NEw Delhi: A series of financial and public service-related changes have taken effect across the country from July 1, impacting Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) members, Aadhaar users, passport applicants and taxpayers. The revised provisions, introduced through notifications issued by various government agencies, are expected to affect millions of citizens.
One of the key developments is the restoration of online services by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) after a five-day technology upgrade. The organisation had temporarily suspended access to its member and employer portals between June 26 and June 30 to carry out database migration and system enhancements aimed at improving digital services. With the maintenance work completed, all online facilities are now operational again.
In another relief for Aadhaar holders, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has made it free to update the email address linked with an Aadhaar card through its official mobile application. The exemption from the update fee will remain valid until December 31, 2026, allowing users to modify their registered email addresses without any charge during this period.
Passport applicants will now have to pay higher charges, following a revision in fees notified by the Ministry of External Affairs. The updated fee structure applies to fresh passport applications as well as Tatkaal services, with revised rates also covering 60-page booklets, passports for minors and police clearance certificates. Officials said the revised pricing is applicable to applications submitted both within India and at Indian missions abroad.
Meanwhile, the Income Tax Department has reminded taxpayers that July 31 remains the deadline for filing Income Tax Returns under ITR-1 and ITR-2 without attracting late penalties. Tax professionals have advised eligible individuals to complete the filing process well before the due date to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Changes relating to domestic cooking fuel have also drawn attention. The transition policy concerning households having both LPG and PNG connections is expected to move into the next phase from July. While June 30 was indicated as the deadline for consumers to shift fully to piped natural gas wherever available, no formal notification has yet been issued regarding the discontinuation of LPG supply. Authorities have clarified that consumers relocating to areas without PNG connectivity will be able to restore their surrendered LPG connections.
Officials say these changes are part of ongoing efforts to streamline public services, strengthen digital infrastructure and improve administrative efficiency across various sectors.
