In a major New Year financial boost, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has announced a special one-time bonus of ₹1,200 for all active subscribers with a valid UAN and contribution history in 2025. The amount will be credited directly to EPF accounts between January 10–15, 2026, benefiting over 7.2 crore formal-sector workers across India. … Read more
A major financial shock may hit Indian households this week: petrol and diesel prices are set to rise by ₹2.50–₹3.80 per litre from January 6, 2026, following a sharp 12% surge in global crude oil prices. With Brent crude crossing $89 per barrel—its highest level since October 2025—state-owned oil companies are under pressure to revise … Read more
Millions of Indians woke up on January 1, 2026, to a harsh financial reality: their Permanent Account Number (PAN) has been rendered inoperative because it was not linked to Aadhaar by the December 31, 2025 deadline. The Income Tax Department has confirmed that over 4.8 crore PANs are now inactive, blocking everything from opening bank … Read more
Starting January 1, 2026, millions of senior citizens across India will face a significant change in how Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) is applied on their fixed deposit (FD) interest income. Under revised Income Tax Department guidelines, banks will now deduct TDS at 10% on FD interest earnings even if the total annual interest is … Read more
The Wolf Moon is the first full moon of 2026 and also qualifies as a supermoon—one of the brightest and largest full moons of the year. It peaks on the night of January 2–3, 2026, and will be clearly visible across India, making it a major astronomical highlight for skywatchers, photographers, and families alike. Here’s … Read more
Big boost for Northeast travellers! Indian Railways is launching the country’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train in January 2026, with the inaugural service on the Guwahati-Howrah (Kolkata) route. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off this modern overnight train soon. This marks a major upgrade in long-distance rail travel, offering faster, safer and more comfortable … Read more
Big shock for smokers and chewing tobacco users! From February 1, 2026, cigarettes, gutkha, pan masala and other tobacco products will become more expensive. The government has replaced the old GST compensation cess with additional excise duty on tobacco products and a new Health and National Security Cess on pan masala. These new taxes will … Read more
Big alert for all bank customers, salaried employees and businesses! January 2026 has several bank holidays due to New Year celebrations, regional festivals like Pongal/Makar Sankranti, and Republic Day on January 26 (Monday) – a nationwide closure. Banks will be closed on up to 16 days in some states, including Sundays and second/fourth Saturdays. Plan … Read more
Big alert for party planners, hotels, bars and liquor buyers! India observes several Dry Days in 2026 when alcohol sale is completely banned in most states. These include national holidays and major festivals. Starting from January, key restrictions hit on Republic Day (January 26) – a nationwide ban – plus regional ones like Makar Sankranti. … Read more
Important alert for all UPI users, online shoppers and digital payment customers! From January 1, 2026, banks and payment apps are implementing stricter checks on UPI and digital transactions to curb rising fraud cases. This includes enhanced monitoring, better transparency in AutoPay mandates, and tighter controls on suspicious activities – all aimed at protecting your … Read more