The new rules, together with pricing changes, will start operation in India on February 1 2026. The modifications include FASTag rule changes, tobacco price increases and Budget day stock market operations, together with constant fuel and milk prices.
Key Changes Effected From February 1
FASTag Rules
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has simplified FASTag compliance norms to reduce congestion at toll plazas. The regulations now require users to provide vehicle identification only when obtaining new FASTags for their cars, jeeps, and vans. Banks will now conduct KYV checks only at the time of issuance. Existing FASTag users will not be required to undergo periodic KYV verification unless a complaint or discrepancy is reported, making toll payments smoother and faster.
Tobacco, Pan Masala, Cigarettes
From February 1, prices of cigarettes, pan masala, and tobacco products are set to rise due to revised excise duties and the introduction of a health and national security cess. In some cases, cigarette prices may increase by up to ₹8.50 per stick. The cess on pan masala will be linked to manufacturing capacity, with the revenue aimed at supporting state health initiatives. The total tax load for tobacco products has remained stable at approximately 88% despite the modifications.
Stock Markets
Both NSE and BSE will remain open for normal trading on Sunday, February 1, as it is Union Budget day. The pre-open session will run from 9:00 am to 9:08 am, allowing investors to react instantly to Budget announcements. Commodity markets will also function normally.
LPG Prices
The price of Commercial 19-kg LPG cylinders has increased by ₹49 to ₹50, which now costs ₹1,740.50 in Delhi. The price of domestic LPG cylinders remains the same.
Petrol, Diesel, CNG
The fuel prices have not experienced any changes. The price of petrol in Delhi remains at approximately ₹96.72 per litre, while diesel costs ₹87.62 per litre and CNG stands at about ₹76 per kg.
Milk Prices
The milk price has not experienced any new increases since the last announcement, which took place on February 1. The major dairy companies implemented their previous price increases during the year 2025.
EPFO and Aadhaar
The EPFO system enables Aadhaar-verified UAN holders to update their online profiles by making changes without needing document uploads. The new Aadhaar-linked regulations will begin enforcement on February 1.
The regulations, which will begin on February 1, will provide relief to commuters while they will result in higher tobacco costs and fixed fuel prices, and they will allow markets to operate normally.
