India, Jan. 1 -- Smokers in India should prepare to pay more for cigarettes from February 1, 2026. The central government has announced a fresh excise duty on tobacco products, a move that will increase retail prices across brands and sizes.

The decision will impact an estimated 10 crore smokers in the country. The new levy comes alongside the existing Goods and Services Tax and marks a major change in how tobacco products are taxed in India.

The government has introduced an additional excise duty on cigarettes based on their length. The duty ranges from Rs.2,050 to Rs.8,500 per 1,000 sticks. This new tax will come into effect from February 1.

The excise duty will apply on top of the existing 40% GST on cigarettes. At the same time, th...