The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) uses the repo rate as its primary monetary policy tool to manage inflation, liquidity and economic growth. In its latest Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting held in June 2026, the RBI kept the repo rate unchanged at 5.25% and maintained a neutral policy stance while balancing inflation risks and growth concerns.Key HighlightsRepo Rate: 5.25%Standing Deposit Facility (SDF): 5.00%MSF Rate: 5.50%Bank Rate: 5.50%June 2026 RBI Policy OutlookAlong with its latest policy decision, the RBI revised its growth and inflation outlook for FY 2026-27.IndicatorRBI ProjectionRepo Rate5.25%Policy StanceNeutralFY 2026-27 GDP Growth6.6%FY 2026-27 CPI Inflation5.1%Current RBI Policy Rates Refer to the following table for the current rates:RBI Policy RateRateRepo Rate5.25%Standing Deposit Facility (SDF)5.00%Marginal Standing Facility (MSF)5.50%Bank Rate5.50%Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR)3.00%Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR)18.00%Note: SDF generally acts as the floor of the policy corridor, while MSF acts as the ceiling around the repo rate.RBI MPC Meeting Dates 2026The Reserve Bank of India has announced the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting schedule for 2026. These meetings are conducted periodically to review the repo rate, inflation outlook, and overall monetary policy stance.MeetingDatesApril 20266–8 April 2026June 20263–5 June 2026August 20263–5 August 2026October 20265–7 October 2026December 20262–4 December 2026February 20273–5 February 2027These meetings are important as any change in the repo rate is announced after the MPC discussions.What is Repo Rate?The repo rate is the interest rate at which commercial banks borrow money from the RBI by pledging government securities as collateral. It directly influences lending rates, EMIs, and overall credit availability in the economy. Repo stands for ‘Repurchasing Option’ or ‘Repurchase Agreement’. Changes in the repo rate influence borrowing costs across the economy:Lower repo rate: Banks borrow cheaper → loans and EMIs may fallHigher repo rate: Borrowing becomes expensive → credit slows downWhy Does RBI Change the Repo Rate?The RBI adjusts the repo rate to achieve the following objectives:Control inflationManage liquidity in the banking systemSupport economic growthInfluence borrowing and lending ratesMaintain financial stabilityBalance demand and supply in the economyWhat is Reverse Repo Rate?The reverse repo rate is the rate at which the RBI borrows money from commercial banks for short periods.Banks park surplus funds with RBI at this rate when liquidity in the banking system is high.

Passport renewal in India helps ensure that your passport remains valid for international travel and identity verification. In most cases, citizens with an expired or expiring passport must apply for a passport re-issue through the Passport Seva portal. The passport renewal process can be completed online by booking an appointment and submitting the required documents.Key Highlights:When to renew: At least 6 months before expiry (standard validity – 10 years for adults, 5 years for minors).Modes: Online via Passport Seva portal or offline through District Passport Cell.Documents: Old passport, ID/address proof, NOC (if applicable), photos.Fee: ₹1,000 – ₹3,500 depending on pages, age, and service type (+₹2,000 Tatkaal).Tracking: Status can be checked online via Passport Seva tracker.When should You Renew Your Passport?The general guidelines for passport renewal in India are:Renew your passport at least six months before its expiry date, as this will avoid any last-minute rush or issues, especially if you have upcoming international travel plans.You can apply for renewal even if your passport has expired, but it is better to renew before expiry to ensure seamless travel.The standard validity is 10 years for adults and 5 years for minors.Note: If your standard 10-year passport is expiring or has expired, you must generally apply for a passport re-issue through the Passport Seva portal. The option labelled "Renewal" is primarily relevant for certain Short Validity Passports (SVPs).Passport Renewal Process OnlineMaking an online payment is mandatory to book an appointment for passport renewal. You may use net banking, cards, or an offline challan (may take up to 2 days to process). Follow the steps mentioned below if you want to know how to renew passport online:Step 1: Visit the official Passport Seva website.Step 2: Click on ‘New User Registration’ to create an account or log in using your existing credentials.Step 3: Select ‘Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport’.Step 4: Choose the online application form option and enter your personal details, address information, family details and local references.Step 5: Review the entered information carefully and click ‘Submit’.Step 6: Go to ‘View Saved/Submitted Applications’ and click ‘Pay and Schedule Appointment’.Step 7: Select your preferred Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK), choose an appointment slot and complete the payment.Step 8: Download or print the application receipt containing the Application Reference Number (ARN).You must visit the passport office at your scheduled time with SMS confirmation.

UPI transaction charges are generally zero for personal bank-to-bank payments. The standard UPI transaction limit per day is ₹1 lakh, while select categories allow higher limits as notified by NPCI. Interchange fees apply only in specific wallet-based merchant transactions and are not paid by customers.Key HighlightsPersonal UPI Payments: No charges for bank-to-bank transfers.UPI Transaction Limit: ₹1 lakh per day for most users.Higher Category Limits: Up to ₹5 lakh per transaction in select categories (effective 15 September 2025).Wallet Interchange: 0.5%–1.1% on certain PPI merchant transactions above ₹2,000 (paid by merchants, not users).UPI Transaction Limit 2026The UPI transaction limit is set by the NPCI and may vary based on transaction type, category, and bank policies. The standard UPI transaction limit applies to most users, while higher limits are allowed for specific categories.CategoryPer Transaction LimitDaily/Cumulative LimitStandard UPI Transactions₹1 lakh₹1 lakhCapital Markets (Investments)₹5 lakh₹10 lakhInsurance₹5 lakh₹10 lakhGovernment Payments / Taxes (GeM)₹5 lakh₹10 lakhTravel₹5 lakh₹10 lakhCredit Card Payments₹5 lakh₹6 lakhCollections (EMIs, B2B, Loans)₹5 lakh₹10 lakhJewellery₹2 lakh₹6 lakhFX-Retail (BBPS)₹5 lakh₹5 lakhDigital Account Opening₹5 lakh₹5 lakhInitial Account Funding₹2 lakh₹2 lakhEducation & Hospitals₹5 lakh₹10 lakhIPOs / RBI Retail Direct₹5 lakh₹5 lakhUPI Transaction ChargesUPI payments made directly from a bank account are free for users. Individuals do not pay any UPI transaction charges when sending or receiving money through bank-to-bank transfers using apps like Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, or BHIM.Surcharge/Interchange Fee on UPI Payment Through PPIWhen UPI transactions are made through Prepaid Payment Instruments (PPIs) such as digital wallets, interchange fees may apply.

The latest global GDP estimates for 2026 reflect updated projections for major economies. While the US and China remain the top two economies, India currently ranks 6th in nominal terms with a nominal GDP of around $4.15 trillion. The country also remains the world’s fastest-growing major economyKey HighlightsUnited States: $32.38 trillion GDP, remains the world’s largest economy.China: $20.85 trillion GDP, continues as the second-largest economy.India: $4.15 trillion GDP, currently ranks 6th among the largest economies.Fastest Growth: India leads major economies with a growth rate of 6.48% in 2026.Top 10 GDP Countries 2026GDP or “Gross Domestic Product” represents the total monetary value of goods and services produced within a country over a given period (typically a year). A higher GDP indicates stronger economic activity and overall national output. RankCountryNominal GDP (USD Trillion)GDP Growth 2026 (%)GDP Per Capita (USD)1United States32.382.32%94,4302China20.854.41%14,8743Germany5.450.79%65,3034Japan4.380.72%35,7035United Kingdom4.260.80%61,0566India4.156.48%2,8137France3.600.86%52,0838Italy2.740.52%46,5059Russia2.661.09%18,52510Brazil2.641.91%12,31311Canada2.511.50%60,30512Australia2.122.01%75,64813Mexico2.121.64%15,77914Spain2.092.09%41,56315South Korea1.931.86%37,41216Turkey1.643.37%19,01817Indonesia1.544.95%5,36218Netherlands1.451.23%79,91819Saudi Arabia1.393.12%37,81120Switzerland1.151.34%126,17721Poland1.133.32%31,33622Taiwan0.985.18%42,10323Ireland0.782.52%140,18624Belgium0.780.66%65,11225Sweden0.761.96%70,67626Israel0.723.53%69,80427Argentina0.693.50%14,35728Singapore0.663.51%107,75829Austria0.620.68%67,76130United Arab Emirates0.623.14%54,214Note: Based on latest global estimates for 2026; figures may vary slightly across sources.What is Nominal GDP Ranking?Nominal GDP ranking orders economies by their total output in current U.S. dollar terms, without adjusting for inflation.

Aadhaar card mobile number change can be completed either through the new Aadhaar App or at an authorised Aadhaar Enrolment/Update Centre. You can book an appointment online through the UIDAI website for offline mobile number updation.Key HighlightsAuthentication Requirement: Mobile update requires in-app biometric authentication. Fee: ₹75 is charged when the mobile number is updated separately.OTP via Old Number: The previous mobile number is not required to request an update.Tracking: Status can be checked online using the Update Request Number (URN).How to Change Mobile Number in Aadhaar Card Online?Step 1: Log in to the new ‘Aadhaar’ app. Step 2: Go to the ‘Service’ section on the home screen. Step 3: Click on the ‘Mobile Number Update’ option.Step 4: Enter the new mobile number, OTP received on the new number, and complete face authentication.Step 5: Pay the applicable update fee.You will receive an acknowledgement containing the Service Request Number (SRN) through which you can track the status. Once your request is verified, the changes are processed and updated in Aadhaar records. How to Change Mobile Number in Aadhaar Card Offline?Step 1: Go to your nearby Aadhaar Seva Kendra or Aadhaar Enrolment Centre. It is important to book an appointment online prior to visiting the Aadhaar Seva Kendra.Step 2: Fill out the Aadhaar update or correction form.

The SBI CIF number is a unique 11-digit customer identifier assigned by the State Bank of India to every account holder. A CIF number in SBI Bank helps the bank maintain a customer's personal information, account details, loan records and other banking relationships under a single profile.SBI CIF Number Lookup Methods Your SBI CIF number can be found through multiple online and offline channels. The table below compares the available methods based on the information required and the time taken to retrieve the CIF number.Lookup MethodWhat You NeedTime RequiredSBI PassbookPhysical passbookInstantSBI Cheque BookPhysical cheque bookInstantYONO AppMPIN and registered deviceLess than 1 minuteSBI Net BankingLogin credentials2–3 minutesE-Statement via SMSRegistered mobile number, active email ID and account numberAround 5 minutesSBI Customer CareAccount verification details5–10 minutesWhat is the CIF Number of SBI?The SBI CIF number stands for Customer Information File Number and is a unique identifier assigned to each account holder, similar to an account number. This 11-digit numeric code is essential as it stores a variety of important information, including personal details, address proof, transaction history, account balances, loans, and more, all in a digital format.What are the Different Methods to Find the SBI CIF Number?The State Bank of India offers many ways to check your CIF number. Here, you will learn different methods through which you can find the CIF number of SBI Bank:1.

Customers applying for a new HP Gas LPG connection are required to pay certain refundable security deposits for cylinders, regulators, accessories, and the first LPG refill. The HP gas new connection price mainly depends on the cylinder size, the connection type (single or double), and the prevailing LPG refill price in the customer’s city.Key Highlights14.2 kg cylinder security deposit: ₹2,200 per cylinder.Pressure regulator deposit: ₹250.Single cylinder connection cost (approx.): ₹4,141 excluding optional items.Double cylinder connection cost (approx.): ₹6,341 excluding optional items.Final connection price: May increase depending on optional items like lighter or trolley.HP Gas New Connection Prices 2026: Product-wise DepositThe table below shows the typical charges involved in obtaining a new HP LPG connection without purchasing a stove package. These deposits are refundable when the LPG connection is surrendered, subject to distributor conditions.Product/Service ComponentSingle CylinderSecurity Deposit – Cylinder₹2,200Security Deposit – Regulator₹250Stamp Duty*₹100First Gas Refill (14.2 kg)₹913DGCC Book₹59Installation Charges₹118Suraksha LPG Hose₹190Folder₹75Mechanic Inspection Charge (for Non-Agency Stove)₹236Total₹4,141Additionally, the following costs may be chargeable when obtaining a new HP Gas connection:Cost of Refill(s): The LPG refill is charged at the Retail Selling Price applicable in the market, which may vary depending on the city.Stamp Duty: Stamp duty is levied on actuals wherever applicable based on local regulations.HP Gas New Connection Double Cylinder PriceA double-cylinder connection (DBC) allows households to maintain two cylinders at home. One cylinder can be used while the second remains available as a backup, ensuring uninterrupted LPG supply.Estimated Deposit for Double Cylinder Connection (14.2 kg)ComponentPrice (₹)Security Deposit – Cylinder (2 Cylinders)₹4,400Security Deposit – Regulator₹250Stamp Duty*₹100First Gas Refill (Single Refill Only)₹913DGCC Book₹59Installation Charges₹118Suraksha Hose₹190Folder₹75Mechanic Inspection Charge (for Non-Agency Stove)₹236Total₹6,341Optional purchases such as lighter or trolley can further increase the cost.New Connection Tariff: GST RuleWhen applying for a new LPG connection, certain items included in the connection cost may attract Goods and Services Tax (GST).LPG accessories such as regulators, valves, and hoses may include GST as applicable.Installation or service charges may attract 18% GST depending on the service.Domestic LPG cylinder refills generally include 5% GST, which is already included in the cylinder price.The GST amount is reflected in the invoice issued by the LPG distributor when the connection is installed.Installation and Service Charges for HP Gas ConnectionDistributors may charge small service fees during the installation of a new HP Gas connection. These charges cover activities such as installation, documentation, and safety inspection.Charge Type/Service RenderedBase Tariff RateTotal Cost (Inclusive of 18% GST)Installation & Demonstration (SBC/DBC)₹100.00₹118.00Administrative/Documentation Folder Fee₹75.00₹75.00New DGCC Passbook Card Issuance₹50.00₹59.00Safety Mechanic Inspection (For Non-Agency Stove)₹200.00₹236.00These charges are generally standardised under HPCL guidelines.

Bharat Gas offers both domestic and commercial LPG connections across India through a wide distributor network. To obtain a new Bharat Gas connection, customers must pay a refundable security deposit for the cylinder and regulator, along with applicable installation and equipment charges.How Much does a New Bharat Gas Connection Cost in 2026?The total cost of a new Bharat Gas connection includes a refundable security deposit for the cylinder and regulator, along with applicable installation and service charges. Here's a quick overview:ParticularsDetailsSingle Cylinder Connection~₹3,500 – ₹3,900Double Cylinder Connection~₹5,700 – ₹6,10014.2 kg Cylinder Deposit₹2,200 (₹2,000 in North-Eastern States)Pressure Regulator Deposit₹250 (₹200 in North-Eastern States)Application ModeOnline & OfflineProcessing Time4–5 Business DaysLPG SubsidyAvailable for eligible consumersSecurity Deposit Refundable?YesBharat Gas New Connection Prices 2026: Product-wise DepositThe table below shows the security deposit amount for a single cylinder connection (SCC) for a new Bharat Gas connection.I. Domestic LPG Cylinder DepositProductSecurity Deposit14.2 kg Domestic LPG Cylinder₹2,20014.2 kg Domestic LPG Cylinder (North-Eastern States)₹2,0005 kg LPG Cylinder₹1,150Pressure Regulator₹250Pressure Regulator (North-Eastern States)₹200II. Commercial LPG Cylinder DepositProduct ProfileOfficial Refundable Security Deposit19 kg Commercial LPG Cylinder₹2,40019 kg Commercial LPG Cylinder with LOT Valve₹3,90047.5 kg Commercial LPG Cylinder₹4,90047.5 kg Commercial LPG Cylinder with LOT Valve₹6,400Commercial LOT Valve Assembly Unit₹1,500Note: All amounts listed are refundable security deposits and are returned to the consumer when the LPG connection is surrendered.Bharat Gas New Connection Double Cylinder PriceA double cylinder (DBC) connection provides one active cylinder and one standby, so supply is not interrupted while waiting for a refill.Estimated Deposit for Double Cylinder Connection (14.2 kg)ComponentDeposit AmountSecurity Deposit for First Cylinder₹2,200Security Deposit for Second Cylinder₹2,200Pressure Regulator Deposit₹250Total Cylinder & Regulator Deposit₹4,650Additional charges may include:LPG hose/accessories (optional)Cost of the first LPG refillInstallation or administrative charges depending on the distributorGST on Bharat Gas New Connection ChargesGST applies to specific components when taking a new Bharat Gas connection.GST on LPG refills: Domestic LPG cylinder refills are charged 5% GST.GST on services: Installation, stove inspection, mechanic visits, and similar services are charged 18% GST.Invoice details: The GST amount is included in the invoice issued by the Bharat Gas distributor.Single Cylinder vs Double Cylinder Bharat Gas ConnectionThe choice between a single-cylinder and double-cylinder connection affects both the upfront cost and the convenience of LPG usage.FeatureSingle Cylinder ConnectionDouble Cylinder ConnectionNumber of Cylinders12Initial CostLowerHigherConvenienceRefill wait requiredBackup cylinder availableBest ForSmall householdsFamilies with regular LPG usageInstallation and Service Charges for Bharat Gas ConnectionThe table below shows the standard service charges applicable for new connections and related services.Type of ServiceBase TariffAmount Inclusive of 18% GSTInstallation and Demonstration (SBC/DBC)₹100₹118Administrative / Documentation Charges₹75₹88.50LPG Stove Inspection (1 Burner)₹100₹118LPG Stove Inspection (2 Burners)₹150₹177LPG Stove Inspection (3 Burners)₹200₹236LPG Stove Inspection (4 Burners)₹250₹295Cooking Hob / Auto-Ignition Stove Inspection₹300₹354Issue of New DGCC Card (Passbook)₹50₹59Equipment Collection Charge (Termination Voucher)₹100₹118Note: These administrative and service charges are standardised by BPCL and include applicable GST.

Indian Oil Corporation Limited operates Indane LPG, one of India’s largest LPG distribution networks. When applying for a new Indane LPG connection, customers are required to pay certain security deposits and equipment charges.Key Highlights14.2 kg domestic cylinder deposit: ₹2,200 (₹2,000 in North-Eastern states).Pressure regulator deposit: ₹250 (₹200 in North-Eastern states).Additional equipment charges: LPG hose, accessories, and the cost of the first refill may apply.Final connection cost: Depends on the cylinder type (5 kg/14.2 kg), connection type (single or double cylinder), and LPG refill price in the city.Indane Gas New Connection Prices 2026: Product-wise DepositThe table below shows the refundable security deposit charges for LPG cylinders and related equipment when applying for a new Indane LPG connection.Product/EquipmentRefundable Security Deposit14.2 kg Domestic LPG Cylinder (Rest of India)₹2,20014.2 kg Domestic LPG Cylinder (North-Eastern States)₹2,0005 kg Domestic Steel LPG Cylinder₹1,1505 kg Composite LPG Cylinder₹2,20010 kg Composite LPG Cylinder₹3,00019 kg Commercial LPG Cylinder₹2,40019 kg Commercial LPG Cylinder with LOT Valve₹3,90047.5 kg Commercial LPG Cylinder₹4,90047.5 kg Commercial LPG Cylinder with LOT Valve₹6,400Pressure Regulator (Rest of India)₹250Pressure Regulator (North-Eastern States)₹200Suraksha LPG Hose (1.2 m)₹100Suraksha LPG Hose (1.5 m)₹190LOT Valve Assembly₹1,500The amount is refunded when the LPG connection is surrendered to the distributor, subject to applicable conditions.Note: These rates apply to a single-cylinder connection (SCC). Indane Gas New Connection Double Cylinder PriceA double-cylinder connection (DBC) allows customers to keep two LPG cylinders at home, one in use and the other as a backup. For a double-cylinder connection (DBC), an additional refundable security deposit for the second cylinder is charged at the same applicable rate.Estimated Deposit for Double Cylinder Connection (14.2 kg)ComponentDeposit AmountSecurity Deposit for First Cylinder₹2,200Security Deposit for Second Cylinder₹2,200Pressure Regulator Deposit₹250Total Cylinder & Regulator Deposit₹4,650Additional charges may include:Cost of the first LPG refillLPG hose/accessories (optional)Installation or administrative charges depending on the distributorIndane also offers lightweight composite LPG cylinders that are easier to handle and transport than traditional steel cylinders.5 kg Composite Cylinder Security Deposit: ₹2,20010 kg Composite Cylinder Security Deposit: ₹3,500While the initial security deposit is higher, refill prices are generally aligned with the applicable LPG refill rates for the respective cylinder category.New Connection Tariff: GST RuleWhen applying for a new LPG connection, GST is applicable on certain components included in the connection cost. The applicable GST depends on the type of product or service provided by the LPG distributor.LPG equipment such as pressure regulators, valves, and accessories are subject to GST as per applicable tax rates.Installation or service charges associated with a new LPG connection may attract 18% GST.Domestic LPG cylinder refills generally include 5% GST, which is already included in the cylinder price.The final GST amount is reflected in the invoice issued by the LPG distributor when the connection is installed.Indane Chhotu 5 kg LPG CylinderThe 5 kg Free Trade LPG (FTL) cylinder, popularly known as Indane Chhotu, is designed for students, migrant workers, small households and temporary users.Key features include:No permanent LPG connection required.No long-term security deposit.Suitable for temporary accommodation and rented premises.Easy portability due to compact size.Available through authorised Indane distributors and retail outlets.Installation and Service Charges for Indane Gas ConnectionDuring the installation of a new Indane LPG connection, distributors may charge small service fees for installation, documentation, and safety checks. These charges cover the cost of setting up the LPG connection and ensuring that the equipment is installed safely.Service/ChargeNon-PMUY CustomerPMUY BeneficiaryNew Connection Equipment Installation and Safety Demonstration₹118₹75DGCC (Blue Book) Issuance Charges₹59₹25Mechanic Inspection Charges for Non-Agency Hotplates₹236Not ApplicableMandatory 5-Year Safety Inspection and Cleaning Visit₹236₹59These charges are based on the prescribed tariff structure applicable to LPG distributors and are generally standardised across India.

Along with the Aadhaar card, the PAN card is one of the essential documents for Indian citizens. Sometimes it may not be possible to provide a physical card. In such instances, an e-PAN card comes in handy. You can download this document from the official website of the Income Tax Department. However, knowing the PAN card password is imperative before applying for an e-Pan card.Scroll down to get complete details about PAN card passwords, their format, and how to use them.What is a PAN Card Password?The PAN Card is a crucial document for Indian citizens as it is widely accepted as valid proof on several websites. However, if you have lost this document and want to avoid the hassle of going to the administrative office, you can apply for a duplicate PAN and download your e-PAN.