GST Slashes Rates to Ignite West Bengal’s Art and Industry: From Terracotta to Textiles
Empowering Traditional Handicrafts
The GST rate on numerous traditional crafts and handicrafts has been cut from 12% to 5%, resulting in a direct price reduction of approximately 6.25% for consumers. This key reform is set to boost sales and secure livelihoods for over 10 lakh artisans involved in hereditary occupations, including the Bankura terracotta craft, Madurkathi mats, Sholapith items, and the famous Purulia Chhau masks.
Boost for Textiles and Ready-Made Garments
The most significant change for the textile sector is the increase in the threshold for the 5% GST slab to ₹2,500 for ready-made garments. This move makes most mid-market apparel more affordable, directly benefiting the estimated 5 lakh workers in the labor-intensive hosiery and garment industry. The GST rate on intricate crafts like the Nakshi Kantha embroidery has also been reduced from 12% to 5%, improving global competitiveness.
Support for Jute and Agro-Processed Products
Key industrial and agro-based products are receiving targeted tax relief. The GST on Jute Handbags and diversified products has been reduced from 12% to 5%. For horticulture, GST on value-added products like Darjeeling Tea extracts and essences has been drastically cut from 18% to 5%, while processed Malda Mango products (juices, jams) also saw a reduction from 12% to 5%. These cuts are designed to encourage diversification, stabilize farmer incomes, and boost exports.
Source :- From-Terracotta-to-Textiles-GST-Reforms-to-Empower-Bengals-Industries