As India steps into the new GST 2.0 regime, consumers are beginning to experience the benefits of lower taxes on essentials. The system, which came into effect on Sept 22, reduces tax slabs to just two ā 5% on essentials and 18% on aspirational products.
āGST 2.0 is not just a tax reform, itās a consumer rights reform,ā says Subramanian, an economist based in Chennai. āFor the first time, people can directly see savings reflected in their bills, without depending on middlemen or experts to calculate.ā
For instance, a 100g pack of butter that earlier cost ā¹62 under GST 1.0 (12%) now costs ā¹58 with GST 2.0 (5%) ā saving buyers ā¹4. Similarly, a litre of ghee that was priced at ā¹650 has now dropped to ā¹609, giving consumers a clear benefit of ā¹41. āThese are not discounts ā these are structural savings guaranteed by tax reform,ā Subramanian explains.
However, some companies are reportedly advertising this reduction as a festive ādiscount.ā Experts warn against such practices. āIt is misleading to call a tax cut a discount,ā Subramanian points out. āDiscounts come from sellers, tax cuts come from governments. Mixing the two confuses consumers and undermines the intent of GST 2.0.ā
Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and demand transparency from retailers. If sellers fail to pass on benefits or misrepresent them, consumers can register complaints at consumerhelpline.gov.in
, send an SMS to 14404, or call toll-free numbers 1800-11-4000 / 1915.
āGST 2.0 is our right,ā Subramanian emphasizes. āThe government has given us this reform to make life easier. It is now up to consumers to claim their rightful savings and ensure that no one dilutes the benefits.ā
As the festive season unfolds, GST 2.0 is expected to not only lighten tax burdens but also strengthen the principle of informed, empowered consumerism in India.