Consumers Await Relief on GST-Free Milk Products

Rapid Summary

• Paneer, chhena, and ultra-high temperature milk have been exempted from the Goods and Services Tax (GST).
• Consumers are curious if Aavin and private brands will reduce the prices of these tax-free products.
• Consumer activist T. Sadagopan calls for openness in pricing adjustments by dairy companies following GST changes.
• C. Ranganathan, a regular buyer of ghee, expressed satisfaction over the exemption but feels GST removal should extend to all milk-based products for affordability.
• S.A. Ponnusamy of Tamil Nadu Milk Dealers’ Employees Welfare Association mentioned that no companies have announced price reductions due to the GST exemption yet.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The GST exemption on paneer, chhena, and ultra-high temperature milk is a step likely aimed at making essential food items more affordable. However, consumer concerns about actual price reductions reflect gaps in interaction or delay in implementation from manufacturers like Aavin and othre private brands. Calls for greater transparency underline the need for clear processes when policy changes directly impact household budgets.

Moreover,stakeholders like consumer activists highlight broader expectations-that essential goods with significant health benefits should universally be exempt from taxation to cater to diverse economic segments across India. The lack of immediate action or notifications by companies may led to skepticism about whether savings will be passed on to consumers timely or effectively.

Read More: The Hindu