1 will decide returns for millions of savers.

14. Extended Bank Holidays in October

Due to the festive season—including Gandhi Jayanti, Dussehra, and Diwali—banks will remain closed on several days in October. Across different states, there will be up to 21 bank holidays. Customers are advised to check the holiday list before planning visits.

15. New Rules for Speed Post Services

India Post has updated its Speed Post system with OTP-based delivery, online booking, and real-time tracking. Additionally, students will receive a 10% discount, while new bulk customers will get a 5% concession.

Final Word

From banking and pensions to railway bookings and postal services, these 15 rule changes effective October 1, 2025, will directly affect households, businesses, and individual financial planning. Staying informed about these updates can help you manage expenses better, avoid disruptions, and make the most of new opportunities.