As India celebrates six years of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) implementation, there is good news for consumers in the form of reduced GST rates on various household goods. The GST Council, in its continuous efforts to provide relief to the common man, has revised the tax rates on several essential items, making them more affordable for Indian households. These revisions aim to alleviate the financial burden on the citizens and boost economic growth. Let's take a closer look at some of the notable changes in GST rates on household goods.
Television (TV) up to 27 inches:
Previously, televisions up to 27 inches were subject to a GST rate of 31.3%. However, as a part of the recent reforms, the GST rate on these TVs has been reduced to 18%. This reduction will make it more accessible for consumers to upgrade their entertainment systems, encouraging the growth of the electronics industry.
Refrigerator:
Similar to televisions, refrigerators have also seen a substantial reduction in GST rates. Previously taxed at 31.3%, refrigerators now attract an 18% GST rate. This reduction will bring relief to consumers looking to purchase or replace their refrigeration appliances, positively impacting the consumer durables market.
Washing Machine:
The GST rate on washing machines has also been revised. Previously taxed at 31.3%, washing machines now fall under the 18% GST bracket. This change will benefit households in India by making washing machines more affordable, easing the burden of domestic chores and promoting the use of advanced appliances.
Electrical Appliances (mixer, juicer, vacuum cleaner, etc.):
Several electrical appliances that are commonly used in households have also received relief through reduced GST rates. Previously taxed at 31.3%, these appliances now attract an 18% GST rate. This move will encourage consumers to invest in essential electrical appliances, improving their standard of living while supporting the growth of the electrical goods industry.
Geyser, Fan, Cooler:
To promote the use of cooling and heating appliances, the GST rate on geysers, fans, and coolers has been reduced from 31.3% to 18%. This reduction will make these appliances more affordable for households, enabling them to cope with extreme weather conditions and enhancing their comfort levels.
LPG Stove:
In a bid to support affordable cooking solutions, the GST rate on LPG stoves has been reduced from 21% to 18%. This reduction will benefit households across the country, making LPG stoves more affordable and encouraging their use as a safe and efficient cooking option.
LED:
The GST rate on LED lights has been reduced from 15% to 12%. This change will encourage the adoption of energy-efficient lighting solutions, contributing to India's sustainability goals while reducing electricity consumption for households.
Sewing Machine:
Sewing machines, a vital tool for many households, have seen a reduction in the GST rate from 16% to 12%. This decrease will support the sewing industry and empower individuals to pursue sewing as a source of income, particularly in rural areas.
Static Converters (UPS):
To facilitate the availability of backup power solutions, the GST rate on static converters, commonly used as Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), has been reduced from 28% to 18%. This revision will make UPS systems more affordable for households, ensuring uninterrupted power supply during outages.
Kerosene Pressure Lantern:
Kerosene pressure lanterns, an essential lighting option for many rural households, have seen a reduction in the GST rate from 8% to 5%. This change will make these lanterns more accessible to those in need, especially in areas with limited access to electricity.
Mobile Phones:
Mobile phones, a ubiquitouse Necessity in today's digital era, have received a significant reduction in GST rates. Previously taxed at 31.3%, mobile phones now fall under the 12% GST bracket. This reduction will encourage more Indians to own smartphones, facilitating digital connectivity and access to essential services.
The reduction in GST rates on these household goods reflects the government's commitment to making essential items more affordable for the common man. These revisions will positively impact the lives of Indian citizens, promote economic growth, and align with the government's vision for a self-reliant India. As the nation celebrates six years of GST implementation, these relief measures provide a reason to rejoice, further enhancing the government's efforts to build a prosperous and inclusive economy.
Relief through GST on Food, Medical, and Stationery Goods
In addition to the reduction in GST rates on household goods, the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council has also provided relief on various essential items related to food, medical supplies, and stationery. These revisions aim to make these goods more affordable and accessible to the citizens of India. Let's take a closer look at some of the notable changes in GST rates on these items.
Pencil Sharpener:
Previously taxed at 18%, pencil sharpeners now fall under the 12% GST bracket. This reduction will benefit students and artists who rely on these stationary items, making them more affordable and encouraging creativity and education.
Rab:
Earlier, rab was subject to an 18% GST rate. However, if sold pre-packaged or labeled, it now attracts a 5% GST rate. If sold otherwise, there is no GST applicable. This change will promote the availability and affordability of this essential food item.
Husk of Pulses, Concentrates, and Khanda:
Previously taxed at 5%, husk of pulses including chilka, concentrates including chuni/churni, and khanda now fall under the Nil GST bracket. This revision will make these food items more affordable for consumers, benefiting households across the country.
Fortified Rice Kernels for Schemes like ICDS:
To support government initiatives such as the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), the GST rate on fortified rice kernels has been reduced from 18% to 5%. This change will contribute to improving nutrition levels in vulnerable sections of society.
Orthopedic and Ostomy Appliances:
Orthopedic and ostomy appliances, crucial for individuals with mobility or medical needs, have seen a reduction in the GST rate from 12% to 5%. This reduction will provide relief to patients and their families, making these essential medical devices more affordable.
Retrofitment Kits for Vehicles Used by the Disabled:
To promote inclusivity and accessibility, the GST rate on retrofitment kits for vehicles used by disabled individuals has been reduced to 5%. This change will encourage the adoption of necessary modifications, enabling disabled individuals to access transportation with ease.
Medicine Keytruda for Cancer Treatment:
The GST rate on Keytruda, a medicine used for the treatment of cancer, has been reduced from 12% to 5%. This reduction will provide relief to patients and their families, making this critical medication more affordable and accessible.
IGST on Import of Medicines for Personal Use:
Previously taxed at 12%, the IGST (Integrated Goods and Services Tax) on the import of medicines for personal use has been revised to a flat fee of INR 600, effectively making it nil for importers. This change will make it more feasible for individuals to import necessary medicines for their personal health needs.
The reduction in GST rates on food, medical, and stationary goods reflects the government's commitment to improving the accessibility and affordability of essential items. These revisions will have a positive impact on the lives of Indian citizens, especially students, patients, and individuals with specific needs. As India celebrates six years of GST implementation, these relief measures further highlight the government's efforts to build a more inclusive and supportive economy.
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