<h1>Rajiv Gandhi Equity Savings Scheme Offers Tax Benefits to First-Time Investors with Incomes Under Rs. 10 Lakh.</h1> The Finance Minister approved the Rajiv Gandhi Equity Savings Scheme (RGESS) to encourage first-time retail investors in the securities market by offering tax benefits. The scheme targets individuals with annual incomes below Rs. 10 lakh, allowing investments up to Rs. 50,000 with a 50% tax deduction. Eligible investments include stocks from BSE 100, CNX 100, certain public sector undertakings, and specific IPOs. Exchange Traded Funds and Mutual Funds with RGESS-eligible securities are also included. Investments have a three-year lock-in period, with trading allowed after the first year under specific conditions. The scheme aims to deepen the retail investor base and promote financial inclusion.