From the first day of Navratri, the revised Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates have officially come into effect. Under the new system, only two tax slabs remain – 5% and 18%. With this reform, several essential and consumer goods including kitchen items, medicines, vehicles, clothing, housing, insurance products, and electronic appliances such as ACs and TVs have become more affordable.
Alongside the revised slabs, many everyday essentials have been fully exempted from GST. These include tetra pack milk, bread, khakhra, private health and life insurance services, educational materials, and over 33 life-saving medicines. According to the government, this step will provide direct tax relief to consumers. Both the Centre and state governments will ensure strict monitoring so that the benefits of revised GST rates reach citizens in a timely manner.
Addressing the nation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that a “GST Savings Festival” has begun, which will allow people to purchase more of their preferred products. He urged citizens to choose indigenous goods, thereby strengthening India’s domestic industries and businesses.
Farmers have also received major relief under the new GST regime. The revised rates have reduced the cost of modern agricultural equipment, making them more affordable and reducing the financial burden on farmers. This move is expected to increase efficiency in farming while lowering production costs.
New Prices of Key Farm Equipment:
|
Agricultural Equipment |
Old Price (₹) |
New Price (₹) |
Saving (₹) |
|
Power Tiller (13 HP) |
1,90,000 |
1,78,000 |
11,875 |
|
Multi Crop Thresher (4 Ton) |
2,24,000 |
2,10,000 |
14,000 |
|
Power Weeder (7.5 HP) |
87,920 |
82,425 |
5,495 |
|
Rotavator (6 feet) |
1,70,000 |
1,62,187 |
7,812 |
