As we wrap up August 2025, it’s essential to highlight the significant legislative developments that have emerged this month. This Legislation Roundup for August 2025 covers crucial updates, including new Income-tax Act, 2025, National Sports Governance Act, 2025, Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act 2025, Taxation Laws (Amendment) Act, 2025, Guidelines for Animal Blood Transfusion and Blood Banks, DAHD’s Guidelines for the Welfare and Management of Working Equines.
HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH
A New Era in Taxation: Income Tax Act, 2025 Replaces more than 60-Year-Old Law
On 21-8-2025, the Ministry of Law and Justice notified the Income-tax Act, 2025 to repeal the 6-decade old Income-tax Act, 1961. The new Act consolidates and restructures all the provisions in sequence. The provisions will come into force on 1-4-2026.
READ ABOUT ALL THE BILLS INTRODUCED IN MONSOON SESSION: A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW
SOME OF THE BILLS
Lok Sabha passes Income-tax (No. 2) Bill, 2025
The Union Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, introduced the new Income-tax (No. 2) Bill, 2025 on 11-8-2025 to replace the 6-decade old Income-tax Act, 1961 which was passed by Lok Sabha without debate on 11-8-2025.
Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill, 2025 proposes group and cross- border insolvency
On 12-8-2025, the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill, 2025 was introduced by the Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, to reduce delays, maximize value for all stakeholders, and improve governance of all processes under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (‘IBC’).
Modern Maritime Governance takes shape under Merchant Shipping Act, 2025
On 18-8-2025, the Government issued the Merchant Shipping Act, 2025 aimed at streamlining maritime governance with a modern and internationally compliant framework. First introduced on 10-12-2024, the Act replaces the Merchant Shipping Act of 1958, which had become outdated and fragmented in its approach to contemporary maritime challenges.
Parliament passes Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025 without debate: What Experts are saying
The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025 was introduced in Parliament on 20-8-2025 by Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister of Railways, Information and Broadcasting and Electronics and Information Technology to establish a robust legal framework, not only prohibit online money gaming in the country but also to regulate, promote and encourage the sector for innovation and economic growth and ensure a developed, safe and responsible digital environment for all citizens.
ACTS THAT CAME INTO EXISTENCE AFTER 2025 MONSOON SESSION
National Sports Governance Act, 2025: A Statutory Framework for Ethical and Transparent Sports Administration
On 18-08-2025, the Parliament passed the National Sports Governance Act, 2025, replacing the decade-old Sports Code with a legally binding framework that mandates compliance from all recognized sports bodies. The Act will come into force upon official notification by the Central Government.
National Anti-Doping Act, 2022 amended to include provisions of World Anti- Doping Code
On 18-8-2025, the Ministry of Law and Justice issued the National Anti-Doping (Amendment) Act, 2025 to amend the National Anti-Doping Act, 2022.
Carriage of Goods by Sea Act, 2025 repeals century old law to make India’s shipping sector future- ready
On 8-8-2025, the Ministry of Law and Justice issued the Carriage of Goods by Sea Act, 2025 to provide for the responsibilities, liabilities, rights and immunities attached to carriers with respect to the carriage of goods by sea and for matters relating to it.
Coastal Shipping Act, 2025 partially repeals Provisions of Merchant Shipping Act, 1958 dealing with Control of Indian Ships and Ships Engaged in Coasting Trade
On 9-8-2025, the Ministry of Law and Justice issued the Coastal Shipping Act, 2025 to ensure that India is equipped with a coastal fleet, owned and operated by the citizens of India for its national security and commercial needs.
Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act 2025: Scope, Rules, and Penalties for Violations
On 22-8-2025, the President assented the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025, marking a significant legislative milestone in India’s digital governance landscape. This Act aims to strike a balance between fostering innovation in the online gaming sector and curbing the harmful effects of online money gaming. It reflects a comprehensive and forward-looking approach to regulating one of the fast-growing segments of the digital economy.
INQUIRY COMMITTEE
Lok Sabha Speaker constitutes 3-Member Inquiry Committee to Examine Allegations Against Justice Yashwant Varma
On 12-8-2025, the Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla announced the formation of a 3 Member Inquiry Committee to investigate allegations against Justice Yashwant Varma, Judge, Allahabad High Court, under Section 3(2) of the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968.
MINISTRY OF LAW & JUSTICE
Inside Taxation Laws Amendment 2025: Unified Pension Reforms, Foreign Investment Exemptions, and Simplified Assessment Procedures
Inside Taxation Laws Amendment 2025: Unified Pension Reforms, Foreign Investment Exemptions, and Simplified Assessment Procedures.
MoL&J issues Readjustment of Representation of Scheduled Tribes in Assembly Constituencies of the State of Goa Act, 2025
On 13-8-2025, the Ministry of Law and Justice issued the Readjustment of Representation of Scheduled Tribes in Assembly Constituencies of the State of Goa Act, 2025 to provide for the readjustment of seats in the Legislative Assembly of the State of Goa, in so far as such readjustment is necessitated by inclusion of certain communities in the list of the Scheduled Tribes in the State of Goa.
MINISTRY OF FINANCE
Provisions of Banking Laws (Amendment) Act, 2025 notified
On 29-7-2025, the Ministry of Finance appointed 1-8-2025 as the date on which certain provisions of the Banking Laws (Amendment) Act, 2025 will come into force.
MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS
OCI Rules Tightened: Imprisonment could lead to cancellation of Overseas Citizen of India Registration
On 11-8-2025, the Ministry of Home Affairs issued notification regarding cancellation of Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Registration if a person has been sentenced to imprisonment or has been charge- sheeted.
DEPARTMENT OF LAW, JUSTICE & LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS
No More Excess Fee; Parents Gain a Say: Inside Delhi’s School Education (Transparency in Fixation and Regulation of Fees) Act, 2025
On 14-8-2025, the Department of Law, Justice and Legislative Affairs issued Delhi School Education (Transparency in Fixation and Regulation of Fees) Act, 2025 to bring about transparency in the matter of fixation, regulation and collection of fees by schools in the National Capital Territory of Delhi.
DEPARTMENT OF POSTS
India Post to discontinue Registered Post from September 1, 2025 -What lies ahead
On 2-7-2025, the Department of Posts has issued a directive ‘Merger of Registered post with Speed post’, officially announcing that the Registered Post service will be discontinued. With the aim to streamline the mail transmission process and unify features across services, the Government has taken this decision to eliminate duplication in services and enhance operational efficiency. This strategic decision, set to take effect from 1-9-2025, marking a significant transformation in India’s postal framework.
DEPARTMENT OF ANIMAL HUSBANDRY & DAIRYING
A Milestone for Animal Welfare as India unveils first-ever Guidelines for Animal Blood Transfusion and Blood Banks
On 25-8-2025, the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (‘DAHD’) announced the release of the Guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures (‘SOPs’) for Blood Transfusion and Blood Banks for Animals in India. In a landmark move for veterinary healthcare, this initiative aims to revolutionize emergency animal care nationwide by establishing a structured, ethical, and scientifically sound framework for animal blood transfusion.
Step towards cruelty-free Pilgrimages: DAHD’s Guidelines for the Welfare and Management of Working Equines
On 27-8-2025, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying released the Guidelines for the Welfare and Management of Working Equines during Religious Pilgrimages in India to ensure safety of pilgrims, well-being of working equines, and support local administrative and veterinary authorities with actionable protocols.
BAR COUNCIL OF INDIA
Three-Year Moratorium on New Law Colleges: Inside BCI’s New Rules to curb Commercialization in Legal Education
On 13-8-2025, the Bar Council of India (‘BCI’) notified the Rules of Legal Education-Moratorium (Three-Year Moratorium) with respect to Centers of Legal Education, 2025, to impose a complete ban on the establishment of new law colleges, Centers of Legal Education (‘CLEs’). These Rules came into force on 20-8-2025 and will be applicable for a continuous period of three years.
BCI requests Delhi LG to withdraw notification on Police Stations to be ‘designated place’ for e-recording of evidence of police witnesses
On 25-8-2025, the Bar Council of India formally requested the Lieutenant Governor, Government of NCT of Delhi to withdraw its notification dated 13-8-2025 vide which he allowed the Police Stations of Delhi to be the designated places for recording of evidence of the police officials through Video Conferencing. The notification dated 13-8-2025 came into force on 13-8-2025.
RESERVE BANK OF INDIA
RBI lays down Directions on Investment in Alternative Investment Funds Scheme
On 29-7-2025, the Reserve Bank of India (‘RBI’) notified the Reserve Bank of India (Investment in AIF) Directions, 2025 to regulate and streamline the how banks and other financial institutions invest in Alternative Investment Funds (‘AIFs’). The provisions will come into effect from 1-1-2026 unless the Regulated Entity (‘RE’) decided for any other date as per its internal policy.
Overview of RBI (Co-Lending Arrangements) Directions, 2025
On 6-7-2025, the Reserve Bank of India (‘RBI’) notified the ‘RBI (Co-Lending Arrangements) Directions, 2025’, to establish a unified regulatory framework for banks and Non-Banking Financial Companies (‘NBFCs’) to jointly lend through structured co-lending arrangements. These Directions aim to enhance transparency, ensure prudent risk-sharing, and strengthen borrower protection in collaborative lending models. These Directions shall come into force from 1-1-2026, or on any earlier date as determined by the Regulated Entities (‘REs’) based on their internal policies.
RBI Opens Vostro Route for Foreign Investment in Government Securities
On 12-8-2025, the Reserve Bank of India (‘RBI’) notified ‘Investment in Government Securities by Persons Resident Outside India through Special Rupee Vostro account’. The notification permits persons resident outside India, who maintain Special Rupee Vostro Accounts (‘SRVAs’) for international trade settlement in Indian Rupees, to invest their surplus rupee balances in Central Government Securities, including Treasury Bills.
SECURITIES & EXCHANGE BOARD OF INDIA
SEBI revamps Penalty Review System to empower MIIs and ensure fair appeals
On 5-8-2025, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (‘SEBI’) circulated a notification titled ‘Review, Appeal or Waiver of penalty requests emanating out of actions taken by the Member Committee’. This notification introduces a revised framework directing Market Infrastructure Institutions (‘MIIs’) regarding how to handle requests related to penalties imposed through their regulatory processes. The circular aims to improve transparency, reduce conflicts of interest, and ensure fair treatment for market participants.
SEBI Issues Advisory Against Fraudulent FPI-Based Trading Schemes Targeting Indian Investors
On 22-8-2025, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (‘SEBI’) issued an Advisory Against investment in Fraudulent Trading Schemes claiming to be offered to Indian residents by Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs). This advisory warns Indian investors against fraudulent schemes falsely claiming to offer stock market access through Foreign Portfolio Investors (‘FPIs’), Foreign Institutional Investors (‘FIIs’).
UNIQUE IDENTIFICATION AUTHORITY OF INDIA
Strengthening Aadhaar Governance: Key Changes in UIDAI’s 2025 Fees Regulations
On 20-8-2025, the Unique Identification Authority of India (‘UIDAI’) notified the Aadhaar (Payment of Fees for Performance of Authentication) Amendment Regulations, 2025, aim to refine the fee structure and operational framework for entities performing Aadhaar authentication, especially in cases involving updates to the status of Aadhaar numbers.
FOOD SAFETY & STANDARDS AUTHORITY OF INDIA
Food Safety Goes Digital with Connect App and QR Code Innovation: Inside FSSAI Advisory
On 25-7-2025, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (‘FSSAI’) circulated an advisory regarding ‘Display of Food Safety Connect Mobile App QR Code/Download Link at Food Premises’. This advisory is meant to improve food safety and make people more aware of it by encouraging food businesses to use digital tools to help consumers across India.
INVESTOR EDUCATION & PROTECTION FUND AUTHORITY
Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority to launch Integrated Portal to streamline claiming process
On 1-8-2025, the Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (‘IEPFA’) is set to launch Integrated Portal after completing its final phase of testing, a unified digital platform designed to streamline claim processes and enhance accessibility for both investors and companies.
NATIONAL COOPERATIVE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
Centre Approves ₹2,000 Crore NCDC Grant to Boost Rural Cooperatives
On 31-7-2025, the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved a Central Sector Scheme titled ‘Grant-in-aid to National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC)’. This financial assistance scheme is aimed at invigorating India’s cooperative ecosystem and strengthening rural enterprises through targeted support over the next four years. It is a Central Sector Scheme with a total outlay of ₹2,000 crore. The duration of the scheme is four years, from 2025—26 to 2028—29.
CENTRAL MENTAL HEALTH AUTHORITY
Central Mental Health Authority notifies Classification and Categories of Mental Healthcare Establishments
On 12-8-2025, the Central Mental Health Authority notified the Mental Healthcare (Central Mental Health Authority) Amendment Regulations, 2025 to amend the Mental Healthcare (Central Mental Health Authority) Regulations, 2020. The provisions came into force on 13-8-2025.
PENSION FUND REGULATORY & DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
PENSION FUND| UPGRADED PFRDA CONNECT website: Gateway to improved transparency and accessibility
On 4-8-2025, S. Ramann, Chairperson of Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (‘PFRDA’) launched a new and modernized website under the project name PFRDA CONNECT to enhance Digital Engagement and build an inclusive, technology-driven regulatory ecosystem for India’s pension sector.
TELECOM REGULATORY AUTHORITY OF INDIA
TRAI’s Public Advisory on Frauds Misusing its Identity
On 6-8-2025, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (‘TRAI’) issued an advisory cautioning the public about a rise in cyber frauds and financial scams involving misuse of TRAI’s name.
Telecom Regulatory Authority of India: A step towards future-ready Digital Connectivity Infrastructure
On 13-8-2025, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (‘TRAI’) issued Manual for Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity laying down India’s first standardized framework to evaluate how efficiently buildings are equipped for high- speed, reliable digital access.
TRAI registers first 8 Digital Connectivity Rating Agencies; introduces ‘Star rating’ for properties with digital connectivity
On 29-8-2025, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India granted registration to 8 applicants as Digital Connectivity Rating Agency (‘DCRA’) under the Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity Regulations, 2024 to enable prospective buyers, tenants and businesses to make informed decisions on the basis of actual connectivity performance.
UNIVERSITY GRANTS COMMISSION
UGC prohibits Online or Distance Mode Education for Healthcare Education
On 12-8-2025, the University Grants Commission (‘UGC’) notified the ‘Commission’s decision regarding the feasibility of offering programmes in the specialisation of healthcare and allied disciplines falling under the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (‘NCAHP’) Act, 2021, in Open and Distance Learning (‘ODL’) and Online mode’. This Directive is aimed at safeguarding the integrity and quality of healthcare education in India.
STATE LEGISLATION
Delhi BNSS (Service of Summons and Warrants) Rules, 2025 repeal earlier Service of Summons Rules
On 13-8-2025, the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi notified the Delhi BNSS (Service of Summons and Warrants) Rules, 2025 to repeal the Delhi BNSS (Service of Summons) Rules, 2025. The provisions came into effect on 14-8-2025.
FOREIGN LEGISLATION
UK Government Announces New Law to Criminalise Online Ads Promoting Illegal Immigration
On 2-8-2025, the UK government has announced a major legal reform that will criminalise the creation and publication of online content promoting small boat crossings and other breaches of immigration law, a decisive move to disrupt the operations of organised crime groups profiting from illegal immigration. Introduced on 13-05-2025, as an amendment to the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill, the new offence forms a central pillar of the government’s Plan for Change to strengthen border security and dismantle people-smuggling networks.
China Set for Multiple Legal Reforms in September Session
On 26-8-2025, the 48th Chairman’s Meeting of the Standing Committee of the 14th National People’s Congress (‘NPC’) convened at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Presided over by Chairman Zhao Leji, the meeting concluded with the decision to hold the 17th session of the Standing Committee from September 8th to 12th, featuring a comprehensive legislative agenda.
