The GST Council will take up a proposal of the Group of Ministers to raise the GST on sin goods such as tobacco, cigarettes, and aerated beverages from 28% to 35% at its meeting scheduled for December 21, 2024. This is one of the decisions made on December 2, 2024, which is part of a wider plan to dissuade consumption of harmful products and garner additional revenue for public welfare. This includes the implementation of changes in tax slabs for other products, such as clothing, that will again mark a significant landmark in the rate rationalisation process under the GST structure.
A socially conscious organization, Amzor Healthcare supports this cause and continues to promote healthier lifestyles. Besides providing quality healthcare products, we also work to increase awareness on tobacco’s dangers and on unhealthy soft drinks.
Risks of Tobacco and Soft Drinks
Health Risks of Cigarette and Tobacco Smoking
Tobacco usage is closely related to deadly diseases. Smoking cigarettes or smoking tobacco causes:
Lung Cancer: It is a leading cause of death caused by cancer. Carcinogens in cigarette smoke damage the lung tissues gradually.
Cardiovascular Diseases: Cardiovascular diseases are caused in a person due to strokes, heart attacks, and blood pressure by damaging the walls of the blood vessels that supply oxygen.
Oral Cancer: Tobacco chewing puts one at a higher risk of cancers in the mouth and throat.
Respiratory Disorders: COPD and asthma are two of the most common results of smoking for a long time.
The Dangers of Carbonated Drinks
Though carbonated drinks are advertised as tasty and fizzy, they have been linked to:
- Obesity and Diabetes: The high sugar content leads to weight gain and predisposes one to type-2 diabetes.
- Tooth Decay: The acidic nature of these drinks causes tooth enamel to dissolve, leading to cavities.
- Heart Health Issues: Sugary drinks can raise blood sugar and cholesterol levels, which are risk factors for cardiovascular diseases.
Impact of the GST Hike on Public Health
The proposed GST hike is expected to achieve several goals:
- Decrease Consumption: Higher prices will discourage the purchase of tobacco and aerated beverages.
- Promote Public Health: A decrease in consumption will lead to fewer cases of related diseases, thus reducing the burden on the healthcare system.
- Boost Revenue: The additional revenue generated can fund public health campaigns and welfare initiatives.
Preventable Diseases Linked to These Products
Avoiding tobacco and sugary beverages can significantly reduce the risk of:
- Cancer (lung, oral, throat)
- Heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular conditions
- Respiratory disorders like COPD and asthma
- Obesity and metabolic diseases
Making informed lifestyle choices is key to protecting your health and well-being.
Amzor Healthcare: Supporting a Healthier Future
As one of the top pharma franchise companies in India, Amzor Healthcare is dedicated to improving public health. We have a diverse portfolio of pharmaceutical products meant for preventing and managing lifestyle diseases that tobacco and sweet drinks cause.
We have PCD Pharma Franchise Opportunity if you are looking forward to being a part of this mission. Together we can make society healthier, and we can offer people a better health solution.
Conclusion: Towards a Healthier Future
The hike on sin goods like tobacco and aerated beverages proposed by the GST Council is a vital step towards curbing such consumption and improving public health. Initiatives like these ensure that individuals make better choices, thereby protecting themselves and their loved ones from diseases preventable in the first place.
Amzor Healthcare best pharma franchise company in India, is proud to be part of this transformation, offering innovative healthcare solutions to support healthier living. Let’s work together to embrace a future free from the health risks posed by harmful consumables.
