GST Debate: The ruling party and the opposition faced off again in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman took a jab at Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee’s speech. In his address, Banerjee labeled GST as a burden for everyday people, claiming it applies at every life stage, from birth to death.
Is GST charged on milk?
Sitharaman quickly fired back, accusing Abhishek of trying to mislead the House and twisting the truth. She pointed out, with a hint of sarcasm, that essential items like milk, education, books, and pencil sharpeners have never been taxed under GST. Healthcare and funeral services are also exempt. She even suggested that maybe the syndicates in West Bengal are the ones pocketing money on deaths.
Education is also exempt from GST
She made it clear that since GST was introduced in 2017, milk has been free from GST. Education, from preschool to higher secondary, is also GST-free. There’s no GST on education that leads to recognized qualifications either. Since 2017, GST on books, textbooks, and notebooks has been eliminated. She humorously noted that Abhishek even brought up small items like pencils and sharpeners, but there’s no GST on those either, nor on erasers, exercise books, notebooks, and maps.
Regarding healthcare services, Sitharaman expressed gratitude to the GST Council members. Services like treatment, diagnosis, and care have been GST-free since July 1, 2017. Individual health and life insurance plans will also be exempt from GST in the upcoming GST reforms set for September 2025.
This debate in the House occurred during the budget session, when the opposition was attacking the government over GST. Abhishek Banerjee, in his speech, described GST as a burden on the lives of the common man, but Sitharaman answered every question. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s counterattack drew loud applause from BJP members, while the opposition threatened a walkout.
The Finance Minister stated that the General Budget emphasizes infrastructure. Rail, road, and waterways have been emphasized. The government has also taken significant decisions regarding micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The budget emphasizes medical tourism hubs. A roadmap has been prepared for the development of highways and waterways.
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, responding to questions from the opposition, said that this budget is designed with the period 2026 to 2050 in mind. The Finance Minister addressed the doubts many people have about the budget, which she said will be addressed. She said, “This is the first budget of the second quarter of the 21st century. That’s why it focuses on the long-term investments we’re making today that will have far-reaching impacts in the future.”