Dehradun, September 26
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami participated in an awareness program organised in Patel Nagar, Dehradun, on Friday as part of the "GST Bachat Utsav."
During the event, the Chief Minister interacted with traders and local residents to gather feedback on the benefits of the reduced GST rates. He stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a new era of economic reforms has commenced in the country, and the reduction in GST rates represents a historic step toward enhancing the quality of life for all sections of society.
The Chief Minister added that the revised GST rates will make consumer goods more affordable, providing significant relief to the common people. He also urged traders to ensure that customers are fully informed about the reduced rates. At the same time, he called for prioritising indigenous and locally made products to strengthen both the state and the nation's economy.
Expressing their happiness over the GST rate cuts, traders and citizens said that this new initiative, launched during the Navratri festival, has created enthusiasm among markets and consumers. They further noted that the GST Savings Festival will bring joy to people's lives and businesses, especially in the run-up to the upcoming Diwali celebrations.
Rolled out on September 22, the rationalised GST rates have set the stage for major sectoral transformation by rationalising tax slabs, simplifying compliance, and addressing long-standing issues, such as the inverted duty structure, according to a report by the Union Bank of India.
Daily-use products, packaged foods, and personal care items have been shifted to the 5 per cent slab from 12 to 18 per cent earlier. Companies are expected to cut prices by 4 to 6 per cent, improving affordability and boosting rural demand. Staples such as paneer, chapati and khakhra have even been moved to the zero-tax bracket, making essentials like these cheaper.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Good initiative by CM Dhami. But implementation is key - government should monitor whether shops are actually reducing prices. Many times these benefits don't reach the end consumer. Still, positive step before Diwali! 🪔
As someone who runs a small grocery store in Dehradun, this GST reduction is a welcome change. It will definitely boost sales during festival season. The emphasis on local products is also good for Uttarakhand's economy.
Reducing GST on essentials during Navratri is a thoughtful move. It will help households manage festival expenses better. Hope this brings some cheer to people struggling with inflation. Jai Mata Di! ✨
While the GST reduction is good, I wish they had included more healthcare products in the lower slabs. Medicines and medical equipment still carry high taxes. But it's a step in the right direction.
The focus on local products is excellent! We need to support Uttarakhand's local industries. This GST cut combined with 'vocal for local' can really boost our state's economy. Well done CM Dhami! 💪
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