Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday announced that the ‘next-generation’ Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime will be rolled out across the country during Navratri, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of offering a simplified and beneficial tax regime for the people.
Speaking at a symposium on ‘Next Gen GST’ held at Bhasha Bhawan, National Library, in Kolkata, Sitharaman said the decision to launch the new GST model ahead of Durga Puja – Bengal’s biggest festival – was taken so that people can “shop with open hearts” and enjoy maximum benefits during the festive season.
Explaining the framework through a presentation, Sitharaman said the new regime will bring down the system to just two levels of taxation, making it easier for consumers and businesses alike.
“It took a long time to plan and prepare for the introduction of the second-generation GST. But the Prime Minister insisted that its launch should coincide with the festive season, ensuring the common people, especially Bengalis, gain the maximum advantage,” she said.
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The Finance Minister highlighted that Bengal’s artisans, farmers, and small industries will particularly benefit under the revised tax slabs. Among the key changes, terracotta and ceramic products will see a 5 per cent reduction in prices, offering relief to both makers and buyers.
She further noted that several local industries and crafts – including leather goods, Purulia’s Chhau masks, Kushmandi crafts of South Dinajpur, high-quality handicrafts, cotton bags, hosiery, readymade garments, Malda mangoes and Darjeeling tea – will benefit from reduced GST rates and smoother compliance.
“The aim of next-gen GST is not only to simplify taxation but also to empower small artisans and promote India’s traditional crafts in domestic and global markets,” Sitharaman added.
The launch of the new GST system during the festive season is being seen as both a symbolic and practical move, aimed at boosting consumer confidence and providing economic relief to households and small-scale industries alike.
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