early times report
jammu, Sept 5: The BJP Professional Cell of Jammu & Kashmir Unit, headed by Convenor CA Deepak Kapahi under the leadership of Sh.Sat Sharma (CA) and Under guidance of Sh. Ved Sharma ji, along with fellow members Sh. Amit Gupta, Dr. Varinder Singh Sambyal, and Adv. Kuldeep Singh, convened a meeting today to appreciate the transformative recommendations from the 56th GST Council meeting held on September 3, 2025, under the chairpersonship of Union Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman. The members unanimously lauded the GST Council’s decisions for providing substantial relief to the common man, individuals, and the aspirational middle class through significant reductions in GST rates on essential goods and services. Key highlights include slashing rates on dairy products like UHT milk, butter, cheese, and paneer; fruits, nuts, and dried fruits; cereals and confectionery; medicines and drugs for rare diseases; household items such as soaps, toothpaste, and footwear; and various handicrafts and textiles. Many items have seen rates drop from 12% or 18% to 5% or Nil, making them more affordable and easing economic burdens on families in Jammu & Kashmir and across India. Under the guidance of Hon’ble Prime Minister Sh. Narinder Modi, These GST reforms exemplify the Government’s commitment to economic empowerment and public welfare,” said CA Deepak Kapahi. The meeting also appreciated measures like the operationalization of the Goods and Services Tax Appellate Tribunal (GSTAT) by the end of September 2025, which will enhance transparency and dispute resolution. The phased implementation of rate changes from September 22, 2025, was hailed as a balanced approach to support trade facilitation while meeting fiscal obligations. Specific benefits for J&K, such as reduced taxes on agricultural inputs, handicrafts, wool products, and traditional crafts, were highlighted for boosting local economies and artisans. Members highlighted specific benefits for J&K, including lower taxes on agricultural inputs, handicrafts, and textiles, which align with the region's strengths in horticulture, wool, and traditional crafts. The reductions on items like wool grease, jute products, and handmade goods were particularly appreciated for supporting local artisans and farmers. It was resolved that "By slashing taxes on essentials like food, medicines, and daily use items, while strategically increasing rates on harmful products like tobacco and aerated beverages, the Council has struck a perfect balance between public health, economic relief, and revenue generation. This will not only benefit the common man but also stimulate local businesses in J&K, where agriculture and small-scale industries play a vital role. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman for these pro-people measures." Among other present in the meeting were Ritesh Gupta, Satish Kumar Gupta, Jitesh Arora, Munish heer, Ajay Jamwal and other members of Professional cell.
|