As May 1, 2025, ushers in a new month, several significant changes have come into effect across India. These adjustments span various sectors, including banking, dairy, transportation, and energy, impacting daily expenses and routines. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the key changes:
1. ATM Withdrawal Charges Increase
Effective today, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved a ₹2 hike in ATM interchange fees. This adjustment raises the maximum charge for transactions beyond the free limit to ₹23 per transaction. Customers are entitled to five free transactions at their own bank’s ATMs and three free transactions at other banks’ ATMs in metro cities. Transactions exceeding these limits will incur the new charges.
2. Amul Milk Prices Rise
Amul has increased the prices of various milk variants by ₹2 per litre, effective from May 1. The new prices are as follows:
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Amul Gold (500 ml): ₹35 (previously ₹33)
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Amul Taaza (500 ml): ₹29 (previously ₹27)
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Amul Standard (500 ml): ₹32 (previously ₹30)
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Amul Buffalo Milk (500 ml): ₹38 (previously ₹36)
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Amul Cow Milk (500 ml): ₹29 (previously ₹27)
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Amul Slim N Trim (500 ml): ₹26 (previously ₹24)
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Amul Chai Maza (500 ml): ₹33 (previously ₹31)
This price revision follows a similar increase by Mother Dairy earlier in the week.
3. Changes in Railway Ticket Booking Rules
The Indian Railways has implemented new rules affecting ticket bookings:
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Waiting tickets are now valid only for general coaches, excluding sleeper coaches.
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The advance reservation period has been reduced from 120 days to 60 days.
These changes aim to streamline operations and improve passenger experience.
4. Reduction in 19 kg LPG Cylinder Prices
Oil marketing companies have decreased the price of 19 kg commercial LPG cylinders by ₹14.50. The new prices in major cities are:
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Delhi: ₹1,745.50
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Mumbai: ₹1,698.50
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Kolkata: ₹1,859
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Chennai: ₹1,911
This reduction is attributed to declining global oil prices.
5. Cheaper Aviation Fuel
Aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices have been reduced by ₹3,954.38 per kiloliter. This decrease is expected to lower air travel costs, providing some relief to travelers during the summer season.
The changes effective from May 1, 2025, reflect ongoing adjustments in various sectors to align with economic factors and operational needs. Consumers are advised to stay informed about these modifications to manage their expenses effectively.
