Equity Linked Savings Funds (ELSS) are a type of mutual funds that offer income tax saving benefit. The amount invested (max Rs 1,50,000) is reduced from taxable income. This means a saving in tax of about Rs 46,000 for someone in the highest tax bracket. There is a 3 year lock-in as per government rules.
By investing in direct plans of ELSS funds you get an extra saving of about Rs 7000 reduced as commission are removed.