Dweep Tulika

New 0.4% MDR applies to specified merchant payments above ₹2,000 from October 15 ; government says consumers cannot be charged, while Grover argues the cost could eventually reach them indirectly New Delhi, September 16, 2026: The introduction of a new Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on certain higher-value UPI merchant payments has triggered a debate over who ultimately bears the cost. Among those questioning the move is entrepreneur and BharatPe co-founder Ashneer Grover , who has argued that even if the charge is formally imposed on merchants, businesses may eventually recover the cost through prices or other changes affecting consumers. Under the new framework, effective October 15, 2026 , a 0.4% MDR will apply to specified person-to-merchant (P2M) UPI payments above ₹2,000, with the charge capped at ₹300 for transactions of ₹75,000 and above . Person-to-person UPI payments will remain free regardless of amount. Small merchants receiving up to ₹1 lakh a month through eligible UP...

Delhi, June 20: A recent investigation by The Reporters' Collective has claimed that the Adani Group won all eight long-term coal power tenders floated by BJP-ruled states between 2024 and early 2026. According to the report, the projects could generate an estimated revenue of approximately ₹13.27 lakh crore over their operational lifetime, with most power purchase agreements extending for nearly 25 years. The investigation examined power procurement contracts awarded during the period and raised questions regarding certain tender conditions and concessions reportedly provided in some states. However, the report stated that it did not find evidence of illegal conduct and noted that securing all eight tenders does not, by itself, establish wrongdoing. Responding to the findings, the Adani Group rejected the allegations and maintained that all contracts were obtained through transparent and competitive bidding processes conducted in accordance with applicable regulations and approved...