While there is no revision in slabs, the Budget addresses several long-standing concerns of middle-class taxpayers through targeted relief measures, including a reduction in TCS rates, and the introduction of new dividend-related deductions

The Union Budget 2026 raised STT on futures and options from April 1, 2026. ICRA expects a 16 percent rise in STT collections in financial year 2027. Derivatives volumes cross 500x GDP in India hence the government said the move aims to curb excessive speculation