The Income Tax Department’s transition FAQ explains that the Income-tax Act, 2025 applies from 1 April 2026, while actions and proceedings for earlier periods continue under the repealed 1961 Act through the savings framework. That is why “Section 80E” remains a useful search term even though the current education-loan interest provision is Section 129 of the Income-tax Act, 2025.
| Period you are filing for | Provision to verify | Practical action |
|---|---|---|
| Period governed by the Income-tax Act, 1961 | Section 80E | Use the old Act and the return instructions for that assessment year. |
| Tax year beginning on or after 1 April 2026 | Section 129 | Use the 2025 Act, the current rules and the current return utility. |
Do not relabel an older return mechanically. The law that governs the relevant period, not the date you happen to file or revise it, determines the section and form treatment.