Thu Dec 19 18:17:53 UTC 2024: ## Maharashtra Passes VAT Amendment Bill, Aims for GST Relief for Farmers

**Mumbai, [Date]** – The Maharashtra legislature passed the Maharashtra Value Added Tax Act 2002 (Amendment) Bill, 2024, on Thursday. The amendment aims to boost state revenue and improve GST collection transparency.

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar announced the government’s intention to lobby the GST Council for relief on GST levied on agricultural inputs. This includes essential commodities, fertilizers, seeds, and medicines crucial to the farming sector. Pawar highlighted that Maharashtra contributes a significant 16% of the nation’s total tax revenue, emphasizing the need for a streamlined and transparent GST system within the state. Measures to curb tax evasion, particularly near state borders, will also be implemented.

The amendment clarifies ambiguities in the existing VAT Act, speeding up tax recovery and preventing evasion. Specifically, it addresses loopholes exploited by traders supplying fuel to offshore vessels and clarifies the taxation of sales by organizations to their members. The changes aim to significantly increase the state government’s revenue. While the central and state governments already offer various subsidies and concessions to farmers, this move signifies a further commitment to easing the financial burden on the agricultural community.

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