GST Reforms a Milestone Towards Viksit Bharat: Anurag Singh Thakur
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Hamirpur, Sept 5: Former Union Minister and Hamirpur MP Anurag Singh Thakur welcomed the Modi Government’s long-awaited Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms, calling them a historic step to provide relief to the common man, support small businesses, and simplify the lives of Indians. He said the reforms are crucial for achieving the vision of *Viksit Bharat*.
Thakur recalled that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced the GST reforms from the Red Fort during Independence Day, and the GST Council under Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has now unanimously approved them. “This decision reflects the government’s commitment to people’s welfare, beyond mere revenue collection,” he said.
Highlighting the reforms, Thakur said that taxes on essential commodities have either been reduced or abolished, making daily expenses lighter and healthcare and insurance services more affordable. He added that by increasing taxes on harmful products like tobacco, the government has shown its intent to protect public health while boosting economic strength.
He further noted that the tax structure has been simplified, with four GST slabs reduced to just two main rates—5% and 18%—alongside a special 40% demerit rate for select items. The government has also decided to operationalize the GST Appellate Tribunal (GSTAT) by September 2025, ensuring faster resolution of disputes. The deadline for pending appeals has been extended till June 30, 2026.
“These reforms will benefit farmers, MSMEs, the middle class, women, and youth alike, while making business easier and strengthening India’s economy,” Thakur emphasized.
