India Considers Merchant Fee on UPI Amid Shifts in Digital and Cash Usage
India's government is considering allowing a Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) fee on UPI transactions, which are currently free for consumers and merchants. Recent data shows that while UPI transaction growth has slowed over five years, it still outpaces cash usage, though the gap is narrowing as cash circulation growth accelerates. The 2026 Taxation and Other Laws Amendment Bill enables the government to impose nominal fees on certain digital payments, with decisions pending from relevant committees and authorities.
First-hand measurement across 2 sources
We measured how 2 outlets covered this story. No outlet gave this story a measurable political slant — there is no left–right reading to report. Overall sentiment is neutral (55/100). Lens Score 44/100.
Outlets measured: news18, thehindu. See how each one headlined and framed the same story in the source comparison below.
AI Analysis
Sentiment was consistent across outlets (55–55/100), indicating broadly factual reporting rather than editorialising.
Coverage timeline
thehindu broke this story on 15 Aug, 01:56 pm. Other outlets followed.
- 1