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.
aadhaar card misuse: Aadhaar has become one of the most important identity documents in India and is widely used for various services such as banking, mobile SIM verification, government schemes, and financial transactions.
aadhaar card misuse: While Aadhaar makes identity verification easier, improper sharing of Aadhaar details or using biometric authentication on unknown platforms can increase the risk of identity fraud.
If you are worried that someone may be using your Aadhaar details without your permission, you can check your Aadhaar authentication history and take necessary security measures.
What Is Aadhaar Authentication History?
Whenever your Aadhaar number is used for identity verification, a digital record is generated. This verification may happen through:
OTP-based authentication
Fingerprint authentication
Iris authentication
Other biometric verification methods
This digital record is called Aadhaar Authentication History.
UIDAI provides this facility so Aadhaar holders can check when and where their Aadhaar was used for authentication.
Why Should You Check Aadhaar Authentication History?
Regularly checking your Aadhaar usage history helps you identify any suspicious or unauthorized activity linked to your identity.
The authentication history includes details such as:
Date and time of authentication
Type of authentication method used
Records of previous authentication attempts
Activity details from the last six months
By reviewing these details, users can quickly detect if their Aadhaar information has been used without their knowledge.
How to Check Aadhaar Usage History Online
Aadhaar holders can check their authentication history through UIDAI services and the mAadhaar application.
Follow these steps:
Download the mAadhaar app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Login using your Aadhaar number.
Verify your identity through OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
Create a secure 4-digit PIN for accessing Aadhaar services.
Open the My Aadhaar section.
Enter your security PIN.
Select the Security option.
Choose Aadhaar Authentication History.
Select the required date range to view details.
After completing these steps, you can check all recent authentication activities linked to your Aadhaar number.
What to Do If You Find Suspicious Aadhaar Activity?
If you notice any unknown authentication record or activity that you do not recognize, take immediate action.
Here are some steps you can follow:
Contact the UIDAI helpline number 1947 and report the issue.
Lock your Aadhaar biometric information using the mAadhaar app.
Keep checking your Aadhaar authentication history regularly.
Avoid sharing Aadhaar details with unknown individuals or websites.
Quick action can help reduce the chances of identity misuse and financial fraud.
Important Tips to Keep Your Aadhaar Details Safe
To protect your Aadhaar information, follow these security practices:
Avoid Unnecessary Sharing of Aadhaar Copies
Do not share Aadhaar photocopies unless it is absolutely required. Always verify why your Aadhaar details are being requested.
Use Masked Aadhaar
Whenever possible, use a Masked Aadhaar that hides the first eight digits of your Aadhaar number while showing only the last four digits.
Enable Biometric Lock
Locking your biometric details adds an extra layer of security and prevents unauthorized fingerprint or iris authentication.
Verify Service Providers Before Sharing Details
Always check the authenticity of banks, companies, websites, or agencies asking for your Aadhaar information.
Why Aadhaar Monitoring Is Important
With increasing digital transactions and online services, protecting your identity has become more important than ever.
Regularly checking your Aadhaar authentication history helps you stay aware of how your personal information is being used. It also allows you to take quick action if any unauthorized activity is detected.
A small step like monitoring Aadhaar usage can help protect your identity, personal information, and financial security in the digital age.
Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) for FY 2025-26 requires proper understanding of the applicable tax slabs and benefits available under both the old and new income tax regimes.
Many salaried taxpayers often wonder whether they can legally pay zero income tax on their earnings. The answer depends on the tax regime selected, total taxable income, deductions claimed, and eligibility for tax rebates.
One of the most important benefits available to eligible taxpayers is the Section 87A rebate under the Income Tax Act, which can significantly reduce or eliminate tax liability.
What Is Section 87A Tax Rebate?
Section 87A rebate is a tax benefit provided to resident individual taxpayers whose total income falls within the specified limit.
Under this rebate, taxpayers can reduce their final tax liability after calculating tax as per applicable income tax slabs.
The process works as follows:
Tax is calculated according to the applicable income tax rates.
The eligible Section 87A rebate amount is deducted from the calculated tax.
The remaining tax liability becomes zero if the rebate covers the entire tax amount.
Zero Tax Benefit Under New Income Tax Regime
Under the new income tax regime, individuals with total income up to ₹12 lakh can claim a rebate of up to ₹60,000 under Section 87A.
This means eligible taxpayers with income up to ₹12 lakh may have no tax liability after applying the rebate.
However, taxpayers should note that the basic exemption limit and zero-tax limit are different concepts.
For example, even if the basic exemption limit is lower, taxpayers may still pay zero tax due to the Section 87A rebate benefit.
Section 87A Rebate Under Old Tax Regime
Taxpayers opting for the old income tax regime can also claim Section 87A benefits.
Under the old regime:
Individuals with taxable income up to ₹5 lakh can claim a rebate of up to ₹12,500.
This benefit can reduce the final tax liability to zero for eligible taxpayers.
Taxpayers can choose between the old and new tax regimes depending on their income structure, deductions, and financial planning.
Marginal Relief Under New Tax Regime
Apart from the Section 87A rebate, the new tax regime also provides marginal relief for taxpayers whose income slightly exceeds ₹12 lakh.
This provision ensures that taxpayers do not face a sudden increase in tax liability just because their income crosses the rebate limit.
According to tax experts, marginal relief applies when taxable income exceeds ₹12 lakh but remains within the specified limit.
Under marginal relief, the additional tax payable is restricted to the amount by which income exceeds the ₹12 lakh threshold.
Section 87A Rebate Explained With Examples
The benefit of Section 87A can be understood through different income scenarios:
Tax Regime
Taxable Income
Tax Before Rebate
Section 87A Benefit
Final Tax Liability
Old Regime
₹5 lakh
₹12,500
₹12,500
Nil
New Regime
₹12 lakh
₹60,000
₹60,000
Nil
New Regime
Slightly above ₹12 lakh
Calculated as per slabs
Marginal relief applicable
Reduced tax
The final tax calculation depends on deductions, exemptions, income sources, and applicable tax rules.
Important Points About Section 87A Rebate
Taxpayers should keep the following points in mind:
Under the new tax regime, Section 87A rebate is not available on income taxed at special rates, such as certain capital gains or lottery winnings.
Under the old tax regime, rebate benefits are available against normal tax liability but may not apply to certain long-term capital gains covered under Section 112A.
Only resident individual taxpayers can claim the Section 87A rebate.
Taxpayers must calculate their total taxable income correctly before claiming the benefit.
Section 87A Changes From FY 2026-27
Section 87A of the Income Tax Act, 1961 will be replaced by Section 156 of the Income Tax Act, 2025 from 1 April 2026.
The new provision will apply from Financial Year 2026-27 and taxpayers should check updated tax rules while filing future income tax returns.
Final Takeaway
Section 87A rebate is an important tax-saving benefit for eligible taxpayers. By understanding the rules of both old and new tax regimes, taxpayers can choose the right option and reduce their tax burden legally.
Before filing ITR for FY 2025-26, taxpayers should carefully check their income, deductions, and rebate eligibility to ensure accurate tax calculation.
