UPI charges could reverse digital payments gains, push users back to cash, says ex-NITI VC Rajiv Kumar

Former NITI Aayog vice-chairman Rajiv Kumar has urged the government to keep UPI merchant payments free for a few more years, warning that even a small fee could push transactions back towards cash. His comments come after the government announced a 0.4% MDR on UPI merchant payments above Rs 2,000 from October 15, while keeping consumer payments free.