An auto sweep facility is a smart banking feature that links your savings account to a fixed deposit. It allows surplus funds to automatically earn higher interest while maintaining liquidity. When your savings balance exceeds a set threshold, the excess is transferred to an FD, and funds are swept back in when needed, offering both returns and flexibility.Many banks offer this feature, such as the auto sweep facility in SBI, to maximise returns on idle balances.Key HighlightsAuto sweep facility links your savings account to a fixed deposit for higher returns.Excess balance is automatically transferred to FD; money is swept back when needed.Provides higher interest like FD while maintaining liquidity of a savings account.Banks offering auto sweep include SBI, HDFC, ICICI, Bank of India, and others.Auto sweep facility in SBI can be activated through SBI Net Banking or YONO.What is an Auto Sweep Facility? This banking feature links your savings account to your fixed deposit account, which helps you earn higher interest rates on the extra idle money lying in your savings accounts. As is implied by the phrase ‘auto sweep’, this feature transfer extra funds lying in the savings account to your fixed deposit account. All you need to do is connect your savings and fixed deposit accounts and set up a monetary limit.When the balance in the savings account exceeds the set limit, the auto sweep facility will start functioning. The excess amount will get transferred to the fixed deposit account. When the amount in your savings account goes below the minimum limit, then auto sweep transfer fund from fixed deposit account to your savings account to maintain the minimum limit. This helps the average interest on the excess funds grow faster than the interest earned from savings accounts, and provides liquidity to account holders.If you want to earn good return on your lied amount in bank but at the same time you need high liquidity, then the auto sweep facility is for you. It offers you return and you can withdraw the amount easily whenever you want. How does the Auto Sweep Facility Work? First, you need to specify a threshold limit on your savings account.

The Voter ID card is an essential government-issued document that serves as proof of identity, address, and age and allows citizens to vote. If you have recently moved to a new address, it’s mandatory to update your details through the Voter ID address change online or offline process. This guide explains how to change address in Voter ID online and offline. Key HighlightsYou can change your address in voter ID online via the National Voters’ Services Portal (NVSP) using Form 8.Address updates are allowed for both intra-constituency and inter-constituency changes.Required documents include Aadhaar, utility bills, rent deed, or passport.Application tracking is available through the NVSP “Track Application Status” option.What is Voter ID Address Change?Voter ID address change is the process of updating your residential address in the electoral roll and voter ID database maintained by the Election Commission of India (ECI). It ensures that your name remains valid in the correct constituency and that you can vote from your current place of residence. How to Apply for Correction of Voter ID in Case of House Change?Here’s how to change address in Voter ID card online:Step 1: Log in to the official National Voters Services Portal. Step 2: Surf and find the ‘Shifting of Residence/Correction of Entries in Existing Electoral Roll’ section on the main page. Step 3: Tap on the ‘Form 8’ button. You will be redirected to a new page where you should enter the required details. Step 4: Select the option ‘Self’ and click ‘Submit’. Step 5: Select the option ‘Shifting of Residence’.

India is the largest democracy in the world. As responsible citizens, it is our duty to cast our votes to choose political parties that can govern the country and states. To cast a vote, you need to have a Voter ID card also known as Elector’s Photo ID card.  Key HighlightsVoter registration is required for Indian citizens aged 18 and above.You can register online via the Voter Services Portal or offline at the Booth Level Office.Required documents include address proof, date of birth proof, and passport-sized photos.Form 6 for new voters, Form 6A for NRIs, Form 7 for deletion, and Form 8 for corrections.What is Voter Registration?In Indian Elections, voting is the essential part of all individuals above 18 years. However, Indian citizens must enroll themselves as voters with the Election Commission of India (ECI) to participate in the voting process and obtain the voter registration or Voter ID card. The Voter ID card indicates that an individual is more than 18 years old Indian citizen listed in the electoral rolls, a list of people eligible to cast their vote.

In Indian homes, gold has always been valued highly, whether as jewellery, an investment, or a representation of cultural sentiment. It is a reliable and enduring aspect of Indian life, from weddings and festivals to inheritance and financial crises. But over time, its monetary value has changed significantly.This article will guide you through the historical price trends of gold in India, the factors that affect these prices, their cultural significance, and current gold investment opportunities. Gold Rate History in IndiaThe following chart outlines the historical average price of 24K gold (per 10 grams) in India:YearPrice (24K, per 10g)2025 (as of July)₹94,6302024₹64,0702023₹65,3302022₹52,6702021₹48,7202020₹48,6512015₹26,3432010₹18,5002000₹4,4001990₹3,2001980₹1,3301970₹1841964₹63.25Significance of Gold in Indian CultureGold extends beyond its monetary value in Indian society. Its relevance is embedded in religious observances, family traditions, and social customs. Key cultural roles of gold include:Religious Beliefs: Gold is considered sacred and is donated generously to temples and used in rituals.Family Legacy: Jewellery often becomes heirlooms passed down generations.Symbol of Wealth & Status: Gifting or owning gold is a sign of prosperity.Financial Backup: In emergencies, gold is often the first asset families turn to.Gold Rate History in India: Last 5 YearsA closer examination of the last five years reveals the economic forces behind recent price movements:2020: Prices surged due to global uncertainty and COVID-19 panic, peaking at ~₹48,651.2021–2022: Moderate correction as economies started stabilizing.2023–2024: Gradual increase influenced by geopolitical tensions (Russia-Ukraine), high inflation, and fluctuating USD.2025 (so far): Reaching all-time highs (~₹94,630), reflecting continued global uncertainty and strong investor demand.Gold Prices in India: Before & After IndependenceBefore 1947Gold acted more as a currency and reserve asset.

Wrong UPI transactions happen when funds are mistakenly transferred to the wrong account or UPI ID. In the event of a wrong UPI transaction, it's important to act quickly and follow the right steps to raise a wrong UPI transaction complaint. You can initiate a UPI reversal request through your bank, UPI app, or the wrong UPI transaction complaint number provided by the NPCI to reverse a wrong UPI transaction.Action RequiredDetailsContact BankCall bank customer care or visit branch within 24 - 48 hoursUPI App DisputeUse “Help” or “Dispute” feature to report wrong UPI transactionNPCI Grievance RedressalFile complaint at https://crcs.ncpi.org.inComplaint Number (NPCI)1800-120-1740 (for UPI dispute assistance)Legal Action (if required)File police complaint or approach consumer forumWhat is a Wrong UPI Transaction?A wrong UPI transaction occurs when money is mistakenly transferred to an incorrect UPI ID, mobile number, or bank account due to human error or technical issues. This can happen if the sender enters the wrong UPI details, selects the wrong contact, or falls for a fraudulent request.As per the guidelines of RBI, it is the sole responsibility of the beneficiary to enter the correct details to avoid a wrong UPI transaction. In such cases, it’s essential to raise a wrong UPI transaction complaint as soon as possible.

Union Bank savings account offers attractive interest rates and lucrative features. If you are planning to open a savings bank account with Union Bank of India, keep reading to learn about its types, opening process, features and benefits, etc.Key HighlightsYou can open a Union Bank savings account online via the Union Selfie & M-Passbook app or the bank’s website, with Aadhaar/PAN and branch KYC verification.For offline, simply visit a branch with KYC documents, fill the form, and complete verification.You can earn an interest rate of 2.50% to 4.50% on your savings account balances. Union Bank Savings Account TypesUnion offers a host of savings account schemes for their customers. Here are they:Basic Savings Bank Deposit AccountSavings Bank Account (SBGEN)Union Savings Flexi Deposit AccountSavings Bank Account for Pensioners (SBPEN)Savings Bank Account for Students (SBZER)Basic Saving Bank Deposits Account-Small AccountsUnion Super Salary Account (USSA)Savings Flexi Deposit Scheme (SBNFD)Savings Flexi Deposit Scheme (SBNFP)CAPITAL GAIN SB ACCOUNT (SBCAP)MACT CLAIMS SB ACCOUNT (MACT)SPECIAL SB SCHEMES VARIANT - I (SB Premium) SBPRESPECIAL SB SCHEMES VARIANT - II (SB High Networth Customers) SBHNIUnion Digital Savings Account (UDSA)Union Bank Saving Account Opening OnlineHere are the steps to follow while opening a Union Bank savings account online:Step 1: Download Union Bank’s “Union Selfie & M-Passbook” app on your mobile.Step 2: Take a selfie from the app and scan your Aadhaar and PAN cards.Step 3: Visit the bank with all your documents and your savings account number will be generated instantly.You can also visit the official website of Union Bank of India and follow the steps below to open a savings account online:Step 1: Select "Digital Banking" and click on "Self-Service Banking".Step 2: Choose “Savings Account” from “Online Account Opening”.Step 3: Fill up the application form with all the required information.Step 4: Submit the form.Step 5: Visit the branch with the required documents for KYC verification.Union Bank Savings Account OfflineHere are the steps to follow for Union Bank savings account opening:Step 1: Visit the nearest Union Bank of India branch.Step 2: Carry all your KYC documents for verification.Step 3: Collect the Union Bank savings account application form.Step 4: Fill it up with the required details. Make sure the information on your application form matches your KYC documents.Step 5: Submit the application form and the documents.Step 6: Wait for the verification process. Union Bank Savings Account Interest RatesBalance RangeInterest Rate p.a.Up to ₹ 50 lakh2.50%> ₹ 50 lakh to ₹ 100 crore3.00%> ₹ 100 crore to ₹ 500 crore3.40%> ₹ 500 crore to ₹ 1,000 crore4.25%> ₹ 1,000 crore to ₹2000 crore4.50%Above ₹2000 crore4.75%Union Bank Savings Account Eligibility CriteriaTo open a Union Bank savings account, you must:Be a resident individual, either singly or jointlyProvide valid KYC documents (Aadhaar, PAN, etc.)Be at least 18 years old (minors can open with a guardian)For specialised accounts (e.g., senior citizen or salary accounts), meet specific age or employment criteriaUnion Bank Savings Account ChargesCheck out the basic charges applicable to your Union Bank savings account:Charge TypeDetailsElectronic Clearing Service (ECS)Rs. 4 per transactionCheque Book IssuanceFree up to 40 pages, and  Rs.

ICICI Bank offers a simple and convenient process to open a savings account. You can complete the ICICI Bank savings account opening online through Aadhaar-based eKYC and video verification. For those who prefer offline mode, ICICI savings account opening is also available at any nearby branch. Key HighlightsYou can open an ICICI account in two ways. Online Method - Open an ICICI Savings Account through the official website by selecting the account type, entering your Aadhaar & PAN details, and completing the Video KYC process.Offline Method - Visit the nearest ICICI Bank branch, submit the application form with documents, and get the account activated after verification.ICICI Bank Savings Account Opening OnlineHere is a step-by-step guide to follow for ICICI Bank savings account opening online:Visit the official website and click on ‘Savings Account’ from the ‘Accounts’ tabSelect the option ‘Open an Account Instantly’Enter all your necessary details including email address, contact number, and PAN You will receive an OTP sent to your registered mobile number. Enter the OTP to verify your Aadhaar informationTick the terms and conditions checkbox to agree to open an accountComplete the video KYC to avail benefits of the ICICI bank savings accountICICI Bank Savings Account Opening OfflineHere is a step-by-step guide on how to open an ICICI bank savings account offline:Visit ICICI Bank's nearest branch. Approach the executive for a savings account opening formFill out the form with all necessary details carefully to avoid rejectionOnce the form is filled up, the executive will contact you for further verification of documents Upon successful verification, you need to deposit a certain amount, based on the minimum balance requirementYour savings account is now active and the bank executive will provide you with a bank account passbook along with a debit card to make transactions easy and hassle-free. ICICI Bank Savings Account Eligibility CriteriaIf you are looking to open a savings account in ICICI Bank, it is mandatory to meet the following eligibility criteria: Indian residents, HUFs, and foreign nationals must be aged 18 years and aboveSavings accounts are allowed to be accessed by minors as wellSenior citizens aged 60 years and aboveICICI Bank Savings Account Documents RequiredWhile opening a savings account, you should keep some of your documents ready.

The Marginal Cost of Funds Based Lending Rate (MCLR) is the internal benchmark set by banks to determine minimum lending rates, as mandated by the Reserve Bank of India. Introduced in April 2016, MCLR replaced the older base rate system, aiming to make interest rate transmission more transparent and market-linked. This article will provide an overview of MCLR, including its calculation, implementation, impact on loans, benefits, limitations, and key differences from the earlier base rate system.What is MCLR?The Marginal Cost of funds-based Lending Rate (MCLR) is the minimum lending rate below which a bank is not permitted to lend. MCLR replaced the earlier base rate system for determining the lending rates for commercial banks.RBI implemented MCLR on 1 April 2016 to determine rates of interests for loans. It is an internal reference rate for banks to determine the interest they can levy on loans. For this, they take into account the additional or incremental cost of arranging an additional rupee for a prospective buyer.The Outcome of MCLR ImplementationAfter the implementation of MCLR, the interest rates are determined as per the relative risk factor of individual customers.

The Income Tax Department offers an Instant e-PAN service, allowing individuals to obtain an e-PAN card in 10 minutes conveniently. This Aadhaar-based e-KYC process is completely digital, requires no paperwork, and is free of cost.In this article, you'll find details about eligibility criteria, how to apply for an e-PAN, and how to check the status of your Instant PAN through Aadhaar.Instant PAN Allotment Through Aadhaar CardThe new provision by the Income Tax Department facilitates the allotment of an instant PAN to individuals who already possess a valid Aadhaar card. The applicants will not be required to submit a detailed application form as in normal cases. The instant PAN Card will be issued in PDF format with no additional charges.The PDF contains a QR code that includes the demographic details, such as the applicant’s name, date of birth, and photographs. You can use the 15-digit acknowledgement number to download the e-PAN from the income tax e-filing portal.

In today’s fast-paced world, managing your finances needs to be effortless and right at your fingertips. Punjab National Bank’s mobile banking platform empowers you to take full control of your money anytime and anywhere. This article will give you through everything you need to know about PNB Mobile Banking, including registration, login, fund transfers, and security features, helping you unlock seamless and secure banking on the go.PNB Mobile Banking LoginThese are the instructions on how to log in to PNB mobile banking: Step 1: Download the PNB Digital App from the Play Store or App Store.Step 2: Register by entering all required information along with your customer ID to set up your MPIN.Step 3: Log in using the numeric MPIN you created.PNB Mobile Banking RegistrationYou must provide your mobile number before registering for the Punjab National Bank mobile banking app. If you still need to register your number, you must update your mobile number through the PNB branch first. When your number has been registered, you should follow the following process for PNB mobile banking Registration:Step 1: Open your smartphone and install the PNB ONE app. Step 2: Click on the ‘New User’ option. Step 3: Enter your account number and choose the registration option (mobile banking and internet banking) from the options in the menu bar.Step 4: Enter the OTP that you will receive on your registered mobile number. Step 5: Select any registration option given: “Register using a Debit Card” or “Register without a Debit Card”. Step 6: To register using the card, enter the card number and PIN.Step 7: For no debit card registration, follow the on-screen instructions and put your savings account details and security-asked questions.Step 8: Generate a strong password and TPIN. Step 9: The next step is to press on the “Sign in” option.Step 10: Generate a strong MPIN and put your user ID. Now, you can log in to PNB ONE using those login details.How to Activate Mobile Banking in PNB?In general, to activate mobile banking on Punjab National Bank, you can use the following steps: Mobile Banking AppStep 1: Download the PNB ONE application from the Play Store or App Store.Step 2: Open the app and click on the ‘New User’ option.Step 3: Enter your account number and select your registration type (Mobile Banking or Both).Step 4: Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number.Step 5: Enter your debit card number and PIN when prompted.Step 6: Set your login and transaction passwords.Step 7: Once registration is successful, you will receive a User ID.Step 8: Log in using the User ID, create your MPIN, and start using PNB ONE.For PNB Digital AppStep 1: Download the PNB Digital App from the App Store or Google Play.Step 2: On the Welcome screen, click on ‘Sign Up’ and accept the Terms and Conditions.Step 3: Choose ATM Card Number as your sign-up option and enter your account details.Step 4: Enter the Online Activation Code (OAC) sent to your registered email ID.Step 5: Enter the 6-digit OTP received on your registered mobile number.Step 6: Create a User ID and password for your PNB Digital Account.PNB Mobile Banking AppsPNB ONE: A comprehensive mobile banking app offering various services, including fund transfers, account statements, term deposits, and card management.