India's Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU-IND) has mandated comprehensive cybersecurity audits for all Virtual Digital Asset (VDA) service providers, including crypto exchanges and custodians. These audits, to be conducted by CERT-In approved auditors, signal a major shift towards a more secure and regulated crypto ecosystem in India. The move aims to combat cybercrime, money laundering, and boost investor confidence, bringing the crypto sector in line with traditional financial regulations. Firms must now prioritize compliance, update security protocols, and prepare for the new PACT certification, marking an end to lax security practices.

This blog provides a comprehensive guide to the taxation of Virtual Digital Assets (VDAs) and cryptocurrencies in India for the Financial Year 2025-26. It details the prevailing rules, including the flat 30% tax on all profits, the stringent policy of no loss set-off or carry forward, and the mandatory 1% TDS on transactions. The article also covers the tax implications for gifts, airdrops, and staking, along with the mandatory ITR filing requirements, to help Indian investors and traders navigate the tax landscape and ensure full compliance.

India's digital asset taxation is maturing. For FY 2025-26, the core 30% tax and 1% TDS on VDAs remain, but expect a wider definition of VDAs and mandatory reporting by exchanges. This blog details current rules and what enhanced compliance means for crypto and other new-age investors.