Today marks the final chapter 2024, with the calendar poised to turn a fresh page at midnight. But this New year isn’t just about new updates, it brings 13 significant changes that will shape our daily lives in 2025. This upcoming year promises a mix of opportunities and challenges from improved conveniences and tighter restrictions to updates that everyone should be aware of, here’s a sneak peek into what lies ahead.
13 key changes coming in 2025, a glimpse into the future
As 2024 bids farewell, 2025 arrives with a host of significant changes set to impact our daily lives. From financial transactions to automobile prices, education reforms, and technology updates here are 13 key shifts you need to know about:
1. UPI Payments get more flexible starting January 1, 2025,
the Reserve Bank of India will enable UPI payments for full-KYC Prepaid Payment Instructions (PPIs) via their-party UPI apps. This move aims to offer greater flexibility and convenience for digital transactions. PPI’s wallet holders will now be able to seamless UPI payments without relying solely on bank accounts, bridging the gap between digital wallets and UPI.
2. Pensions from any bank from January 1, 2025,
Pensioners under the Employee Pension Scheme can collect their pension from any bank branch across India, thanks to the newly approved Centralised Pension Payments Systems (CPPS). This will simplify pension disbursements and reduce dependency on specific bank branches, offering increased accessibility for senior citizens.
3. ₹2 Lakh collateral-free loans for farmers
The Reserve Bank of India raised the collateral-free loan limit from ₹1.6 lakh to ₹2 lakh per borrower, enhancing financial accessibility for small and marginal farmers. This move aims to address liquidity concerns, boot rural development, and reduce farmer distress by offering easier access to credit.
4. Longer Validity for Special Trariff Vouchers (STVs)
TRAI has extended the validity of STVs and Combo Vouchers from 90 to 365 days. This change gives consumers better long-term options for calls, SMS, and data plans. Users can now enjoy uninterrupted services without frequent renewals, and telecom providers may see stabilized revenue streams.
5. Car prices to increase by 2-4% by January 2025
Major Suzuki, Hyundai, Tata Motors, Mahindra, and others, will implement price hikes ranging from 2% to 4%, driven by rising operational costs and material expenses. Entry-level cars, mid-range sedans, and luxury models will all see price revisions. For example, Maruti Suzuki is expected to rise to 4% while Hyundai plans an increase of ₹25,000 across its lineup.
6. Virat Koli’s possible return
As Captain RCB Captin Ravichandran Aahwini speculates, Virat Kohli might return as the Royal Challengers Bengaluru captain for IPL 2025, marking an exciting potential comeback. Kohli had stepped down as captain in 2022, but his return could reinvigorate the team’s fanbase and boost team morale.
7. No detention policy scrapped for classes 5 & 8
Students in classes 5 and 8 who fail year-end exams may no longer be automatically promoted. Instead, they’ll be given a chance to improve. This policy aims to address learning gaps and ensure students meet necessary academic standards before progressing to higher classes.
8. New guidelines for coaching centers
The Ministry of Education has barred coaching centers from enrolling students below 16 years. Misleading promises and guaranteed ranks are also prohibited under the new guidelines. These reforms address rising concerns about student mental health, and fire safety in Coaching facilities, under unethical marketing practices.
9. Joint degrees with foreign universities
Indian and foreign universities can now offer joint degree programs, but studies must take place in physical classrooms in India. This collaboration aims to provide students with global education opportunities without the need to relocate abroad, enhancing access to international academic standards.
10. WhatsApp to stop working on Oler phones from January 1,
WhatsApp will no longer support Android versions below 4.4 (Kitkat) due to the integration of advanced Meta AI features. Users with older devices will need to upgrade their smartphones to continue accessing WhatsApp services.
11. Euro 7 norms for vehicles Euro 7
Emission standards are expected to roll out from July 1, 2025, pushing for more eco-friendly practices in the automotive industry. These regulations focus on reducing nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and particulate matter emissions, encouraging automakers to adopt greener technologies.
12. 10% reservation for Ex-Fighters
A 10% reservation will be introduced for ex-firefighters in CISF and BSF, along with relaxations in physical tests and age limits. This move recognizes the contribution of firefighters and ensures better job opportunities for them in paramilitary services.
13. Changes in Taxes, Savings, and Utilities expected updates in income tax slabs
Import-export duties, and small investment scheme interest rates starting April 1, 2025. Additionally, gas cylinder prices will continue to be revised monthly. These changes will impact households' budgets, investment strategies, and overall economic dynamics.
These changes span across sectors and are set to impact millions. Stay informed and prepared as we step into 2025.