NEW DELHI: The 52nd GST Council meeting, chaired by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on October 7, has recommended the exclusion of millets from the Goods and Services Tax (GST). Following the council meeting, Minister Nirmala Sitharaman held a press conference and stated that this significant recommendation aims to promote the consumption of millets in the country.
Minister Nirmala Sitharaman further explained that the GST rate on pre-packaged and labeled millet flour will be reduced to 5 percent. Loose or non-packaged millet flour, has been entirely exempted from GST. An official notification regarding these changes is expected to be released soon, and the new prices will take effect upon notification.
This decision aligns with the goal of supporting millet promotion, especially during what has been designated as the “Year of Millets.” Previously, in an effort to stimulate domestic and global demand and provide nutritious food to the population, the Government of India had proposed to the United Nations the declaration of 2023 as the International Year of Millets (IYoM-2023).
Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasised the council’s commitment to actively participating in the promotion of millets, underscoring the role of GST in this initiative.
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