The year 2026 has officially begun, and the very first day has introduced several major changes that directly affect daily life.
From higher LPG prices to costlier cars and changes in travel and banking, these updates will impact households, commuters, and buyers alike.
Here are five important changes that came into effect from January 1, 2026.
LPG Cylinder Prices Rise Across India
The new year started with an inflation shock for businesses using commercial LPG cylinders.
Oil marketing companies have increased the price of 19-kg commercial LPG cylinders by ₹111 nationwide.
In Delhi, the price has gone up from ₹1,580.50 to ₹1,691.50.
Kolkata now pays ₹1,795 instead of ₹1,684, Mumbai ₹1,642.50 instead of ₹1,531.50, and Chennai ₹1,849.50 instead of ₹1,739.50.
There is some relief for households, though.
The price of the 14-kg domestic LPG cylinder remains unchanged and continues at April 2025 rates.
Meanwhile, people in Delhi-NCR got a small benefit as Indraprastha Gas Limited reduced PNG prices by ₹0.70 per SCM.
Domestic PNG now costs ₹47.89 in Delhi, ₹46.70 in Gurugram, and ₹47.76 in Noida, Greater Noida, and Ghaziabad.
Air Travel Gets Cheaper With ATF Price Cut
Air travellers received good news on January 1.
Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices were reduced across major cities, lowering operating costs for airlines.
In Delhi, ATF prices fell sharply from ₹99,676.77 to ₹92,323.02 per kilolitre.
Kolkata saw a drop to ₹95,378.02, Mumbai to ₹86,352.19, and Chennai to ₹95,770 per kilolitre.
Lower fuel costs may help airlines reduce ticket prices, making air travel more affordable in the coming weeks.
Car Prices Increased by Major Automakers
Buying a new car has become more expensive from the first day of 2026.
Several leading car manufacturers have announced price hikes due to rising input and operational costs.
Mercedes-Benz has increased prices by 2 percent across all models. BMW raised prices by 3 percent, while MG Motor has increased prices of petrol, diesel, and electric vehicles by 2 percent.
Nissan raised prices by 3 percent and Renault by 2 percent. BYD has also increased the price of the Sealion-7, and Honda is expected to follow soon.
India’s Exports to Australia Become Tariff-Free
A major boost has been announced for Indian exporters.
From January 1, 2026, Australia has removed all import tariffs on goods coming from India.
This step marks three years of the India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement.
With zero tariffs, Indian products will become more competitive in the Australian market, benefiting exporters and manufacturers.
January Brings Multiple Bank Holidays
January 2026 will have several bank holidays across the country.
As per the RBI holiday list, banks will remain closed for 16 days during the month due to festivals and national events such as Makar Sankranti and Republic Day.
These holidays may vary by state, so customers are advised to check local schedules.
Even during holidays, online banking, UPI, ATMs, and digital services will continue to operate round the clock.
What This Means for You
The first day of 2026 has brought a mix of challenges and relief.
While LPG and car prices have gone up, cheaper air travel, tariff-free exports, and uninterrupted digital banking offer some balance.
Staying informed about these changes can help you plan expenses and avoid surprises in the months ahead.
