Scientists criticise GST hike on scientific equipment in India



Quick Summary
Scientists in India have voiced strong criticism following the GST Council's decision to raise the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on scientific equipment. The tax rate has increased from a concessional 5% to the standard rates of 12-18%, which scientists warn will significantly reduce available research funds. This move comes at a time when government funding for science and technology has already been declining, posing a considerable challenge to ongoing research and development.

The Union Ministry of Science and Technology was earmarked ₹14,217 crore in the 2022-2023 Union Budget - a drop of 3.9% from last year. Several scientists have expressed displeasure with the Centres recent decision to increase Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates on scientific equipment. On July
Daily Limit Reached

You have reached your daily limit of 2 Free News

Subscribe to CCI PRO for unlimited access

Why Upgrade to CCI PRO?
  • No Ads
  • WhatsApp Community
  • Daily E-Newsletter
  • Unlimited News Access
  • Profile Visitors
  • Link Social Profiles
  • Featured Job Posts
  • Pro Badge
  • Expert GST Guidance
  • Unlimited Forum Replies
  • Download Content in PDF
1 Year PLAN
1999
(Excl. of GST ₹359)

BEST VALUE
2 Years PLAN
3499
(Excl. of GST ₹629)

3 Months PLAN
999
(Excl. of GST ₹179)

View all CCI PRO benfits

Already a PRO member? Login here for an ad-free experience.

FAQ :

The GST Council has approved an increase in the GST rate on scientific equipment from a concessional 5% to the applicable rates, which range between 12% and 18%.

The change was approved during the 47th GST Council meeting held in Chandigarh on July 18.

Scientists estimate that this increase will result in a 6% to 12% reduction in the funds available for research laboratories' expenditure.

Several scientists have expressed displeasure and dissatisfaction, taking to social media platforms like Twitter to voice their concerns and request the government to reconsider the decision.

According to scientists, government funding for science and technology has been falling in real terms over the years, with the money available for research beyond salaries decreasing even more.

Yes, in April 2021, scientists had written to the Prime Minister highlighting that the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' policy made importing scientific equipment and reagents difficult, impacting their ability to scale up testing and sequence viral genomes.




News posted by

Finance news reporter covering taxation, GST, income tax, business compliance, and economy updates. I simplify complex financial topics into easy-to-understand articles for professionals, taxpayers, and business owners on leading finance and tax platforms.

Comments :


More »


Popular News





CCI Pro



Company
25 August 2026
Senior Accountant

MG Associates

New Delhi

CA Inter

View Details
Company
09 September 2026
SENIOR AUDITOR & ACCOUNTS MANAGER

Anupam Parashar & Co.

Ghaziabad

CA Final

View Details
Company
ARTICLESHIP 26 August 2026
Article Assistant

ANIVESH CONSULTANTS LLP

Gurgaon

CA Inter

View Details
Company
Featured 11 September 2026
Audit Executive

RBSM Corporate Advisors Private Limited

Pune

CA

View Details
Company
09 September 2026
Semi Qualified CA / CA Inter - 2 Groups Cleared

Getmyca Consultant Pvt Ltd

New Delhi

CA Inter

View Details
Company
04 September 2026
CA inter Or ca finalist

A Jaiswal and company

Lucknow

CA Final

View Details
Company
17 August 2026
Chartered Accountant with US GAAP Experience

Austin Med Solutions Pvt Ltd

Bengaluru

CA

View Details
Company
18 August 2026
CA Semi Qualifies

Goyanka and Associates

New Delhi

CA Inter

View Details