GST 2.0 comes as booster shot for state economy

With GST rate cuts on goods ranging from Shantiniketan leather to Malda mango products, the government aims to enhance affordability for consumers and improve margins for artisans and farmers in West Bengal. This will bring higher sales, job preservation and a boost to the rural economy, according to an official factsheet released on Saturday.

- AGENCIES

West Bengal has long been known for traditional crafts, handlooms, and agro-based industries. From the terracotta temples of Bishnupur to the intricate embroidery of Nakshi Kantha, from the vibrant masks of Purulia to the globally admired Darjeeling tea, Bengal’s artisanal and industrial heritage sustains millions of livelihoods.

The GST reforms reinforce Bengal’s identity as a hub of artistry and enterprise while ensuring that local communities can thrive in both domestic and international markets.

The GST rate cuts will directly empower artisans, farmers, and small entrepreneurs of Bengal, making their products more competitive in both domestic and global markets. This will not only promote Bengal’s artisanal heritage but also strengthen local economies across districts.