Blog

MARS Cosmetics Expands Offline Footprint with 45th Exclusive Brand Outlet Kiosk in Mumbai

MARS Cosmetics, one of India’s fastest-growing beauty brands, has strengthened its offline retail presence with the launch of its 45th Exclusive Brand Outlet (EBO) kiosk at Mumbai’s Lake Shore Mall (formerly Viviana Mall). The opening marks another key milestone in the brand’s aggressive brick-and-mortar expansion strategy.

The newly launched kiosk reflects MARS Cosmetics’ vision of creating high-impact retail spaces driven by consumer experience. These outlets are designed to help customers discover, test, and connect with the brand’s wide range of affordable luxury makeup, curated for diverse Indian skin tones. As beauty consumers increasingly seek trial-based experiences—especially in color cosmetics—MARS continues to view physical retail as a crucial driver of trust, engagement, and conversions.

Alongside its growing network of Exclusive Brand Outlet kiosks, MARS Cosmetics has also established strong partnerships with leading modern trade and beauty retail chains, including Health & Glow, Dabur NewU, Pantaloons, Shoppers Stop, and Lulu Blush. This dual strategy of brand-owned formats and large-scale retail collaborations has enabled the company to build a robust omni-channel presence, balancing reach, visibility, and a consistent consumer experience.

Commenting on the expansion, Pushpa Kandpal, Senior Manager – EBO Operations & Expansion at MARS Cosmetics, said, “Offline retail remains one of the most important channels for beauty purchases in India, especially for makeup where trial and shade discovery are essential. Our Exclusive Brand Outlets allow us to showcase our complete product range while directly engaging with consumers. The launch of our 45th EBO in Mumbai reflects the strong response we are receiving across markets and reinforces our commitment to offering high-quality, luxury makeup at affordable prices across India.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by MARS Cosmetics (@reachedmars)

The brand is witnessing strong momentum in offline growth, driven largely by rising demand in metro and Tier-1 cities. MARS Cosmetics aims to expand its footprint to 60 Exclusive Brand Outlets nationwide by the end of the current financial year, underlining its confidence in physical retail as a long-term growth engine, even as digital commerce continues to scale rapidly.

With a strong consumer-first approach, MARS Cosmetics continues to adapt to the evolving preferences of Indian makeup users by launching new products, ensuring wider accessibility, and maintaining affordable pricing, all while steadily expanding its retail presence across the country.

January 22, 2026
Samsung Galaxy S26 Release Date, Sale Date & Models Confirmed in Latest Leak

Samsung Galaxy S26 Leaks: What We Know So Far

Samsung is gearing up to launch its next flagship smartphone lineup, the Galaxy S26 series. This year, the company is expected to introduce three models: Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26 Plus, and Galaxy S26 Ultra.

According to reports from Korean media, Samsung is still finalising pricing for the series. Rising costs of memory and chip components are putting pressure on margins, which could lead the company to rethink its usual launch offers and discounts. As a result, buyers are closely watching the launch timeline and expected features.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Release Date: When Is It Launching?

Recent leaks suggest that the Samsung Galaxy S26 will be unveiled on February 25, 2026. The Galaxy Unpacked event is expected to begin at 7 PM CET, which translates to 10 AM PT and 11 PM IST.

As per Dealabs, the Galaxy S26 lineup is likely to go on sale from March 11 in major global markets. This fits Samsung’s usual strategy of launching phones roughly 14–16 days after the official announcement.

One unusual detail is the release day. Samsung typically launches its phones on Fridays, but March 11 falls on a Wednesday. This shift is reportedly linked to Samsung dropping plans for the Galaxy S26 Edge and returning to a traditional three-model lineup.

Galaxy S26 Lineup Confirmed: No Edge or Pro Model

Samsung Colombia has confirmed that only three models will be launched: Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26 Plus, and Galaxy S26 Ultra. Earlier rumours suggesting a “Pro” variant replacing the base model now appear to be incorrect.

The Plus model remains part of the lineup, as the Edge concept reportedly failed to gain enough traction with consumers.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus Specs: What Changes Are Coming?

Major upgrades are not expected for the Galaxy S26 Plus. Reports from The Elec indicate that the device will feature a 6.66-inch display, slightly smaller than the 6.7-inch screen found on the Galaxy S25 Plus.

Samsung had considered using a new OLED panel originally developed for the cancelled Edge model, but ultimately opted for a more familiar approach. Overall, the phone is expected to closely resemble its predecessor in design and feel.

Improvements are likely to focus on refinement rather than reinvention, with modest gains in display efficiency, battery optimisation, and performance.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Price: What Buyers Should Expect

The biggest concern surrounding the Galaxy S26 series is pricing. Global memory prices are rising, and Samsung executives have acknowledged that no manufacturer is immune to these cost pressures.

Even if Samsung keeps the Galaxy S26 Ultra priced around $1,300 (approximately ₹1,18,800), customers may notice fewer benefits. Popular launch offers such as heavy trade-in discounts, deep price cuts, and “double storage” pre-order deals could be reduced or removed altogether.

In short, while the sticker price may remain similar, buyers could end up paying more overall due to fewer promotional offers.

January 21, 2026
Devbhoomi Uttarakhand’s Spiritual Splendor Highlights Jyoti Kalash Yatra Centenary
Haridwar | January 20: As part of the Centenary Celebrations, a grand and spiritually vibrant procession of the Jyoti Kalash Yatra was organized on Tuesday, drawing devotees and cultural representatives from across India and abroad. A total of 58 Jyoti Kalash Yatras, which had journeyed through various parts of India and countries including the USA, Japan, Canada, and Nepal, reached Gayatri Tirtha, Shantikunj, marking a historic moment in the celebrations.

Morning Rituals and Flag-Off Ceremony

The day began with a ceremonial stage program at Shantikunj. The Head of All World Gayatri Parivar, Shradheya Shaildidi, along with Swami Hari Chetananand Ji Maharaj, Centenary Celebration Leader Dr. Chinmay Pandya, and Head of Mahila Mandal, Smt. Shefali Pandya, performed worship and Vedic rituals.

Following the sacred ceremony, Dr. Chinmay Pandya formally flagged off the Jyoti Kalash procession, setting the tone for a spiritually charged and culturally rich event.

Devbhoomi Uttarakhand Tableau Enchants Devotees

A major highlight of the procession was the magnificent and divine tableau of “Devbhoomi Uttarakhand”, specially designed by Shantikunj for the Jyoti Kalash Yatra. Reflecting the spiritual dignity, Himalayan heritage, and rich folk traditions of Uttarakhand, the tableau offered a vivid portrayal of the state’s godly culture and deep-rooted spiritual consciousness.

As the tableau advanced, devotees were visibly moved—many bowed in reverence while the surroundings echoed with chants, applause, and devotional fervor.

A Living Epic of India’s Cultural Unity

The Jyoti Kalash Yatra emerged as a living epic of India’s cultural unity, featuring folk performances from multiple states:

Chhattisgarh: Tribal folk dancers presented a soulful performance reflecting simplicity, vitality, and harmony with nature. The rhythmic beats of Dhol and Mandar brought tribal traditions to life.

Gujarat: The traditional Talwar Rathwa Ni Gher dance symbolized valor, bravery, and discipline, captivating the audience with powerful sword movements.

Odisha: The Dakul dance showcased folk faith and cultural depth through distinctive costumes and symbolic expressions.

Madhya Pradesh: The vibrant Bhagoria and Bhadam-Gaur dances stood out for their energy, joy, and celebration of folk life.

The procession was filled with colorful attire, traditional musical instruments, and synchronized dance rhythms, creating an atmosphere of collective joy and celebration.

Reflections on Cultural and Spiritual Harmony

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Chinmay Pandya emphasized that these cultural presentations from different states serve as a powerful medium for spiritual awakening, cultural integration, and national harmony.

He stated that when the heartbeat of folk culture merges with the divine light (Jyoti), the journey transforms into a living celebration of India’s soul and civilizational unity.

Presence of Distinguished Guests

The procession witnessed the participation of several prominent dignitaries, including Lord Krish Raval and Lord Mandelson from London, along with volunteers from across India. Numerous distinguished industrialists and members of the media were also present, adding to the significance of the occasion.
January 20, 2026
Simandhar Education Brings Global Accounting Certifications into Undergraduate Classrooms
Strategic Academic Partnership for Global Accounting Careers

U.S. CPA and EA preparation integrated into B.Com, BBA and allied undergraduate programs

First-of-its-kind initiative in Hyderabad embedding global accounting certifications within an undergraduate degree framework

Addresses gaps in international curriculum exposure and strengthens global career pathways for commerce students

Aligned with NEP 2020 and India’s growing demand for internationally benchmarked finance professionals

National | 20 January 2026: MoU Signed to Integrate U.S. CPA and EA Pathways into Undergraduate Education Simandhar Education, a leading India-based provider of global accounting and finance certifications, and EThames Business School, Hyderabad—ranked 7th in South India—have signed a strategic academic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The partnership integrates the U.S. Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Enrolled Agent (EA) pathways into EThames’ B.Com, BBA and allied undergraduate programs, enabling students to pursue globally recognised U.S.-based accounting and taxation credentials alongside their degree.

A First for Hyderabad’s Undergraduate Business Education

This collaboration marks the first time a business school in Hyderabad has formally embedded CPA and EA preparation within an undergraduate academic framework. The integrated model runs alongside existing degree programs, offering structured exposure to international accounting and U.S. taxation content during the undergraduate years.

Bridging the International Curriculum Gap

The initiative addresses a long-standing gap in India’s undergraduate commerce education, where students often graduate with limited exposure to international accounting standards and global taxation frameworks. By aligning CPA and EA coursework with B.Com and BBA curricula, students gain early and continuous engagement with global frameworks—rather than pursuing them only after graduation.

Industry Perspective: Building Future-Ready Finance Careers

Sripal Jain, CA, US CPA, Co-Founder, Simandhar Education, said the partnership reflects a fundamental shift in finance career building in the AI era.
“Automation is rapidly changing entry-level accounting roles, and degrees alone are no longer sufficient. By integrating globally benchmarked CPA and EA pathways at the undergraduate level, students graduate with skills that are relevant, portable and valued across global finance ecosystems—while gaining clarity and direction much earlier in their careers.”

Integrated Academic Support and Mentoring

Under the MoU, students will receive integrated academic support, structured mentoring, and exam preparation aligned with CPA and EA requirements, along with academic advising on professional certification pathways. The initiative supports career interests across accounting, taxation, financial reporting and related professional services.

Institutional Commitment to Global Readiness

Kali Prasad Gadiraju, Chairman, EThames Business School, said,
“This collaboration goes beyond conventional degree structures. By integrating globally recognised accounting pathways into our undergraduate programs, we are enabling students to build international career readiness alongside their academic journey and meet the evolving expectations of global employers.”

MoU Signing and NEP 2020 Alignment

The MoU signing ceremony was held at the EThames Hyderabad campus in the presence of leadership teams from both institutions. Students will gain access to Simandhar’s learning resources, faculty-led training and mentoring. The initiative aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 by strengthening skill integration and industry–academia collaboration at the undergraduate level.

About Simandhar Education

Simandhar Education is a leading India-based professional education company specialising in global accounting and finance certifications, including U.S. CPA, U.S. CMA and Enrolled Agent (EA). The organisation bridges Indian academic pathways with international career opportunities through expert faculty, official study materials, mentoring and placement support.

About EThames Business School

EThames Business School, Hyderabad, is a leading institution offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs in management and commerce. Ranked among the higher-tier business schools in South India, EThames emphasises industry-aligned education, practical exposure and outcome-driven learning for national and international careers.
January 20, 2026
Why Rocking Star Yash’s promotion history sets him apart in today’s star culture

When it comes to promoting his films, Rocking Star Yash has backed them with a conviction so fierce that promotion becomes personal. Long before curated Instagram drops, global PR machinery, and carefully orchestrated publicity blitzes became the norm, Yash was already rewriting the rulebook by quite literally taking cinema to the streets.

Years ago, he became one of the earliest Kannada actors to travel to the USA to promote Gajakesari, signalling his intent to take regional cinema to a global audience much before it became an industry trend.

Amidst his global promotional spree, the internet has unearthed reminders of where this fearless approach began. An old image from Modalasala (2010) has resurfaced, and it speaks volumes. In the photograph, a casually dressed Yash is seen standing inside a public bus, pamphlets in hand, personally introducing passengers to his film. It’s a snapshot of a time when promotion meant rolling up your sleeves and doing the groundwork yourself.

Equally striking is a video from 2009, now widely shared, which shows a young Yash driving an auto rickshaw across the city to promote Kallara Santhe, turning heads, starting conversations, and making cinema impossible to ignore.

That same instinct followed him as his career scaled new heights. When KGF was taking shape, it was Yash who spearheaded the idea of mounting the film as a pan-India spectacle, envisioning its scale and reach well beyond regional boundaries. He didn’t stop at ideation alone – Yash also took the onus of personally promoting the film across the country, travelling city to city to ensure Kannada cinema announced itself on a national stage with conviction and confidence. At a time when pan-India releases were still the exception, Yash was already doing the legwork, laying the groundwork for what would soon become an industry-wide movement.

And if Yash’s past and present are anything to go by, the future is set to be a spectacle of promotion. Much of the same relentless scale, ambition, and no-holds-barred conviction is now expected from his upcoming projects – Toxic: A Fairytale For Grown-ups and Ramayana, two films that already feel like cultural events in the making.

With Toxic, Yash is set to unveil an edgier avatar—one that promises to redefine the grammar of mass cinema. Meanwhile, Ramayana will see him step into the role of Ravana, carrying the weight of epic storytelling on a scale Indian cinema has rarely attempted. Industry buzz is already pointing towards both projects being strong contenders for the coveted ₹1000-crore club, underlining the unprecedented scale at which they are mounted.

January 20, 2026
Tara Sutaria Champions Sustainable Style at SENNES Kolkata Launch

SENNES, the contemporary lifestyle brand from the House of Senco, marked its much-anticipated entry into Kolkata with a glamorous, high-energy launch celebration. The evening was graced by brand muse and Bollywood actor Tara Sutaria, whose presence added star power and elegance to the unveiling of a new chapter in conscious, modern luxury.

Rooted in the rich legacy of the House of Senco, SENNES reimagines luxury for today’s mindful consumer. The brand seamlessly blends refined design with responsibility—championing sustainability, ethical sourcing, and thoughtful craftsmanship. SENNES’ Lab-Grown Diamond (LGD) creations reflect eco-forward innovation and a progressive approach to luxury, while its leather range is built on responsible sourcing, cruelty-free processes, and environmentally conscious practices. Completing the portfolio, the perfume collection is designed to deliver refined sensorial experiences that echo the brand’s commitment to conscious elegance.

The Kolkata launch brought together industry leaders, fashion insiders, media, and the city’s leading tastemakers for an immersive brand experience. From curated displays to contemporary design narratives, the event showcased how SENNES caters to discerning consumers who seek style, substance, and sustainability—without compromise.

Sharing her association with the brand, Tara Sutaria said, “What truly drew me to SENNES is its commitment to sustainability while remaining effortlessly stylish. It represents a new generation of luxury that is thoughtful, responsible, and beautifully crafted. I’m delighted to be part of a brand that values both design and purpose.”

Speaking on the occasion, Joita Sen, Director – Head of Marketing and Designs, House of Senco, added, “SENNES is an expression of modern luxury that is deeply rooted in responsibility and craftsmanship. With our Kolkata launch, we wanted to create an experience that captures the soul of the brand—where sustainable innovation, contemporary design, and meaningful storytelling come together. This celebration reflects SENNES’ ethos of conscious elegance and our vision for a new-age luxury brand that resonates with today’s mindful consumer while carrying forward the legacy of the House of Senco.”

She further noted that the Kolkata launch signifies more than a market entry—it represents a broader movement toward conscious luxury driven by innovation, transparency, and timeless aesthetics.

With SENNES, the House of Senco expands its legacy beyond traditional categories, offering thoughtfully designed products for environmentally aware, style-forward consumers. The Kolkata debut marks a key milestone in SENNES’ journey to shape the future of sustainable luxury in India—where responsibility meets refined craftsmanship across every category.

About SENNES

SENNES is a new-age lifestyle brand from the House of Senco, founded on the pillars of sustainability, ethical sourcing, and contemporary design. Spanning Lab-Grown Diamonds, responsibly crafted leather, and a curated perfume collection, SENNES represents the future of luxury—conscious, elegant, and rooted in a legacy of craftsmanship.

January 19, 2026
Junglee Pictures Collaborates with Raj Kumar Gupta for Upcoming Tentpole Theatrical Film

Junglee Pictures has announced an exciting collaboration with acclaimed writer-director Raj Kumar Gupta for an ambitious tentpole theatrical film to be helmed by him. The project brings together two creative powerhouses celebrated for crafting compelling, rooted narratives that connect strongly with audiences on a large scale.

Raj Kumar Gupta, one of the most versatile filmmakers in Indian cinema, is best known for hard-hitting and commercially successful films such as Raid, Raid 2, No One Killed Jessica, and Aamir. With Raid 2 ranking among the top 10 highest-grossing theatrical releases of 2025, Gupta has further cemented his reputation for delivering impactful stories grounded in realism, sharp observation, and high emotional intensity, while retaining strong mass appeal. His distinctive storytelling sensibility aligns seamlessly with Junglee Pictures’ creative ethos.

Over the years, Junglee Pictures has built an impressive and diverse filmography, championing meaningful, disruptive storytelling across genres. Since its inception with Dil Dhadakne Do, the studio has delivered blockbuster, superhit, and critically acclaimed films including Badhaai Ho, Raazi, Talvar, Badhaai Do, and Bareilly Ki Barfi. More recently, Junglee Pictures’ 2025 releases—Haq and the Malayalam film Ronth—received widespread acclaim across theatrical and streaming platforms, reinforcing the studio’s commitment to content-driven cinema.

The yet-untitled film has completed its scripting phase, with casting set to begin shortly. The project is expected to deliver a gripping and intense narrative, staying true to Raj Kumar Gupta’s signature style while pushing creative and emotional boundaries.

Commenting on the collaboration, Vineet Jain, Managing Director, The Times Group, said,
“Junglee Pictures has always focused on backing distinctive, relatable stories with lasting cultural value. Collaborating with Raj reflects our intent to partner with filmmakers who strengthen our slate through purposeful, impact-driven cinema. This film will be a true tentpole for Junglee—bold, impactful, and deeply rooted in realism.”

Director Raj Kumar Gupta shared his thoughts, stating,
“I have always been drawn to stories grounded in reality that also connect with audiences on a larger canvas. This film is envisioned as a hard-hitting, immersive, and engaging theatrical experience. Junglee Pictures has a strong legacy of supporting thoughtful, content-led cinema, making this collaboration feel like a natural fit. I’m truly excited to work with the team.”

Producing partner Myra Karn added,
“Junglee Pictures brings together heart, vision, and fearless storytelling. Their bold, innovative approach combined with Raj Kumar Gupta’s unflinching narrative style makes this collaboration truly special. I am honoured to be part of this journey.”

While further details remain under wraps, the film promises a compelling cinematic experience that blends narrative depth with broad audience appeal, reinforcing the strengths of both Junglee Pictures and Raj Kumar Gupta in delivering impactful mainstream cinema.

January 19, 2026
Young Literary Prodigy Abhijita Gupta Unveils Her Fourth Book “Mark of the Keeper: Veil of Light” at World Book Fair 2026

New Delhi, January, 2026: Young author and child prodigy Abhijita Gupta launched her fourth book, Mark of the Keeper: Veil of Light, at the World Book Fair 2026 on Saturday. The book was unveiled at the Author’s Corner at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, in the presence of readers, literary enthusiasts, and members of the media.

Abhijita Gupta’s journey as a writer began at the age of seven, when she became a published author. She has since written several widely appreciated books, including We Will Surely Sustain, To Begin with the Little Things, and Happiness Is All Around Us. Known for her thoughtful narratives and socially conscious themes, she has earned five national and international records, emerging as one of the most promising young voices in contemporary literature.

The book was launched at the New Delhi World Book Fair (NDWBF) 2026, a premier publishing event held for over 53 years, organised by the National Book Trust, India, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

Her achievements have been recognised on prestigious national and global platforms. In 2022, Abhijita was the only child from the field of literature to be honoured at the Global Child Prodigy Awards in Dubai, where she received the accolade from Nobel Laureate Sir Richard J. Roberts. She has also been named among the 40 Inspiring Youth by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and featured in the iconic Mauka Hai song released during Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, alongside Olympic medallists and other eminent personalities.

The launch of Mark of the Keeper: Veil of Light also highlights Abhijita’s rich literary heritage. She is the great granddaughter of Rashtrakavi Shri Maithilisharan Gupt and Santkavi Shri Siyaramsharan Gupt, both revered as National Poets of India. This lineage, combined with her own prodigious talent, reflects a legacy of literature that continues to inspire generations.

Speaking about the launch of her fourth book, Abhijita Gupta said, “Fantasy allows young minds to question science, belief, and choice without boundaries, and this book is my attempt to let that journey unfold through a youthful lens.”

The book launch was marked as a celebration of young talent, creativity, and cultural legacy. With this release, Abhijita Gupta further strengthens her presence in India’s vibrant literary landscape.

January 19, 2026
Gallant Sports Sets a New Benchmark with High-Performance Synthetic Jogging Track at JLN Stadium, Delhi

New Delhi, 19 January 2026: Gallant Sports has successfully delivered a state-of-the-art synthetic jogging track at Jawaharlal Nehru (JLN) Stadium, Delhi—one of India’s most iconic sporting arenas. The project represents a major infrastructure upgrade, reinforcing the stadium’s stature as a world-class destination for elite competition, professional training, and community fitness.

Engineered to global performance standards, the jogging track has been designed to support high-intensity athletic training as well as daily fitness routines. The surface combines precision engineering with athlete-centric design, offering exceptional grip, consistent cushioning, and superior comfort to enhance performance while reducing physical strain.

Built using advanced synthetic materials, the track delivers outstanding durability and long-term resilience. Its multi-layer shock absorption system significantly minimizes joint impact, supporting injury prevention and sustained athletic output. The UV- and weather-resistant surface ensures consistent performance across Delhi’s varying climatic conditions, while the low-maintenance, eco-conscious construction aligns with modern sustainability benchmarks.

Designed to accommodate heavy footfall without compromising quality, the track serves both professional athletes and the wider community. It promotes active lifestyles, supports structured training programs, and enables year-round usage within a high-demand national sports complex.

A defining milestone of the project is its use during the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships, where the track met the rigorous demands of elite international competition. Its performance during a global sporting event underscores its compliance with international standards and highlights Gallant Sports’ capability to deliver infrastructure suited for the world’s biggest stages.

Commenting on the project, Nasir Ali, Founder & CEO, Gallant Sports, said:
“This project reflects our vision of building future-ready sports infrastructure where performance, safety, and durability come together seamlessly. Our focus is to create facilities that empower athletes today and remain relevant for decades.”

The project was completed within the stipulated timeline and has been opened for regular use. The synthetic jogging track at JLN Stadium now stands as a powerful example of Gallant Sports’ leadership in large-scale, high-performance sports infrastructure—setting new standards for quality, innovation, and excellence in India’s sporting ecosystem.

January 19, 2026
EPFO UPI Withdrawal: PF Money to Be Withdrawn via UPI from April, Know How Payments Will Happen in Seconds
The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is set to introduce a major digital transformation for its nearly 80 million members. From April 2026, EPFO members will be able to withdraw their EPF money directly into their bank accounts through UPI. This means withdrawing PF will become as simple as making a UPI payment using apps like PhonePe, Google Pay, or Paytm.
According to a senior official associated with the Ministry of Labour, work on this new system is in its final stage, and remaining software-related issues are being resolved.

How Will EPF Withdrawal via UPI Work?

Under the new system, EPFO members will be able to view their eligible EPF balance. A portion of this balance will remain secured (frozen), while a larger portion will be available for withdrawal through UPI.
Members will simply need to enter their UPI PIN linked to their bank account to complete the transaction. The money will be credited directly to the bank account, from where it can be withdrawn via ATM or used for digital payments.

What Were the Problems with PF Withdrawal Earlier?

Currently, EPFO members have to file a claim to withdraw PF. Although claims under the auto-settlement mode are processed within three days, the overall process is still considered time-consuming.
Every year, EPFO processes over 50 million claims, most of which are related to PF withdrawals. The new UPI-based system is being introduced to significantly reduce this administrative burden.

What Is the Auto-Settlement Limit?

EPFO has already increased the auto-settlement limit from ₹1 lakh to ₹5 lakh. This allows members to withdraw PF within three days for essential needs such as illness, education, marriage, and housing.

Why Can’t EPFO Provide a Direct ATM-Like Facility?

According to reports, EPFO does not have a banking license, so it cannot offer direct cash withdrawal from EPF accounts like banks do. However, the government wants EPFO services to be on par with banking services, and enabling UPI-based withdrawals is a major step in that direction.

What Other PF Rules Have Changed?

In October 2025, EPFO’s highest decision-making body, the Central Board of Trustees (CBT), approved the simplification of partial PF withdrawal rules.
Earlier, there were 13 complex provisions, which have now been consolidated into just three categories:

Essential Needs (illness, education, marriage)

Housing Needs

Special Circumstances

These new rules have already received approval from Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and are expected to be notified soon.

Can the Entire PF Amount Be Withdrawn?

Yes. Under the new provisions, members can withdraw 100% of the eligible EPF amount, including both employee and employer contributions. However, the scheme also proposes that at least 25% of the contribution will always remain as a minimum balance. This ensures members continue to earn 8.25% annual interest with compounding, helping protect their retirement corpus.

How Will Members Benefit from This Change?

Almost no need to file withdrawal claims

Faster, safer, and simpler access to PF money

Reduced administrative burden on EPFO

PF services aligned with the vision of Digital India

Overall, EPFO’s UPI-based withdrawal facility will transform PF from a “locked retirement fund” into an instantly accessible financial support system during times of need—without lengthy procedures or paperwork.
January 18, 2026