Countdown to GST rollout begins; Arun Jaitley says GST new journey for India

The launch event for Goods and Services Tax (GST) has begun at the Central Hall of the Parliament.

The rollout will be announced in the presence of President Pranab Mukherjee, Vice President Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and other dignitaries.

Speaking at the event, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said India is in the process of making history and the new regime will create one tax, one market for one nation.

“GST is India’s most ambitious tax reform. GST will create one tax, one market, one nation and Centre and states will work together for shared prosperity,” said Jaitley.

Jaitley said GST will be a destination tax, but will start a new journey for India.

“GST rollout shows that the reforms can rise above politics. The tax on commodities have been decided based on consensus. The GST regime reflects revenue neutrality. Tax avoidance will become tougher under GST,” he added.

Meanwhile, former PM Manmohan Singh has skipped the event, following Congress’ boycott of the rollout.