Bengaluru Vendors Drop UPI, Embrace Cash Amid GST Heat

Facing a GST crackdown, Bengaluru’s small vendors are ditching UPI for cash to avoid scrutiny. Authorities used UPI data from 2021–2025 to flag unregistered merchants exceeding turnover limits. Fearful of fines and shrinking margins, vendors are hiding QR codes or using family UPI IDs. Despite official reassurances, cash is making a strong comeback in the city.