By Firstdespatch Desk Oct 08, 2025
Agartala, Oct 8 (FD) “For this purpose, we have also prepared a roadmap for Viksit Bharat 2047. Earlier, there were five stages in the GST structure. Now, it has been simplified to two slabs — 5% and 18%. This has benefited the common people greatly. GST is a people-friendly decision made keeping the welfare of the common man in mind. Under this system, people can save at least 4% on their monthly expenses,” the Chief Minister said.
He further explained that earlier, goods vehicles had to stop at various toll or naka points along national highways, but now they can reach their destinations directly.
“Previously, nakas were known as points of corruption. Now, due to the removal of these stops, the time taken by goods vehicles to reach their destination has been reduced by 33%. This has also led to significant savings in fuel costs. Along with this, the economic condition of the country and the state is getting much stronger through this system,” Dr. Saha added.
He also mentioned that the amount of revenue collected through GST reforms has improved greatly.
Providing more details, the Chief Minister said that under the new GST reforms, essential items such as milk, chickpeas, and bread have been made tax-free.
“Various household products, including soap, shampoo, toothpaste, and bicycles, now attract only 5% tax. Similarly, items such as salt, sauce, pasta, noodles, chocolate, butter, and ghee have been reduced from 12% or 18% to 5%. This has provided major relief to common and middle-class families. Additionally, life insurance and health insurance have also been made GST-free. Due to the reduction in GST, life-saving medicines, medical equipment, diagnostic kits, and medical devices are now taxed at either zero or 5%. Moreover, farmers’ tractors and rice harvesters will now come under only 5% tax. The tax on cement purchases has been reduced from 28% to 18%, which will help save money in building construction,” he said.
Finance Minister Pranajit Singha Roy, Finance Secretary Apurba Roy, and other senior officials were present as distinguished guests at the event. PRESS RELEASE