ESSAY ON GST(Goods and Service Tax ) INDIA

One of the biggest taxation reforms in India -- The Goods and Service Tax (GST) -- is all set to integrate State economies and boost overall growth. GST will create a single, united Indian market to make the economy stronger. Finance Minister Pranab  Mukherjee  while presenting the Budget on July 6, 2009, said that GST would come into effect from April 2010. (The date of functioning of GST  is set on August 2012. GST might not be implemented before 1 April 2013.) The implementation of GST will lead to the elimination of other taxes such as octroi, Central Sales Tax, State-level sales tax, entry tax, stamp duty, telecom licence fees, turnover tax, tax on consumption or sale of electricity, taxes on transportation of goods and services, etc.., thus avoiding multiple layers of taxation that currently live in India.

But just what is GST all about and how will it impact you?

What is GST?

goods and Services Tax -- GST -- is a complete tax levy on manufacture, sale and utilization of goods and services at a national level. during a tax credit mechanism, this tax is collected on value-added goods and services at each stage of sale or purchase in the supply chain. The system allows the set-off of GST paid on the procurement of goods and services against the GST which is payable on the supply of goods or services. However, the end consumer bears this tax as he is the last person in the supply chain. Experts say that GST is likely to improve tax collections and boost India's economic development by violation tax barriers between States and integrating India through a standardized tax rate.

What are the benefits of GST?

Under GST, the taxation burden will be divided equitably between manufacturing and services, through a lower tax rate by increasing the tax base and minimizing exemptions.

It is expected to help build a transparent and corruption-free tax administration. GST will be is levied only at the destination point, and not at various points (from manufacturing to retail outlets).

Currently, a manufacturer needs to pay tax when a finished product moves out from a factory, and it is again taxed at the retail outlet when sold.

How will it benefit the Centre and the States?

It is estimated that India will gain $15 billion a year by implementing the Goods and Services Tax as it would promote exports, raise employment and boost growth. It will divide the tax burden equitably between manufacturing and services.

What are the benefits of GST for individuals and companies?

In the GST system, both Central and State taxes will be collected at the point of sale. Both components (the Central and State GST) will be charged on the manufacturing cost. This will benefit individuals as prices are likely to come down. Lower prices will lead to more consumption, thereby helping companies.

Source : Face Book