BackChidambaram to meet state FMs on 14 February on GST rollout
Chidambaram may include a broad outline of the indirect tax regime in the next Budget if there is a consensus
Premium(PTI)
New Delhi: Union finance minister P. Chidambaram will meet state finance ministers here on 14 February to seek their approval on design of Goods and Services Tax (GST) Bill so that a broad outline of the indirect tax regime can be included in the next Budget.
After holding discussions with states, sources said, Chidambaram is likely to recommend certain changes in the GST Bill to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance. Chidambaram had recently told state finance ministers that he would include a broad outline of the Constitution Amendment Bill on GST in his Budget speech if there was a consensus.
The Union Budget is scheduled to be presented on 28 February. Last month in Bhubaneshwar, the Empowered Committee of State finance ministers had reached a broad consensus on the design of GST, under which the states will be free to decide on the time of its introduction. The Empowered Committee also decided to suggest to the Finance Ministry incorporation of provisions for allowing states to opt out of the GST fold, thereby making it optional. Moreover, states had agreed to a lower payment of ₹ 34,000 crore for phasing out the Central Sales Tax, a pre-condition for rollout of the GST.
Besides, they had agreed that instead of a single rate for GST there would be a floor rate with a band, giving freedom to states to fix their own rates. The 14 February meeting also assumes significance as the Centre is in the process of firming up indirect tax proposals for the Budget.
Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed – it's all here, just a click away! Login Now!
