MDR fee on UPI: Why opposition's arguments are weak

The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR), capped at ₹300, for UPI transactions exceeding ₹2,000 to fund the maintenance and security of its rapidly expanding digital payment infrastructure. While the decision has faced political opposition regarding potential costs to consumers, the author argues the fee is a necessary measure to ensure the long-term sustainability of the massive platform.