Explore the significant changes and proposals introduced in the Union Budget 2025, impacting direct and indirect taxes, with detailed insights and examples.
Direct Tax Proposals
Indirect Tax Proposals
FAQs on Budget 2025
The Union Budget 2025 introduces several key changes in direct taxation aimed at simplifying compliance and enhancing taxpayer benefits.
Introduction of a New Tax Bill
A new Income Tax Bill is set to replace the Income Tax Act of 1961, simplifying compliance by reducing complexity by 60%.
Simplifies tax compliance significantly.
Reduces the complexity of current tax laws.
Aims to streamline tax processes for individuals and businesses.
Changes in Tax Structure Under the New Regime
The new tax regime introduces revised income tax slabs, offering a more progressive tax structure.
Income up to ₹4,00,000: NIL tax rate.
Income from ₹4,00,001 to ₹8,00,000: 5% tax rate.
Income above ₹24,00,000: 30% tax rate.
Increase in Rebate u/s 87A
Rebate under Section 87A has been increased, providing significant tax relief to individuals with lower incomes.
Rebate increased from ₹25,000 to ₹60,000.
Applicable for incomes up to ₹12,00,000.
Results in zero tax liability for eligible individuals.
Rationalisation of TDS/TCS
The budget proposes changes to TDS and TCS to ease compliance and reduce the burden on taxpayers.
Threshold for TDS on interest increased to ₹10,000.
TCS on remittances for education loans removed.
Higher TDS rates for non-PAN holders.
Extension of Time-Limit for ITR-U
Taxpayers now have an extended period to file updated income tax returns, promoting voluntary compliance.
Deadline extended from 2 years to 4 years.
Additional tax payable while filing ITR-U.
Encourages rectification of tax returns.
The Union Budget 2025 introduces reforms in indirect taxation to boost domestic manufacturing and streamline trade processes.
Rationalisation of Customs Tariff and Duty Inversion
Adjustments in customs tariffs aim to correct duty inversion and support local industries.
Reduction in customs duty on certain raw materials.
Increase in duty on finished goods to promote local manufacturing.
Focus on reducing import dependency.
Healthcare Relief – Duty Exemptions on Medicines
Duty exemptions on essential medicines to ensure affordability and accessibility.
Exemptions on life-saving drugs.
Reduced duty on medical equipment.
Focus on enhancing healthcare accessibility.
Boosting Domestic Manufacturing – Key Customs Proposals
Customs proposals aim to enhance the competitiveness of domestic industries.
Incentives for electronics and textile sectors.
Reduced duty on raw materials for manufacturing.
Support for Make in India initiative.
Export Promotion Initiatives
Initiatives to promote exports in key sectors like handicrafts, leather, and marine products.
Increased export incentives.
Simplified export procedures.
Focus on enhancing global competitiveness.
Key Customs Reforms for Trade Facilitation
Reforms aim to streamline customs processes and enhance trade efficiency.
Introduction of a single-window clearance system.
Reduction in documentation requirements.
Focus on reducing clearance times.
What are the new income tax slabs for FY 2025-26?
The new income tax slabs for FY 2025-26 are: up to ₹4,00,000 - NIL, ₹4,00,001 to ₹8,00,000 - 5%, ₹8,00,001 to ₹12,00,000 - 10%, ₹12,00,001 to ₹16,00,000 - 15%, ₹16,00,001 to ₹20,00,000 - 20%, ₹20,00,001 to ₹24,00,000 - 25%, and above ₹24,00,000 - 30%.
How has the rebate under Section 87A changed?
The rebate under Section 87A has been increased from ₹25,000 to ₹60,000, applicable for individuals with an income of up to ₹12,00,000, resulting in zero tax liability for eligible taxpayers.
What changes have been made to TDS thresholds?
The TDS threshold for interest on securities has been increased to ₹10,000, while the threshold for rent has been raised to ₹6,00,000 per financial year, easing compliance for taxpayers.
What is the new deadline for filing updated income tax returns?
The deadline for filing updated income tax returns (ITR-U) has been extended from 2 years to 4 years from the end of the relevant assessment year, allowing more time for compliance.
Are there any duty exemptions for healthcare products?
Yes, the budget provides duty exemptions on essential medicines and reduced duty on medical equipment to enhance healthcare affordability and accessibility.
How does the budget support domestic manufacturing?
The budget supports domestic manufacturing through reduced customs duty on raw materials, incentives for key sectors like electronics and textiles, and measures to promote the Make in India initiative.
What are the export promotion initiatives in the budget?
The budget includes increased export incentives, simplified export procedures, and a focus on enhancing global competitiveness for sectors like handicrafts, leather, and marine products.
What reforms have been introduced for trade facilitation?
Reforms for trade facilitation include the introduction of a single-window clearance system, reduction in documentation requirements, and efforts to reduce customs clearance times.