What this means
Section 54EC of IT Act 1961 (LTCG on any long-term capital asset exempt up to ₹50 lakh if invested in specified bonds — NHAI, REC, PFC, IRFC — within 6 months of transfer; lock-in 5 years) maps to Section 86 of IT Act 2025. The ₹50 lakh cap, 6-month window, and 5-year lock-in are retained. Verify on the income-tax portal before filing.
Change type — Section renumbered
The section number changed when the IT Act 1961 was reorganised into the IT Act 2025. The substance, rates, thresholds, and conditions are preserved. Any reference to the old section number in contracts, certificates, or returns before 1 April 2026 remains valid under the transitional provisions in §536.
Effective date
This change takes effect from 1 April 2026 (Tax Year 2026-27 onwards). For income earned before 1 April 2026, the old Section 54EC continues to apply under the transitional provisions of Section 536 of the IT Act 2025. Returns for FY 2025-26 (AY 2026-27) are filed under the IT Act 1961 — old section numbers apply.
Frequently asked questions
Where did Section 54EC go in the Income Tax Act 2025?▾
Section 54EC of the IT Act 1961 maps to 86 in the IT Act 2025, effective 1 April 2026. Section 54EC of IT Act 1961 (LTCG on any long-term capital asset exempt up to ₹50 lakh if invested in specified bonds — NHAI, REC, PFC, IRFC — within 6 months of transfer; lock-in 5 years) maps to Section 86 of IT Act 2025. The ₹50 lakh cap, 6-month window, and 5-year lock-in are retained. Verify on the income-tax portal before filing.
Does Section 54EC still apply for FY 2025-26 (AY 2026-27)?▾
Yes. For income earned in FY 2025-26 (April 2025 to March 2026), the IT Act 1961 continues to apply — including Section 54EC. The IT Act 2025 (and its new section numbering) applies from Tax Year 2026-27 (income earned on or after 1 April 2026). Verify on the income-tax portal before filing.
What is the new section number for 54EC in the IT Act 2025?▾
The new corresponding provision is 86 under the Income Tax Act 2025. Change type: Section renumbered. The section number changed when the IT Act 1961 was reorganised into the IT Act 2025. The substance, rates, thresholds, and conditions are preserved. Any reference to the old section number in contracts, certificates, or returns before 1 April 2026 remains valid under the transitional provisions in §536. Verify on the income-tax portal before filing.