Pharmacy owners and drug companies in Shimla are rolling out new GST changes on medicines, slashing prices and easing the load on patients across Himachal Pradesh. Starting September 22, these reforms have already cut costs on essential drugs, offering real relief especially to low-income families during the festive season.
Mahesh Bisht, a manager at a local pharmaceutical firm, breaks it down simply. “From September 22, we’ve applied the updated GST slabs. Medicines in the old 12% category now see a 6.25% drop from their maximum retail price (MRP). For the 18% group, that’s about an 11.2% reduction. Overall, patients save around 6.2%,” he says. He gives a quick example: “Take a ₹100 medicine—buyers pocket ₹6.20 right away. We’ve had no hiccups implementing this nationwide since day one.”
Down in Shimla’s bustling Lower Bazar, chemists echo the excitement. Shop owner Mukul Sood notes that every retailer and dealer is on board. “On average, folks save about 10% now. It’s a smart move by the government—boosts GST compliance and helps people when they need it most.” He points out the big shifts: The 12% slab is gone entirely. Most medicines fall under 5% GST, while insulin, cancer drugs, and other life-saving options go tax-free at 0%. “Lower taxes mean more buying, which could even grow government revenue in the long run,” Sood adds.
Patients are feeling the difference firsthand. Vijay, picking up his prescriptions, shares his story: “Thanks to the new GST rules on medicines, I’m paying way less. A drug that cost me ₹400 before is now just ₹356. This price cut on essential meds is a game-changer for folks like me relying on daily treatment.”
Ashish Chandel from another pharma outlet in Lower Bazar confirms they’re fully onboard too. “We’ve switched most 12% and 18% taxed drugs to the 5% slab, skipping cosmetics and a few others. For leftover old stock, we discount 6.25% off MRP. Consumers notice it fast, especially on pricey branded medicines—prices effectively tumble from 18% to 5% GST.” He mentions they’re still sorting details on input tax credits but have jumped into action for affordable healthcare across India.
These GST reforms on medicines promise lasting benefits in Himachal Pradesh, making long-term treatments cheaper and more accessible. Experts believe it could spark better compliance in the pharma sector while transforming medicine affordability for everyday people.
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