Question

Elucidate the merits of GST.

Answer 1

A. To the Society and country:

1. A unified common national market will attract more foreign investment. GST has integrated the economy of all States and Union Territories.
2. It brings parity in taxation among imported goods and Indian manufactured goods. All imported goods will be charged with IGST which will be more or less equivalent to the total of CGST and SGST levied on manufactured goods. The removal of several taxes will make the price of Indian products more competitive in the world market.
3. It will boost manufacturing, export, GDP leading to economic growth through an increase in economic activity.
4. The creation of more employment opportunities will result in poverty eradication.
5. It will bring more tax compliance (more taxpayers) and increase revenue to the Governments.
6. It is transparent and will improve India’s ranking in the Ease of Doing Business in the world.
7. Uniform rates of tax will reduce tax evasion and rate arbitrage between States.

B. To Business Community:

1. Simpler Tax System with fewer exemptions. 17 taxes were abolished and one tax exists today.
2. The input tax credit will reduce cascading effect of taxes. Reduction in average tax burden will encourage manufacturers and help the “Make in India” campaign and make India a manufacturing hub.
3. Common procedures, common classification of goods and services, and timelines will lend greater certainty to the taxation system.
4. GSTN facility will reduce multiple record-keeping, lesser investment in manpower and resources, and improve efficiency.
5. All interactions will be through a common GSTN portal and will ensure corruption-free administration
6. Uniform prices throughout the country. Expansion of business to all states is made easy.

C. To Consumers:

1. The input tax credit allowed will lower the prices to the consumers.
2. All small retailers will get exemptions and purchases from them will cost less for the consumers.