Recent changes to Long Term Capital Gains (LTCG) tax rates and rules, which take effect on July 23, 2024, have greatly affected how investors figure their tax liability for the Assessment Year 2025-26. This blog post outlines these important updates across different asset classes, including equity, debt, and real estate. It explains the details of indexation and clears up common misunderstandings, especially related to the Income Tax Bill, 2025. It highlights the need for careful tax planning and urges taxpayers to get expert help.

Income tax is a crucial tool for promoting social equity and reducing income inequality by taxing the rich at higher rates and using the revenue to fund public services and transfer payments to the poor. Income tax can also promote social equity by funding public services and transfer payments that benefit low-income and disadvantaged households, reducing the gender wage gap, and promoting equal opportunities and reduced poverty. However, income tax also faces challenges such as high income tax rates that can discourage work and investment, and evasion or avoidance that can reduce its effectiveness as a tool for redistribution. Income tax is only one part of a broader system of fiscal policy that must be designed and implemented in a way that promotes social equity and redistribution.

The article "ELSS vs PPF: Which Tax-Saving Option is Better?" compares two popular tax-saving investments in India: Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS) and Public Provident Fund (PPF). ELSS invests in equity markets, offers tax benefits under Section 80C, has a three-year lock-in period, and potentially higher returns subject to market risks. Returns above Rs. 1 lakh are taxed at 10%. PPF, a government-backed savings scheme, also offers tax benefits under Section 80C. It has a fixed interest rate of 7.1% per annum, a 15-year lock-in period, and tax-free interest earnings. The choice between ELSS and PPF depends on an investor's goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon. ELSS suits those willing to accept higher risk for potentially higher returns, while PPF is ideal for those seeking low-risk, fixed returns. The article provides a concise comparison to help investors decide based on their preferences.