Delhi traders welcome postponement of UPI Merchant Discount Rate

The UPI and Services Steering Committee has decided to extend the deadline for implementing the Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI payments. Originally set for October 15, the implementation has been postponed until after Diwali.

Traders in Delhi have welcomed the decision, noting that the festive season brings increased footfall and a surge in digital transactions. Business representatives expressed concerns that additional fees during this peak period would place a significant economic burden on small shopkeepers and could ultimately lead to higher costs for consumers.

While merchant associations, including the Pamma Sadar Bazar Bari Market Traders Association and the Delhi Saree Mercantile Association, praised the relief, some leaders have called for the complete abolition of the MDR provision rather than a temporary postponement to prevent future financial difficulties for both merchants and customers.