Modi Government Offering Affordable Loans Up to ₹20 Lakh — Find Out Which Banks Are Participating

Modi Government Offering Affordable Loans Up to ₹20 Lakh — Find Out Which Banks Are Participating

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced raising the loan limit to ₹20 lakh during the Union Budget 2024-25 on July 23, 2024. This new limit became effective from October 24, 2024.

Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY): The Narendra Modi government at the Center has started many such schemes, with the help of which people are starting their own business. Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana is also a scheme of this category. Under the scheme, banks give loans up to Rs 20 lakh to people at a cheap interest rate. The important thing is that this loan is collateral-free. Let us tell you that Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced to increase the loan limit to ₹ 20 lakh during the Union Budget 2024-25 on July 23, 2024. This new limit became effective on October 24, 2024.

Four category schemes

Mudra loan scheme is available in four categories- ‘Shishu’, ‘Kishore’, ‘Tarun’ and ‘Tarun Plus’. The loan amount is different for each category.

Shishu: Loans up to Rs 50,000/- are available.

Kishor: Loans from Rs 50,000/- to Rs 5 lakh are available.

Tarun: Loans from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh are included.

Tarun Plus: Loans from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 20 lakh are available.

Which banks provide loans

Under the Mudra scheme, collateral-free loans up to Rs 20 lakh are provided by Member Lending Institutions (MLIs) such as scheduled commercial banks, regional rural banks (RRBs), small finance banks (SFBs), non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), micro finance institutions (MFIs), etc.

Scheme of 10 years ago

Let us tell you that this scheme is of ten years ago. Mudra Yojana has helped in opening more than 52 crore loan accounts, which shows a steady increase in entrepreneurial activities. The share of teen loans has increased from 5.9 percent in FY 2016 to 44.7 percent in FY 2025. 68 percent of the total beneficiaries of Mudra Yojana are women. Between FY 2016 and FY 2025, the disbursement amount of Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana per woman increased by 13 percent year on year to Rs 62,679.

Avoid Late Fees Easily: Use the E-Pay System to Settle Your Taxes Online

Avoid Late Fees Easily: Use the E-Pay System to Settle Your Taxes Online

Avoid Penalties: How to Pay Your Taxes Online with the Income Tax Department’s E-Pay Tax Feature

Missing a tax deadline can lead to more than just financial penalties. It can trigger legal notices, compliance complications, and unnecessary stress. To help taxpayers avoid these risks and simplify the payment process, the Income Tax Department has introduced a user-friendly digital gateway that makes paying taxes faster, safer, and more convenient.

The ‘e-pay tax’ feature on the Income Tax Department’s e-filing portal allows individuals to settle their tax dues online — anytime and from anywhere. Whether you prefer net banking, debit cards, NEFT/RTGS, or secure payment gateways, this system eliminates the need to visit a bank or tax office.

How to Use the E-Pay Tax Feature

Follow these simple steps to pay your taxes online:

  1. Visit the official Income Tax e-filing portal and click on the ‘e-pay tax’ link under the Quick Links section.

  2. Enter your PAN number twice and your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.

  3. Use the 6-digit OTP sent to your mobile to verify your identity.

  4. Confirm your identity by checking the redacted PAN and name displayed on the screen.

  5. Select the type of payment you need to make — whether it’s Income Tax, Demand Payment, Equalisation Levy, Securities Transaction Tax (STT), Commodities Transaction Tax (CTT), or Fees and Other Payments.

  6. Choose the applicable financial year and the relevant tax head.

  7. Enter the amount you wish to pay.

  8. Pick your preferred payment mode and select your bank.

  9. Review the summary page to confirm all details including payment category, financial year, and method.

  10. Click ‘Pay Now’ to complete the transaction securely.

This seamless digital process reduces errors, ensures safe and instant payments, and helps taxpayers stay compliant with ease. By using the e-pay tax feature, you can avoid late fees, minimise paperwork, and manage your tax obligations on your own schedule.

Banks Seek RBI’s Nod to Freeze Accounts Involved in Illegal Transactions Here’s Why

Banks Seek RBI’s Nod to Freeze Accounts Involved in Illegal Transactions Here’s Why

Why Banks Want Immediate Power to Freeze Suspicious Accounts in India

In response to the growing threat of cyber crimes and illegal transactions, banks in India have urged the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the government to grant them the authority to immediately freeze suspicious accounts. The aim is to curb fraudulent activities and prevent misuse of the banking system.

Why Are Banks Making This Demand?

Banks have raised concerns over the time-consuming process currently in place for dealing with suspicious mule accounts. At present, financial institutions must obtain permission from enforcement agencies or the court before they can seize or freeze such accounts. This delay allows fraudsters to move illegal funds, making it difficult to trace and stop these transactions.

To tackle this, banks have formally requested that they be given the power to instantly freeze accounts as soon as they detect suspicious activities. By doing so, they believe it would be possible to halt fraudulent transactions and prevent criminals from exploiting the system.

What Are Mule Accounts?

Mule accounts are bank accounts used to carry out criminal activities such as cyber fraud, money laundering, tax evasion, and digital scams. These accounts are often opened in the name of a third person—who may either be unaware or a willing participant. Fraudsters use mule accounts to transfer illegal money from one place to another, effectively concealing its source. The funds are either withdrawn in cash or sent to offshore accounts, making them difficult to track.

Current Legal Provisions

Under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), banks currently need to obtain approval from enforcement authorities or a court to seize accounts involved in illegal activities. This process is not only time-consuming but also gives criminals enough opportunity to complete their transactions before action can be taken.

Recommendations from the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA)

The Indian Banks’ Association has also backed this proposal, suggesting that banks be empowered to take immediate action against mule accounts. Additionally, the association has recommended stricter implementation of Know Your Customer (KYC) norms and more rigorous verification processes to prevent such accounts from being opened in the first place.

Technology-Based Solutions Proposed by Banks

To improve the detection of mule accounts, banks have suggested leveraging advanced technologies like machine learning and artificial intelligence. By using AI-driven tools to monitor banking transactions, financial institutions can quickly identify unusual patterns and flag suspicious accounts before they’re used for fraudulent activities.

Conclusion

With cyber crimes and financial frauds rising sharply in India, giving banks the authority to instantly freeze mule accounts could play a critical role in safeguarding the financial system. Along with stricter KYC protocols and the use of technology, this move could help in effectively curbing the misuse of bank accounts for illegal transactions.

New Aadhaar App Launches with Face ID and QR Code for Hassle-Free Digital Verification

New Aadhaar App Launches with Face ID and QR Code for Hassle-Free Digital Verification

New Aadhaar App with Face ID and QR Code Unveiled for Seamless Digital Verification

New Aadhaar App: Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has officially unveiled a new mobile application for Aadhaar, designed to offer a secure, digital identity verification experience. Developed by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), this app integrates advanced facial recognition and AI-powered authentication to simplify how citizens verify their identities in everyday situations.

A Seamless and Secure Alternative to Physical Aadhaar Copies

With this new Aadhaar app, individuals no longer need to carry physical copies of their Aadhaar cards for verification at places like hotels, airports, shops, or government offices. The application allows users to authenticate their identity through real-time face authentication and QR code scans directly from their smartphones.

In an announcement on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized that this app gives users full control over their personal data. “No more distributing Aadhaar photocopies. With just a tap, you can share only the necessary information while maintaining complete privacy,” he stated.

Key Features of the New Aadhaar App

  • Facial Recognition Authentication: The app uses Aadhaar Face Authentication technology, which already handles over 150 million transactions monthly across various sectors.

  • QR Code-Based Verification: Similar to UPI payment QR codes, this feature allows users to verify their identity quickly by scanning a code.

  • User Data Privacy Controls: Citizens can choose what personal information to share during the verification process, enhancing privacy protection.

  • Built-in Safeguards: The application includes security measures to prevent unauthorized access, data misuse, and identity theft.

Currently in Beta Testing

The new Aadhaar app is currently in its beta phase, available to a limited group of users, including participants at the recent Aadhaar Samvaad event. Feedback from this group will help authorities refine the app before its official public release.

Advancing India’s Digital Governance

Once launched nationwide, this Aadhaar app is expected to transform how digital identity verification is managed in India. By offering a fast, secure, and user-friendly alternative to physical documents, it marks another significant step in the country’s digital governance initiatives.

SBI Savings Scheme: Earn ₹32,044 Interest on ₹2 Lakh Deposit – Full Details Inside

SBI Savings Scheme: Earn ₹32,044 Interest on ₹2 Lakh Deposit – Full Details Inside

SBI Fixed Deposit Scheme: Earn Up to ₹32,044 Interest on ₹2 Lakh Investment – Check Full Details

SBI Fixed Deposit Scheme: State Bank of India (SBI), the country’s largest public sector bank, continues to be a trusted choice for millions of Indians when it comes to safe and secure investments. Among its various offerings, SBI’s Fixed Deposit (FD) schemes remain a preferred option for those seeking guaranteed returns.

SBI Offers Attractive Interest Rates on FDs for All Age Groups

SBI provides a wide range of FD options with tenures starting from 7 days up to 10 years. The bank offers competitive interest rates depending on the duration and the customer’s age category:

  • For general citizens (below 60 years of age): Interest rates range from 3.50% to 7.00% per annum.

  • For senior citizens (60 years and above): SBI offers a slightly higher interest, ranging from 4.00% to 7.50% per annum.

Currently, the highest interest rates—7.00% for regular depositors and 7.50% for senior citizens—are available on FDs with a tenure of 2 to 3 years.

Deposit ₹2 Lakh and Earn Guaranteed Interest of Up to ₹32,044

One of the most appealing aspects of SBI’s FD scheme is its fixed return promise. Here’s how much you can earn by investing ₹2 lakh:

  • For general citizens: An investment of ₹2 lakh in a 2 to 3-year FD at 7.00% interest will earn you a fixed return of ₹29,776.

  • For senior citizens: By investing the same amount in the same tenure, senior citizens will receive ₹32,044 as guaranteed interest at the 7.50% rate.

Why Choose SBI Fixed Deposit?

  • Safety: Backed by India’s largest government bank, your investment remains secure.

  • Flexible tenure options: Ranging from a few days to several years.

  • Guaranteed returns: Fixed interest rates provide peace of mind.

  • Special benefits for senior citizens: Higher interest rates make FDs even more rewarding.

Final Thoughts

If you are looking for a reliable and risk-free investment option, SBI’s Fixed Deposit scheme is a solid choice. Whether you are planning for short-term savings or long-term goals, SBI’s FD plans offer stability and assured returns. Depositing ₹2 lakh can help you earn up to ₹32,044 in interest—making it a smart move for both general and senior investors.

Need a Small Loan? NPCI’s New UPI Feature Makes It Quick and Easy

Need a Small Loan? NPCI’s New UPI Feature Makes It Quick and Easy

UPI Credit Line: NPCI’s Next Big Leap in Digital Payments, Loans, and Global Expansion

UPI Credit Loan: Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has played a transformative role in shaping India’s digital economy. Now, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) is preparing to take UPI to the next level—with global expansion, credit innovation, and a future-ready tech stack. The focus is not just on technology, but on building trust, financial inclusion, and economic empowerment.

UPI Credit Line: A Vision for Inclusive Lending

UPI Credit Loan: When UPI launched in 2016, few imagined it would handle over ₹100–150 billion in monthly transactions. Today, with 40 to 45 crore users, NPCI CEO Dilip Asbe believes the platform has the potential to reach one billion users. A key part of this expansion is the introduction of credit lines on UPI, allowing users to access short-term, low-interest loans for everyday expenses. Unlike traditional credit cards, this model offers greater transparency and real-time digital tracking.

Building Trust: How UPI Won India

UPI has revolutionized the way Indians spend. From buying groceries to paying for a ₹10 cup of tea, digital payments have become second nature. But expanding to the next 60 crore users requires more than just payment convenience. NPCI is investing in simplified user interfaces, security awareness campaigns, and attractive onboarding incentives. Features like UPI Lite and UPI Lite X have made micro-transactions even faster and more reliable.

From Payments to Innovation: AI, Blockchain, and Digital Currency

NPCI has evolved beyond being a payment platform—it is now a hub of technological innovation. Real-time fraud detection using artificial intelligence has brought down UPI fraud to less than one basis point, or fewer than one fraudulent transaction per 10,000. At the same time, NPCI is investing heavily in blockchain technology and exploring digital currency integration, laying the groundwork for a secure and scalable digital financial ecosystem.

UPI Goes Global: Expanding Beyond Borders

India’s UPI platform is now gaining international attention. NPCI has already deployed its technology in seven countries, with talks underway in several others. The goal is to enable cross-border payments for Indian travelers and businesses, keeping transactions fast, affordable, and transparent. This marks a major step in India’s ambition to make UPI a global standard in digital payments.

A Booming Ecosystem: New Players Enter the Market

The digital payments space is heating up. In 2024 alone, 20 new companies received approval to operate on the UPI platform. With zero MDR (Merchant Discount Rate) and strong government incentives, startups are rapidly gaining ground. NPCI is ensuring market stability by extending the compliance deadline for app market share limits to 2026. New players like Cred, Navi, Super.money, and Paytm are bringing fresh innovation and increasing healthy competition in the ecosystem.

Infrastructure and Independence: NPCI’s Strong Foundation

NPCI has already saved ₹1,100 crore in surplus for infrastructure investments. It operates data centers in Hyderabad and Chennai, with more in the pipeline. In a strategic move, the BHIM App has been separated from NPCI, creating a fair balance between government and private platforms, and promoting ecosystem neutrality.

The Future of UPI: More Than Just a Payment System

UPI has become a symbol of India’s digital rise. It is no longer just a platform—it is a movement that is reshaping financial behavior, driving innovation, and redefining global fintech leadership. With clear vision, strong investments, and policy support, NPCI is setting the stage for the next chapter in India’s digital journey.