GST 2.0 Brings Relief to Andhra Pradesh Telugu Citizens
In a landmark move, the Andhra Pradesh government has unveiled GST 2.0 reforms with a people-first approach. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu launched the initiative, aiming to simplify taxation and reduce the financial burden on everyday citizens.
For the first time, Government Orders (GOs) related to GST have been released in Telugu. This step ensures that traders, farmers, students, and small business owners can understand tax policies without language barriers. The AP Commercial Taxes Department has taken the lead in making governance more accessible.
The new GST 2.0 policy slashes tax rates on essential items. Products like butter, shampoo, medicines, and processed foods now carry significantly lower tax rates. Pasteurized milk, packaged paneer, and bread are fully exempted. These changes are expected to boost household savings and improve purchasing power.
Farmers will benefit from reduced GST on fertilizers, pesticides, and tractors. MSMEs and artisans, especially those involved in traditional crafts like Etikoppaka and Kondapalli toys, will see lower tax rates, encouraging growth and exports.
The reforms also support the middle class. GST on two-wheelers, small cars, TVs, ACs, and cement has dropped from 28% to 18%. This reduction is expected to stimulate demand and create jobs across sectors.
Healthcare sees a major boost with life-saving medicines and health insurance premiums now tax-free. This could save consumers up to ₹1 lakh crore annually.
Tourism and hospitality sectors are also set to benefit. Lower GST on hotels and services will make travel more affordable, promoting domestic tourism.
The Chief Minister emphasized that GST 2.0 aligns with ten guiding principles, including poverty elimination, farmer welfare, skill development, clean energy, and Swachh Andhra. The reforms are designed to build a prosperous and inclusive society.
The Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly has passed a resolution welcoming these reforms. Leaders praised the policy for its scientific approach and direct impact on citizens.
From September 21, the new GST rates are in effect. Citizens across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana are already experiencing the benefits. The initiative is expected to contribute ₹8,000 crore in direct benefits to the state and strengthen the national economy by ₹2 lakh crore.
As the festive season approaches, the timing of GST 2.0 is ideal. Families can celebrate Dussehra, Diwali, and Sankranti with greater financial ease.
The move has been widely appreciated by traders, accountants, and officials. It marks a new chapter in tax governance, one that prioritizes clarity, fairness, and accessibility.
With GST 2.0, Andhra Pradesh sets a precedent for inclusive policy-making. The use of Telugu in official documents reflects a commitment to cultural respect and citizen empowerment.
This reform is not just about numbers—it’s about people. It’s about making life easier, business smoother, and governance transparent.
The journey of GST 2.0 has just begun, but its impact is already visible. Andhra Pradesh is leading the way in showing how thoughtful reforms can transform lives.
