January 2026 brings major changes: PAN-Aadhaar, loans, gas, apps

From faster credit score updates and cheaper loans to mandatory PAN–Aadhaar linking and new app verification rules, several key policy and financial changes will take effect across India from January 2026.

With December nearing its end, the start of the new year will bring a series of important financial, digital, and administrative changes for citizens across the country. As is common at the beginning of every month, several rules linked to essential services and official documentation will be updated. January 2026 is set to see multiple significant changes impacting households, borrowers, employees, and mobile users.

One of the key areas to watch is LPG prices. Oil marketing companies revise gas cylinder prices at the start of every month. As a result, domestic LPG prices may increase, decrease, or remain unchanged from January, depending on global and domestic factors.

Also Read:Bandipur-Nagarahole safari shutdown pushes wildlife tourism Into crores of losses

A major relief for borrowers comes in the form of quicker credit score updates. Until now, it typically took 30 to 45 days for changes in repayment behavior to reflect in a person’s credit score, often delaying loan approvals. From January 2026, credit scores will be updated within 15 days, enabling faster access to loans and financial products.

Loan interest rates are also expected to remain low. The Reserve Bank of India reduced the repo rate several times in 2025, bringing it down from 6.50 percent to 5.25 percent. This reduction is expected to translate into cheaper home, vehicle, and personal loans in the coming months.

Another major compliance requirement is the mandatory linking of PAN and Aadhaar. From January 2026, PAN-Aadhaar linkage becomes compulsory. If the two documents are not linked by December 31, 2025, the PAN card will become inactive, affecting banking, tax filing, and financial transactions.

Also Read:Major power outage across North Bengaluru today due to emergency BESCOM works

Digital communication rules are also changing. The government has made SIM card verification mandatory for applications such as WhatsApp, Instagram, and Telegram. Earlier, app verification could be completed using email accounts like Gmail. From January, a valid SIM card will be required to access these platforms.

For government employees, January 1, 2026 marks the beginning of the 8th Pay Commission. Reports suggest an important announcement on Dearness Allowance (DA), which is expected to result in salary hikes for central government staff.

Together, these changes mark a significant shift as India steps into 2026, affecting everyday expenses, digital access, loans, and employment benefits.