Bhubaneswar: The Goods and Services Tax (GST) on handicraft and handloom products has been slashed by the GST council following regular demands of the State Government, informed Finance Minister Sashibhusan Behera in a press meet today.
After implementation of GST, while there was 28% GST on clay and stone sculpture, Sabai Grass weaving ropes and Sal leaf plates, cups bore 18% GST.
Odisha had been demanding tax exemption on handicraft and handloom products. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik had also written a letter in the matter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Behera had also demanded the Union Finance Minister for GST exemption on the above products. As the livelihood of poor tribals and sculptors depend on the products, Behera had put forth the demand at the GST Council meet.
Respecting Odisha's demand the GST Council in a meet held on September 9, 2017 in Hyderabad had slashed the taxes on the products.
The tax on Sabai Grass weaving ropes and Sal leaf plates, cups were slashed to 5% from 18% and tax on clay sculpture was exempted. The tax on stone sculpture was slashed to 12% from 28%.
Besides, 5% tax has been slashed on Khadi clothes and fabrics being sold by organisations certified by Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC).
Behera also added that 12% tax has been exempted from other handicraft products with 18% tax.