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• Your budget will change from February 1
• Direct impact on common man’s pocket
• Pan masala-Cigarette expensive, gas will be cheaper?

The beginning of the month of February and the day of the Union Budget 2026 are witnessing many big changes. From cooking gas prices to bank holidays and additional tax on pan masala, the five rules will have a profound impact on the lives and spending of every common man.

As on the first date of every month, on 1st February 2026, oil marketing companies will revise the prices of LPG cylinders. The entire country is keeping a close eye on these prices, which will be announced on Budget Day. In particular, the public hopes that the price of a 14 kg domestic gas cylinder may come down this time. Earlier, on January 1, the price of a 19 kg commercial cylinder was reduced by ₹14.50, bringing it to ₹1804 in Delhi. Now, it remains to be seen whether the government will provide relief to domestic consumers on Budget day.

Along with LPG, the new rates of ATF (Air Turbine Fuel) will also be announced on February 1. Any change in the price of ATF directly affects the airfare. ATF fares in Delhi fell by around 7% last month, much to the relief of commuters. Moreover, CNG and PNG rates are also likely to improve, which may impact transport and household budgets.

The government has made a major change in the tax structure on tobacco products and paan masala from February 1. According to media reports, new excise duty and health and national security cess (cess) will now be levied in addition to GST. The new tax has been notified to replace the GST compensation cess, which could lead to a significant hike in the prices of cigarettes and paan masala from next month.

There is good news for vehicle owners. NHAI has announced that the KYC verification process for issuing FASTags for cars, jeeps and vans has been removed from service from February 1, 2026. The move aims to simplify digital toll collection and provide convenience to customers, making it easier than ever to get a new FASTag.

If you want to do important banking work in February, you should definitely check the list of bank holidays. As per the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) calendar, banks will remain closed for a total of 10 days in February, including weekly holidays and local festivals like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti. Hence, it is advisable to use digital banking or complete your banking work ahead of time.