Darjeeling MP and BJP National Spokesperson Raju Bista attended an interactive session on the Next Generation GST Reforms on Tuesday in Siliguri, Darjeeling district. The session was organised by Laghu Udyog Bharati North Bengal and saw participation from entrepreneurs, business representatives and stakeholders from different sectors.
Speaking at the programme, Raju Bista said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, India is taking strong steps to simplify its tax system. He said that both the Income Tax Act and the Goods and Services Tax (GST) are being overhauled to bring clarity, efficiency and ease of use for citizens and businesses.
One of the biggest changes is the introduction of a new “Simple Tax” structure under GST. Instead of multiple complicated rates, the new system will have only three slabs. Essential goods will fall under a merit rate of 5%, most items will come under a standard rate of 18%, and a higher rate of 40% will be applied only to a few selected sin goods such as luxury or harmful products.
According to Bista, this change will have wide-ranging effects. Lower taxes on household items will put more money in the hands of ordinary people and boost domestic consumption. He said this rise in demand will benefit many sectors at once. For industries, the reforms will reduce compliance costs, improve supply chain efficiency and lower logistics expenses. The “Make in India” programme is expected to become more globally competitive, leading to stronger exports.
