A former journalist by profession, I live by the power of the written word. Specializing in personal finance, I simplify wealth planning for individuals looking to grow their money effectively. Beyond my work, I eagerly seize any opportunity to travel, exploring offbeat destinations and embracing new experiences.
A former journalist by profession, I live by the power of the written word. Specializing in personal finance, I simplify wealth planning for individuals looking to grow their money effectively. Beyond my work, I eagerly seize any opportunity to travel, exploring offbeat destinations and embracing new experiences.
A loan with the lowest personal loan interest rate can significantly reduce the borrowing cost and help fulfulling the financial needs like educxtation, healthcare, etc. The Interest rates may vary across banks and are based on factors such as credit score, income, employment profile, and repayment capacity.Lowest Rate: Starts from 8.75% p.a.Factors: Credit score, income, tenure, and employment affect rates.Types: Fixed and floating interest rates available.Types Of Personal Loan Interest RatesThere are mainly two different types of personal loan interest rates that are discussed below:Fixed Interest Rate: This interest rate includes a constant amount of interest levied by the respective bank on your loan. The value is decided based on factors such as tenure, repayment capacity, income generated, CIBIL score, etc. Variable Interest Rate: Also known as adjustable interest rate, this value keeps on changing throughout the tenure of loan, depending on factors such as inflation, benchmark rate, economic indicators and more. Factors Affecting Personal Loan Interest RateThe following are the factors affecting the Personal Loan Interest Rate:Location: Borrowers in metro cities often get lower rates due to better income stability and lower risk.Income Level: Higher-income individuals are seen as low-risk and usually receive better interest rates, and lower-income individuals tend to receive higher interest rates.Employment Type: Salaried employees with stable jobs often get lower rates than self-employed individuals with variable income.Credit Score: A score above 750 allows for lower interest rates, and applicants with poor credit may lead rejection.Loan Tenure: Shorter tenures may have higher rates but lower overall interest, whereas longer tenures reduce EMI but increase total interest paid.Loan Purpose: Special loan schemes ( for weddings or renovations) may offer better rates than general-purpose loans.Top Banks Offering Lowest Personal Loan Interest Rates In 2026The list of the top banks offering the lowest personal loan interest rates in 2026 are as follows:Popular BanksActual Base Interest Rate Range (2026)Bank of Maharashtra8.75% – 13.55% p.a.Canara Bank9.70% – 15.15% p.a.HDFC Bank9.99% – 24.00% p.a.ICICI Bank9.99% – 16.50% p.a.State Bank of India (SBI)10.00% – 15.00% p.a.Axis Bank9.99% – 22.00% p.a.Kotak Mahindra Bank9.99% – 36.00% p.a.Note: Interest rates are as of Sept 2, 2026, and are subject to change without prior notice.How To Calculate Personal Loan Interest Rate?The formula to consider for calculating the eProperly calculatingment (EMI) for a personal loan is:EMI = [P*R*(1+R) ^N] / [(1+R) ^N-1]Where EMI=Equated Monthly InstalmentP=principal amount R=monthly interest rate and N =number of monthly instalmentsPersonal Loan EMI CalculatorThe Cleartax Personal Loan EMI Calculator is an easy-to-use online tool that helps you calculate your equated monthly instalments (EMIs) when you opt for a personal loan. Enter the loan amount, tenure, and applicable interest rate to instantly determine the monthly EMI and the total interest payable over the loan tenure.How To Get Lowest Interest Rate On Personal Loan?If you are looking for how to get the lowest personal loan interest rate in India, follow the below-mentioned tips:Raise Your Credit Score: Banks and financial institutions provide the lowest interest rate on personal loans to individuals with a high credit score. Keep an Eye on Offers: Majority of banks provide special rates of interest to applicants to avail during festive occasions. This interest however remains for a limited time period only. Prevent Missed Repayments: Banks consider your repayment history before providing you a desired loan amount at competitive interest rates.
Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) is a secure and fast electronic method for transferring high-value funds. RTGS timings are 24/7, ensuring funds are transferred quickly. The RTGS transfer time is typically under 30 minutes. Users can initiate transactions anytime.Key HighlightsRTGS Availability: 24x7, including weekends and bank holidays.Transfer Speed: Real-time processing, typically completed within 30 minutes.Transaction Limit: No upper limit for fund transfers.Access Channels: Available via internet banking and mobile banking.Use Case: Suitable for high-value and time-sensitive transactions.RTGS Timings in 2026RTGS is available round the clock on all days, including weekends and bank holidays. Transfers can be initiated through online banking channels without visiting a branch.How Long does RTGS Transfer Take?RTGS transactions are processed in real time.
The 7th Pay Commission was a body established by the Government of India to introduce changes to the salary structure, pensions, and allowances of central government employees. It replaced the older system of pay bands and grade pay with a new pay matrix system. This includes raising the minimum salary to ₹18,000 and a new fitment factor of 2.57. Key Highlights 7th Pay Commission was set up to update the pay structure and benefits for central government employees and retirees.The beneficiaries include 33 lakh central government employees, 14 lakh armed forces personnel, and 52 lakh pensioners.Key changes include improvement in the current pay structure, changes in allowances, pension revisions, and revision in the fitment factor.Dearness Allowance increased from 58% to 60% (2% hike) effective January 2026, resulting in a monthly increase of ₹1,000 on a ₹50,000 basic salary.DA Hike 2026: Salary Impact for Central Government EmployeesOn April 18, 2026, the Union Cabinet approved a 2% increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) for central government employees and Dearness Relief (DR) for pensioners. This revision takes the total allowance to 60%, aimed at compensating for the rise in inflation over the past year.Impact on Pensioners and ArrearsThe 2% hike also applies to Dearness Relief (DR) for approximately 68.27 lakh pensioners. Like active employees, pensioners will receive a boost in their monthly payouts, with arrears paid for the period starting January 2026. A lump sum amount for the three-month delay (Jan–Mar 2026) is expected to be credited along with the April or May 2026 salary/pension.What is 7th Pay Commission Pay Matrix?The 7th Pay Commission introduced a simplified pay matrix to revise the salary structure for over 30 lakh central government employees, replacing the 6th CPC.
NPCI sets a standard UPI limit of ₹1 lakh per day, with up to 20 transactions. Select categories, such as tax payments, hospital bills, and education fees, that allow transfers of up to ₹5 lakh. However, individual banks may impose lower daily limits based on their security policies.Key HighlightsIdentity: A Virtual Payment Address (VPA) acts as a unique payment ID, keeping bank account details private.Limits: The daily UPI limit is usually ₹1 lakh, with up to ₹5 lakh allowed for select categories.Transactions: Most UPI apps allow up to 20 transactions per day.Security: New users or those resetting their UPI PIN have a ₹5,000 limit for the first 24 hours.Charges: Personal bank-to-bank UPI transfers are free, with no transaction fees for users.What Is VPA?A Virtual Payment Address (VPA) is a unique identifier that helps UPI to track a person’s account. It acts as an ID independent of your bank account number and other details. VPA is used to make and request payments through a UPI-enabled app. Example Of VPAA typical VPA looks like username@bankname or mobile@upi.geooorge@hdfcbankanjeliene25@oksbi123456789@axlHow do Transactions Work under VPA?A UPI payment is completed within seconds through a secure process involving the UPI app, bank, the recipient's bank, and the NPCI network.Step 1: When the users open the UPI app, enter the recipient's VPA, add the amount, and tap Send.
Updating KYC details is essential for secure banking and compliance with RBI regulations. ICICI Bank offers convenient online and offline options to complete the process. This guide explains the ICICI Bank KYC update process, required documents, and key details to keep your account active and secure.Key HighlightsMandatory Requirement: KYC updates are required under RBI rules to keep accounts active and secure.Multiple Channels: ICICI Bank allows KYC updates through iMobile Pay, Internet Banking, Video KYC, or branch visits.Email Updates: KYC updates via email are available only for NRI customers.Required Documents: Aadhaar card and PAN card are the key documents needed for KYC.Non-Compliance: Failure to update KYC may result in account restrictions or transaction freezes.What is KYC in ICICI Bank?KYC (Know Your Customer) is a mandatory verification process followed by banks to confirm the identity and address of customers.ICICI Bank may request customers to update KYC details in situations such as:Change in addressExpiry of officially valid documentsPeriodic KYC review mandated by RBIChange in mobile number or email IDRe-KYC requirements for existing customersWhy is it Important To Update KYC Information?Here are some of the reasons why it is essential to update the KYC information with ICICI Bank:The strict KYC procedure protects your bank account from identity theft, money laundering, terrorist financing, etc. ICICI Bank gets supplementary information on a customer's profile through this process. This helps the bank understand the profile and identify the risk factors.KYC updation enables a complete identity verification of the customer and beneficial owners of their associated businesses. Thus, it helps identify whether the individuals and organisations are legitimate or not.Banks can detect suspicious or unusual behaviours through active account activity and transaction monitoring.ICICI KYC Rules & RegulationsAll ICICI Bank customers must complete KYC within the due date.
RTGS limit refers to the minimum and maximum amount that can be transferred through the Real-Time Gross Settlement system, either per transaction or within a day. These RTGS limits vary based on the bank, account type, and transfer mode, helping manage high-value fund transfers securely.Key HighlightsMinimum Limit: RTGS transactions require a minimum amount of ₹2 lakh.Maximum Limit: No upper limit set by RBI; banks define their own caps.Per Day Limit: Varies based on bank, account type, and transfer mode.Use Case: Suitable for transferring large amounts securely and efficiently.Limit Increase: Can be requested through bank channels based on eligibility.What is RTGS Limit?RTGS limit defines the minimum and maximum amount that can be transferred through the RTGS system in a single transaction or within a day. These limits are set to regulate high-value transfers and vary based on the bank and account type.What is RTGS Minimum Limit?The minimum amount for an RTGS transaction is ₹2,00,000. It ensures the system is primarily used for high-value transfers, distinguishing it from other payment systems like NEFT, which handles smaller amounts. NEFT or IMPS are better alternatives for businesses and individuals requiring lower transfers.What is RTGS Maximum Limit?The RTGS maximum limit varies by bank and account type.
NTR Vidyonnathi Scheme 2026, a new scheme initiated by the Andhra Pradesh State government for students coming from backward classes in the state, provides monetary assistance and incentives to the students. This would enable students to pursue higher education without worrying about their money, thus paving the way for social upliftment. Eligible applicants can go to the website and apply to complete the online application process.What Is NTR Vidyonnathi SchemeThe newly elected Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh launched the NTR Vidyonnathi Scheme to offer financial support to students in the state. Selected applicants will receive INR 10,000 in financial assistance for expenses such as books, stationery, and lodging directly transferred to the student's bank accounts. This initiative aims to ease the financial burden on students, allowing them to focus on their studies and pursue their dreams of quality education and career growth.NTR Vidyonnathi Scheme Key ObjectivesThe primary goal of the NTR Vidyonnathi Scheme is to provide financial support to students who aspire to pursue higher education but face financial constraints. This scheme is specifically designed for students belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC). The financial assistance will be disbursed in two instalments— the first after the institute verifies the student’s report and the second upon completing the coaching program.
Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) is the health insurance component of Ayushman Bharat. It provides eligible beneficiaries with cashless health coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary hospitalisation. The scheme covers economically vulnerable families identified through government databases and, since September 2024, all senior citizens aged 70 years and above irrespective of income.PMJAY OverviewParticularsDetailsScheme NameAyushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY)Launch Date23 September 2018Coverage AmountUp to ₹5 lakh per family per yearBeneficiaries55 crore+Ayushman Cards Issued44 crore+Empanelled Hospitals36,000+Treatment Packages1,900+Coverage AreaAll 28 States and 8 Union TerritoriesSenior Citizen CoverageAll citizens aged 70+What is Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana?Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) was launched under the Ayushman Bharat initiative (Ayushman card) to improve access to affordable healthcare and reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses. The scheme provides financial protection against hospitalisation costs and enables eligible beneficiaries to receive cashless treatment at empanelled public and private hospitals across India.PMJAY is jointly implemented by the Central Government and State Governments through insurance and trust-based models. It is one of the world's largest government-funded health assurance programmes.Ayushman Bharat PMJAY Coverage in IndiaAyushman Bharat PMJAY is now operational across all 28 States and 8 Union Territories in India.Recent implementation milestones include:Odisha joined PMJAY in January 2025.Delhi implemented PMJAY in April 2025.West Bengal joined PMJAY in June 2026.The scheme currently covers more than 55 crore beneficiaries and supports cashless treatment through a network of over 36,000 empanelled hospitals.Features of Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) is designed to provide financial protection against hospitalisation expenses while improving access to quality healthcare across India.World's Largest Government-Funded Health Scheme: PMJAY is one of the largest publicly funded health assurance programmes globally, covering more than 55 crore beneficiaries across India.Comprehensive Health Coverage: Provides cashless health insurance coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary hospitalisation.Extensive Hospital Network: Beneficiaries can access treatment at 36,000+ empanelled public and private hospitals across all 28 States and 8 Union Territories.Coverage for Pre-existing Diseases: All pre-existing medical conditions are covered from the first day of enrolment without any waiting period.Cashless and Paperless Treatment: Eligible beneficiaries can receive treatment without making upfront payments at empanelled hospitals.No Family Size Restriction: There is no cap on the number of family members, age, or gender under eligible PMJAY households.Coverage of 1,900+ Treatment Packages: The scheme covers a wide range of medical and surgical procedures across specialities such as cardiology, oncology, orthopaedics, nephrology, and neurosurgery.Pre and Post-Hospitalisation Benefits: Coverage includes medical expenses incurred up to 3 days before hospitalisation and 15 days after discharge, including medicines and diagnostic tests.Nationwide Portability: Beneficiaries can avail cashless treatment at any empanelled hospital across India, regardless of their state of residence.Comprehensive Hospitalisation Coverage: PMJAY covers room charges, ICU expenses, surgeon and physician fees, medicines, diagnostic tests, operating theatre charges, implants, and other treatment-related costs.Financial Protection Against Medical Expenses: The scheme aims to reduce catastrophic healthcare expenditure and improve access to quality treatment for economically vulnerable households.Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana Registration (Apply Online)Following is a step-by-step guide on how to register for the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana: Step 1: Visit the official PMJAY website.Step 2: Click the 'Am I Eligible' tab from the top menu.Step 3: Fill in the captcha code, mobile number, and OTP for verification.Step 4: Fill in the same captcha and click 'Login'Step 5: Select your state, district, and search criteria, then fill in all the detailsStep 6: Your name will appear in the results if your family is eligible.Step 7: If you do not have a PMJAY card, then click on the 'Apply' button under the column 'Action'Step 8: Then authenticate your Aadhaar card through OTP received at your registered mobile number and fill in all the other required detailsStep 9: Your Ayushman Bharat Yojana registration will be complete.PMJAY Hospital List PDF downloadAfter you register for the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, you can get cashless treatment for various diseases and procedures at any private or public hospitals empanelled under the PMJAY.
Real Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) in Bank of India is used for transferring high-value funds between bank accounts across India. For branch-based transfers, the RTGS form needs to be filled and submitted. The form can be collected at the branch or downloaded online.Key HighlightsMinimum Amount: ₹2 lakh and above for RTGS transfers.Processing Type: Transactions are settled in real time.Charges (Branch): ₹25 for ₹2–5 lakh and ₹49 for higher amounts.Online Option: Available through internet and mobile banking.Availability: Online RTGS is available 24×7; branch timing applies for offline.What is The Bank Of India RTGS Form?The Bank of India RTGS form is filled when a high-value transfer is initiated through a branch. It includes the necessary information required for processing, such as sender details, beneficiary account details, IFSC code, and transfer amount.How to Download the Bank Of India RTGS Form?You can get a physical Bank of India RTGS form by visiting your nearest bank branch and requesting a remit application form. Alternatively, you can go to the bank's official website and download this form by following these steps:Navigate to the Downloads section from the Bank of India official website.Open Digital Transaction & Forex Forms.Select the RTGS/NEFT Application Form.Download the PDF and take a printout.Bank Of India RTGS Form PDF DownloadFor convenience, customers opting for RTGS fund transfers may download the Bank of India RTGS form pdf online.
The Real Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) facility in Punjab National Bank is used for high-value fund transfers across India. Customers who choose branch-based transfers need to fill and submit the PNB RTGS form, which can be collected from the branch or downloaded online.Key HighlightsMinimum Transfer: ₹2 lakh required for RTGS transactions.Transfer Mode: Available via PNB One app, net banking, or branch submission.Charges (Branch): Around ₹25 for ₹2–5 lakh and ₹50 for higher amounts (excluding GST).Processing Speed: Funds are transferred in real time once initiated.What is the PNB RTGS Form?The PNB RTGS form is used to record the details required for processing a high-value transfer at the branch. It includes information such as sender details, beneficiary account details, IFSC code, transfer amount, and authorization.Once the form is submitted and verified, the transaction is processed immediately. Customers who do not want to use a physical form can opt for online RTGS through digital banking channels.How to Download the PNB RTGS Form?Here’s how you can download the PNB RTGS form PDF:On the homepage of official website of Punjab National Bank, click ‘Download Forms’ in the top menu. Among the list of forms provided for various purposes, find the RTGS form and click on the PDF link. You will get a PDF copy of the PNB RTGS form which you can print.How to Fill the PNB RTGS Form?The form has two parts, including a customer copy and the main application section.Enter the date and transfer amount (in numbers and words).Select RTGS as the mode of transfer.Fill sender details: name, account number, bank and branch details.Enter beneficiary details: name, bank name, branch, IFSC code, and account number.Add cheque details if payment is being made through cheque.Review all details carefully.Sign the form and provide contact details.Once your request gets approved, the bank will transfer the required funds to your chosen beneficiary. PNB RTGS Form SignatureYour signature must match the one registered with Punjab National Bank.