New Financial Year 2025-26 Brings Key Changes: Reduced LPG Prices, Car Price Hikes, and More
New Delhi, 1st April 2025: With the start of the new financial year 2025-26 on April 1, 2025, several important changes have come into effect across the country. New rules have been introduced for senior citizens and women, along with updates to UPI transactions. As usual, the prices of petrol, diesel, and LPG are reviewed at the beginning of each month. However, this time, petrol prices remain the same, while other changes may affect consumers.
LPG cylinder prices reduced. Commercial LPG Cylinder (19 kg) has become cheaper by Rs 44.50.
New Prices in Major Cities:
Delhi: Reduced by Rs 41, now priced at Rs 1762 (previously Rs 1803).
Kolkata: Reduced by Rs 44.50, now priced at Rs 1868.50.
Mumbai: Reduced by Rs 42, now priced at Rs 1755.50.
Chennai: Now available for Rs 1921.50.
The price of the 14 kg domestic cylinder remains unchanged at around Rs 800 in major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata.
The price of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) has been reduced across the country, which could lead to lower airfares. According to Indian Oil’s latest update, ATF prices have dropped in all major cities.
In Delhi, the price has come down from Rs 95,311.72 to Rs 89,441 per kilolitre.
In Kolkata, it has decreased by Rs 5,667.66, bringing the new price to Rs 91,921 per kilolitre.
In Mumbai, ATF is now priced at Rs 83,575.42 per kilolitre.
In Chennai, the new price stands at Rs 92,503.80 per kilolitre.
This reduction in fuel costs could translate into cheaper flight tickets, making air travel more affordable for passengers.
Buying a car has become more expensive as several major automobile companies have increased their prices from April 1. Tata Motors, Kia India, Hyundai India, and Honda Cars have raised prices across different models. Maruti Suzuki cars may see a price hike of up to 4%, depending on the model. Meanwhile, Kia India, Hyundai India, Mahindra & Mahindra, and BMW India have increased prices by 3%, while Renault India has raised prices by 2%.
On the other hand, petrol and diesel prices remain unchanged. Currently, petrol costs between Rs 90 to Rs 100 per litre in major cities, while diesel is priced close to Rs 90 per litre. This stability in fuel prices offers some relief to vehicle owners despite the rising car costs.
Banks May Change Minimum Balance Rules
Several major banks, including SBI, Canara Bank, and Punjab National Bank, are expected to revise their minimum balance rules. The minimum balance is the amount that account holders must maintain in their accounts to avoid penalties. If the balance falls below the required limit, the bank may impose charges. Customers are advised to check with their respective banks for updates on any changes to these rules.
Change For Senior Citizens
In a move to provide relief to senior citizens, the government has increased the tax exemption on income earned from post office schemes. Previously, senior citizens were entitled to a tax discount of Rs 50,000 on such earnings. However, this exemption has now been doubled to Rs 1 lakh, offering enhanced financial benefits to the elderly. This change aims to provide greater support to senior citizens, helping them manage their finances more effectively.
Changes Related To Women
Starting today, April 1st, the government has decided to close the Mahila Samman Savings Certificate (MSSC) Scheme. Under the MSSC, women could earn up to a 7.5% annual return, with an investment period of two years. This scheme, specifically designed for women, has now been discontinued, marking the end of an initiative aimed at providing financial benefits to female investors.
New Pension Scheme
A new pension scheme for central government employees, the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS), guarantees a pension of Rs 10,000, balancing the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) and New Pension Scheme (NPS).
