World Health Day 2025: Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures

World Health Day, observed every year on April 7, marks the anniversary of the founding of the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1948. The 2025 theme, “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,” highlights the importance of strengthening early-life healthcare systems for mothers and newborns. With preventable deaths among women and children still alarmingly high in low-income countries, this year’s focus aims to inspire global action for accessible and effective healthcare at birth.

Why Is April 7 Observed as World Health Day?

April 7 was chosen as World Health Day to commemorate the establishment of the WHO. The decision was made during the first World Health Assembly in 1948, and the first observance took place in 1950. The goal is to raise awareness about major global health issues and to encourage action to improve health systems worldwide.

Each year, WHO selects a specific theme to draw attention to a critical health concern. Past themes have addressed topics like mental health, climate change, universal healthcare access, and non-communicable diseases. The 2025 theme urges healthcare institutions and governments to invest in maternal and newborn care.

Maternal Mortality and Child Death Rates

According to WHO data:

  • About 260,000 women died due to pregnancy- and childbirth-related complications in 2023.
  • Approximately 92% of these deaths occurred in low and lower-middle-income countries, and most were preventable.
  • In 2023, 4.8 million children under the age of 5 died globally.
  • The under-5 mortality rate dropped to 37 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2023, down from 94 in 1990.

These statistics show both progress and the ongoing need for improvement in maternal and child health services.

Why Is Nutrition Important for Newborns?

Good nutrition in infancy is essential for:

  • Brain development and cognitive functions
  • Building strong immunity
  • Supporting muscle, organ, and bone growth
  • Preventing developmental delays

Nutrients such as iron, protein, calcium, and essential vitamins play a vital role in early development. Lack of adequate nutrition can result in irreversible damage, making it crucial to ensure access to balanced diets and fortified food for expecting mothers and infants.

World Health Day 2025: A Call to Action

This year’s theme serves as a global call to action. It urges healthcare providers, policymakers, and individuals to:

  • Prioritise maternal and child health in public policy
  • Improve access to prenatal and postnatal care
  • Ensure the availability of nutritional support
  • Reduce preventable deaths among mothers and children

The emphasis on “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures” reflects WHO’s vision that strong healthcare foundations in early life lead to healthier societies overall.

Pharma Sector Hit by Tariff Concerns

Shares of Indian pharmaceutical companies, including Aurobindo Pharma, Laurus Labs, IPCA Laboratories, and Lupin, fell by as much as 8% on Friday, April 4, 2025, after U.S. President Donald Trump indicated that new tariffs targeting Indian pharma exports were imminent.

The decline followed a brief rally the previous day when investors speculated that the sector would be exempt from trade restrictions. The Nifty Pharma index had surged 2.3% on Thursday, with IPCA Laboratories gaining 4.6% and other majors like Lupin, Sun Pharma, and Cipla advancing by 3–4%.

The tariffs, part of Trump’s April 2 announcement under the “Liberation Day” campaign, include a 26% reciprocal duty on Indian imports. While initial documentation from the White House suggested that pharmaceuticals were excluded, Trump’s latest statements have created uncertainty in the sector.

Conclusion

World Health Day 2025 underscores the critical role of maternal and newborn health in shaping the future of global well-being. As healthcare systems evolve, early-life care must become a priority. In parallel, global economic events like tariffs can have significant ripple effects, even in essential sectors like healthcare. Stakeholders must act decisively to safeguard both public health and economic resilience.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Mphasis Receives ₹232.37 Crore Tax Demand from Income Tax Department

IT services firm Mphasis has been issued a tax demand totalling ₹232.37 crore by the Income Tax Department for the financial years 2018–19 and 2019–20. The company has stated that it will challenge the order and expects no significant financial impact.

Tax Demand Linked to Foreign Payments

As per a regulatory filing by the company, the notice was received on March 29, 2025. The tax demand was raised following a review of payments made by Mphasis to its foreign subsidiaries and associated enterprises. The department claims that the company should have deducted tax at source (TDS) on these payments.

Mphasis clarified that no penalties or operational restrictions have been imposed. The company also noted a short delay in disclosing the notice, citing that it was received late on a Saturday and subsequently reported on the next working day, March 31, 2025, as reported by CNBC TV18.

Company’s Response and Legal Plan

Mphasis is currently evaluating its legal options and plans to appeal the tax demand. The company maintained that the matter is not expected to materially affect its financial health.

Cybersecurity Partnership with SecPod

Separately, Mphasis has entered into a partnership with cybersecurity firm SecPod to bolster its enterprise security offerings. As part of the agreement, Mphasis will integrate SecPod’s SanerNow Continuous Vulnerability and Exposure Management (CVEM) platform into its services as reported by TechCircle.

Conclusion

While Mphasis navigates the tax dispute raised by the Income Tax Department, it continues to focus on strengthening its service capabilities through new technology partnerships. The company remains confident in its legal position and is taking steps to address the issue without significant disruption to its operations.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Ujjivan Small Finance Bank’s Q4 FY25 Deposits Surge 9.1% QoQ, Disbursements Rise to ₹7,455 Crore

Ujjivan Small Finance Bank posted a strong 4th-quarter update for FY25, reporting double-digit growth in both deposits and disbursements. The bank, which primarily caters to underserved communities, continues to strengthen its retail banking franchise ahead of a potential transition to a universal bank.

Ujjivan Small Finance Bank Deposits and CASA Performance

Total deposits rose 9.1% quarter-on-quarter and 19.7% year-on-year, reaching ₹37,617 crore as of March 31, 2025. The Current Account Savings Account (CASA) balance stood at ₹9,611 crore, a 15.3% YoY increase. The CASA ratio was 25.6%, slightly lower than 26.5% a year ago.

Ujjivan Small Finance Bank Loan Growth and Disbursement

The bank’s gross loan book expanded 7.9% YoY to ₹32,122 crore, which includes ₹195 crore from IBPC/securitisation. Disbursements surged 11.6% QoQ to ₹7,455 crore, reflecting consistent lending momentum.

Ujjivan Small Finance Bank Asset Quality and Efficiency Metrics

The Gross NPA (GNPA) ratio stood at 2.2% as of March 31, 2025, slightly higher than 2.1% a year ago but improved from 2.7% in December 2024. The collection efficiency improved marginally to 96.9%, up from 96.6% in February 2025.

The credit-deposit ratio dropped to 85.4%, compared to 94.7% in March 2024, indicating improved deposit mobilisation relative to loan growth.

Ujjivan Small Finance Bank Share Price Performance

As of the end of the trading session on April 4, 2025, shares of Ujjivan Small Finance Bank were trading 1.65% higher at ₹36.86 on the NSE, despite broader market weakness.

Conclusion

Ujjivan Small Finance Bank has ended FY25 on a strong note, delivering solid growth across key financial parameters. The robust deposit and disbursement figures, coupled with improving asset quality and operational efficiency, indicate the bank’s readiness for its next phase of evolution toward becoming a universal bank.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Why You Should Invest in PPF Before April 5, 2025?

The Public Provident Fund (PPF) is a trusted long-term investment option for many Indian savers. It offers tax benefits, stable returns, and a 15-year lock-in that encourages disciplined investing. But the date you invest can also impact your final returns. If you’re planning to invest a lump sum in FY26, doing it before April 5 can help you maximise interest earnings.

How is Interest Calculated?

PPF interest is calculated on the lowest balance between the 5th and the last day of each month. So, if you deposit your contribution after the 5th, that amount won’t earn interest for that month.

Timing Investments

Suppose you already have ₹1 lakh in your PPF account. If you invest ₹1.5 lakh on April 6, interest for April will be calculated only on ₹1 lakh.

However, if you invest the same ₹1.5 lakh on April 4, the entire ₹2.5 lakh earns interest for April. Over 15 years, the interest missed from just one month each year can add up to a considerable amount.

Power of Compounding in PPF

The PPF offers 7.1% annual interest, compounded annually. By investing early in the financial year, your money stays invested for a longer duration and benefits from compounding.

Even small delays each year can reduce your final corpus. If you make a lump-sum contribution, doing it before April 5 ensures your money earns interest for all 12 months of the year.

Conclusion

Investing in PPF before April 5 may seem like a small timing detail, but it can make a big difference in the long run. By making your contribution early in the financial year, you ensure that your full investment earns interest for the entire year, helping you build a larger corpus over time. A simple step like this can significantly improve your financial planning and returns.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

India Services PMI Eases to 58.5 in March 2025; Hiring and Export Demand Slow

India’s services sector growth eased in March 2025, according to the latest HSBC India Services Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) released by S&P Global. While the expansion remained strong, the momentum slightly weakened due to softer demand, slower foreign orders, and moderated hiring activity.

Services PMI Slips but Remains Firm

The Services PMI slipped to 58.5 in March from 59.0 in February, although it was above the flash estimate of 57.7. A reading above 50 still indicates expansion. The decline reflects a slight cooling in domestic demand and reduced global interest.

Domestic Orders Strong, but Export Growth Slows

New businesses continued to grow, led by strong domestic demand. However, international orders rose at the slowest pace in 15 months, impacted by global economic uncertainty and trade concerns triggered by recent US tariff announcements under President Donald Trump.

Input Costs and Output Prices

Input cost inflation eased to a 5-month low, and firms raised output prices at the weakest pace since September 2021, citing intense market competition. The moderation in pricing pressure could provide some comfort to the Reserve Bank of India as it balances inflation with growth.

Hiring Activity Slows

Job creation in the services sector decelerated, with the pace of hiring slipping to the lowest level in nearly a year. Weakening business confidence also contributed to reduced employment activity. The future activity index, a measure of optimism for the next 12 months, fell to a 7-month low.

Composite PMI Hits 7-Month High

Despite the moderation in services, the HSBC India Composite PMI, which combines both manufacturing and services data, rose to a seven-month high of 59.5 in March, up from 58.8 in February. This was supported by strong growth in the manufacturing sector.

Conclusion

India’s services sector remains in expansion territory but faces growing headwinds from global uncertainty, weaker foreign demand, and subdued hiring. As the sector adjusts to evolving domestic and international conditions, the broader economy continues to benefit from manufacturing-led momentum.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Bajaj Auto March 2025 Sales Rise 1% Amid Global Tariff Concerns

Bajaj Auto has posted modest growth in March 2025 sales even as it keeps a close eye on global tariff tensions and their potential ripple effects. With the US contributing only 1–2% to its total exports, the company does not anticipate a direct impact but is watching secondary markets like Mexico closely for indirect consequences.

Global Tariff Concerns and Mexico Exposure

Executive Director Rakesh Sharma told CNBC TV18, “Mexico is one of our largest overseas markets, both by volume and value terms and how the economy of Mexico is impacted we have to see once the dust around the tariff wars sort of settles down. There is no direct impact, but there are secondary impacts to be watched out for.” The company sells nearly 10,000 units of high-end products monthly in Mexico, making it one of Bajaj Auto’s top three overseas markets by volume and value.

Sharma added that currency fluctuations and broader economic shifts in regions like Mexico could influence future demand.

Confidence in Global Competitiveness

Bajaj Auto continues to compete with major international brands across 108 global markets, including the US, China, and Japan. Despite the global uncertainty, the company remains confident in its ability to maintain its international foothold.

Bajaj Auto Domestic Outlook and Industry Growth

On the domestic front, Bajaj Auto maintains a positive outlook. Sharma noted that the Indian motorcycle industry is expected to grow by 5–6% in FY26, and the company aims to outperform this benchmark, particularly in the premium 125 CC+ segment.

Bajaj Auto March 2025 Sales Performance

  • Total Sales: 369,823 units in March 2025, up 1% from 365,904 units in March 2024.
  • Domestic Sales: 183,659 units.
  • Two-Wheeler Exports: 132,073 units, compared to 130,881 units last year.

Bajaj Auto Share Price Performance

As of the end of the trading session on April 4, 2025, Bajaj Auto’s shares closed at ₹7,699.80 on the NSE, down 2.68%. The company’s current market capitalisation stands at ₹2,15,627.37 crore.

Conclusion

While Bajaj Auto remains largely unaffected by direct US tariffs, it is keeping a close watch on key export markets like Mexico. With strong domestic performance and global competitiveness, the company is positioning itself for steady growth in FY26 despite external challenges.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Rupee Strengthens to 84.96/USD on April 4, 2025, as Dollar Index Plunges Nearly 2%

The Indian rupee surged past the 85 mark against the US dollar in early trade on Friday, April 4, for the first time since December 2024. The appreciation followed a broad-based decline in the US dollar, triggered by recent global developments.

At the interbank foreign exchange market, the rupee opened at 85.07 and quickly strengthened to 84.96, marking a 34-paise gain compared to the previous close.

Factors Behind the Rupee’s Movement

The movement in the rupee came amid a sharp fall in the US dollar index, which plunged nearly 2% on Thursday, April 3 — its steepest one-day drop in over two years. This decline was driven by market reactions to policy developments in the United States, including new tariff measures.

Additionally, a decline in global crude oil prices supported the rupee’s gains. Brent crude futures were down 0.84%, trading at USD 69.55 per barrel.

US Policy Developments and Market Response

The depreciation in the dollar index followed President Donald Trump’s announcement of new tariffs on goods from more than 60 countries. These policy changes raised concerns around global trade, leading to a selloff in the US dollar and increased volatility in global currency markets.

Dollar Index

The dollar index, which measures the US currency’s performance against a basket of six major global currencies, fell to 101.64, down 0.42% on the day. The weakness in the greenback contributed to the rupee’s upward movement during early trade hours.

Conclusion

The rupee’s appreciation to 84.96 was supported by a decline in the US dollar index and lower crude oil prices. This marked its first movement past the 85 mark since December 2024.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Infonative Solutions IPO Allotment Status

Infonative Solutions IPO is a book-built issue of ₹24.71 crore, comprising 31.28 lakh fresh shares at a price band of ₹75-₹79 per share. The IPO opened on March 28, 2025, and closes on April 3, 2025, with allotment expected on April 4, 2025, and a tentative listing on April 8, 2025, on the BSE SME platform.

Retail investors must apply for at least 1,600 shares (₹1,26,400), while HNIs require a minimum of 3,200 shares (₹2,52,800). Share India Capital Services handles the IPO, with Kfin Technologies as the registrar and Share India Securities as the market maker.

How to Check Infonative Solutions IPO Allotment Status Online on BSE?

  • Go to the application status page.
  • Select “Equity” under the Issue Type.
  • Choose “Infonative Solutions” from the Issue Name dropdown.
  • Provide your Application Number or PAN.
  • Click on “I am not a robot” and Submit.

How to Check Infonative Solutions IPO Allotment Status Online on the Registrar’s Website?

  • Go to the registrar’s official website.
  • Select “Infonative Solutions” from the company list.
  • Enter your Client ID, Application Number, or PAN.
  • Click on Submit.

Infonative Solutions IPO Details

Infonative Solutions IPO is a ₹24.71 crore book-built issue with 31.28 lakh fresh shares at a price of ₹75-₹79 per share. It opened on March 28, 2025, and closes on April 3, 2025. The allotment is on April 4, 2025, with a tentative listing on April 8, 2025, on the BSE SME platform.

Allocation Quota for Infonative Solutions

The table below breaks down the Infonative Solutions share allocation for different categories, highlighting the number of shares and their percentage of the total issue. However, the key focus remains on the quotas allocated to retail investors and HNIs, as they are the most relevant for individual investors.

Category of Investors Allocation of shares under IPO
Market Maker Shares Offered 1,56,800 (5.01%)
QIB Shares Offered 1,60,000 (5.12%)
NII (HNI) Shares Offered 7,04,001 (22.51%)
Retail Shares Offered 21,07,200 (67.37%)
Total Shares Offered 31,28,001 (100%)

Data Source: BSE-SME

Infonative Solutions IPO – Overall Subscription Status

Category Subscription (times)
Market Maker 1
Qualified Institutions 0
Non Institutional Investors 0.84
Retail Individual Investors(RIIs) 1.61
Total 1.34

Note: The final subscription details are as of April 3, 2025

Infonative Solutions Business Overview

Infonative Solutions Limited is a leading provider of e-learning content, courseware, and cloud-based Learning Management System (LMS) solutions. The company was founded in 2014 and has grown from a small office in Delhi to a key player in the e-learning industry. Its name reflects a commitment to combining information technology with innovative learning solutions.

A major milestone was reached in 2018 with the investment in Mindscroll, a top-tier LMS platform, enabling a comprehensive suite of digital learning solutions. Today, Infonative specialises in bespoke e-learning solutions, instructional design, gamification, augmented and virtual reality-based content, and software application simulations.

Know more about IPO allotment status and check your application details online for the latest updates on share allocation.

 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Financial Year 2026 is Here: Make Portfolio Rebalancing Your Top Priority

As Financial Year 2025–26 begins, it’s a good time to tidy up your investments, just like you’d clean your home for a fresh start. Over the past year, your asset allocation may have shifted due to market movements. Rebalancing helps bring your portfolio back in line with your original goals, ensuring you’re neither overexposed to risk nor missing opportunities.

What Is Portfolio Rebalancing?

Rebalancing means adjusting your investments so that each asset class—like equity, debt, or gold—goes back to its original share in your portfolio. For instance, if equity was supposed to be 60% but has grown to 75%, you bring it back to 60% by selling a portion or investing in other assets.

Why Rebalancing Matters

  • Controls Risk: Prevents your portfolio from becoming too equity-heavy after market rallies
  • Protects Gains: Helps lock in profits from outperforming assets
  • Keeps You on Track: Aligns your portfolio with life goals like retirement or buying a house

When is the Ideal Time for Rebalance?

  • Start of a new financial year, like FY26
  • When allocation changes by 5–10%
  • After big market movements
  • After major life events—marriage, childbirth, retirement

How to Rebalance in FY26

Step 1: Review Your Portfolio

List all investments—mutual funds, stocks, PPF, NPS, FDs, gold, real estate
Calculate each as a percentage of your total investment

Step 2: Compare with Target Allocation

Example for a 30-year-old:

  • 60% Equity
  • 30% Debt
  • 10% Gold

If equity is now 75%, it’s time to rebalance

Step 3: Buy or Sell Accordingly

  • Sell excess assets and buy more of the assets that you feel are insufficient
  • Or direct fresh investments into underweight assets

Step 4: Consider Tax Implications

  • Equity: Long-term gains (after 1 year) taxed at 12.5% beyond ₹1.25 lakh
  • Debt: Taxed as per income slab (no indexation benefit for mutual funds)

Mistakes to Avoid

  • Too frequent rebalancing – once or twice a year is enough
  • Ignoring tax or exit loads – check charges before selling
  • Focusing on one investment – look at your entire portfolio
  • Letting emotions rule – stick to your plan even during market highs or lows

Adjusting Allocation by Age

  • In your 20s: Equity-heavy (up to 80%) is fine
  • In your 30s–40s: Balanced approach like 60:40 equity to debt
  • In your 50s–60s: Prioritise capital protection by focusing on to debt and fixed income

Conclusion

Rebalancing is a simple but essential habit to protect your investments. With FY26 just starting, now is the ideal time to assess where you stand and realign your portfolio. You don’t need to do it every month—once or twice a year is enough. Follow a clear plan, stay disciplined, and your portfolio will remain healthy, regardless of market ups and downs.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Financial Year 2026 is Here: Tax Planning Should be First on Your To-Do List

April marks the beginning of the financial year in India, making it the perfect time to plan your taxes for FY26 (April 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026). Tax planning involves legally reducing your tax liability by using deductions, exemptions, and investment tools offered under the Income Tax Act. We discuss a few pointers that will help you plan your finances and taxes well.

Choosing Between the Old and New Tax Regimes

India offers two tax regimes:

Old Regime

Allows you to claim deductions like:

  • Section 80C (₹1.5 lakh for PPF, ELSS, LIC, etc.)
  • Section 80D (health insurance premiums)
  • HRA, LTA and other exemptions
Income Slab (₹) Tax Rate
Up to 2,50,000 Nil
2,50,001–5,00,000 5%
3,00,001–5,00,000 5%
5,00,001–10,00,000 20%
Above 10,00,000 30%

New Regime

Offers lower tax rates with no deductions:

Income Slab (₹) Tax Rate
Up to 3,00,000 Nil
3,00,001–6,00,000 5%
6,00,001–9,00,000 10%
9,00,001–12,00,000 15%
12,00,001–15,00,000 20%
Above 15,00,000 30%

Compare your tax under both regimes before choosing.

Explore Top Tax-Saving Investments in Old Regime

There are several investments that are eligible for tax deductions and exemptions under various sections of the Income Tax Act. A few of them are:

  • Section 80C (Limit: ₹1.5 lakh)
  • PPF (Public Provident Fund) – 15-year lock-in period, with interest earned being completely tax-free.
  • EPF (Employees’ Provident Fund) – A mandatory retirement savings scheme for salaried employees, where both employer and employee contribute.
  • Life Insurance – Premiums paid for policies taken for self, spouse, or children are eligible for deduction.
  • ELSS (Equity Linked Saving Scheme) – Tax-saving mutual funds with a 3-year lock-in period and the potential for market-linked returns.
  • NSC (National Savings Certificate) – A fixed-income investment backed by the government, with a 5-year lock-in period and guaranteed returns.
  • Health Insurance – Section 80D

Health insurance isn’t just about saving tax—it protects you from medical bills.

You can claim:

  • ₹25,000 for premiums paid for self, spouse and children
  • Additional ₹25,000 if you pay for parents below 60
  • ₹50,000 if parents are above 60

That’s a total possible deduction of ₹1 lakh under this section!

  • Home Loan Benefits

If you have taken a home loan, you get benefits under 2 sections:

  • Section 80C: Up to ₹1.5 lakh on principal repayment
  • Section 24(b): Up to ₹2 lakh on interest repayment

Read more: Tax saving options.

Claim Standard Deduction and Rebate

  • Standard Deduction:₹50,000 in old and ₹50,000 for all salaried and pensioned individuals
  • Section 87A Rebate: If income is ≤ ₹7 lakh under new regime, tax payable = ₹0

Important FY26 Tax Tips to Remember

1. Start Tax Planning Early in April 2025 to Avoid Rushed Investments in March 2026

Many people wait until the last moment in March to invest just to save tax. This often leads to poor choices. If you begin in April itself, you can space out your investments monthly and pick what suits you best.

Example: Instead of putting ₹1.5 lakh in a random insurance policy in March, you could invest ₹12,500 every month in an ELSS (Equity Linked Saving Scheme) starting April. This way, you avoid financial stress and also get time to study which fund performs better.

  1. Choose Investments That Match Your Financial Goals

Don’t just invest to save tax—invest with a goal in mind. Your investment should help you achieve something in the future, like buying a house, funding your child’s education, or retiring comfortably.

Examples:

  • If you’re saving for retirement, choose PPF or NPS.
  • If you want higher returns and are okay with market risks, go for ELSS mutual funds.
  • For short-term goals, Tax-saving Fixed Deposits or NSCs can be useful.
  1. Learn from Last Year’s Mistakes

Look at what didn’t work well for you in the previous financial year. Did you invest in something just to save tax, but didn’t understand it? Did you miss any deductions?

Example: Last year, you might’ve bought a life insurance policy with high premiums but low returns, just to save tax. This year, you can switch to a term insurance plan (which offers higher coverage at a lower cost) and use the saved money in an ELSS fund or PPF.

  1. Consider Professional Help If Unsure

If tax planning feels confusing, seek help from a Chartered Accountant (CA) or a certified financial planner. They can help you find better ways to save tax and plan your investments based on your income and goals.

Example: A CA might help a freelancer claim business-related expenses (like a laptop, rent, or internet bills) that reduce taxable income. Without expert help, many such legal benefits are often missed.

  1. Always File Your ITR, Even If Tax Is Zero

Even if your income is below the taxable limit, filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) is still important. It acts as proof of income and is useful when applying for loans, visas, or even scholarships.

Example: Suppose you’re a student who made ₹2.5 lakh last year through freelancing. You won’t owe any tax, but filing your ITR can help when applying for an education loan or showing proof of income for passport verification.

Key Tax Deadlines for FY26

  • 31 July 2025:File ITR (Income Tax Return) for FY26 without penalty
  • 15 March 2026: Deadline for most tax-saving investments
  • 31 March 2026: End of the financial year FY26

Conclusion

Tax planning is not just about saving taxes—it’s about making smarter financial decisions early. By starting in April, you gain control over your money, reduce your tax outgo, and invest with purpose. No matter your income level, smart planning in FY26 can go a long way in building wealth and peace of mind.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.