As 2025 comes to an end, the new year will bring more than resolutions.
From January 1, 2026, several major policy and regulatory changes will take effect, impacting farmers, salaried employees, young people, and the general public.
Banking rules, social media regulations, fuel prices, and government schemes are all set for an overhaul.
Banking and Digital Rules Get Stricter
Credit scores will now be updated weekly instead of every 15 days, making them more responsive.
Several major banks, including SBI, PNB, and HDFC, have already reduced loan interest rates, benefitting borrowers.
Revised fixed deposit (FD) interest rates will also apply from January 2026.
Digital payments will see tighter rules, especially UPI transactions, and PAN-Aadhaar linking will become mandatory to access most banking and government services.
Failure to comply could lead to denial of services.
SIM verification rules for messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal have also been strengthened to curb fraud.
Social Media, Traffic, and Mobility Changes
The government is considering stricter social media regulations for children under 16, including age-based restrictions and parental controls.
On the mobility front, several cities, including parts of Delhi and Noida, are planning curbs on diesel and petrol commercial vehicles to reduce pollution.
Restrictions on deliveries using petrol-powered vehicles may also be introduced.
Relief for Government Employees
The 8th Pay Commission comes into effect from January 1, 2026, revising pay structures for central and state employees.
Dearness Allowance (DA) is also expected to rise, providing a salary boost amid ongoing inflation.
Some states, such as Haryana, are reviewing minimum wages for part-time and daily-wage workers.
Key Updates for Farmers
Farmers in states like Uttar Pradesh will need a unique ID to receive installments under the PM-Kisan scheme.
Those without the ID may not get credited payments.
Under the PM Kisan Crop Insurance Scheme, farmers can now claim compensation for crop damage caused by wild animals, provided the loss is reported within 72 hours.
What It Means for the General Public
A new income tax return (ITR) form will be introduced, pre-filled with banking transactions and expenditure details, simplifying compliance but increasing scrutiny.
Fuel prices will also change from January 1, 2026: LPG, commercial gas, and aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices will be revised, potentially affecting household budgets and airfares.
