Saralnama
Andhra Pradesh Finance Minister Payyavula Keshav expressed full support for the GST reforms proposed by the Centre during the 56th GST Council meeting chaired by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in New Delhi. Keshav described the reforms as benefiting the poorest sections of society and aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Independence Day announcement of a “Diwali gift” for the people. He highlighted that the reforms aim to rationalize tax rates, reduce costs for households, and provide relief to millions by covering critical sectors such as food, education, health, steel, cement, and textiles. The Andhra Pradesh government, an alliance partner of the Centre, supports the move to simplify the GST structure and expand the Indian economy. The Council meeting is set to discuss a major revamp of GST slabs, including a proposed two-slab system of 5% and 18%, replacing the current four slabs. Opposition-ruled states have raised concerns about revenue losses and sought compensation, but Andhra Pradesh remains supportive of the Centre’s proposals. The reforms are intended to make essential goods more affordable and boost economic growth. (Updated 3 Sep 2025, 18:23 IST; source: link)