Patna: A raft of regulatory changes has come into force across Bihar from April 1, ushering in reforms spanning electricity tariffs, taxation, banking, travel and sanitation, in line with the start of the new financial year.
The updates are expected to have a direct impact on household budgets and financial planning, with authorities urging citizens to familiarise themselves with the changes to avoid unexpected costs.
One of the most notable shifts is in electricity billing. Power tariffs will now vary depending on the time of usage, introducing a time-of-day pricing model. Electricity consumed between 9am and 5pm will be cheaper, while usage during peak evening hours, from 5pm to 11pm, will cost more. A standard rate will apply overnight. The rule currently applies to consumers with a load exceeding 10 kilowatts.
Changes have also been introduced to the income tax framework. A revised system replaces earlier terminology such as “financial year” and “assessment year” with a simplified “tax year”. Adjustments to the calculation of house rent allowance (HRA) and other components are also expected to influence salary structures and tax planning.
Travel costs are set to rise slightly as annual FASTag passes become more expensive. Railway passengers, meanwhile, will benefit from revised cancellation rules, with higher refunds available for tickets cancelled at least 72 hours in advance. Last-minute cancellations will attract steeper deductions, while passengers will now be allowed to change their boarding station up to 30 minutes before departure.
In banking, new restrictions affect ATM withdrawals and digital transactions. Cash withdrawals made via UPI will now count towards the monthly free transaction limit, after which additional charges will apply. Some banks have also reduced daily withdrawal caps.
Security measures for digital payments have been tightened, with two-factor authentication now mandatory. OTP-only verification will no longer suffice. In a separate move, Aadhaar alone will not be enough to apply for a PAN card; applicants must now submit additional documents such as a birth certificate, Class 10 certificate or passport.
Civic authorities in Patna have introduced stricter waste management rules. Households are required to segregate waste into four categories — wet, dry, sanitary and hazardous — or risk fines. Sanitation workers may refuse to collect unsegregated garbage.
Property buyers could also face higher costs. The government is preparing to revise circle rates to better reflect market values, a move likely to increase registration charges for land and flats in several areas.
Taken together, the changes mark a significant shift in policy affecting daily life, with implications for spending, savings and compliance. Officials say staying informed will be key to navigating the new rules effectively.
