Next Gen GST will benefit agriculture sector and farmers: Shivraj Singh

Union Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has stated that the newly introduced GST rates and slabs will have a significant impact on the agriculture sector. Speaking at a press conference in Bhopal, the Union Minister explained that the changes will particularly benefit small and medium farmers. The reduction in GST rates on agricultural equipment will lower the cost of farming, thereby increasing farmers’ profits, he added.
 
Mr. Chouhan highlighted that GST on bio-pesticides and micro-nutrients has been reduced, which will not only benefit farmers but also encourage a shift towards bio-fertilisers from chemical fertilisers. In the dairy sector, the removal of GST on milk and cheese will not only benefit consumers but will also provide significant relief to farmers, cattle breeders, and milk producers.
 
The Minister praised the efforts of the NDA government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in improving the lives of the people. He thanked the Prime Minister for these initiatives and emphasised that the reduction of GST to 5 per cent on agricultural equipment like tractors, harvesters, and rotavators will be a game-changer for farmers. Mr. Chouhan also pointed out that other sectors related to agriculture, such as animal husbandry, beekeeping, fish farming, agro-forestry, and poultry farming, will greatly benefit from the GST exemptions. It will further complement the agricultural economy, he added.
 
The Minister also highlighted the positive impact on rural women, particularly those in self-help groups working in handicrafts, leather goods, and dairy products. These reforms will help many women become financially empowered, including those referred to as Lakhpati Didi, increasing their income and providing fresh momentum to the movement. Giving an example to explain benefits, the Minister explained that if a tractor that used to cost 9 lakh rupees now saves farmers 65,000 rupees due to the GST reduction. Mr. Chouhan stressed that the removal of GST on milk and cheese will boost demand in the dairy sector. It will benefit not only the common man but also dairy farmers and producers, further strengthening the agricultural ecosystem, he added.