In a big push towards rationalising India’s Goods and Services Tax (GST) structure, several everyday essentials and education-related items could soon attract nil GST rates. According to reports, the proposals will be placed before the GST Council in its upcoming 55th meeting on September 3 and 4 for approval.
If cleared, this move will make many household staples and stationery products more affordable for common consumers.
Items proposed to move to Nil GST
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Erasers (from 5%)
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Ultra-high temperature milk (from 5%)
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Paneer, chena (pre-packaged and labelled) (from 5%)
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Pizza bread (from 5%)
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Khakhra, plain chapati, roti (from 5%)
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Paratha, parotta, and other Indian breads (from 18%)
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Maps, atlases, pencil sharpeners, pencils, crayons (from 12%)
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Exercise books (from 12%)
The potential reduction of GST on these items is expected to ease the cost burden on households and particularly benefit students and families. Food items such as paneer, breads, and roti, along with key stationery, would directly see a price dip if the proposals are implemented.
Disclaimer: These changes are only proposals at this stage. The GST Council will take the final decision in its meeting on September 3 and 4.
