India has achieved its E20 fuel target ahead of schedule, marking a major step towards cleaner and more sustainable transportation. While this move supports the country’s efforts to reduce fuel imports and emissions, many owners of older petrol cars are worried about whether E20 petrol could affect their vehicle’s engine.
If your car was manufactured before April 2023, you may be wondering whether E20 petrol is safe to use and what steps you can take to avoid long-term damage. The good news is that you can reduce the risks by following a few simple maintenance practices and making a few upgrades where necessary.
Does E20 Petrol Damage Every Vehicle?
The answer is no. E20 petrol is not harmful to every vehicle.
Most petrol cars manufactured in India after April 2023 are designed and tested to run on E20 fuel without any major issues. These vehicles have fuel systems, engine components, and software calibrated to handle a higher ethanol blend.
The concern mainly applies to older petrol vehicles that were originally designed for E10 fuel or regular petrol. These vehicles may experience faster wear of certain components if they are used continuously with E20 petrol without proper maintenance.
Why Can E20 Petrol Affect Older Cars?
E20 petrol contains 20% ethanol and 80% petrol. Ethanol behaves differently from conventional petrol, which is why older fuel systems may face additional stress.
One of the biggest concerns is that ethanol absorbs moisture from the atmosphere. Over time, this moisture can lead to corrosion inside metal fuel tanks and fuel system components.
Ethanol can also affect older rubber seals, hoses, and plastic fuel lines. Continuous exposure may cause these parts to harden, crack, or deteriorate, eventually leading to fuel leaks or reduced engine performance.
Another factor is fuel efficiency. Ethanol contains less energy than petrol, so vehicles running on E20 may deliver slightly lower mileage. Older engines that were not designed for ethanol blends may experience a more noticeable drop in fuel economy.
How to Protect Your Older Car from E20 Petrol
Although older vehicles require extra care, you can significantly reduce the impact of E20 petrol by following these expert-recommended tips.
Use a Quality Fuel Additive
One of the easiest ways to improve fuel stability is by using a reliable fuel additive designed for ethanol-blended petrol.
Products such as Sea Foam, Sta-Bil, or Abro Fuel Treatment help reduce moisture-related problems, improve fuel stability, and keep the fuel system cleaner. Regular use can provide additional protection for older engines.
Replace Old Fuel Lines
Rubber fuel lines in older vehicles are more vulnerable to ethanol damage.
Replacing them with ethanol-resistant PTFE or braided steel fuel lines can improve durability and reduce the chances of cracks or leaks. Depending on the vehicle, this upgrade usually costs between Rs 2,500 and Rs 5,000.
Upgrade Rubber Seals and Gaskets
Older rubber seals and gaskets can wear out faster when exposed to higher ethanol content.
Replacing these components with modern ethanol-resistant materials such as Viton O-rings and upgraded gaskets can help prevent leaks and improve the overall reliability of the fuel system.
Protect the Fuel Tank
Because ethanol attracts moisture, metal fuel tanks are at greater risk of rust and corrosion over time.
Applying a protective coating such as phenol novolac epoxy or advanced urethane inside the fuel tank creates a barrier against moisture and helps extend the life of the tank.
Check for ECU Updates
E20 fuel requires a slightly different air-fuel mixture compared to regular petrol.
Visit your vehicle’s authorised service centre to check whether an updated ECU calibration is available for your model. If no official update exists, some workshops offer piggyback ECU tuning to improve compatibility with ethanol-blended fuel. The cost generally ranges from Rs 7,000 to Rs 10,000.
Additional Tips for E20 Fuel Users
Apart from upgrades, following good maintenance habits can also help protect your vehicle.
Service your car at the recommended intervals.
Replace the fuel filter regularly.
Avoid leaving the fuel tank nearly empty for long periods, as moisture can accumulate more easily.
Start and drive the vehicle regularly instead of letting it remain unused for weeks.
Watch for signs such as poor mileage, difficult starting, rough idling, or reduced engine performance, and get the vehicle inspected if these symptoms appear.
Should You Be Worried About E20 Petrol?
There is no need to panic if you own an older petrol car. E20 petrol does not immediately damage engines, but long-term use without proper maintenance may increase wear on certain fuel system components.
By replacing ageing parts, using ethanol-compatible components, and following regular servicing schedules, most older petrol vehicles can continue to operate safely and reliably with E20 fuel.
Conclusion
India’s shift towards E20 petrol is an important milestone in promoting cleaner fuels, but owners of older petrol vehicles should take a few extra precautions. Simple upgrades like ethanol-resistant fuel lines, better seals, protective fuel tank coatings, and regular maintenance can significantly reduce the impact of E20 petrol.
With proper care and timely servicing, you can continue driving your older car confidently while adapting to India’s growing use of ethanol-blended fuel.
July 2026 is set to bring several important changes that may affect taxpayers, bank customers, Aadhaar users, and people planning to apply for passport services.
From income tax return deadlines to changes in credit card benefits and new banking guidelines, these updates can impact everyday financial activities. Knowing these changes in advance can help individuals avoid penalties, additional charges, and service-related issues.
Here are the key financial changes coming into effect from July 1, 2026.
ITR Filing Deadline: Taxpayers Need to File Returns Before July 31
The deadline for filing ITR-1 and ITR-2 for the Financial Year 2025-26 (Assessment Year 2026-27) is July 31, 2026.
Taxpayers who miss the deadline may have to pay penalties and could also lose certain benefits, including the option to carry forward eligible losses to future assessment years.
Experts advise taxpayers to complete their return filing process well before the due date to avoid last-minute technical problems or document-related delays.
Aadhaar Email Update Will Be Free for Six Months
Aadhaar holders will get relief as UIDAI is removing the fee for updating registered email addresses through the Aadhaar mobile application.
Currently, users have to pay ₹75 for this service. However, from July 1, 2026, the email update facility will be available free of cost for six months until December 31, 2026.
The move is expected to make Aadhaar-related updates easier and more accessible for users.
SBI Card Reward Points Rules Are Changing
SBI Card is revising its reward points programme for selected PhonePe SBI Credit Cards from July 1, 2026.
The changes will apply to:
PhonePe SBI Credit Card PURPLE
PhonePe SBI Credit Card SELECT BLACK
Under the revised system, customers may see changes in reward point earning limits and eligible transactions. Some categories that previously offered reward points may no longer qualify under the updated terms.
Cardholders should check the revised reward structure before making transactions to understand the impact on their benefits.
HDFC Bank Credit Card Lounge Access Will Depend on Spending
HDFC Bank credit card users will need to meet a spending requirement to enjoy complimentary domestic airport lounge access.
From July 1, 2026, customers will get three free domestic lounge visits per calendar quarter only if they spend at least ₹60,000 in the previous quarter.
For example, customers who want to use lounge benefits during the July-September 2026 quarter must complete the required spending between April and June 2026.
The same rule will continue for upcoming quarters.
Passport Services Will Become More Expensive
Applying for a passport may cost more from July 1, 2026, as the Ministry of External Affairs has revised passport service fees.
The updated charges will apply to both normal and Tatkaal passport services in India as well as overseas locations.
Those planning to apply for a new passport or renew an existing one should check the revised fee structure before submitting their application.
RBI Introduces New Rules to Prevent Financial Product Mis-Selling
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will introduce a new framework from July 1, 2026, to protect customers from being mis-sold financial products by banks and other institutions.
Under the new rules, customers who are wrongly sold financial products may be eligible for a refund and compensation for losses caused due to such practices.
The move aims to improve transparency in financial services and strengthen customer protection.
Why These July 2026 Financial Changes Matter
These updates may directly affect how people manage their taxes, banking services, digital identity, and financial products.
Whether you are filing an income tax return, updating Aadhaar details, using a credit card, or planning a passport application, staying informed about these changes can help you avoid unnecessary delays and additional costs.
New Financial Rules: Keeping track of such financial updates allows individuals to make better decisions and manage their money more effectively.
The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is set to introduce major digital upgrades under the EPFO 3.0 platform. The new system aims to make provident fund services faster, simpler, and more convenient for millions of subscribers across India.
One of the biggest changes expected under EPFO 3.0 is the introduction of PF withdrawal facilities through UPI apps and EPF-linked ATMs. This move is expected to reduce paperwork, speed up fund access, and provide members with easier ways to manage their retirement savings.
Apart from instant withdrawal options, EPFO 3.0 will also bring several digital improvements, including faster claim processing, easier fund transfers, and improved online services.
What Is EPFO 3.0?
EPFO 3.0 is a digital transformation initiative introduced to modernise the EPFO system and improve the overall experience for employees. The platform focuses on making provident fund-related services more accessible through technology.
Under this upgrade, EPFO members are expected to get features such as UPI-based PF withdrawals, ATM withdrawal facilities, auto claim settlements, faster fund transfers, and simplified KYC updates.
The objective is to reduce dependency on manual processes and allow subscribers to access their PF services digitally.
When Will EPFO 3.0 UPI and ATM Withdrawal Facility Start?
The UPI and ATM withdrawal facility under EPFO 3.0 is expected to be rolled out soon. According to media reports, the service may become available by the end of June, although EPFO has not announced an official launch date yet.
The new system has reportedly completed testing, and the final rollout is expected after necessary approvals and preparations.
Once launched, EPFO subscribers will also be able to check their provident fund balance through UPI applications, making account management more convenient.
Will EPFO Members Get an ATM Card for PF Withdrawal?
Under the proposed EPFO 3.0 system, members may get access to EPF-linked ATM cards that will allow direct withdrawal of provident fund money through ATMs.
These cards are expected to be connected with the member’s PF account and will provide another digital option for accessing eligible funds without following lengthy withdrawal procedures.
However, detailed information regarding the issuance process, card availability, and operational guidelines is yet to be released by EPFO.
EPFO 3.0 Withdrawal Limit Through UPI and ATM
EPFO has not officially announced any separate withdrawal limit for UPI or ATM transactions under the new platform.
The existing EPF withdrawal rules are expected to remain applicable even after the introduction of digital withdrawal facilities.
Currently, eligible members can withdraw a portion of their PF balance depending on the purpose of withdrawal and applicable conditions. Reports suggest that the new system may allow instant withdrawal of up to 75% of the available EPF balance through digital channels.
The remaining amount will continue to remain invested as a retirement savings component to ensure long-term financial security.
How Will PF Withdrawal Through UPI and ATM Work?
The new withdrawal process under EPFO 3.0 is expected to work through digital authentication and linked financial accounts.
Members may need:
An active Universal Account Number (UAN)
Aadhaar-linked UAN
Updated PAN details
Verified bank account information
Registered mobile number for OTP verification
Once eligibility and verification requirements are completed, members may be able to access PF withdrawal services through supported UPI platforms or EPF-linked ATMs.
Who Will Be Eligible for EPFO 3.0 Digital Withdrawal?
EPFO members with updated KYC details are expected to use the new digital withdrawal facilities.
To avoid issues during transactions, subscribers should ensure that their Aadhaar, PAN, bank account details, and mobile number are correctly linked with their EPF account.
Members with incomplete or outdated KYC information may need to update their details before using the new services.
Other Major Changes Expected Under EPFO 3.0
Apart from UPI and ATM withdrawal facilities, EPFO 3.0 will introduce several other improvements to make services more user-friendly.
Faster Auto Claim Settlement
EPFO has already increased the automatic claim settlement limit from ₹1 lakh to ₹5 lakh. This will allow more eligible claims to be processed automatically without manual intervention.
Face Authentication Through UMANG App
The platform is also expected to support Face Authentication Technology through the UMANG application. This feature will help simplify identity verification and reduce paperwork during claim processing.
Easier KYC Updates
EPFO members will be able to update personal details and make corrections through Aadhaar-based OTP verification, making account management easier.
Improved Pension and Fund Transfer Services
EPFO 3.0 is also expected to improve pension withdrawal processes and enable smoother fund transfers between accounts.
Benefits of EPFO 3.0 for Salaried Employees
The new digital platform will provide several advantages to EPFO subscribers, including:
Faster PF withdrawal through UPI and ATM facilities
Reduced paperwork and simpler claim processing
Quick auto-settlement of eligible claims
Easier KYC updates through digital verification
Improved access to EPFO services online
More convenient management of provident fund accounts
Conclusion
EPFO 3.0 is expected to bring significant changes to how employees access and manage their provident fund accounts. With features like UPI-based withdrawals, ATM access, faster claim settlement, and improved digital services, the platform aims to make EPFO services more transparent and convenient.
However, until EPFO releases official guidelines, existing withdrawal rules, eligibility criteria, and tax regulations will continue to apply. Subscribers should wait for official updates before using the new facilities.
Buying a car under ₹10 lakh is no longer only about finding an affordable vehicle for daily commuting. Today’s buyers are more focused on features that improve comfort, convenience, safety, and overall ownership experience.
Instead of choosing cars based only on attractive specifications, customers are looking for practical additions that they can use regularly. Features such as automatic transmission, CNG options, 360-degree cameras, rear AC vents, and factory-fitted dashcams are becoming increasingly important for everyday driving.
With several options available in this price range, choosing the right car can be challenging. Here is a list of the top 5 cars under ₹10 lakh that offer useful features and strong value for money.
Hyundai Exter (Starting Price: ₹5.80 Lakh)
The Hyundai Exter is one of the most practical micro-SUVs available in the Indian market. It offers a good balance of features, comfort, and affordability, making it a popular choice among urban car buyers.
Selected variants of the Exter come equipped with a factory-fitted dual-camera dashcam, which adds an extra layer of safety while driving. The SUV also gets rear AC vents, wireless smartphone connectivity, and automatic climate control for improved cabin comfort.
For buyers looking for better fuel efficiency, Hyundai offers Hy-CNG Duo variants. The twin-cylinder CNG setup helps maintain usable boot space while delivering better running costs.
Tata Punch (Starting Price: ₹5.65 Lakh)
The Tata Punch is another strong option for buyers looking for a practical and reliable car under ₹10 lakh. Its SUV-inspired design, high ground clearance, and strong road presence make it suitable for Indian road conditions.
The Punch comes with useful features such as automatic headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, and a twin-cylinder iCNG setup that helps retain luggage space. Newer variants also offer features like a 360-degree camera, larger touchscreen infotainment system, and six airbags for enhanced safety.
With its compact dimensions and rugged build, the Tata Punch is well suited for both city driving and occasional highway journeys.
Maruti Suzuki Dzire (Starting Price: ₹6.26 Lakh)
The Maruti Suzuki Dzire continues to be a popular choice among buyers who want a comfortable and economical family sedan. Its efficient 1.2-litre Z-Series petrol engine delivers good mileage while keeping maintenance costs affordable.
The sedan comes with important safety and convenience features, including six airbags as standard, electronic stability control, rear parking camera, keyless entry, and push-button start.
The Dzire is a practical choice for customers who want a spacious car with low ownership costs and reliable performance.
Nissan Magnite (Starting Price: ₹5.65 Lakh)
The Nissan Magnite has gained popularity by offering SUV styling and premium features at an affordable price. It provides several features that are usually found in higher-priced vehicles.
One of the biggest highlights of the Magnite is its 360-degree camera, which makes parking and navigating tight spaces easier. The SUV also offers wireless smartphone connectivity and a spacious cabin for passengers.
For buyers who frequently drive on highways, the turbo-petrol engine option provides stronger performance while keeping the overall price within budget.
Mahindra XUV 3XO (Starting Price: ₹7.54 Lakh)
The Mahindra XUV 3XO is among the most feature-packed SUVs available under ₹10 lakh. It offers a combination of strong performance, safety features, and premium equipment.
The SUV comes with six airbags as standard across variants, making it a safer choice for families. Its 2,600mm wheelbase provides better rear-seat comfort, while the turbo-petrol engine delivers confident performance for both city and highway driving.
Mahindra also offers a 6-speed AISIN torque converter automatic transmission. Other useful features include wireless charging, cruise control, bi-LED projector headlamps, and dual-zone climate control.
Conclusion
The under ₹10 lakh car segment has become highly competitive, with manufacturers offering more practical and useful features than ever before. Buyers now have options that provide better safety, comfort, fuel efficiency, and convenience without crossing their budget.
Whether you prefer a compact SUV, sedan, or fuel-efficient family car, models like Hyundai Exter, Tata Punch, Maruti Suzuki Dzire, Nissan Magnite, and Mahindra XUV 3XO offer features that make everyday driving easier.
Prices mentioned above are starting ex-showroom prices and may vary depending on location, taxes, registration charges, and other additional costs.
Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) have transformed the way people access banking services. They provide quick, convenient and paperless banking facilities, allowing customers to withdraw cash, check account balances and view recent transactions anytime without visiting a bank branch.
However, the growing use of ATMs has also increased the risk of financial fraud. Fraudsters use advanced techniques to steal sensitive banking information such as ATM PINs, card details, and OTPs, which can lead to unauthorised transactions and financial losses.
With the rise in digital banking scams, it has become important for every bank customer to understand how ATM fraud works and learn the right ways to keep their money safe. Staying informed about new fraud techniques and following basic security practices can help prevent such incidents.
What Is ATM Fraud?
ATM fraud refers to illegal activities where criminals steal money or confidential banking information from ATM users. Fraudsters often use hidden devices, fake equipment, or social engineering techniques to access card details and misuse them for unauthorised transactions.
These scams can affect anyone using an ATM, making awareness and caution essential while carrying out banking transactions.
Common Types of ATM Fraud
Card Skimming
Card skimming is one of the most common ATM fraud methods. In this technique, fraudsters install illegal devices on ATM card slots to secretly capture card information. The stolen data is then used to create fake cards or make unauthorised transactions.
Card Trapping
In card trapping scams, criminals use physical devices to block or trap a user’s card inside the ATM machine. When the customer leaves to seek assistance or contact the bank, fraudsters remove the card and use it to withdraw money or access banking information.
Shoulder Surfing
Shoulder surfing involves secretly watching a user’s activities while they enter their ATM PIN. Fraudsters may observe PIN details directly or use hidden cameras to record sensitive information. They later use these details to access the account and carry out fraudulent transactions.
Phishing Scams
Phishing scams involve tricking users into sharing confidential banking details through fake calls, messages, emails or websites. Fraudsters often ask for information such as ATM PINs, OTPs, CVVs or card details by pretending to be bank representatives.
Once these details are obtained, criminals can misuse them for unauthorised transactions.
How Can ATM Fraud Affect Customers?
ATM fraud can cause serious financial and emotional difficulties for victims. Some common impacts include:
Loss of money through unauthorised transactions
Theft of personal and banking information
Stress and anxiety while recovering funds
Risk of identity theft
Damage to financial security and confidence
Victims often spend considerable time reporting fraud, blocking cards, contacting banks and trying to recover lost funds. In severe cases, such incidents can create major financial challenges for individuals and their families.
5 Smart Ways to Protect Your Money from ATM Fraud
1. Check the ATM Before Using It
Always inspect the ATM carefully before starting a transaction. Look for unusual devices, loose card slots, damaged keypads or suspicious attachments that may indicate tampering.
Avoid using ATMs that appear damaged or located in isolated areas.
2. Protect Your PIN While Entering It
Always cover the ATM keypad while entering your PIN. This prevents hidden cameras or nearby individuals from viewing your confidential information.
If someone is standing too close while you are making a transaction, maintain a safe distance and avoid sharing any banking details.
3. Use ATMs in Safe Locations
Prefer using ATMs located inside bank branches, shopping centres, busy markets or areas with proper CCTV surveillance and security arrangements.
Avoid using ATMs in poorly lit or less crowded locations, especially during unusual hours.
4. Enable Transaction Alerts
Activate SMS alerts, mobile banking notifications and email alerts for your bank account. These notifications help you identify suspicious transactions quickly and take immediate action.
If you notice any unauthorised activity, contact your bank immediately.
5. Do Not Take Help from Strangers
If your ATM card gets stuck inside the machine, do not accept help from unknown people nearby. Fraudsters often use such situations to steal card details or money.
Always contact your bank’s official customer support number or visit the nearest bank branch for assistance.
Conclusion
ATM fraud methods are becoming more advanced with time, making awareness and careful banking habits more important than ever. By understanding different types of ATM scams and following basic safety measures, customers can significantly reduce the risk of financial fraud.
Protecting your money starts with staying alert, keeping banking information private and using ATMs responsibly.
The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, commonly known as RERA, was passed by Parliament in 2016 to improve transparency, accountability, and efficiency in India’s real estate sector. The main purpose of this law is to protect homebuyers and create a regulated environment where developers follow clear guidelines.
Before RERA was introduced, property buyers often faced problems such as delayed project completion, lack of proper information, changes in project plans, and financial losses due to developer-related issues. The Act was designed to address these concerns and provide better protection to buyers.
How Does RERA Help Homebuyers?
RERA gives homebuyers more confidence while investing in residential and commercial properties. The law ensures that developers provide accurate project details, follow approved plans, and complete projects within the promised timeline.
The Act also allows buyers to take legal action against developers in case of delays, misleading information, or violations of rules.
Which Projects Need Registration Under RERA?
According to RERA guidelines, residential and commercial projects with more than 500 square metres of land area or projects having more than eight apartments must be registered with the respective state’s Real Estate Regulatory Authority before they can be marketed or sold.
Developers are required to disclose important project details, including approvals, layout plans, construction progress, and expected completion dates, so buyers can make informed decisions.
What Information Must Developers Provide Under RERA?
Developers must upload complete project-related information on the RERA authority’s website. This includes approved plans, legal documents, project status, completion schedule, and details of the developer.
These disclosures help buyers verify project details before making an investment decision.
How Does RERA Prevent Misuse of Homebuyers’ Money?
One of the key provisions of RERA is financial security for buyers. Under the Act, developers must deposit 70% of the amount collected from buyers into a separate bank account.
This money can only be used for land and construction expenses of the registered project. This rule helps prevent fund diversion and reduces the chances of project delays.
What Rights Do Homebuyers Get Under RERA?
RERA provides several important rights to property buyers, including:
Access to complete project information
Right to receive possession within the agreed timeline
Right to claim interest for delays
Right to seek a refund in certain situations
Right to file complaints against developers
These provisions ensure that buyers have legal protection throughout the property purchase process.
What Are the Responsibilities of Homebuyers Under RERA?
While RERA protects buyers, it also defines their responsibilities. Buyers must make payments on time, take possession of the property within the specified period, and complete required legal procedures such as registration of documents.
Are Real Estate Agents Covered Under RERA?
Yes, real estate agents dealing with registered projects are also covered under RERA. They must register with the concerned authority and follow the rules prescribed under the Act.
The law ensures that agents provide correct information and follow fair practices while helping buyers purchase properties.
How Does RERA Handle Delayed Projects?
If a developer fails to provide possession within the promised timeline, buyers have the right to claim compensation. They can either withdraw from the project and seek a refund with interest or continue with the project and receive interest for the delay period.
How Can Buyers File a Complaint Under RERA?
Homebuyers can approach their respective state RERA authority to file complaints against developers or agents. The authority is responsible for resolving disputes and ensuring compliance with RERA regulations.
What Are the Penalties for Violating RERA Rules?
RERA includes strict penalties for developers and agents who fail to follow the regulations. Penalties may apply for issues such as non-registration of projects, providing false information, or not following authority orders.
These penalties help maintain accountability in the real estate sector.
Frequently Asked Questions About RERA
The following 25 frequently asked questions explain important aspects of the RERA Act, including developer responsibilities, buyer rights, registration requirements, penalties, and complaint procedures. Understanding these rules can help homebuyers make safer and more informed property decisions.
