Are you eagerly anticipating your income tax refund? Monitoring the status of your refund is simpler than you may realise. Whether you’ve filed your return online or offline, monitoring your refund status provides peace of mind and helps you plan your finances better. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to check your income tax refund status effortlessly.

Steps to Check Income Tax Refund Status

If your refund due has been determined after 31st March 2023, follow these simple steps:

• Visit the Official Income Tax Portal: Head to the official Income Tax e-filing portal by clicking on the following link: https://eportal.incometax.gov.in/iec/foservices/#/know-refund-status/user-information.
• Enter Required Details: Once on the portal, you’ll be prompted to enter specific details. Start by providing your PAN (Permanent Account Number) and the Assessment Year for which you want to check the refund status. Ensure accuracy in entering these details to avoid any discrepancies.
• Provide Contact Information: Next, enter your registered mobile number. This step is significant as it safeguards your account’s security and enables tax authorities to communicate any updates regarding your refund status conveniently.
• Click Continue: After entering all the necessary information, click the ‘Continue’ button. The portal will validate the details provided and initiate retrieving your refund status.
• Check Status: Once the system verifies your details, it will display the status of your income tax refund on the screen. You’ll be able to see whether your refund has been processed, if it’s under process, or any other relevant information regarding the status of your refund.
• Stay Updated: It’s advisable to regularly check your refund status to stay informed about any changes or updates. The Income Tax Department often provides real-time updates on refund status, ensuring transparency and efficiency.

By following these straightforward steps, you can effortlessly monitor the status of your income tax refund and stay informed about any updates regarding your refund claim. Additionally, monitoring your refund status allows you to promptly address any issues or discrepancies, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Navigating the complexities of taxation is a fundamental aspect of running a business, especially in Goods and Services Tax (GST). At the heart of GST lies an essential concept: Input Tax Credit (ITC). But what is an input tax credit? Simply, it represents the GST, a taxable entity that pays on purchases of goods and services intended for business use. This credit is a powerful tool, allowing businesses to reduce the GST payable on their sales. However, accessing this benefit requires compliance with specific conditions mandated by tax authorities. Let's look at the Input Tax Credit and see how it helps businesses manage their taxes better.

Understanding the Meaning of Input Tax Credit

• Input credit in GST refers to reducing the output tax paid by the amount already paid on inputs.

• You can claim input credit for taxes paid on purchases if you're a manufacturer, supplier, agent, e-commerce operator, or any other entity registered under GST.

• To avail input credit under GST, it is necessary to possess a valid tax invoice or debit note from a registered dealer for the purchases made, along with the receipt of the goods or services.

• Input credit is available once the supplier has deposited the tax to the government or claimed input credit, filed GST returns, and uploaded the invoice in their GSTR-1, appearing in the recipient’s GSTR-2B.

• Input credit is allowed only if your supplier is GST compliant, ensuring validation before claiming it.

• Unclaimed input credit resulting from higher taxes on purchases compared to sales can either be carried forward to future tax periods or refunded to the taxpayer.

• Taxpayers cannot claim input tax credit for purchase invoices older than one year, except under special circumstances specified in Section 18(1).

• GST input credit applies to goods and services except those on the exempted or negative list, including capital goods.

• Input tax credit isn’t allowed for goods and services for personal use.

• No input tax credit is permitted after filing the GST return for September following the end of the financial year or filing the relevant annual return, whichever comes first.

The process of income tax calculation, governed by The Indian Income Tax Act, is vital for financial planning. Despite no changes in tax slabs in the recent interim budget, understanding how income tax is computed is essential for individuals and businesses.

How to Calculate Income Tax?

We will see how to calculate income tax on our salary:

1. First, Calculate Your Gross Salary

   Gross salary refers to your earnings before any deductions are made. It includes:

• Basic salary
• House rent allowance (HRA)
• Other allowances like transport allowance and other special allowances.
• And other perquisites

2. Secondly, Calculate Allowable Deductions

   Now you have calculated the gross salary, it’s time to make deductions. Now, deduct the eligible amounts under various sections of the Income Tax Act. Common deductions included under the income tax are:

• Section 80C: According to sections 80C, investments in ELSS, PPF, NSC, life insurance and premiums, tuition fees, etc., up to ₹1.5 lakh.
• Section 80D: According to section 80D, premiums paid for health insurance for yourself, your spouse and dependent children are up to ₹25,000 (₹50,000 for senior citizens).
• Section 80E: According to section 80E, interest on education loans.
• Section 80TTA: According to section 80TTA, interest earned on savings accounts up to ₹10,000.

3. Thirdly, Compute Taxable Income

   Your taxable income is the difference between your gross salary calculated in step 1 and deductions calculated in step 2. In other words, the amount of salary left with you after deductions is your taxable income.

4. Fourthly, Apply the Applicable Tax Slabs

   For FY 2023-24, the slabs are as follows for individuals below 60 years:

• Up to ₹2.5 lakh: No tax
• ₹2,50,001 to ₹5,00,000: 5%
• ₹5,00,001 to ₹10,00,000: 20%
• Above ₹10,00,000: 30% Additional cess and surcharge may apply for higher income brackets.

5. Fifth, Calculate Tax Payable

   Now it’s time to calculate the amount of tax you should pay.

• One- Identify the tax slab applicable to you.
• Two- Apply the tax rates on your taxable income.
• Three- Then, add cess (4% on the income tax).

6. Sixth, Adjust for Tax Rebates and Relief

   If your taxable income is up to ₹5 lakh, you will be eligible for rebate under section 87A. If you have received arrears of salary, you can also avail relief under section 89.

7. Seventh, Final Calculation

   To know the actual amount of tax payable, deduct any amount you have paid as tax deducted at source (TDS) from the tax payable you calculated above. This will give you:

• You need to pay income tax or
• The refund you will receive.

Navigating the intricacies of tax filing can be daunting, especially when filling out Schedule 80D in the Income Tax Return (ITR). This vital document pertains to health insurance and medical expenditure deductions, significantly influencing your tax liabilities. Understanding its nuances is paramount for accurate filing and maximising deductions.
Let’s delve into the essentials of completing Schedule 80D in your ITR to ensure compliance and optimise your tax-saving opportunities.

What is Schedule 80D in ITR?

Schedule 80D in ITR refers to the tax deductions taxpayers can claim for the premiums they pay for medical insurance policies. These policies can be for self, parents, spouse, and dependent children. This section also allows for deductions for the medical expenses that are paid by senior citizens. These deductions can be claimed by individuals and Hindu Undivided Families (HUF).

The maximum amount of deductions that taxpayers can claim under this section are:

Individuals –
maximum of Rs.25,000 for self and family members (below 60 years)
maximum of Rs. 50,000 for self, parents, or spouse (below 60 years)

HUFs –
maximum of Rs.25,000 for insurance taken for members below 60 years
Maximum of Rs.50,000 for insurance taken for members below 60 years

Fill Schedule 80D in ITR

Firstly, let us understand the eligibility for health insurance premiums paid under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act:

• Taxpayers below 60 years old can claim deductions of up to INR 25,000 annually.
• Senior citizens can claim a maximum deduction of INR 50,000 each year.
• So, if you pay premiums for senior citizen parents and your health insurance premium, you can avail of a tax rebate of up to INR 75,000 yearly.
• If all policyholders are above 60, deductions of up to INR 1 lakh can be claimed annually.

To claim these deductions, visit the Income Tax e-filing portal and fill out Schedule 80D in ITR.

So, how to fill Schedule 80d in ITR?

• The first step is to visit the ITR e-filing portal and login with your credentials.
• You will find a list of ITR forms. Select the one that applies to you, like ITR-1 Sahaj or ITR-4 Sugam.
• Next, click on ‘Tax Deductions’ under the ‘Gross Total Income’ section.
• You will be directed to a page that has questions regarding tax deductions. In the 5th question, confirm eligibility for deductions related to medical insurance premiums and preventive health check-ups by clicking on ‘Yes’.
• Fill out Schedule 80D accurately on the next window. Enter complete and correct details of health insurance premiums and preventive health check-up expenses that you have incurred during the financial year.
• If you pay premiums for senior citizen parents, provide the necessary information to claim the deduction.
• After filling in all the details, click ‘submit’.

We all know that the heart is responsible for pumping blood, and if it becomes clogged, several problems can arise. One such problem is aortic stenosis, defined by a narrowed aortic valve. Recent research conducted in India has revealed that isolated aortic stenosis is the third most frequent valve problem, affecting around 7.3% of adults. Both surgical and non-surgical procedures are available to treat this condition. First, let us look at the diagnosis of aortic stenosis.

What are the Diagnoses for Aortic Stenosis?

An aortic stenosis diagnostic test is essential to detect this condition and observe its progress accurately. A simple visit to a cardiologist can be helpful, especially if the doctor suspects a heart murmur. 

Healthcare professionals deploy the following tests to diagnose aortic stenosis accurately:

Echocardiogram: Your doctor deploys this imaging test to take a picture of your heart. It can help doctors see if your heart valve has become thinner than usual, among other things.

Also, doctors recommend that if a heart murmur is heard during the examination and the patient has crossed the age of 75, they should go for an echocardiogram. 

Electrocardiogram: Popularly known by its contraction “ECG”, this is another essential aortic stenosis diagnostic test. This painless test records the electrical signals of your heart. It helps your doctor assess the health of your heart and detect any irregularities, such as abnormalities in rhythm or signs of heart failure.

Exercise stress test: This test involves brisk walking to increase the heart rate. The doctor then studies the heart rate pattern for a more accurate diagnosis.

Cardiac catheterisation: This test is usually recommended when evidence to diagnose aortic stenosis is insufficient. During this procedure, a thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel and directed towards the heart. This allows doctors to directly measure the pressure and oxygen levels in the heart chambers and blood vessels.

Understanding the intricacies of income tax regulations is crucial for every taxpayer, and Section 80TTA of the Income Tax Act, 1961, is a provision that warrants attention. This section offers up to INR 10,000 deduction on the interest earned from savings deposited in banks, cooperative societies or post offices. Serving as a means to alleviate the tax burden on savings, 80TTA is pivotal in optimising tax liabilities and promoting prudent financial management. Let’s delve into what Section 80TTA entails and its implications within income tax.

80TTA in Income Tax

As taxpayers seek avenues to minimise their tax burden while maximising savings, delving into the nuances of 80TTA becomes essential. Let’s explore what Section 80TTA entails and how it impacts taxpayers within the realm of income tax.

• 80TTA provides a deduction on the interest earned on the savings account.
• This section was introduced in 2013 in the Finance Bill passed, and it was made applicable in the financial year 2012-13 and is in use to date.
• Individuals or Hindu Undivided Families can avail of deduction under section 80TTA of the Income Tax Act.
• This deduction is earned for the interest individuals, or HUF, earn on their savings and post office accounts.
• NRIs Non-Resident Indians are also eligible to claim the deduction under section 80TTA.
• The deduction under Section 80TTA in income tax is over Rs 1.5 lakh under Section 80 C.
• According to the Income Tax Act of 1961, the interest incomes not allowed under Section 80 TTA are fixed deposit, recurring and corporate bond interests in India.

Alkaptonuria is a rare inherited disorder, a condition known as black urine disease where your body’s urine turns dark brown or black when it’s exposed to air and prevents the full breakdown of two amino acids tyrosine and phenylalanine that build up protein. In this condition, your body can’t produce an enzyme named homogentisic dioxygenase acid (HGD). The symptoms of alkaptonuria develop slowly due to chronic built-up of homogentisic acid within the connective tissue leading to a condition called osteoarthritis. Let’s explore the signs of this disease.

What are the Symptoms of Alkaptonuria?

Alkaptonuria disease symptoms develop slowly with chronic build-up of homogentisic acid within the connective tissue, mainly the cartilage and bones.People with alkaptonuria do not have symptoms immediately; symptoms usually show up when the individual is about 30 years old. These signs include:

• Arthritis

When a person with alkaptonuria reaches their thirties, they may experience certain symptoms related to the joints and start to experience joint back pain, knee pain, and hip and shoulder pain and show early symptoms of osteoarthritis. In this condition, the cartilage, which is flexible tissue, may become hard and break, leading to joint damage. Doctors may suggest joint replacement surgery as treatment.

• Eyes and ears

People with alkaptonuria develop brown or black spots on the inner whites of their eyes and may develop earwax due to the thickening of ear cartilage, making it book blue, grey or black. This is a condition known as ochronosis.

• Skin and nails

People with alkaptonuria may experience discolouration in their sweat on exposure to the sun and may develop blue and black-speckled areas of their skin, mostly on the forehead, armpits and genital areas. These people may also develop blue or black coloured nails.

• Heart, prostate and kidney stones

In the heart, deposition of homogentisic acid can cause chronic stiffness or pain around heart valves because of the narrowing and hardening of blood vessels. The weak and stiff blood vessels may result in heart disease and the patient may require heart valve replacements.

In the kidney and prostate, the deposition of homogentisic acid can also lead to kidney stones, bladder stones and prostate stones.

To provide individuals with flexibility in tax planning, the Finance Act 2020 introduced a new provision called Section 115BAC under the Income Tax Act. This provision gives taxpayers the choice between the old and the new concessional tax regime. Understanding how Section 115BAC affects your taxes will empower you to make informed decisions about your tax planning strategies while staying compliant with laws and maximising your potential savings.

Let’s take a look at what Section 115BAC entails and how it affects taxpayers.

Section 115BAC of the Income Tax Act

• Optional Tax Regime: Under Section 115BAC, individuals can choose between sticking to the existing tax regime, which includes all exemptions and deductions, or opting for a new concessional tax regime.

• Tax Rates: The introduction of this concessional tax regime brings lower tax rates compared to those in the existing system. By selecting this option, individuals can potentially reduce their tax liabilities and enjoy a higher take-home pay.

• Exclusions: Certain exemptions and deductions (such as HRA, education loan interest, etc.) related to investments, allowances, and expenditures are not available under the concessional tax regime. However, deductions for specified donations and contributions towards funds and health insurance premiums remain applicable.

It's important to note that premiums in health insurance policy can still be deducted under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act, regardless of which tax regime you choose. Taxpayers can claim deductions for premiums paid towards health insurance policies for themselves, their spouses, children and parents within specified limits.

Alkaptonuria is a health disorder that is very rare and inherited. The condition is also known as black urine disease, whereby a person’s urine turns dark brown or black when exposed to air. The disorder prevents the body from fully breaking down two protein-building amino acids, tyrosine and phenylalanine. The body is unable to produce an enzyme called homogentisic dioxygenase acid (HGD), which discolours the bones and cartilage and makes them brittle. This condition signals the onset of osteoarthritis, especially in the spine and large joint areas. Alkaptonuria is a rare genetic inborn error of protein metabolism. So, what causes alkaptonuria?

What are the Causes of Alkaptonuria?

Alkaptonuria is caused by a defect in the homogentisate 1, 2- dioxygenase (HGD) gene. Studies have found the condition to be autonomously recessive, wherein two inherited copies of the faulty HGD gene (one from each parent) are passed onto the offspring. Generally, the HGD gene provides instructions for making an enzyme called homogentisate oxidase, which is needed to break down homogentisic acid. 

However, in this condition, the body cannot produce enough HGD, resulting in the accumulation of homogentisic acid in the bones and cartilage. This accumulation leads to a condition called ochronosis, which is characterised by a blue-black discolouration of the skin and cartilage. When the homogentisic acid leaves the body through urine, turning the urine brownish-black as it comes in contact with air.

Have you ever wondered if it’s possible to change the tax regime while filing an ITR? Understanding the complexities of tax regulations can be overwhelming, with changes introduced in Budget 2023. Let’s explore how to change the tax regime while filing ITR so you know how to go about it.

Old Tax Regime

In the old tax structure, taxpayers qualified for all the exemptions and deductions available under Section 80D and more for their expenses, investments, premiums paid towards insurance policies, housing loans and the like. This structure favoured people who qualified for deductions through their heavy investments and high spending behaviour.

New Tax Regime

The new tax structure, introduced during the 2020 Budget, was again revised in the budget presented in 2023. As per this new structure, taxpayers are given concessions in their tax percentages. Earlier, the basic exemption limit was fixed at Rs.2,50,000. However, the new tax regime increased this limit to Rs.3,00,000.

One important change in the new tax regime, individuals have limited options for claiming deductions. However, some specific deductions can be claimed under Section 80CCD(2) and Section 80JJA. The former is for employed individuals, and the latter is for business income.

Change Tax Regime While Filing ITR

So, can we change the tax regime while filing ITR? Yes, you have the option to transition between the Old Tax Regime and the New Tax Regime as per Budget 2023 when filing your ITR.

If you are a salaried individual, the following is applicable to you:

• You can switch your tax regime throughout the year when filing your ITR; this can be done even if you have chosen the new regime.
• You can choose your preferred regime (i.e., old or new) within the ITR form.
• You do not need to fill out any additional forms or follow different procedures.

Before you switch, remember that the new tax regime will now become your default tax regime for FY 2023-24.

If you are an individual with Business or Profession Income, the following is applicable to you:

• There is limited flexibility to change/switch tax regimes.
• When you opt for a new tax regime, you can switch back to the old one only once in your life.
• You must fill and submit Form 10-IE along with your ITR. Failing to submit Form 10-IE within the original due date for filing ITR makes you ineligible to switch back to the old tax regime for that financial year.

In the changing world of taxes, it's crucial to understand standard deductions in the new tax regime, as it can significantly impact your financial planning. So, let's delve into the recent reforms that have streamlined the range of deductions, so you have clarity on the same.

Deductions Allowed in New Tax Regime

• Standard Deduction: Under the new tax regime, individuals are eligible for a deduction provided by the government, which allows for a fixed deduction from their taxable income.

• Contributions to New Pension Scheme (NPS): Any contributions made by your employer towards the New Pension Scheme can be deducted. The good news is that you don't need to submit any supporting documents for this deduction.

• Health Insurance Plan: Although the new tax system doesn't offer deductions for health insurance premiums, it's still an important aspect of planning. Taxpayers can explore other sections of the ITA where they may be eligible for deductions.

Being pregnant is a wonderful journey filled with emotions, physical changes, and countless questions about what is safe for both you and your growing baby. One food that often raises eyebrows is cabbage - a versatile vegetable that is loaded with vital nutrients and known for its unique taste. But is cabbage good for pregnancy? Some say it is a nutritional powerhouse, while others raise concerns about possible side effects. This article will dive into the benefits, potential risks, and whether it should be a regular part of your prenatal diet. 

Is it Okay to Have Cabbage During Pregnancy?

 Let's take a look at the benefits of having cabbage while pregnant: 

1. Rich in nutrients

Cabbage provides key nutrients for you and your baby. Its calcium supports strong bone growth, iron prevents the risk of anaemia, and folate protects against neuromuscular defects. It is also a treasure trove of vitamins C and K. Add some cooked cabbage to your plate and embrace its nutritional value.

2. It contains few carbohydrates:

Pregnant women require approximately 300 extra calories per day in the second and third trimesters. Choosing low-calorie foods like cabbage helps prevent excessive weight gain. These foods provide essential nutrients without adding too many calories. 

3. Prioritise Food Safety:

To prioritise a safe diet during pregnancy, it is advisable to opt for cooked rather than raw cabbage. The risk of bacteria from raw vegetables, especially Listeria, is high. Listeria during pregnancy increases the chances of premature birth, miscarriage, or fetal death. Pregnant women are more likely to acquire infections by Listeria after eating contaminated food.

Section 89 of the Income Tax Act (1961) provides relief for individuals who receive income in arrears or in advance, potentially mitigating increased tax burdens. This applies to situations like salary arrears, advance salary for a period exceeding 12 months in one financial year, and other incomes, including family pensions, gratuity, commuted pension, etc.

Section 89 of the Income Tax Act

• Section 89 of the Income Tax Act offers relief by ensuring that the tax bracket for employees remains the same as it would have been if they had received the arrears or advance salary in the year. To claim this relief, taxpayers need to include it when filing their income tax returns for the assessment year.

• It's essential for taxpayers to be aware of the eligibility criteria and documentation requirements associated with claiming relief under Section 89. This ensures adherence to tax laws and compliance with procedures.

• When you file your taxes, you have the option to submit Form 10E in order to take advantage of Section 89 (1) of the Income Tax Act and recalculate your tax liability.

• The employer needs to furnish details about any pending arrears or advance salary in Form 10E.

• The tax officer will determine the tax amount based on the salary that was due in each year and make adjustments.

• If you have paid taxes in the year, it will either be refunded to you or applied towards future tax obligations.

Form 16 holds importance in the domain of income tax as it acts as a certificate issued under Section 203. It provides a summary of the tax deducted at source (TDS) by employers and their submission to the Income Tax Department. Let’s understand form 16 meaning and its details.

Form 16 in Income tax

• Issuance

Employers issue Form 16 to employees providing information about the TDS deducted from their salary and deposited with the IT Department.

• Tax Deducted Details

Form sixteen includes details of the amount of tax deducted, the duration for which it was deducted and the dates when it was deposited with the Central Government Account.

• Employees Perspective

For employees, Form 16 serves as evidence of tax deductions and deposits made by their employer. It plays a crucial role in filing income tax returns and enables them to claim refunds if excess tax has been deducted.

• Employers Responsibility

Employers must issue Form 16 to their employees before the specified deadline for filing income tax returns.

• Verification

Taxpayers should carefully verify all details mentioned in Form 16 against their salary slips to ensure accuracy before filing their income tax returns.

Section 87A of the Income Tax Act (ITA), 1961, provides an opportunity for taxpayers to receive a rebate on their income tax liability. It's important to understand the details of this section in order to make the most of the tax benefits available. Let’s look closely at Section 87A and what’s in it for you.

87A in Income Tax

Section 87A of the ITA provides a rebate on your tax liability. To be eligible for a rebate under Section 87A, your taxable income (after taking deductions into account) must fall below a threshold. The threshold for 87 A rebate varies depending on the tax system you opt for:

• Under the old tax regime: If your income is up to INR 5 lakh, you can receive a deduction of INR 12,500.
• Under the new tax regime: If your income is up to INR 7 lakh, you can receive a rebate of INR 25,000.

Do note that NRIs (Non-Resident Indians), HUFs (Hindu Undivided Families), and firms are ineligible for a tax rebate under Section 87A of the ITA.

When it comes to income tax, having an understanding of the deductions can have a significant impact on your financial planning. Let’s explore what is 80GG and how it can be advantageous for taxpayers.

80CCG 1B In Income Tax

The primary beneficiaries of Section 80GG are individuals who do not receive a house rent allowance (HRA) but still have expenses.

• What is 80GG in income tax: Section 80GG is a provision within Chapter VI A of the Income Tax Act, 1961, which aims to offer relief to individuals who pay rent for accommodation but do not receive HRA from their employers.

• Eligibility: To be eligible for this deduction, certain conditions must be met by the taxpayer. Some of these are —

1. Neither the taxpayer nor his/her spouse, minor child, or HUF (Hindu Undivided Family) to which he/she belongs should own any residential property where they reside or work.
2. The taxpayer has filed a declaration in Form 10BA.

• Deduction amount: The deduction allowed under this Section is calculated as the least of the following —

1. Actual Rent Paid minus 10% of Adjusted Total Income
2. 25% of Adjusted Total Income
3. Rs 5,000/month or Rs 60,000/year

In the complex landscape of income tax, every deduction counts towards reducing one's taxable income. Do you know what is section 80CCD 1B? It is one such provision that offers an exclusive tax benefit to subscribers of the National Pension System (NPS).

80CCD 1B in Income Tax

Let's explore what this section entails and how it can benefit taxpayers.

• Section 80CCD 1B of the Income Tax Act provides an extra tax deduction of up to Rs. 50,000 for investments made in the NPS.
• This is over and above the Rs. 1.5 lakh deduction available under Section 80C.
• So, if you invest Rs. 50,000 in NPS, you can claim a deduction of up to Rs. 50,000 under what is 80CCD 1B of Income Tax Act.
• This is over and above the Rs. 1.5 lakh deduction available under Section 80C, which also covers health insurance premiums.
• It is available to all individuals - salaried, self-employed or professionals. However, the benefit is not available for contributions made by employers.
• The amount invested in NPS to claim 80CCD 1B deduction has to be made in the individual's Tier-I NPS account.

how to file income tax returns online has become increasingly convenient and efficient in recent years. With tax procedures digitalised, taxpayers can now submit their returns from the comfort of their homes.

File Income Tax Return Online

Here, we’ll outline the steps for filing your income tax return online for the financial year 2022-23 (assessment year 2023-24), ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Documents

Before completing the online filing, ensure you have all the relevant documents. This encompasses your PAN (Permanent Account Number), Aadhaar Card, Form 16 (issued by your employer), investment details, bank statements, and any other pertinent financial documentation.

Stеp 2: Choosе thе Right Onlinе Platform

Sеvеral authorisеd platforms arе availablе for е-filing incomе tax rеturns, including thе official govеrnmеnt portal and privatе wеbsitеs. Ensurе you sеlеct a rеliablе platform that mееts your nееds and providеs a sеcurе еnvironmеnt for submitting your tax rеturn.

Stеp 3: Register/Login to thе Portal

If you’rе a first timе usеr, you’ll nееd to rеgistеr on thе chosеn platform using your PAN. Proceed with the registration process, which commonly entails furnishing fundamental personal details and establishing login credentials. If you are a rеturning usеr, simply log in using your еxisting crеdеntials.

Stеp 4: Sеlеct thе Appropriatе ITR Form

Choosе thе corrеct Incomе Tax Rеturn (ITR) form basеd on your sourcеs of incomе and еligibility criteria. For most individuals with salary incomе and health insurancе, Form ITR 1 or ITR 2 may bе applicablе. Ensurе you sеlеct thе form that bеst suits your financial situation to avoid complications latеr on.

Stеp 5: Entеr Pеrsonal and Incomе Dеtails

Oncе you’vе sеlеctеd thе appropriatе ITR form, procееd to fill in your pеrsonal and incomе dеtails accuratеly. This includes information such as your PAN, Aadhaar Numbеr, salary dеtails, incomе from othеr sourcеs and any othеr rеlеvant dеtails. You must also select the reason for filing the Income Tax Return. You will have to choose the right one applicable to you from three options:

• taxable income exceeds the basic exemption limit
• meets the specific criteria, and it is mandatorily required to file an ITR
• others

Stеp 6: Vеrify and Validatе Information

Aftеr еntеring all thе nеcеssary dеtails, takе thе timе to rеviеw your information carеfully. Ensurе accuracy and complеtеnеss to avoid discrеpanciеs or dеlays in procеssing your rеturn. Many onlinе platforms providе validation tools to hеlp idеntify еrrors or missing information bеforе submission.

Stеp 7: Calculatе Tax Liability and Claim Dеductions

Usе thе onlinе calculator providеd by thе platform to computе your tax liability basеd on thе information providеd. Takе advantagе of dеductions availablе undеr various Sеctions of thе Incomе Tax Act, including Sеction 80D for prеmiums in hеalth insurancе policy. Ensurе you claim all еligiblе dеductions to minimisе your tax burdеn.

Stеp 8: Filе and Submit Your Rеturn

Oncе you’vе rеviеwеd and vеrifiеd all thе information, procееd to filе your incomе tax rеturn еlеctronically. Most platforms allow you to е-filе dirеctly through thе portal, еliminating thе nееd for physical submission. Aftеr submission, you’ll rеcеivе an acknowlеdgmеnt confirming thе rеcеipt of your rеturn.

Are pregnancy cravings confusing you? Don’t worry, we’ve got your back (and tummy)! Throw away the dietary challenges and welcome pumpkin, the superfood superstar, to your plate. This versatile wonder satisfies those sweet cravings and provides you and your growing little one with plenty of nutrients. From supporting your immune system to boosting baby growth, the humble pumpkin empowers you to take this beautiful journey with confidence and radiant health.

Pumpkins pack a punch for pregnant women: high fibre for foetal weight, potassium for high blood pressure, vitamin C for immunity, and vitamin A, essential for foetal growth!

Nutritional Value of Pumpkin

Given below is the breakdown of nutrients found in one cup of pumpkin-

Is it Safe to Eat Pumpkin While Pregnant?

Yes, pumpkin is emerging as a valuable dietary companion for expectant mothers seeking basic natural nutrients. It offers a sweet taste and provides pregnant women with essential nutrients such as iron, vitamin C, and vitamin A. This versatile autumn delight can easily be incorporated into a variety of dishes to personalise taste. Pumpkins can be roasted, pureed, baked, or added with bananas to create savoury soups, sweet pies, and refreshing smoothies. It also blends well with several other foods. 

How Much Pumpkin Can You Eat While Pregnant?

The ideal portion of pumpkin to consume during pregnancy depends on your diet and nutritional needs. As a general guideline, the following servings of pumpkin are considered safe-

• Pumpkin Flesh: Go for one cup of cooked pumpkin each day, as it contains all the essential vitamins and minerals the body requires daily.
• Pumpkin Seeds: Limit these to a handful to avoid excess calories.
• Pumpkin-Based Food Items: You can include pumpkin soup, smoothies, or baked food in your balanced diet as directed by the health care expert or dietician.

Although pumpkin has many benefits and is considered safe to consume during pregnancy, be aware of any allergies or aversions it may cause.

Health Benefits of Eating Pumpkins During Pregnancy

Now that you know about the nutritional contents and ways of including pumpkin in your diet, let’s understand its benefits:

• Nutrient-packed fall meals that expectant moms love: Pumpkins are a healthy source of nutrients for pregnant women, providing essential vitamins and minerals. The vegetable is rich in folate, which prevents congenital challenges, and the iron and magnesium support a healthy pregnancy. The high fibre content helps prevent constipation and regulates blood sugar, which is especially beneficial for diabetics during pregnancy. Pumpkin seeds are a healthy food, providing protein, healthy fats, zinc, potassium, and other essential minerals. This vegetable promotes baby growth, maintains blood pressure, and can be rounded off well by a banana supplement.
• Pumpkin eases morning sickness: About 70% of pregnant mothers experience morning sickness, which can be concerning at times. Pumpkins have been shown to be beneficial in preventing constipation, given their high fibre content, which promotes regular digestion, reduces morning sickness, and alleviates constipation.
• Boosts the immune system and helps the baby access the benefits: Pumpkins provide antioxidants and prevent cell damage that free radicals can cause, thereby improving the well-being of mother and baby during pregnancy. Adding spinach to the prenatal diet helps prevent oxidative stress and boosts immune function. In addition, the vitamin C in pumpkin helps in the healthy growth of the uterus.

Conclusion

Pumpkins may pack quite a few pregnancy-friendly nutrients, but remember, quality is the key. It’s important to check with your doctor and ensure it doesn’t exacerbate pre-existing conditions. Moreover, having medical insurance before delivery can empower you to seek timely medical advice and address concerns about your diet and other postnatal issues. 

Pomegranate is a tasty and healthy fruit packed with plenty of nutrients. It is commonly called Annar in Hindi or Daalima in Bengali. Pomegranates are full of vitamin C, fiber, folate, and potassium, that can help lower the risk of chronic diseases. But is pomegranate good for pregnancy? This article will explore the various nutritional advantages of this delectable fruit and uncover its benefits for expectant mothers.

Is it Okay to Have Pomegranate During Pregnancy?

 It is recommended to eat a variety of fresh fruits during pregnancy to acquire extra nutrients. Pomegranates are an outstanding choice with important nutrients, and studies have shown that their juice can help prevent issues such as preeclampsia, growth restriction and premature birth.

Listed below are the benefits of consuming pomegranate: 

• High blood pressure levels during pregnancy, called preeclampsia, can be threatening for both mother and baby. While pomegranate juice with healthy ingredients can help with this condition, it is not a guaranteed fix. Always consult your doctor first, especially if you have issues with high blood pressure or other health problems. Remember that eating healthy, being active, and managing stress are the keys to managing your stress throughout your pregnancy!

• Pomegranate juice is good for your heart, as it contains antioxidants that can help lower the amount of bad cholesterol (LDL) that can clog arteries. Although more research is needed, drinking some pomegranate juice may have positive effects on the heart.

• High in antioxidants such as punicalagin and punicic acid, pomegranate juice can protect the developing baby’s brain during pregnancy.

• A pregnant woman requires strong bones as the baby develops. Pomegranate juice, loaded with calcium and other nutrients, could be your friend in keeping your own bones rock-solid during pregnancy.

• Placental problems can sometimes lead to early births or smaller babies. This might be due to stress on the placenta. While research is ongoing, pomegranate juice, with its antioxidant power, may help reduce this stress and potentially lower these risks. Remember to first speak to your healthcare practitioner before adding it to your routine.