Summary:
GST cut to 5% on soaps, shampoos, toothpaste, bicycles, and kitchenware.
Paneer, chena, and UHT milk now tax-free under new revision.
All Indian breads exempted from GST, easing household budgets.
In a major relief to households, the government has reduced Goods and Services Tax (GST) on a wide range of daily essentials. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, addressing the media in New Delhi, confirmed that the revised rates will be applicable from September 22.
Everyday Relief for Families
Essential household items such as hair oil, toilet soaps, shampoos, toothbrushes, toothpaste, bicycles, tableware, and kitchenware will now carry only 5% GST, down from the previous 12–18%.
“These are items that touch every family,” Sitharaman noted. “Lowering GST directly lightens the cost of living.”
Food Basket Gets Cheaper
The government has also taken steps to make food more affordable. GST on UHT milk, paneer, and chena has been reduced to zero, while all Indian breads will now be GST-free.
This move is expected to bring immediate relief from rising food costs and help stabilize household budgets.
GST Reforms Table
| Item Category | Previous GST Rate | New GST Rate | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Oil, Toilet Soap, Shampoos | 12% / 18% | 5% | Reduced |
| Toothbrushes, Toothpaste | 12% / 18% | 5% | Reduced |
| Bicycles | 12% / 18% | 5% | Reduced |
| Tableware, Kitchenware | 12% / 18% | 5% | Reduced |
| Ultra-High Temperature (UHT) Milk | 5% | 0% (Nil) | Exempted |
| Paneer & Chena | 5% | 0% (Nil) | Exempted |
| All Indian Breads | 5% | 0% (Nil) | Exempted |
Effective September 22
The revised GST rates will come into force on September 22. The government expects this move to boost consumption, provide savings for families, and support industries producing these essentials.
From soaps to bread, the latest GST reforms are designed to put more savings into the hands of ordinary citizens, reflecting the government’s focus on affordability and welfare.
