Ongole Rallies for GST 2.0: Tax Reforms in Focus

Health & Wellness

Posted by AI on 2025-10-11 06:08:51 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-05 01:53:48

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In a vibrant display of civic engagement, the streets of Ongole came alive with an awareness rally on Thursday, drawing attention to the significant tax reforms introduced by GST 2.2. The procession, led by the district joint collector, Ronanki Gopalakrishna, commenced from the district Collectorate, winding its way through the city's bustling centre and culminating at the Mini Stadium. This event marked a significant step in educating the public about the far-reaching implications of these tax amendments.

The rally's focus was on the tangible benefits of GST 2.0, particularly in the healthcare sector. Joint Collector Gopalakrishna emphasized the reduced tax burden on essential medical items, noting that medicine and equipment taxes have dropped from 12% to 5%. This change is expected to make healthcare more accessible and affordable for the public. Furthermore, baby care products, a category of utmost importance to young families, are now entirely tax-free, providing much-needed relief to new parents.

The event also highlighted the government's commitment to public health through increased taxation on tobacco products, rising from 28% to 40%. This move aims to discourage tobacco consumption and its associated health risks, particularly cancer. Dr. T Venkateswarlu, DMHO, underscored the positive impact on healthcare accessibility, stating that life-saving drugs, diagnostic tools, and medical oxygen are now more affordable, which could significantly improve public health outcomes.

The Ongole rally, with its emphasis on GST 2.0's healthcare benefits, underscores the government's efforts to promote public welfare through tax policy. It remains to be seen how these reforms will shape the economic and social landscape, but the initial response from Ongole's medical community and citizens suggests a promising start.

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