New Delhi, April 15 -- If you thought the old vs new tax regime debate was settled, think again.

Just when the government seemed determined to push taxpayers toward the new regime, the newly notified Income Tax Rules, 2026 have quietly reopened the contest. By increasing limits for several exemptions, the old regime has regained relevance.

And now, as a salaried individual, you are back to doing what you hoped was over: choosing.

Every April, employers ask for investment declarations. This year, that exercise carries more weight than it has in some time.

For a while, the new regime looked like the clear winner - lower tax rates, fewer deductions to track, and less paperwork. It was designed to simplify compliance and gradually reduce ...