GST: Features, benefits, and challenges

Introduction to GST

1. Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a comprehensive indirect tax implemented in India from July 1, 2017.
2. It replaced multiple indirect taxes like VAT, Service Tax, Excise Duty, and others.
3. GST is governed by the GST Council, which includes representatives from the Central and State governments.

Features of GST

1. It is a destination-based tax levied at the point of consumption.
2. Divided into three categories: CGST (Central GST), SGST (State GST), and IGST (Integrated GST).
3. Dual GST model: Both the Centre and States levy GST simultaneously.
4. Uniform tax rates across the country to ensure standardization.
5. Taxes are paid through an online portal for ease of compliance.

Benefits of GST

1. Eliminated the cascading effect of taxes by allowing input tax credit (ITC).
2. Simplified tax structure by replacing multiple indirect taxes.
3. Boosted ease of doing business by unifying the tax regime.
4. Enhanced tax compliance through digital systems like GSTN (GST Network).
5. Increased transparency in taxation, reducing corruption.
6. Encouraged the formation of a common national market, facilitating free movement of goods and services.

Challenges of GST

1. Complex compliance: Filing multiple returns (GSTR-1, GSTR-3B) is burdensome for small businesses.
2. Initial implementation led to confusion and disruption in some sectors.
3. High tax rates for certain items led to criticism from consumers and businesses.
4. Technical issues in the GSTN portal caused delays and errors.
5. States faced revenue losses, leading to demands for compensation from the Centre.

GST Rates

1. Goods and services are categorized under five tax slabs: 0%, 5%, 12%, 18%, and 28%.
2. Essential items like food grains are exempt, while luxury goods attract the highest rate.
3. Periodic revisions are made by the GST Council to address industry demands.

Impact of GST

1. Improved tax collection due to reduced evasion.
2. Encouraged formalization of businesses by bringing more entities under the tax net.
3. Boosted economic growth by facilitating efficient supply chains.
4. Benefited consumers by reducing the overall tax burden on goods and services.

Way Forward

1. Address challenges in compliance by simplifying return filing processes.
2. Strengthen the GSTN portal to ensure a seamless experience for taxpayers.
3. Focus on capacity building and awareness programs for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
4. Continue refining GST rates to balance revenue generation and affordability.