Chhattisgarh: GST 2.0 reform brings vibrancy to Raipur markets, traders and customers excited

Raipur, October 16 (IANS). After the cut in GST slabs, the inflation rate has come down to 1.5 percent in September 2025, which is the lowest level in 99 months. The prices of food items also fell and this rate fell to 1.4 percent. Due to GST reforms and tax rationalization, people have started getting relief in shopping this festive season. Raipur, the capital of Chhattisgarh is also not unaffected by this. RBI has reduced the inflation estimate for the financial year 2025–2026 to 2.6 percent. Its direct impact is visible on the budget of buyers and families. Speaking to customers and shopkeepers in the markets of Raipur, they admitted that the prices have come down due to the reduction in GST tax slab. After the implementation of new rates, shopkeepers can sell goods at lower prices, due to which sales have increased. Due to the festive season, the crowd in the market has increased and people shop with enthusiasm. Speaking to IANS, a local businessman from Raipur said, “The prices have also come down from the places where we sourced the goods wholesale. This has benefited us and we are able to supply goods to the customers at lower prices.” A manager of a bicycle showroom said, “After the GST 2.0 reform, the prices of bicycles have come down. Sales have increased and customer response is also very positive. It can truly be called ‘Bachat Utsav’.” Describing the GST reform as beneficial, Ashish Aggarwal, a wholesale ration seller at Om Trades, said, “Many items in our FMCG range have become cheaper, like toothpaste, hair oil and baby wipes, which got the benefit of 12-13 per cent GST.” Another said, “At the ground level, the prices of many Diwali products have come down significantly. Even the prices of things we buy like lamps and candles have also come down.” Customers also admitted that festive shopping is easier this time due to low prices and that they can buy more goods than before. Shopkeepers said that the direct benefit of tax rationalization is visible on business enterprises. The market has regained its vibrancy due to GST reforms and decline in inflation. –IANS SCH/ABM Share this story Tags