Several important changes related to banking, fuel, telecom, and essential household services have come into effect across India from October 1, 2026. October 1 Rule Changes: LPG, UPI, Mobile Recharge & Banking Updates.
These new rules are expected to have a direct impact on the daily expenses and financial transactions of millions of consumers.
Here are the key changes you should know:
1. LPG Cylinder Prices Revised:
As on the first day of every month, oil marketing companies have announced revised LPG cylinder prices effective October 1. Depending on international fuel prices, the rates of both domestic and commercial LPG cylinders may increase or decrease, directly affecting household budgets as well as the operating costs of hotels, restaurants, and other businesses.
2. Biometric e-KYC Mandatory for LPG Subsidy:
The Central Government has made Aadhaar-based biometric e-KYC mandatory for consumers who wish to continue receiving the LPG subsidy. The move is aimed at eliminating fake and duplicate connections.
Customers who have already completed their biometric e-KYC through their LPG distributor or the official mobile app are not required to undergo the process again.
3. OTP-Based LPG Cylinder Delivery System:
To enhance transparency in LPG distribution, the Delivery Authentication Code (DAC) system has been implemented. After booking an LPG cylinder, customers will receive a One-Time Password (OTP) on their registered mobile number.
The delivery executive will complete the delivery only after the customer shares the OTP, ensuring that the cylinder reaches the rightful recipient.
4. SBI Revises ATM Withdrawal and Banking Charges:
The State Bank of India (SBI) has introduced new ATM transaction rules for its customers.
Basic Savings Bank Deposit (BSBD) account holders will continue to receive four free cash withdrawals per month.
Every additional withdrawal beyond the free limit will attract a charge of Rs 15 plus applicable GST.
For Salary Account holders, the number of free transactions at ATMs of other banks has been reduced from 10 to 5 per month.
5. New Mobile Recharge Rules Come into Effect:
New telecom regulations aimed at improving consumer convenience have come into force from October 1. Telecom service providers are now required to offer voice and SMS-only recharge plans for users who do not require mobile data, particularly benefiting senior citizens and customers using basic feature phones.
The move is intended to provide more affordable and flexible recharge options while ensuring that subscribers pay only for the services they actually use.
6. New UPI Rules to Enhance Security and Transaction Efficiency:
The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has introduced new UPI guidelines to improve the security, reliability, and efficiency of digital payments. From October 1, banks and UPI service providers are required to process account verification and balance-related requests more efficiently, helping reduce delays and failed transactions.
The updated framework also aims to strengthen fraud prevention measures and enhance the overall user experience, ensuring safer and faster UPI transactions for millions of users across the country.
