Patna: Navratri began today, with markets across Bihar seeing a surge of shoppers eager to take advantage of newly reduced GST rates. Items such as two-wheelers, cars, tractors, cement, TVs, refrigerators, air conditioners, affordable ready-made garments, groceries, and daily essentials were among the most in-demand products. Cities including Patna, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, Purnia, Bhagalpur, Gaya, Chhapra, Siwan, Ara, and Sasaram reported increased footfall in markets, reflecting a positive start to the festive season.
Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary visited several key outlets in Patna, including the 9 to 9 Super Market and the Bajaj Motorcycle showroom in SK Puri, to see the price reductions firsthand. Chaudhary, who is also the convener of the Group of Ministers for GST Rate Rationalization, thanked business owners for implementing the NextGen GST system. Meanwhile, Commercial Tax Department officials conducted market surveys across the state, tracking the reduction in prices and ensuring that consumers were benefiting from the GST cuts.
The price reductions were significant across multiple sectors. Motorcycles from brands such as Hero, Honda, Bajaj, Yamaha, TVS, and Bullet became Rs 6,000 to Rs16,000 cheaper. Air conditioners dropped by Rs 4,000 to Rs 6,000, while cement prices decreased from Rs 300 to Rs 276 per bag. Daily grocery items, including Maggi, chocolates, dry fruits, pencils, crayons, ghee, and cheese, also became more affordable. The state government highlighted that the reduction of GST slabs from four to two has simplified tax filings and increased transparency for both traders and consumers.
To raise awareness about the new GST rates, street plays were staged at prominent locations in Patna, including Maurya Lok Complex and Patna City Market. These performances informed the public about the lower taxes on a wide range of items, from agricultural machinery and handicrafts to motorcycles, cars, ACs, TVs, and insurance products. Officials hope that the reduced GST rates will not only enhance the festive spirit but also stimulate economic activity in the state by encouraging higher consumer spending and supporting businesses during Navratri.
