As we wrap up October 2025, it’s essential to highlight the significant legislative developments that have emerged this month. This Legislation Roundup for October 2025 covers crucial updates, including all updates on UIDAI employees’ to be covered under Medical Reimbursement Scheme, revision in DA and DR to Pensioners, grant of online registration in GST, DGCA to monitor festive airfares.
HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH:
ELECTION COMMISSION OF INDIA
SIR 2025: Electoral Roll Revision Guidelines for 12 States and UTs
The Election Commission of India (‘ECI’) has initiated a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in 12 States and Union Territories. This step aims to update the electoral rolls, ensuring inclusion of eligible citizens and removal of ineligible entries.
CABINET/ BILLS/ ORDINANCES
Cabinet approves 3% Increase in DA and DR
On 1-10-2025, the Central Government approved the release of an additional instalment of 3% Dearness Allowance (DA) to Central Government employees and Dearness Relief (DR) to Pensioners. The revised rates will be effective from 1-7-2025.
MINISTRY OF FINANCE
Banking Companies (Nomination) Rules, 2025: Key Highlights, E-Nomination Process & New Guidelines
On 27-10-2025, the Ministry of Finance notified the Banking Companies (Nomination) Rules, 2025 to modernize, simplify, and digitize the nomination process for bank customers in India. These Rules are in supersession of the Banking Companies (Nomination) Rules, 1985 and the Co-operative Banks (Nomination) Rules, 1985.
Customs (Voluntary Revision of Entries Post Clearance) Regulations, 2025- Key Provisions & Compliance Guidelines
On 30-10-2025, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs notified the Customs (Voluntary Revision of Entries Post Clearance) Regulations, 2025 to facilitate compliance by allowing importers/exporters to voluntarily correct or revise customs declarations after clearance without facing punitive consequences.
GST (Fourth Amendment) Rules 2025: Electronic Registration, Aadhaar Authentication & New Threshold Options
On 31-10-2025, the Ministry of Finance notified the Central Goods and Services Tax (Fourth Amendment) Rules, 2025 to amend the Central Goods and Services Tax Rules, 2017. The provisions came into force on 1-11-2025.
CBIC Automates IFSC Code Approvals Across Ports to Boost Trade Efficiency
On 7-10-2025, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (‘CBIC’) announced the launch of a system-based auto-approval mechanism for Indian Financial System Code (‘IFSC’) code registration. This initiative marks a significant step toward streamlining customs procedures and enhancing trade facilitation across India’s ports. Once an exporter’s bank details are approved at one port, they will now be automatically accepted at other ports as well, eliminating the need to repeat the registration process.
CBDT Update: New ITR Filing Deadline Announced for AY 2025—26
On 29-10-2025, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (‘CBDT’) announced the extension of key statutory due dates under the Income-tax Act, 1961 for the Assessment Year (AY) 2025—26.
MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS
Telecommunications (Telecom Cyber Security) Amendment Rules, 2025: Strengthening Mobile Number Validation and IMEI compliance in India
On 22-10-2025, the Ministry of Communications notified the Telecommunications (Telecom Cyber Security) Amendment Rules, 2025 to amend the Telecommunications (Telecom Cyber Security) Rules, 2024.
MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION
Legal Metrology (Government Approved Test Centre) Amendment Rules, 2025: Key changes in Verification, Applications, Fees and Recognition
On 23-10-2025, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution notified the Legal Metrology (Government Approved Test Centre) Amendment Rules, 2025 to amend the Legal Metrology (Government Approved Test Centre) Rules, 2013.
MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE
Why you shouldn’t Buy, Use, or Distribute Coldrif Cough Syrup — Read the Advisory
In response to a tragic series of child deaths allegedly linked to consumption of Coldrif Cough Syrup, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare announced a ban on the purchase, utilisation, and distribution of the Cough Syrup.
MINISTRY OF CIVIL AVIATION
Civil Aviation Ministry directs DGCA to monitor festive airfares; 1762 flights added to meet demand
On 5-10-2025, the Ministry of Civil Aviation mandated the Directorate General of Civil Aviation to keep a watch on airfares, especially during the festive season and take appropriate measures in case of surge in prices.
MINISTRY OF LABOUR & EMPLOYMENT
Clause-by-Clause Analysis of Employees’ Provident Funds (Amendment) Scheme, 2025
On 10-2025, the Ministry of Labour and Employment notified Employees’ Provident Funds (‘EPF’) (Amendment) Scheme, 2025, introducing a special compliance initiative titled the Employees’ Enrolment Campaign, 2025.
MINISRTY OF ELECTRONICS & INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
IT Rules 2025 Amendment: Strengthening Due Diligence for Intermediaries against Deepfakes and Unlawful Content
On 22-10-2025, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology notified the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Amendment Rules, 2025 to amend the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021.
Highlights from the 238th CBT Meeting: EPFO Eases Norms, Allows 100% Early PF Withdrawal, Launches Vishwas Scheme, Digital Life Certificate and Much More
On 13-10-2025, the Union Minister for Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya chaired the 238th meeting of the Central Board of Trustees (‘CBT’), Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (‘EPFO’). The meeting marked a significant milestone in EPFO’s journey toward simplification and liberalization, with a series of transformative decisions focused on enhancing member convenience, streamlining litigation processes, and accelerating digital transformation across the organization.
MINISTRY OF ROAD TRANSPORT & HIGHWAYS
No FASTag? Pay More: Government updates National Highways Fee Rules
On 3-10-2025, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways notified the National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) (Third Amendment) Rules, 2025, introducing transformative changes to India’s toll collection system, reinforcing digital payments and enhancing commuter convenience.
National Road Safety Board Rules, 2025: Objectives, Composition, Tenure & Key Provisions
On 27-10-2025, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways notified the National Road Safety Board Rules, 2025 to reduce road accident fatalities and injuries, promote awareness and education, develop a road safety information system, ensure safer road infrastructure and coordinate between Central and State Government.
MINISTRY OF DEFENCE
Defence Ministry boosts Financial Aid for Ex-Servicemen by 100%
On 15-10-2025, the Defence Ministry, under the leadership of Shri Rajnath Singh approved a 100% increase in financial assistance for Ex-Servicemen (ESM) and their dependents under welfare schemes implemented by the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare through the Kendriya Sainik Board.
BAR COUNCIL OF INDIA
BCI Revises Election Eligibility Rules 2023: Disqualification set at two Pending Criminal Cases
On 29-10-2025, the Bar Council of India (‘BCI’) notified the amendment of BCI Rules (for Qualification/Disqualification and procedure for election and code of conduct for the elections of State Bar Council / Bar Council of India), 2023. This Amendment refines the criteria for disqualification and adds procedural safeguards for candidates.
BCI suspends Advocate who tried to hurl shoes at CJI Gavai in Courtroom
On 6-10-2025, the Bar Council of India (‘BCI’) issued an immediate suspension order against Advocate Rakesh Kishore, enrolled with the Bar Council of Delhi, following a shocking incident inside the Supreme Court of India. The advocate allegedly attempted to attack the Hon’ble Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai.
BCI Dissolves Delhi Bar Council, Constitutes 3-member Special Committee for Elections
On 10-10-2025, the Bar Council of India (‘BCI’) has dissolved the elected Bar Council of Delhi (‘BCD’), with immediate effect. A 3-member Special Committee has been appointed to oversee verification and ensure free and fair elections for the Delhi Bar Council by 31-1-2026.
BCI issues warning on Unregistered Collaborations between Indian and Foreign Law Firms
On 21-10-2025, the Bar Council of India withdrew its press release dated 5-8-2025 and substitutes it with the press release dated 21.10.2025 laying down instances of unauthorized, unregistered, and impermissible collaborations or combinations between Indian law firms/ Advocates and foreign law firms/ Advocates.
AIBE-XX 2025: Revised Registration, Fee Payment & Correction dates announced by BCI
On 28-10-2025, the Bar Council of India Trust issued a notification to re-schedule the registration, payment of fee and correction registering form for AIBE —XX.
UNIQUE IDENTIFICATION AUTHORITY OF INDIA
UIDAI Makes Aadhaar Updates Free for Children Aged 7—15
On 29-9-2025, the Unique Identification Authority of India (‘UIDAI’) announced the Waiver of charges for Mandatory Biometric Update (MBU) — 1 of children aged 7 to 15 years. It is a significant step aimed at reducing biometric update pendency and improving access to Aadhaar-linked services for children, effective from 1-10-2025.
UIDAI (Salary, Allowances and other Terms and Conditions of Service of Employees) Amendment Regulations, 2025: Medical Facility Revised
On 31-10-2025, the Unique Identification Authority of India notified the Unique Identification Authority of India (Salary, Allowances and other Terms and Conditions of Service of Employees) Amendment Regulations, 2025 to update and regulate the salary structure, allowances, and service conditions of UIDAI employees. The provisions came into force on 31-10-2025.
FOOD SAFETY & STANDARDS AUTHORITY OF INDIA
FSSAI Cracks Down on Misleading “ORS” Branding in Food Industry
On 15-10-2025, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (‘FSSAI’) issued an order that decisively prohibits the use of the term Oral Rehydration Salts (‘ORS’) in the branding, labelling, or naming of food products.
TELECOM REGULATORY AUTHORITY OF INDIA
No more guessing who’s calling as TRAI Approves CNAP Rollout for Telecom Networks with Verified Caller ID
On 28-10-2025, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (‘TRAI’) issued its formal response to the Department of Telecommunications (‘DoT’), paving the way for the introduction of Calling Name Presentation (‘CNAP’) across Indian telecommunication networks. This verified caller ID system, integrated into licensed telecom services, will display the registered name of the caller on the recipient’s phone screen, even without an internet connection.
SECURITIES & EXCHANGE BOARD OF INDIA
New Permitted Activities, Compliance Timelines & Enhanced Trustee Rights introduced vide SEBI (Debenture Trustees) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025
On 22-10-2025, the Securities and Exchange Board of India notified the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Debenture Trustees) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 to amend the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Debenture Trustees) Regulations, 1993.
SEBI Introduces “Verified UPI Handles” and “SEBI Check” to safeguard Investors
On 1-10-2025, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) announced the “Validated UPI Handles” and “SEBI Check,” two key initiatives aimed at enhancing payment security and protecting investors from fraudulent transactions in the securities market….
SEBI Notifies Revised Block Deal Framework: Key Changes Effective December 2025
On 8-10-2025, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (‘SEBI’) notified the Review of Block Deal Framework, introducing a series of amendments aimed at strengthening transparency, efficiency, and regulatory oversight in large-volume equity trades. These changes reflect evolving market conditions and are based on recommendations from a SEBI Working Group, deliberations in the Secondary Market Advisory Committee (‘SMAC’), and public feedback.
SEBI’s Revises Disclosure Framework for Related Party Transactions
On 13-10-2025, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) circulated a notification titled “Minimum information to be provided to the Audit Committee and Shareholders for approval of Related Party Transactions (‘RPTs’)”. This notification marks a significant shift in the compliance landscape for listed entities, aiming to streamline disclosures while preserving transparency and governance integrity. This circular came into effect immediately.
RESERVE BANK OF INDIA
Understanding RBI Nomination Directions: What Changes from November 1, 2025
On 28-10-2025, the Reserve Bank of India (‘RBI’) notified the RBI (Nomination Facility in Deposit Accounts, Safe Deposit Lockers and Articles kept in Safe Custody with the Banks) Directions, 2025, aimed at simplifying claim settlement procedures following the death of a bank customer.
Opening Foreign Currency Accounts Made Easier: RBI Notifies Seventh FEMA Amendment (2025)
On 6-10-2025, the Reserve Bank of India (‘RBI’) notified the Foreign Exchange Management (Foreign Currency Accounts by a person resident in India) (Seventh Amendment) Regulations, 2025.
STATE LEGISLATION
Digital Compliance and Worker Safety in Focus: Maharashtra Factories (Second Amendment) Rules, 2025
On 3-10-2025, the Government of Maharashtra notified the Maharashtra Factories (Second Amendment) Rules, 2025, aiming to digitize factory compliance processes and strengthen worker safety, especially for women and older employees, through updated forms, licensing, and health protocols.
Inside Delhi High Court’s Amended Bail Application Rules
On 25-9-2025, the Delhi Government notified an amendment to the Delhi High Court Rules & Orders, revising the procedure for bail applications.
Karnataka Approves Monthly Paid Menstrual Leave for Women Employees
On 9-10-2025, the Karnataka Government approved a groundbreaking policy granting one-day paid menstrual leave each month to women employees across both government and private sectors.
FOREIGN LEGISLATION
US Ends Automatic Work Permit Extensions for Foreign Nationals
On 29-10-2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (‘DHS’) officially announced the end of automatic extensions for Employment Authorization Documents (‘EAD’) for foreign nationals who file renewal applications. The new rule took effect from 30-10-2025.