Starting September 22, the GST will be restructured, primarily utilizing two tax rates: 5% and 18%. A higher tax rate of 40% will be reserved for specific products such as pan masala, cigarettes, and sugary beverages. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that several items widely purchased by the middle class will benefit from the revised structure, now falling under the 18% tax bracket. The list includes televisions, air-conditioners, and motorcycles with engines below 350cc. Sitharaman’s office emphasized that the changes aim to enhance the ease of living for all citizens and support business operations.
