Federal Bank offers multiple gold loan options to help you meet your financial needs. Whether for a wedding, education, business, or personal expenses, these loans let you get quick funds against your gold. Borrowing is fast and hassle-free with interest rates starting at 8.50% p.a., minimal paperwork, and flexible repayment terms.In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know—latest interest rates, eligibility, per gram rates, fees, how to apply, and repayment options.Federal Bank Gold Loan Interest Rate HighlightsFeatureDetailsInterest Rate Range8.50% to 22.90% p.a.Loan TenureUpto 12 months Processing Fee 0.25% - 1% of loan amountLoan Amount Upto ₹20 lakhLTV Up to 75% of gold’s value as per RBI norms Federal Bank Gold Loan Interest Rate 2026The starting rate of interest on a Federal Bank gold loan is 8.99% p.a. A Federal Bank gold loan offered by the bank is both floating and fixed in nature. A detailed overview of the rates is given in the following table:General Gold Loan Interest RatesParticularsInterest Rates (p.a.)Floating interest rates8.99% onwardsFixed interest rates9.79% onwardsFed Smart Saver Gold Loan Interest RatesParticularsInterest Rates (p.a.)Fed Smart Saver Gold Loan8.15% onwardsFederal Bank Gold Loan Per GramThe following table provides the Federal Bank gold loan per gram rate:Gold Loan SchemePer Gram Rate of GoldGeneral Gold Loan Scheme75% of the current market value Agri Gold Loan SchemeUp to 90% of the current market value Non-Agri Gold Loan SchemeUp to 75% of the current market value MSME Gold Loan Scheme75% of the current market value Federal Bank Agriculture Gold Loan Interest RateThe Federal Bank Agri Gold Loan is a specialised loan scheme designed specifically for farmers.

The Annapurna Bhandar Scheme is a welfare initiative in West Bengal (WB) that will provide eligible women with ₹3,000 per month through Direct Bank Transfer (DBT). This scheme aims to empower women and enhance financial stability for families across the state.Highlights of the Annapurna Bhandar Scheme 2026:Implementation: Across the state of West BengalCategory: Welfare scheme for womenLaunch Date: 1 June 2026Monthly Benefit: ₹3,000 per month Target Beneficiaries: Women residing in WBApplication Mode: Online and offline modeApplication Form Download: From the official portal and NabannaApplication Form Filling Date: From 27 May 2026 to 25 August 2026 (90 days from 27 May 2026)Official Portal: https://socialsecurity.wb.gov.in/loginWhat is Annapurna Bhandar Scheme?The Annapurna Bhandar Scheme (earlier called Matri Shakti Bharosa Scheme) is a major electoral promise made during the 2026 West Bengal Assembly Elections. It is a women’s welfare scheme in West Bengal which will come into effect from 1 June 2026, replacing the existing Lakshmir Bandhar Scheme. Its primary objective is to provide financial support for women’s empowerment and socio-economic upliftment of women. The monthly amount provided under this scheme helps women manage household expenses and support their healthcare needs. It reduces financial burden on families and improves their standard of living.Annapurna Bhandar Scheme Release DateThe Chief Minister of West Bengal has announced the rollout of the Annapurna Bhandar Scheme from 1 June 2026 through a notification issued on 19 May 2026.

The e-PAN card through official government portals once the  PAN is allotted or updated. The e-PAN is a valid digital copy of the user's PAN card. PAN card download can be done online using PAN number, Aadhaar number, or acknowledgement number.Key Highlights:Download: e-PAN card can be downloaded for free within 30 days of allotment from NSDL, UTIITSL, or the Income Tax portal.Availability: Instant e-PAN issued via the Income Tax e-Filing portal is available within 10 minutes for Aadhaar-linked users.OTP: Mobile number linked with Aadhaar is mandatory for OTP-based e-PAN download.Password: The e-PAN PDF password is the date of birth in 'DDMMYYYY' format.Prerequisites for Downloading e-PAN CardBefore you proceed with PAN card download online, ensure the following requirements are met:The applicant's PAN must be allotted or generated.Aadhaar card is mandatory for instant e-PAN download through the Income Tax portal.The applicant's mobile number must be linked with Aadhaar to receive OTP.The applicant must have at least one of the following:PAN numberAadhaar numberAcknowledgement number (for NSDL/UTIITSL applications) e-PAN Card Download After applying for the e-PAN card, users can download it once it is generated. Usually, the e-PAN card is generated and allotted 15 days after the application is submitted. The instant e-PAN card generated on the Income Tax website is issued within 10 minutes of application.However, please note that the users can download the e-PAN card from the NSDL website only when they have applied for it on the NSDL website.

The Ration Card e-KYC is a mandatory Aadhaar-based verification process for all ration cardholders. It ensures that genuine beneficiaries continue to receive subsidised food under the Public Distribution System (PDS). Cardholders can complete their ration card KYC online via the state PDS portal or offline at Fair Price Shops using Aadhaar authentication.Key Highlights Full Form: Electronic Know Your Customer (e-KYC)Purpose: Verify identity of beneficiaries and remove duplicate ration cardsMandatory For: All ration cardholders under PDSVerification Method: Aadhaar-based OTP or biometric verificationWhat is e-KYC in Ration Card?E-KYC stands for electronic Know Your Customer. Ration card e-KYC is a digital way to verify a person’s identity to provide benefits under the ration card. Ration card E-KYC can be completed using safe and trustworthy Aadhaar authentication. The ration card KYC process ensures that the Aadhaar number is genuinely linked to the same individual who holds the ration card. This not only helps eliminate fake beneficiaries but also improves the transparency and efficiency of ration and resource distribution.Aadhaar-Based Verification ProcessRation card holders must provide Aadhaar-based OTP or biometric authentication to complete the Ration Card e-KYC.

The EPIC number in Voter ID card is a unique 10-digit alphanumeric code issued by the Election Commission of India (ECI). EPIC stands for Election Photo Identity Card. This number identifies you as a registered voter and is required to search your name in the voter list, download e-EPIC, or update voter details.This guide explains what is EPIC number in Voter ID and how to find the same.Key HighlightsWhere to Find It: Printed on the front side of your voter ID card.Official Portal: Available on the National Voters’ Service Portal (ECI).Required to: Search voter list, download e-EPIC, and update details.What is EPIC Number in Voter ID Card?The EPIC number in voter ID card is a unique identification number assigned to every registered voter in India. The EPIC number in voter ID is a 10-digit alpha-numeric code. It confirms that:You are enrolled in the electoral roll.You are eligible to vote.Your voter details are recorded in the Election Commission database.The EPIC number is mandatory for accessing various voter services online. Where is the EPIC Number on a Voter ID Card?You can find the EPIC number on the front side of your voter ID card.Location varies slightly by format:Old laminated voter ID card: Printed on the front side, usually near the top above or beside your photo.PVC voter ID card: Printed on the front side within the personal details section.e-EPIC PDF: Available on the first page near your name and personal details.How to Find the EPIC Number in Voter ID Online?Follow the below steps to learn how to find the EPIC number in your voter ID online: Step 1: Click on the ‘Search Your Name in Voter List’ tab in the National Voters’ Service Portal.Step 2: Select any one of these options - ‘Search by Details’ or ‘Search by Mobile’.Step 3: Choose your state and preferred language option from the drop-down list. Enter the required details, captcha code and click ‘Search’. Your EPIC number will be displayed in the ‘EPIC Number’ column along with your voter ID details as per the registration in the electoral roll. How to Download Voter ID with EPIC Number?Follow the simple steps below to download the voter ID with EPIC number: Step 1: Click ‘Login’ on the the National Voters’ Service Portal.Step 2: Enter the mobile number, password and captcha code and click the ‘Request OTP’ button.  Step 3: Enter the OTP received on your mobile phone and click the ‘Verify & Login’ button.Step 4: Click on the ‘E-EPIC Download’ tab. Step 5: Select the ‘EPIC No’ or ‘Form Reference no.’ option.Step 6: Enter EPIC number or Form Reference Number, select state and click ‘Search’. The reference number is available in the acknowledgement received after submitting Form 6.Step 7: The Voter ID details will be displayed on the screen.

The Income Tax Department made it mandatory for all taxpayers to link their PAN with their bank accounts. Knowing how to link PAN card with bank account is essential for receiving income tax refunds and conducting high-value transactions securely. Key HighlightsPAN Card Bank Account Linking Ways: Online or offline modes.Pan Card Link With Bank Account Check: Through e-filing portal.Documents Required: PAN card, ID proof, bank account details.Purpose of Linking PAN With Bank Account: Mandatory to avail certain banking services and for large financial transactions.Why Link PAN Card With Bank Account?PAN linking allows the Income Tax Department to track reportable financial transactions, ensuring compliance with tax laws and transparency.PAN linking helps monitor and prevent potential tax evasion and other financial irregularities.Linking PAN with a bank account helps verify your identity and process banking services more efficiently. If PAN is not updated, banks may ask for Form 60 or restrict certain transactions until the compliance requirements are met.Banks often require a PAN and bank account linking when applying for a credit card to verify and assess financial records. This helps in assessing creditworthiness and promotes responsible lending practices.PAN linking is commonly required while opening a Demat account, trading account, or applying for certain banking and investment products.Linking PAN to a bank account ensures you receive eligible government benefits and subsidies directly to your account, reducing the risk of misuse.PAN may be required for certain foreign remittances or forex transactions under applicable RBI regulations.How to Link PAN Card With Bank Account Online?There are various ways to link your bank account with PAN card online.Net BankingStep 1: Navigate to your bank's official website.Step 2: Log in to your Net banking account using your credentials.Step 3: Go to your profile. Locate the PAN linking/seeding, PAN updation, PAN registration or KYC section.Step 4: Fill the required details from your PAN card.Step 5: Submit your information to complete and confirm the linking process.Bank ApplicationStep 1: Download your bank’s mobile banking app from the appropriate app store.Step 2: Log in with your mobile banking credentials.Step 3: Navigate to your profile or e-services section.Step 4: Search for the PAN linking/ PAN updation or KYC option within the app.Step 5: Enter your PAN card details and click submit.Step 6: Enter the OTP received on your mobile number for verification.

Ration card-Aadhaar card linking is mandatory to receive ration card benefits. It ensures that only the eligible individuals receive subsidised food under the Public Distribution System (PDS). The ration card Aadhaar link process can be completed online, offline, or via SMS, depending on your state. You can also easily perform a ration card Aadhaar link check online and confirm your seeding status. This step supports government initiatives such as the One Nation One Ration Card. MethodPlatformRequired InformationOnlineState PDS PortalRation card number, Aadhaar number, Aadhaar-linked mobile numberOfflineLocal PDS/Ration ShopAadhaar copy, ration card copy, fingerprintSMSSMS to 51969UID SEED message formatRation Card Aadhaar Link CheckMera Ration App / State PDS PortalRation card or Aadhaar card numberHow to Link Ration Card with Aadhaar Online?Many states facilitate linking the ration card to Aadhaar online. The step-by-step process of the ration card Aadhaar link online is as follows:Step 1: Visit your state’s Public Distribution System (PDS) portal.Step 2: Click on ‘Link Aadhaar with Ration Card’ or click on ‘e-Services’ and select ‘Link Aadhaar Card’.Step 3: Enter your ration card number.Step 4: Enter your Aadhaar card number.Step 5: Enter your registered mobile number.Step 6: Upload the required documents and click the ‘Continue’ or ‘Submit’ button.Step 7: An OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number.Step 8: Enter the OTP and submit your request to link Aadhaar to your ration card.You will receive an SMS when the process is completed.How to Link Ration Card with Aadhaar Offline?Ration card Aadhar linking can be done offline by following the steps given below:Step 1: Visit the local ration or PDS shop.Step 2: Carry the photocopies of Aadhaar cards of all family members and a photocopy of your ration card.

Linking your Aadhaar with your IRCTC account makes ticket booking easier and allows you to book more tickets in a month. You can book 24 tickets per month if your account is linked with Aadhaar and at least one passenger on the ticket is Aadhaar-verified. The IRCTC Aadhaar link can be easily completed on the IRCTC website. Continue reading this article to know how to link Aadhaar with IRCTC account, how to add and select passengers while booking tickets and the benefits of Aadhaar authentication for Indian railway travellers.How to Link Aadhaar with IRCTC Account?Users can complete the IRCTC Aadhaar link process online before finalising the ticket booking. Here is a detailed step-by-step guide to follow to link an Aadhaar number with an IRCTC account:Step 1: Go to the IRCTC official website.Step 2: From the Menu, click ‘Login’. Enter the ‘User ID’, ‘Password’ and Captcha Code and click ‘Sign In’.Step 3: From the Menu, click the ‘My Account’ tab and choose the option ‘Authenticate User’.Step 4: Enter your Aadhaar Number or Virtual ID and click on the ‘Verify details and receive OTP’ button.Step 5: Enter the OTP, click on the consent form and click on ‘Submit’.A confirmation message will be displayed on the screen upon successful authentication of your Aadhaar number.Note: Always carry a valid ID proof, including your Aadhaar card, even after linking your Aadhaar with IRCTC during your train journey.

Due to the hybrid work mode, most companies today provide telephone and internet allowances to their employees. This helps them deal with the additional expenses incurred while working from home. Now, as this forms part of their income, individuals may have questions about whether or not these allowances are taxable. Telephone and Internet Allowance ExemptionsAs per Rule 3(7)(ix) of the Income Tax Act, all telephone or internet reimbursements that employees get for conducting their official duties are not taxable. Thus, individuals can claim a 100% tax exemption on the billed amount. These reimbursements include the following:Landline billsMobile phone billsMobile internet billsHome Wi-Fi connection billsAccording to government rules, there is no prescribed limit on the amount of reimbursement the employer can provide. However, it must be reasonable and as per the employee’s pay grade.Now, there are a few things which need to be kept in mind:Companies usually provide reimbursements for only one mobile/broadband connection. The connection needs to be in the employee’s name. Employers must ensure that the reimbursements are strictly for business use.Employees need to show their telephone/internet bills while claiming the reimbursements. They can claim the reimbursement on the actual bill amount or the total amount offered by the company, whichever is lower. Both prepaid and postpaid mobile/internet connections are applicable for exemptions. The scope for providing reimbursements will differ across companies and departments based on the employee’s job role and position within the organisation. Telephone and Internet Allowance Exemption These allowances can be on a reimbursement basis or they can be fixed allowances.1.

PAN card correction becomes necessary when details printed on the PAN card are incorrect, outdated, or incomplete. NSDL e-Gov, renamed Protean eGov Technologies, and the UTIITSL websites are the primary platforms for PAN card update online.Key HighlightsPAN card correction online: Through Protean (formerly NSDL e-Gov) or UTIITSL portals.PAN card correction offline: By visiting the nearest PAN centre.Documents Required: Identity, address and date of birth proof.Fees: Varies based on submission mode and PAN dispatch option.Application Status Tracking: Online portals, SMS, email or customer care through the acknowledgement number.April 2026 CBDT UpdateThe CBDT has introduced revised PAN correction compliance rules effective from 1 April 2026. Individual PAN modification requests now require the newly notified Form PAN CR-01, and PAN identity details must align exactly with Aadhaar records during verification.PAN identity details must exactly match Aadhaar records during verification.Additional document validation requirements have been introduced for demographic corrections.Aadhaar alone is no longer sufficient as standalone proof for date of birth verification in many correction cases.PAN correction requests must now route through authorised PAN service providers only.When is Form PAN CR-01 Required?Form PAN CR-01 is required for:Name correctionDate of birth correctionGender updateAddress modificationPhotograph or signature updateMobile number and email correctionPAN reprint requests involving demographic modificationsCommon Reasons for PAN Card CorrectionThe most common reasons for PAN card update include:Name change after marriageSpelling mistakes in the applicant’s nameIncorrect date of birthChange in residential addressMismatch between PAN and Aadhaar detailsMobile number or email ID updatePhoto or signature replacementLegal name change through gazette notificationCorrection in father’s nameUpdating company or entity information PAN Form 49A vs Form 49AAThe application forms used for PAN allocation vary based on the applicant’s residential status and entity category. Under the revised PAN framework, the earlier Forms 49A and 49AA have been replaced with a streamlined 4-form structure for new PAN allocations.Form TypeApplicable CategoryReplaced Legacy FormForm 93Individual Applicants (Indian Citizens)Form 49AForm 94Non-Individual Indian Entities (Companies, HUFs, Trusts, Firms registered in India)Form 49AForm 95Individual Foreign Applicants (Foreign Citizens, NRIs with foreign citizenship, OCIs)Form 49AAForm 96Non-Individual Overseas Entities (Foreign Companies, Firms and Organisations operating in India)Form 49AANote: Forms 93, 94, 95 and 96 apply only to fresh PAN allocations under the revised PAN framework. Existing PAN holders requesting demographic corrections, PAN detail updates, PAN reprints or PAN 2.0 upgrades must use the unified ‘Request for New PAN Card or/and Changes or Correction in PAN Data’ form instead.How to Update PAN on NSDL/Protean Portal?If you have applied for a PAN card via the NSDL e-Gov website, then you need to do PAN card correction online by updating PAN details on that website.