Rules Change From 1st July 2025: ITR to Pan and Railway Ticket Booking, Here Are Major Changes You Must Know

Starting 1st July 2025, several new rules have come into effect that will directly impact your daily life and wallet. From PAN card application to railway bookings and income tax return deadlines, the government and financial institutions have introduced fresh regulations aimed at enhancing security, streamlining digital transactions, and ensuring regulatory compliance. However, for common citizens, these may also introduce new formalities and costs.

Here's a detailed look at what’s changing:

1. Aadhaar Mandatory for New PAN Card Applications

From today, Aadhaar has become the only valid identity proof for issuing new PAN cards. Earlier, documents like driving licence, voter ID, or birth certificate were also accepted. Now, only Aadhaar will be allowed.

Those who already hold a PAN but haven’t yet linked it with Aadhaar have time until 31st December 2025. Failure to do so will result in PAN deactivation, affecting all tax-related and banking activities.

2. Aadhaar Now Required for Tatkal Railway Tickets

Indian Railways has now made Aadhaar verification compulsory for booking Tatkal tickets. In addition, starting 15th July, both online and counter ticket bookings will require two-factor OTP authentication to ensure the identity of the traveller. The OTP will be sent to the registered mobile number during booking.

Moreover, Indian Railways is reportedly considering a fare hike — increasing 1 paisa per km for non-AC coaches and 2 paisa per km for AC coaches.

3. Extra Time for Income Tax Return Filing

In a relief to salaried taxpayers, the Income Tax Department has extended the ITR filing deadline from 31st July to 15th September 2025. This gives taxpayers 46 extra days to file their returns for the financial year.

Why These Changes Matter

Authorities have stated that these updates aim to:

Improve transparency and prevent fraud in document issuance.

Secure railway travel and minimise ticketing misuse.

Encourage timely and verified ITR filing with accurate data.

However, the public is advised to stay updated and comply with the changes in advance to avoid delays or extra charges.