This blog explains the concept of income tax surcharge and marginal relief in India for AY 2025-26 (FY 2024-25). It details the current surcharge rates under both old and new tax regimes and illustrates how marginal relief prevents excessive tax liability near surcharge thresholds. Additionally, it covers key Budget 2025 proposals affecting FY 2025-26 (AY 2026-27), including revised tax slabs, increased rebate under Sec 87A, and a new type of marginal relief linked to the rebate threshold.

Analyzes the feasibility of achieving zero income tax on 19.2 lakh earnings under India's new tax regime (FY 2025-26 / Section 115BAC). Details the regime's rules, standard tax calculation, and debunks the zero-tax claim by highlighting the reliance on disallowed deductions (HRA, LTA, flexi-allowances). Concludes it's unrealistic for most salaried individuals

The Indian government affirms there is no GST on UPI transactions exceeding 2,000. This post clarifies that the confusion arose from NPCI's March 2023 introduction of interchange fees (up to 1.1%) specifically for merchant payments over ₹2,000 made via PPI wallets; this fee is not GST and isn't paid by customers. Standard bank-to-bank UPI remains free due to the MDR waiver. The government actively supports UPI growth through incentive schemes.