Withdraw MDR charges on UPI transactions in India
The Issue
As a frequent user of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), I have experienced firsthand the convenience of this revolutionary digital payment system. However, the recent imposition of Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) charges on UPI transactions is a step back from the progress India has made towards a cashless economy.
UPI has empowered millions of Indians by making financial transactions fast, secure, and accessible. It has especially benefitted small businesses, students, and daily wage earners who prefer to use this hassle-free method for everything from buying groceries to paying tuition fees. Imposing MDR charges not only burdens users but also threatens the vibrant digital ecosystem that has been thriving without such fees.
To put things into perspective, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) reported over 10 billion transactions on the UPI platform in August 2023 alone, illustrating its widespread popularity. Imagine the financial strain on individuals and merchants if each transaction attracted a charge? This could deter users from utilizing digital payments, pushing people back towards cash transactions—an outcome contrary to the national push for a Digital India.
Countries like China have successfully implemented free digital transactions, setting an example that India can follow. Removing MDR charges altogether can foster more significant digital adoption and financial inclusion, a goal that our government has consistently advocated.
In tackling this issue, we urge policymakers, the Reserve Bank of India, and involved stakeholders to withdraw the MDR charges on UPI transactions immediately. This simple action can fortify India's commitment to becoming a leading digital economy.
By signing this petition, you support a fair and equitable digital transaction system that continues to empower millions of Indians without any undue financial burden. Join us in calling for the removal of these charges to ensure UPI remains a free and accessible payment solution for all.
Sign this petition to support a truly cashless and inclusive digital economy in India.
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The Issue
As a frequent user of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), I have experienced firsthand the convenience of this revolutionary digital payment system. However, the recent imposition of Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) charges on UPI transactions is a step back from the progress India has made towards a cashless economy.
UPI has empowered millions of Indians by making financial transactions fast, secure, and accessible. It has especially benefitted small businesses, students, and daily wage earners who prefer to use this hassle-free method for everything from buying groceries to paying tuition fees. Imposing MDR charges not only burdens users but also threatens the vibrant digital ecosystem that has been thriving without such fees.
To put things into perspective, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) reported over 10 billion transactions on the UPI platform in August 2023 alone, illustrating its widespread popularity. Imagine the financial strain on individuals and merchants if each transaction attracted a charge? This could deter users from utilizing digital payments, pushing people back towards cash transactions—an outcome contrary to the national push for a Digital India.
Countries like China have successfully implemented free digital transactions, setting an example that India can follow. Removing MDR charges altogether can foster more significant digital adoption and financial inclusion, a goal that our government has consistently advocated.
In tackling this issue, we urge policymakers, the Reserve Bank of India, and involved stakeholders to withdraw the MDR charges on UPI transactions immediately. This simple action can fortify India's commitment to becoming a leading digital economy.
By signing this petition, you support a fair and equitable digital transaction system that continues to empower millions of Indians without any undue financial burden. Join us in calling for the removal of these charges to ensure UPI remains a free and accessible payment solution for all.
Sign this petition to support a truly cashless and inclusive digital economy in India.
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Petition created on 17 September 2026