From LPG to UPI, 6 New Rules Come into Effect in India from October 1

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The beginning of October 2025 has brought several major changes that will directly impact the common people’s pockets and daily lives. Just like the first day of every month brings new rules, this time the changes are being felt across kitchens, rail travel, and digital transactions.

Oil companies have increased the price of commercial LPG cylinders, adding to the financial burden on hotels, roadside eateries, and small businesses during the festive season. According to the new rates released on the Indian Oil website, a 19-kg cylinder will now cost ₹1,595 in Delhi (earlier ₹1,580). In Kolkata, the price has risen from ₹1,684 to ₹1,700; in Mumbai from ₹1,531 to ₹1,547; and in Chennai from ₹1,738 to ₹1,754. However, there has been no change in the price of the domestic 14-kg cylinder, giving temporary relief to households.

On the other hand, air travel is also expected to become costlier as the price of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) has been hiked. In Delhi, ATF now costs ₹93,766.02 per kiloliter, compared to ₹90,713.52 earlier. Similarly, in Kolkata, Mumbai, and Chennai, the rates have increased by ₹2,000 to ₹3,000 per kiloliter. With the rise in operational costs, a hike in airfares is inevitable.

The Indian Railways has also made changes to its ticket booking rules. From October 1, the first 15 minutes of Tatkal booking will be reserved only for passengers whose Aadhaar verification has been completed. This rule applies to both IRCTC’s website and mobile app. According to the Railways, this move will help curb fraudulent bookings and tout activities. However, passengers booking tickets from PRS counters will not be affected by this rule.

For millions of UPI users, a new rule has also come into effect. As per the directive issued by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), the Peer-to-Peer (P2P) collect request option on UPI has been removed. This means that no one can now request money through UPI; only direct payment options will remain. The decision is aimed at preventing digital fraud and ensuring safer transactions.

Bank customers also need to remain alert in October, as banks will remain closed for a total of 21 days this month. This includes holidays for Gandhi Jayanti, Dussehra, Lakshmi Puja, Karva Chauth, Diwali, Govardhan Puja, Bhai Dooj, and Chhath, along with all Sundays and the second and fourth Saturdays. However, these holidays may vary state-wise and city-wise, so customers are advised to check the local holiday list before visiting their bank.

All these changes during the festive season will impact household budgets and spending patterns. People are advised to plan their finances and daily activities accordingly to avoid inconvenience.