10 Major Changes to Expect in 2025 in India

As we step into the new year, several significant changes are set to impact various sectors in India. These reforms, regulations, and updates will affect everything from pensions and loans to technology and education. Here’s a look at the key changes expected to unfold in 2025:

1. Ease of Pension Withdrawal

In a move aimed at making pension withdrawals easier for senior citizens, from January 1, 2025, pensioners will be able to withdraw their pension from any bank without the need for verification. This change will eliminate the hassle of going through lengthy processes, making pension access more convenient.

2. UPI Payment Limit Increased

Currently, the UPI payment limit for feature phones is capped at ₹5,000. However, this limit will be increased to ₹10,000 starting in 2025. This change will enable users to make higher-value online transactions via UPI, enhancing its utility for daily transactions.

3. Farmers to Receive Loans Without Collateral

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) recently announced a scheme where farmers can access loans up to ₹2 lakh without the need for collateral. This scheme will come into effect from January 1, 2025, providing significant financial relief to farmers and encouraging agricultural growth.

4. Changes in Calling Recharge Plans

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has mandated telecom companies to offer separate voice and SMS packages. Additionally, starting in the first month of 2025, telecom companies will also provide calling recharge options that do not include data, offering more flexibility to customers.

5. Increase in Car Prices

Car prices in India are set to increase in 2025 due to rising material costs. Companies like Maruti, Hyundai, Tata, Kia, and MG have announced that vehicle prices will rise by 2-3% starting January 1. This increase will affect both passenger and commercial vehicles.

6. Changes in Cricket

In the world of cricket, 2025 may see the retirement of one of India’s most prominent players, Rohit Sharma. Speculation is rife that he may retire from Test cricket after the World Test Championship (WTC), marking the end of an era for Indian cricket fans.

7. New Rules for Children in Education

Starting in 2025, significant changes will occur in the Indian education system. Students in grades 5 and 8 who fail will not be promoted to the next class. Instead, they will be required to retake exams within two months to pass. Additionally, coaching centers will no longer admit children above the age of 16.

8. WhatsApp Will Not Work on Older Phones

From January 1, 2025, WhatsApp will no longer function on older Android phones running version 4.4 (KitKat) or earlier. WhatsApp’s new AI features will only work on Android 4.4 or higher, forcing users of older devices to update their phones or switch to newer models.

9. Foreign Degrees Available in India

Many students dream of studying abroad, but due to various reasons, this may not always be possible. In 2025, Indian and foreign universities will begin offering joint degree courses, allowing students to earn foreign degrees while studying in India.

10. Other Major Changes

The government is also expected to make changes in income tax and import-export duties in 2025. The full details will be announced in the Union Budget on February 1, and the changes will take effect from April 1. Additionally, there may be new pricing for both domestic and commercial gas cylinders.

These are just a few of the major changes expected in 2025, and they promise to reshape various aspects of life in India. Stay tuned for more updates as these policies unfold.

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