Consumers in India are cheering the latest cuts to Goods and Services Tax (GST) on lifesaving medicines, saying the move makes healthcare more affordable and accessible.
Just earlier this month, the GST Council slashed the tax on these essential medicines and medical devices from 12 percent down to 5 percent. Now, most medicines that once faced the higher 12 percent rate will only carry 5 percent GST, easing the burden on families dealing with health issues.
Even better, 36 key drugs for fighting cancer, genetic and rare diseases, and heart conditions are completely tax-free at 0 percent GST. The council also simplified taxes on health and life insurance premiums, glucometers for blood sugar checks, and corrective eyeglasses.
Subhash Chandra, a resident from Haridwar in Uttarakhand, shared his excitement after picking up his meds. “Prime Minister Narendra Modi has done a fantastic job in this area,” he told . Chandra saved about 6.5 percent on his purchase compared to before. “Medicines used to cost a lot, but now they’re cheaper. This brings real relief to poor people,” he added.
Local pharmacist Ashwani Kumar in Haridwar agrees the GST reduction on lifesaving medicines will boost India’s healthcare scene. “Before, these drugs had 12 percent GST, but now it’s just 5 percent,” he explained. “That means shoppers could save up to 6.25 percent off the marked price for most medicines.”
Kumar highlighted the tax-free status for critical treatments. “The government has made medicines for cancer and HIV completely free of GST. It’s a huge help for patients battling these tough diseases,” he said. Thanking PM Modi, Kumar called the changes a “milestone for the health sector” that will have a positive, lasting impact.
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