In a major move to make healthcare more affordable, Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda praised the recent reforms in the Goods and Services Tax (GST). He called these changes “next-generation GST,” saying they will help reduce healthcare costs and promote a healthier India.
The GST Council, led by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, decided to simplify the tax system by reducing the four GST slabs to just two. They scrapped the 12% and 28% rates, keeping only 5% and 18% slabs. This change will benefit many products and services, especially in healthcare.
Now, essential medicines, health-related products, and some medical devices will have lower GST rates—down from 12% or 18% to just 5% or even zero. These reductions will come into effect from September 22.
J.P. Nadda shared his excitement on social media, saying, “Historic GST reforms under Prime Minister Narendra Modi are a big step towards affordable healthcare for all.” He emphasized that vital drugs, healthcare devices, and even health and life insurance will now be more affordable, with 5% or zero GST. Cheaper spectacles, diabetic foods, and preventive healthcare services like gyms will also benefit from these reforms.
He highlighted that these changes show the government’s strong commitment to helping the poor and middle class, especially by zeroing in on life-saving drugs for cancer and rare diseases, making treatment more accessible and affordable.
The new GST rates are expected to boost healthcare services, support small businesses, and make living easier for families. Nadda also pointed out that, beyond health, these reforms will improve the ease of doing business and help entrepreneurs grow across the country.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of improving the quality of everyday life shines through these GST changes, making India healthier, more affordable, and more prosperous for all.
