Train booking, credit card, LPG: Many rules changing from November 1

Starting November 1, a series of significant changes will impact people's daily life across India. These changes mark a pivotal shift in various sectors, and being well-informed will enable citizens to navigate these updates effectively. These updates span various sectors, particularly financial regulations, including a key new rule from the RBI governing domestic money transfers.

Staying informed about these developments is essential for effective financial planning and compliance. Here’s a breakdown of the most notable changes to look out for.

Commercial LPG cylinder prices go up

Oil marketing companies have announced an increase in the prices of commercial LPG gas cylinders, effective today. The cost of a 19-kg commercial LPG cylinder has risen by ₹62, bringing the retail price in Delhi to ₹1,802. The price of 5-kg FTL cylinders has gone up by ₹15, while the rates for 14.2-kg cylinders remain unchanged.

SBI credit card updates

Today, SBI Card, part of the State Bank of India, is bringing in crucial changes, particularly in utility bill payments and finance charges.

Finance charges for unsecured SBI credit cards will rise to 3.75% per month. A new fee of 1% will be applied to utility payments exceeding ₹50,000 in a billing cycle, effective December 1.

ICICI Bank credit card fee 

ICICI Bank is also revamping its credit card fee structure and its rewards programmes, which will impact various services, including insurance, grocery purchases, and airport lounge access. These changes take effect from November 15 and include the discontinuation of spa benefits, elimination of fuel surcharge waivers for spends over ₹100,000, and adjustments to late payment fees.

New domestic money transfer

The RBI's new guidelines for Domestic Money Transfers (DMT) will take effect on November 1. This initiative aims to enhance security in domestic money transfers and ensure compliance with updated financial regulations.

In a circular, the RBI noted, “There has been a significant increase in the availability of banking outlets and the ease of fulfilling KYC requirements... users now have multiple digital options for funds transfer.”

Advance train ticket booking 

The Indian Railways has announced a reduction in the booking period for train tickets, which will now be limited to 60 days instead of the previous 120 days. This rule will apply from November 1, but will not affect passengers who have already secured their tickets.

Indian Bank’s  fixed deposit rates

Investors have until November 30, 2024, to take advantage of Indian Bank's special fixed deposit scheme, which offers attractive interest rates. The bank will provide 7.05% for the general public, 7.55% for senior citizens, and 7.80% for super senior citizens on deposits for 300 days. For a 400-day term, the rates are 7.25%, 7.75%, and 8.00%, respectively.

According to the bank’s website, “The special retail term deposit product 'IND SUPER 400 DAYS' offers higher interest rates for investments starting from ₹10,000 up to ₹3 crore.”

Mobile phone message traceability regulation

Telecom companies will implement new regulations from November 1 to enhance message traceability in a bid to combat spam and fraud. This new measure will monitor the origin of both transactional and promotional messages, effectively blocking those that do not meet traceability standards.

These changes mark a pivotal shift in various sectors, and being well-informed will enable citizens to navigate these updates effectively.

(By arrangement with livemint.com)